Editorial Review

Hot on the heels of last year's runaway success, Porn for Women, the female pornographers from Cambridge are now tackling the fantasies of new mothers. What really turns them on? The CWPC locked themselves in the lab for months to find out. And the results are in this scientifically proven, steamy photo collection of hunky guys doing exactly what new mothers want. Prepare to enter a fantasy world, a world where men insist on changing diapers, where guys get up for 3 a.m. feedings, and where they just can't help but admire mom's sexy all-sweatpants wardrobe. Page after page of titillating shots and dream-worthy captions will make every mother swoon. In fact, it might just leave her begging for more. . . . Oh, daddy! ... Read more

Editorial Review

The revised and updated edition of a groundbreaking special-needs activity guide

This revised edition of the companion volume to The Out-of-Sync Child includes new activities that parents of kids with Sensory Processing Disorder can do at home with their child, along with updated information on which activities are most appropriate for children with coexisting conditions such as Asperger's, autism, and more. ... Read more

Reviews

Very practical solutions, March 31, 2007
I have two children with autism and bookcases full of theory on what works best for them. None are as practical and hands on as this book. These are great ideas that don't reguire tons of extra planning and effort. They are fun and they really work. They are also great for ideas for autistic and neurotypical kids to praticipate in together. Most of these ideas would be fun for all kids not just children with sensory processing difficulties.

Great Resource, May 11, 2007
We got this book right after our son was diagnosed with autism. It is the kind of book that you can constantly refer back to as your child progresses and learns new skills. Our child has really enjoyed participating in the activities. Also, the activities are interesting enough that our other son, who does not have autism, enjoys participating as well. This allows for some great peer interaction. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is dealing with a child with sensory integration issues. It is just great!

Just what we needed!!!, March 21, 2007
Having a son that has just been diagnosed with autism and feeling helpless, this book is just what we needed. This book helped me play wiith my son in ways that were so helpful to him. The book gave me ideas that made my own creative juices flow and I found myself wanting to make toys instead of purchasing them. And we all know that toys can get very expensive. I think it's a must for parents of autistic children.

Great Resource for Parents and Teachers, May 29, 2007
The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun is a great resource for parents and teachers. As a teacher of special needs kids, I'm always looking for materials to share with parents, and this one is really meeting the need. Ms. Kranowitz knows her topic. Her ideas for simple, fun activities that teach are easy to follow. This is a book I will use over and over again.

Back To Basics, January 9, 2007
I think that with technology as it is, we sometimes forget how beneficial basic play can be and how greatly it aides in our child's development.
This is such a great book and is so well organized. Every parent and gradparent/childcare giver of children should have this book, Sensory issues or not!

Very Helpful, July 26, 2008
Contains many practical and easy activities that are fun for any child, not just "out of sync." Tried several already and found my grandson loved the originality and the use of everyday objects as situations for play.

Therapy that doesn't feel like therapy, March 29, 2009
Being the adoptive mother of a wonderful little girl with Special Needs, I am ALWAYS looking for new and fun ways to add to her therapy that doesn't feel like therapy. Having found the "Out of Sync Child" book a tremendouse help in our day to day lives, I was hopeful this book would prove beneficial to our play time. And it is. My daughter suffers from Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, a condition that is the result of her being prenatally exposed to alcohol by her birth mother. Her challenges are many, including; Severe Sensory Processing Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Short Term Memory Loss, Cognitive Delays, Emotional Delays, Behavorial issues, just to name a few. Many of these challenges seem to accompany MOST of the brain disorders. So I think this book would be a great addition to the library of any caregiver, teacher, therapist, anyone, that faces these challenges with their child / client.

A must have for parents of children w/autism, June 20, 2008
I've had this book for a couple of years and I love it. I've purchased at least twenty books on autism and this is one of the two I have kept. The ideas are practical, involve materials you can buy inexpensively (or you probably already have around the house) and it's fun for ALL kids. My nt daughter enjoys these activities just as much as my ASD son!

Easy and fun activities, October 4, 2007
While this book is especially helpful for families with children with sensory processing disorder (SPD), all children will enjoy these creative ideas. The summary of different types of SPD at the beginning is useful to show other family members and friends who want to understand your child better.

A great collection of ideas!, July 14, 2010
I purchased this book when our oldest was first diagnosed with having some sensory processing difficulties. The book contains a wealth of ideas for sensory challenged children and each of the activities is sectioned within a chapter pertaining to a particular sense, like vestibular activities, tactile activites, auditory, etc., so that you can customize your play regime specifically to the needs of your child (or just try a little of them all, they are great fun!) This book outways any fancy toy or jungle gym by far. The games are easy and inexpensive to play, most using items you probably already have around the house and many contain variations to spice up your routine. Some you may recognize as things you did yourself as a child and you may find it fascinating to read how these particular activities helps our sensory growth. These activities are great fun for unchallenged children as well (our younger child had a blast doing them with our older one), making great boredom busters for rainy days or out of school summers. The age range is listed with each activity, most of them around 3-teen, making it easy for parents to pick and choose as well as quick summaries on what skills the activity builds. For parents of children with and without SPD, this is a great resource book for play activities that invite creativity, learning, and fun to your home. I would highly recommend this book to any parent of small children. ... Read more

Editorial Review

For all those who choose to live "imperfectly" with the messy things they love, this book shows how to do so creatively, happily, and with considerable style ideas from leading designers. A beautiful and inspiring volume, A Perfectly Kept House is the Sign of A Misspent Life focuses on living well with everything that makes a house a home. If you have been influenced by the picturesquely cluttered studios of Pablo Picasso or Alexander Calder, or by the art- and book-filled house of Vanessa Bell, this unique style book will stimulate you with its creative ideas.This volume explores how real-life tastemakers (photographers, textile designers, fashion designers, writers, artists) integrate their life and interiors to live well with their passions, histories, conveniences, and inconveniences. In inspiring essays, Mary Randolph Carter muses on such key housekeeping concerns as clutter versus mess; open windows; and unmade beds. Combining practical tips with liberating philosophy—"Don’t scrub the soul out of your home"; "Make room for what you love"—this volume celebrates living beautifully and happily, not messily. Lavishly illustrated with intimate photographs of different living spaces, Carter exalts in the beauty of imperfection and in living perfectly in our "imperfect" homes. Life isn’t perfect—why should your house be? ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Marriage Lifeline, September 15, 2006
My husband and I were days away from divorce. We were each given a copy of this book the night before our court appearance by a dear friend. He could see how much pain both of us were in and wanted desperately to help us. He had already attended The Arbinger Institutes training and had read all of their books; most recently, this book. He knew how powerful its message is to the right heart.
There was a lot that transpired during the 18 hours preceding the court hearing. A lot of this book was read. Hearts were softened & changed and two prideful, selfish individuals became new people. I don't use this lightly when I say it helped facilitate a miracle in our lives. We have a long ways to go, but at least we will be traveling it together and we now have hope for ourselves, and for our marriage and "The Anatomy of Peace" has much to do with it.

Excellent Book!, July 9, 2006
I stayed up until 3:00 in the A.M. the day that I received the book and finished it that same day. It's the prequel to Leadership & Self Deception, and it continues to develop many of the same principles. In this book, however, they step away from the business atmosphere, and focus on changing yourself to effect change in relationships in the home, and between nations. I am confident that if everyone in the world read and understood the principles in this set of books, it would literally solve most all of the world's problems; problems at homes and with families, problems in the workplace, and problems between societies and governments. At the very least this book will change your perspective and change your life. It's due out in August, and I recommend it to everyone. [...]

One of those rare "EVERYONE NEEDS A COPY" books, September 6, 2006
I read this while taking a train to a meeting, and when I got back on the train, I re-read the entire book all over. I was absolutely blown away. The authors of the book, the Arbinger Institute, have discovered the secret to world peace--and to domestic tranquility in your marriage and family as well.

Coming as I do from a turbulent family, I recognized the push-pull issues that make people enemies who should love each other. And I recognized when in my life I decided to have peace in my heart and when I chose to be at war in my heart instead--and what the results were. Here is a system of engaging with everyone you meet in order to have peaceful relations.

The book starts with a story about a family taking their paroled drug-dealing son to a desert retreat and rehabilitation program run by an improbable pair of an Israeli and and Arab. The parents drop off the children and then spend a couple of days with the program therapists before leaving the kids behind. Suprise; the book is NOT about the desert survival experience of the kids; we only learn of this obliquely throughout the book. Instead, the parents learn how to deal with each other and their world with a peaceful heart. The system of teaching involves some parables, stories, charts and a pyramid starting at the top with "correction" but supported below with teaching, listening, and otherwise dealing lovingly with your fellow man.

The philosophy of Martin Buber is some of the basis for these important teachings. Buber stated that people either dealt with each other as I-YOU or as I-IT. When people deal with others as "it", we get everything from the person who is yapping on a cell phone while they carelessly careen through a parking lot to wholesale slaughter of people for being the wrong religion or race. From Buber's teaching, we learn how peace in our hearts is when we deal with I-YOU and when we turn our hearts to war, we've turned them to I-IT.

This is a most important book and I recommend that everyone get a copy of it and read it. And read it again. Your life will NOT be the same. It will be better.

WHAT A THOUGHT PROVOKING LITTLE VOLUME - GREAT STUFF HERE!, August 23, 2006
It is difficult to imagine the amount of information packed into this one small volume. We get a great dose of history, tenets of at least four of our great religions, and a great gathering of good old common sense. I must be honest, when I first picked this volume up, I was not overly impressed. As I read though, I became absolutely fascinated. The more I read, the more fascinated and interested I became. Hate to admit it, but this one can be classified as a page turner. I have been in the business world, the military and teaching for over 45 years now. So much of what I found here, the advice, the perceptions, I knew I knew, but was unable to articulate them. This book did this for me. I do a lot of seminar work for various organizations and companies dealing with personal relationships. Information in this work will certainly be a part of my arsenal from now on! The basic message in this book is that it all comes within. This includes success with your friends, family job and indeed, could well work on an international level. What seems so simple, in reality is quite complex and this book goes along way in untangling the complexities of interpersonal relationships. This work would be great for teachers, ministers, civic leaders and company executives. The text is quite readable. Each argument is addressed in a forth write manner. The book not only tells you why, it goes on to tell you how in very simple, easily understood manner. No book can solve all your problems. The same thing can be said of a tool, i.e. no one tool can completely build a house alone. This book is indeed a tool you should add to the others...your management tool box so to speak. You most certainly will get a better house for it. This is one you need to add to your library. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Perfect timing for a book of Peace, July 30, 2006
The Anatomy of Peace couldn't come at a better time; just look at the headlines of any newspaper or news website. Arbinger has a wonderful way of leveraging the lessons of history to teach us yet again the wisdom of human experience. Whether we struggle at home or work, we all live one whole life. The elegant simplicity of the stories and examples in this book serve as both a wakeup call and beacon of hope for anyone seeking a more productive, peaceful, and fulfilling life. I've read the book three times and will read it again soon as a constant reminder to myself that choice is always within me. This is a great book for any leader in any environment seeking to lead more effectively and create more positive impact.

Getting it into my DNA!, July 20, 2007
I love the concepts taught in this book. I find them profound. I recognize the truth of them as soon as I read them. And I've been trying ever since to make them a fundamental part of my being...at the cellular level! I want it to be who I am without having to thnk things through so much. I'm looking forward to the day when my natural reaction to a challenging situation is a qualified, loving reception of the other's point of view, and that from me, he is validated. And in my presence, he feels good about himself. This book is showing me how to do that. The more I study it, the more deeply I am able to think about things and BE the best version of me possible; the rewards are indescribable. The joy that comes from living 'out of the box' are more incredible than anything else I can think of. When we look upon every soul wih compassion, love, respect, and treat them with kindness, regardless of the mood they may be in, regardless of the challenges they currently face, and regardless of what kind of day we had ourselvs, we have won the greatest victory; victory over self. Connecting with people is the work of this lifetime. Being children of God, we can't help but feel best when we reach out to others in service, compassion and love, unconditionally. That's the way He made us! This book could change the world. It could provide the 'powers that be' a new place to start, and a different way to think of things, and therefore, a different way to respond...one that never threatens the dignity and respect each feels he/she deserves. Peace "out there" starts with peace "in here", right inside my own self. When I am at peace in my own heart, I am able to go out and help create peace in the world, one encounter at a time. I LOVE this book!

You will truly be able to find peace after reading this book . . ., July 4, 2007
The Anatomy of Peace takes the first book from the Arbinger Institute, "Leadership and Self-Deception," (hereafter LASD) to the next level. Where LASD teaches about being in the box toward others, Anatomy of Peace explains what the boxes are and how we make them. I can't recommend this book enough. As soon as I read just the first few pages of LASD I knew they were keepers and had to stop and immediately order one each for my husband and myself, so we'd each be able to highlight them where wanted and re-read them at will. Don't pass either of these books by, they are books I will use and read throughout my life.

The Heart of the matter, January 11, 2007
This book is a pleasant, readable story that is actually a parable. The reader does not have to fully agree with the ideas in order to realize new ways of thinking about themself, others, and the deceptions in which we tend to engage. Although the direct lessons in the book are useful, the real value is to cause the reader to think more deeply about the inner sources of conflicts, the way we engage in them, and the very nature of our hearts. And the lessons of the parable apply to human interactions from individuals and families up to nations. I highly recommend this book.

Conflicts Clearly Resolved, November 11, 2006
The Anatomy of Peace opened my eyes and clearly showed me why my well-intentioned efforts often create negative results and destructive conflict. Though I had read Leadership and Self-Deception and found it helpful in my work life, I did not make a strong connection to my relationships outside of work. The pages of The Anatomy of Peace filled me with hopeful - yet sometimes personally painful - images of what often traps me in paralyzing thinking that is the root of festering and counterproductive conflicts.

Just learning about these traps was well worth my time; however, the greater rewards were concrete antidotes for getting and staying free of these traps. I highly recommend this book to everyone I know, especially my friends who, like me, struggle with relationships with the sons and daughters that they sincerely want to help - yet through their actions they seemingly build more conflict and destruction.

These ideas are worth trying. This book speaks to us all., August 5, 2006
The Anatomy of Peace offers us the ability to make the world a better place. Nothing "touchy-feely" here - this is about courageously understanding myself in relationship with others. In this simply profound story I found ways to tap into the very best of others through my way of being. The stories contained within offer to meet us where we are - at work, with family or even at war and guide us to lives of peace, more specifically, to hearts at peace. Anatomy of Peace offers a maturing and expansion of the ideas introduced in Leadership and Self Deception. It is a delight, a challenge and a "must read." ... Read more

Editorial Review

The thought of losing control can cause major problems for children who live with anxiety. Now, parents, teachers and children have a helpful tool that gives young children an opportunity to exploretheir own feelings with parents or teachers as they react to events in their daily lives. Engagingand easy to read, this illustrated children s book is filled with opportunities for children to participate in developing their own self-calming strategies. Children who use the simple strategiesin this charming book, illustrated by the author, will find themselves relaxed and ready to focus on work or play! ... Read more

Reviews

An excellent tool for dealing with anxiety in children!, August 17, 2007
I am a behavioral therapist treating children with Autism and so far this book has proved to be a vital tool for dealing with anxiety-related behaviors. The number/rating scale helps children gauge their own level of anxiety without having to come up with the right words to say and then gives them the tools to calm themselves down instead of hitting, biting, etc. Highly recommended!!

What an excellent tool!, September 30, 2007
This book is an excellent tool for children having diffiulties controlling their emotions. The visual thermometer and the "social story" makes it very helpful to assist these children to learn how to respond to their feelings/emotions more appropriately. My four year old likes to look at his thermometer and read the story every time he has reached a "5". It's been very helpful for him.

Giving Children Strategies, October 13, 2009
I bought this for my 5-year-old son, and I thought he would throw it across the room, because he often rejects my attempts at "talking through" his anger. But he was fascinated and seemed quite relieved to have been given a strategy to help himself. He often speaks in terms of feeling like a "5" or a "3". It is, for me, a helpful context for understanding his moods. That night, after we first worked through the book, he wrote me a picture and a card saying, "Thank you, Mama. I love the book." I am now about to check out some of the other books by this author. Although these books are published by the "autism- asberger" society, or some such organization, I think it is invaluable for any child who struggles with feelings that feel too big...

Works great for my 4 yr. old, August 19, 2008
I used this book with my barely 4 year old (developmentally normal) who has 'anger management' issues that originate with anxiety. There are pages in the book that we were able to write or draw pictures of how he felt. The scale of 1 (calm and safe) to 5 (out of control) was a concept that he grasped right away. He is getting better and better at recognizing when he's getting worried before he gets to a 5. If he does lose control and melts down, just the verbal cue "what number are you at" or asking him to calm down and try to get back to a 1 or 2, and he immediately starts to use his strategies - deep breathing, squeezing hands, thinking happy thoughts. I love this book.

Great for all kids, helpful for parents and teachers, January 6, 2008
I have bought and given several copies of this book. It helps give a language to feelings that might otherwise be hard to describe.

Great Resource for Kids Who Struggle With Strong Emotions, May 6, 2007
I'd say for toddler through 8 years (emotional/social scale). Wonderful book to give alternatives to hitting, biting, etc.

A Great Book for Kids and Parents, March 23, 2009
Both of my kids are a bit anxious and this book is fantastic. The suggestions of what to do, i.e. deep breathing are excellent.

mom of child with autism, November 2, 2008
awesome book very good to understand. a little beyond my daughter who is 5.5 years. But I got great ideas to make it easy for her

Great Workbook!, August 15, 2008
This is a great book to work with your child. You can personalize it and change it as they grow.
Barbara V

Worry Book for Kids, June 26, 2008
This is a really cute book for kids who worry. It is not real meaty but the concept is great. It helps them put worry into perspective and gives a scale to help prioritize worries. ... Read more

Editorial Review

An all-encompassing guide to entertaining, amazing, and possibly even educating children, Be the Coolest Dad on the Block provides the perfect excuse to stand on a balloon, play with grated cheese in the microwave, and unroll an entire roll of toilet paper, all in the name of spending time with your kids.

Written by a comedy writer and a cartoonist with thirty years’ combined experience as dads, Be the Coolest Dad on the Block is a cornucopia of practical parenting advice, like how to skip stones or teach a kid to ride a bike. It has answers to the pesky questions kids love, such as “Why is the sky blue?” or “Where do babies come from?” And it can help dads entertain large groups of kids with slapstick gags (“burp the alphabet”) or cool tricks (“the hole in the head”). Be the Coolest Dad on the Block also contains spooky myths for telling around the campfire and loads of quizzes and jokes for rainy days or endless car rides.

With a range of ideas to suit all situations and sensibilities, Be the Coolest Dad on the Blockgives any dad the right stuff to be the wackiest and smartest guy in the room. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Feeding the Whole Family, March 10, 2008
I have the first edition of this cookbook and it rates up there with my 5 most used cookbooks. I have bought multiple copies and given them as gifts to friends and family members. I cook primarily whole foods for my family, which in common terms means that I cook from scratch about 18-20 of our 21 weekly meals. Many of these recipes can be made quickly (30 minutes) with some planning.

The author gives wonderful advice for cooking beans, basic recipes for various grains and family favorite sauces. Most of the soup recipes are staples in our house. The introduction of 'new' and different grains...millet, quinoa, buckwheat...is a great way to add variety to your family's diet and most are quick and easy to make. Our culture eats far too much wheat and making some wheat-free meals is a welcome change in most families.

If I had just 1 box of books I could keep, this would be one of the books I would be sure made its way into the box.

Clear and sensible, January 23, 2008
I love the ideas in this cookbook, which focuses on whole foods the entire family will enjoy. It's clear and sensible, and includes a couple hundred pages of recipes.

What makes a whole food? Author Cynthia Lair writes that the best way to determine whether a food is whole or not is to ask these questions:
* Can I imagine it growing? (It's tough to imagine a field of marshmallows.)
* How many ingredients does it have? (It should have only one: apple, wild rice, salmon.)
* What's been done to the food since it was harvested? (The less, the better.)
* Is this product part of a food or the whole entity? (Only the juice? It's not whole.)
* How long has this food been known to nourish human beings? (Probably centuries.)

The recipes are helpful. Most include instructions on how to alter their dishes to make them appropriate for babies.

The chapters are:
1) Wholesome Family Eating
* What do we mean by wholesome?
* Shopping for sustenance
* Sharing a nourishing meal
* Setting the table, setting the scene
2) Including Baby
* Start with the best, the breast
* Starting solids
* Food allergies and intolerances
* Expanding the diet of the older baby
3) Raising Healthy Eaters
* Parents as role models
* Setting boundaries
* What should I give my child to drink?
* Involving your children in the kitchen
* Presenting food so it appeals to young children
* "My child won't eat vegetables"
4) Basic Grain and Bean Cookery
5) Bustling Breakfasts
6) Lively Lunch Boxes
7) Soothing Soups
8) Substantial Suppers
9) Got Color?
10) Fresh-Baked Breads and Muffins
11) Refreshing Relishes, Convenient Condiments
11) Simple Sweet Desserts
12) Daily Drinks and Brews

Lair also wrote Feeding the Young Athlete: Sports Nutrition Made Easy for Players and Parents. Other good books about eating whole foods include Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life and In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto.

great book, May 3, 2008
I have had this book on my wish list for ages but couldn't justify another whole foods cookbook. I decided to try it after it was updated and after reading the authors essay on how we create picky eaters, I am glad I did. The recipes I have tried have been simple to make and taste delicious.The ingredients called for are easily found. I especially liked the lunch section as I struggle with packing my son a lunch. The book also has a nice section on nutrition that is helpful and informative for those new to whole foods cooking. I recommend this book to anyone looking for delicious meals for their families.

I liked the older edition better, February 14, 2009
I bought three of these cookbooks to give away as gifts. I had the older edition which I thought was terrific. I was disappointed by the new typeset and found it annoying to read.
I also choose to give this book to families who want to feed their children healthier. This new addition uses sugar in some of the dessert recipes. The whole point in buying a book like this is to find healthier alternatives to sugar (which the previous edition had). If I give this book out, I feel like I'm endorsing the use of sugar. I have not decided if I will keep this book.

still loving it, May 30, 2008
I bought this book (with the old purple cover -- Feeding the Whole Family: Whole Foods Recipes for Babies, Young Children and Their Parents) when my girls were babies. They're now 11 and 9, and we still go back to it for certain beloved recipes, especially the beet salad, the one with the greens -- the only way my family can really enjoy beets, and we really enjoy this salad. It is one of the few family cookbooks that has healthy recipes my children actually liked (they like a lot of healthy food, but many family cookbooks have a lot of fat, meat, white flour, and sweets, and feel the need to disguise vegetables). I took the ideas on breaking down a meal to feed parents, toddlers, and infants, and applied them to other foods. I highly recommend this book -- I'm back here because I'm considering getting some copies for family members with young children.

Tasty vegetarian fare that's fun to make? Who knew???, January 18, 2010
A little bit of background: I'm a middle-aged, martini-swilling, cigar-puffing, steak-chomping foodie who had long dismissed vegetarian and 'healthy' cuisine as the province of annoying, self-righteous, Birkenstock-wearing, humorless 'food nazis'. Unfortunately, I'm getting to the age where I'm starting to pay the price for my Falstaffian appetites. My wife seems to love me more than my life insurance policy, so she gave me this book. I love to cook, and before this, my only foray into 'healthy' cuisine was a 'healthy cuisine' cookbook by Graham Kerr (of the "Galloping Gourmet" fame). That was a disaster, with recipes that made unadorned rice cakes look flavorful by comparison.

"Feeding the Whole Family" is nothing short of a miracle! Ms. Lair's recipes have delightfully complex flavor profiles, and are hearty, while being low-fat, and often meat-free! You owe it to yourself to check out such gems as the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, Red Bean & Quinoa Chili, and the Nut Burger. Both your palate AND your heart will thank you!!

Yummy, May 9, 2008
This is now by far my favorite cookbook. Every recipe has turned out with two thumbs up from the family. I wish I had this book when My children were babies so many good ideas for them. I had the carrot cake for my birthday and it was the best darn carrot cake in the world. This alone was worth the price of the book but on top of that there is so much information on eating whole foods. This is one cookbook I read from start to finish and couldn't put down. Hope she writes more :)

It is what it says, November 29, 2009
Recipes are good; nice introductory section with suggestions for feeding children... from first introduced solids and issues (or non-issues) with allergies, to toddlerhood and pickiness, and beyond. Nice coverage of why it is important to feed whole foods to kids; not only for their current health but also to help them form good eating habits and tastes. Also talks about parent/caregivers as role models for eating and how important that is. Suggestions for making foods fun for younger kids and for cooking together.

Generally a good variety of food types included. Most recipes are pretty simple and easily modifiable for taste. There is a section explaining different kinds of whole grains and other whole foods.

It is a little heavy on Asian influence. My family loves Asian cuisine, so that works for us, but for a family that isn't so into Asian inspired foods, they wouldn't get as much out of it.

I'd also personally like a little more explanation about baking with whole grains, but that's not really what this book is about.

Overall, I think this is an excellent book for every family to have as a reference.

Yummy healthy recipes, August 5, 2009
This book is a great source for healthy and delicious recipes. I love the Rosemary Red soup. The nutritional information is helpful too. I use this book often.

I wish I had this cookbook when raising my kids, December 26, 2009
I wish I had this book when my kids were growing up. But I figure it's never too late, so I bought a copy for my grown daughters. Healthy eating using whole foods is really important and Cynthia makes it fun and easy. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Gift of an Ordinary Day is an intimate memoir of a family in transition-boys becoming teenagers, careers ending and new ones opening up, an attempt to find a deeper sense of place, and a slower pace, in a small New England town.It is a story of mid-life longings and discoveries, of lessons learned in the search for home and a new sense of purpose, and the bittersweet intensity of life with teenagers--holding on, letting go.

Poised on the threshold between family life as she's always known it and her older son's departure for college, Kenison is surprised to find that the times she treasures mostare the ordinary, unremarkable moments of everyday life, the very moments that she once took for granted, or rushed right through without noticing at all.

The relationships, hopes, and dreams that Kenison illuminates will touch women's hearts, and her words will inspire mothers everywhere as they try to make peace with the inevitable changes in store. ... Read more

Editorial Review

In the trenches of a typical day, every parent encounters a child afflicted with ingratitude and entitlement. In a world where material abundance abounds, parents want so badly to raise self-disciplined, appreciative, and resourceful children who are not spoiled by the plentitude around them. But how to accomplish this feat? The answer has eluded the best-intentioned mothers and fathers who overprotect, overindulge, and overschedule their children's lives.

Dr. Mogel helps parents learn how to turn their children's worst traits into their greatest attributes. Starting with stories of everyday parenting problems and examining them through the lens of the Torah, the Talmud, and important Jewish teachings, The Blessing of a Skinned Knee shows parents how to teach children to honor their parents and to respect others, escape the danger of overvaluing children's need for self-expression so that their kids don't become "little attorneys," accept that their children are both ordinary and unique, and treasure the power and holiness of the present moment.

It is Mogel's singular achievement that she makes these teachings relevant for any era and any household of any faith. A unique parenting book, designed for use both in the home and in parenting classes, with an on-line teaching guide to help facilitate its use, The Blessing of a Skinned Knee is both inspiring and effective in the day-to-day challenge of raising self-reliant children. ... Read more

Reviews

One Excellent Conceptual Framework for Responsible Parenting, October 20, 2005
I just finished this last night, and I plan to go back through it again. It's one of the better books on raising children that I've ever read. Mogel is a child psychologist with a definite slant--for her, a lot of the answers to parenting problems lie in encouraging spiritual growth, in ourselves and in our children. You don't have to be Jewish to find great material in this book--I'm not--but you definitely need to accept the premise that human beings are happier in a spiritually enriched environment.

I have already started implementing some of Mogel's suggestions for fostering responsibility in children and encouraging them to be grateful for what they have (as opposed to constantly needing more to be satisfied). Moreover, I mean to stay mindful of her emphasis on a parent's need to accept a child's basic nature. If you can name the personality trait in your child that drives you insane, Mogel says, you have already named his greatest strength. Helping to raise him to his greatest potential involves teaching him how to utilize his nature, not how to subvert it. Unlike some modern psychological parenting texts, _The Blessing of a Skinned Knee_ doesn't pretend that children are blank slates to be filled with whatever we please. Instead, Mogel offers practical suggestions for working with the material we're given.

One of the elements of the book that I would most share with my friends involves discipline. Mogel breaks down transgressions by intent and offers concrete ways to deal with them compassionately and calmly. She several times references Biblical exhortations to discipline--not in a pro-spanking stance, but in reminding parents that this is a responsibility that comes with the territory. I wish that some of the more stern parents of my acquaintance would read her arguments against shaming children. Mogel does not believe that discipline requires humiliation. Those who swing the other way--me included--could benefit from her section on restitution. My 8-year-old suffers an overly developed sense of guilt, and I am hoping that following her suggestions for restitution will allow him to feel a healthy sense of closure and relief.

While every reader of books of this type needs to exercise discretion in determining what will work in his or her household, there's a lot of solid advice here. It doesn't address every situation or every concern, and I don't believe it intends to. What it does is provide a framework for a new way of thinking about parenting which might be useful when you encounter those situations not covered.

The Recipe for Raising Menches, July 9, 2001
It is an unfortunate cultural truth that we American Jews often treat our kids like fine, hot-house flowers - delicate creatures with frail egos, in constant need of support and nurturing, lest they wilt under the strain of everyday living. This author's wise reflections on parenting demonstrate that trying to iron out any difficulties our children may face in life - now and in the future - actually hinders their development, producing offspring that have far less initiative, resilience, and character than they should!

And it's true! Lately I avoid going to my daughter's soccer matches, because it's too silly to watch the field flood with doctors, lawyers, and therapists every time a kid makes contact with the ball!

The author of this very useful book offers wonderfully concrete advice about finding a way to lovingly reassert our moral authority and spiritual mentorship over our children. As a mother of four, living in the same city and cultural/religious milieu as the author, I am impressed with her thoroughness in covering this topic, her compassion for both parents and children, and her knowledge of ancient and contemporary Jewish parenting literature. But most of all, I am impressed by the frank, realistic, and practical steps she offers parents (Jewish or not) for helping their children find strength - true moral, spiritual and psychological strength - in who they are as individuals.

By the way, though only one percent of the Israeli population lives on a kibbutz (community farm), the kibbutzes regularly produce about 80 percent of the country's military and political leadership. Seems those tough farm kids know a thing or two about resilience!

Parenting Wisdom, January 19, 2001
I have read countless parenting books and consulted professional child and marriage psychologists for guidance in raising my two wonderful daughters. In comparison, Dr. Mogel's The Blessing of a Skinned Knee is WISDOM, not guidance.

Her book helped me to recognize that my responsibility is to be concerned most with building strength of character, not strength of grades and achievement. That I need to help my nine-year old and seven-year old with WHO they are, not WHAT they are. Our achievement-driven age sends the opposite message, and, consequently, it is so easy to lose sleep over the wrong things.

In an inspirational story of personal and professional transformation, Dr. Mogel tells us of how her own search for effective parenting strategies led her to discover that a religious tradition -- in her case Judaism -- gives her a structure for making healthy parenting choices. As parent raising two daughters and as professional psychologist offering advice to parents and teachers, she gives us a framework upon which to base our decisions and behavior to help our children grow into healthy, independent adults.

With this new understanding, I re-read some of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee before going to bed each night, and my sleep is getting better.

Use common sense as you read it, March 21, 2003
A friend of mine recommended this book to me when I had spoken to her about battling feelings of guilt as a new parent. This book is splendid for helping parents to feel secure in their parental authority and confident about setting boundaries. I suspect that some people could misread this book as encouraging tyrannical behavior or giving permission to disconnect from involvement in your child's daily concerns. In fact, the book encourages parents to remember that, ultimately, they are the decision makers and not every decision requires "buy in" from your child. Likewise, a child must learn responsibility, which involves being allowed to make some mistakes. Both of these concepts are presented gently and with careful consideration of the needs of both child and parent.

As a parenting book, I can highly recommend this for any reader able to take what is wanted and leave the rest. If you tend to be an all or nothing thinker, this may not be the ideal read for you. As a book on Jewish teachings, I can not judge as I am not Jewish and am not educated in Jewish theology. I found the considerations of Jewish teachings in the book to be useful and thought provoking, and I think any Christian would find it so.

An excellent resource for parents, March 2, 2005
I am not Jewish, but still found this book extremely relevant to my own parenting. Although Dr. Mogel uses Judaism and Hebrew as a basis for the underlying structure of her presentation, the issues she raises can be applied to any children and any faith.

I found it refreshing to read a parenting book that actually tells you that your child may not be above average and as a parent it is your responsibility to nurture your child's own unique traits and talents--not try to mold them into the next nobel laureate. As she quotes a Hassidic saying, "If your child has a talent to be a baker, don't tell him to be a doctor."

As the title of the book implies, Dr. Mogel also suggests that it's okay for your children to be exposed to hurt and other unpleasantries of life. She chooses to call these "blessings" and her chapters include titles such as " The Blessing of Longing, The Blessing of Work, The Blessing of Self-Control, and The Blessing of Time."

The book also heavily emphasizes the importance of tradition in family. Dr. Mogel does this through the practice of Judaism and using the traditions of Judaism to bind her family together. I think this concept can be applied to any religion, or if not a religion than a series of ongoing family traditions that bind your family together.

I found this book to be very thought provoking and much of it resonated with me at a very basic level, "Yes. This makes sense!"

very mixed feelings, January 1, 2004
I had very mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I agree with the author's premise that parents should be parents, and not try to be their child's best friend. On the other hand, some of her other arguments were very troubling to me. Among these were the idea that you should never be an advocate for your child, and that you should allow him to handle all his problems himself. The author fails to account for the fact that young children lack the experience and the skills necessary to cope with every situation; that's why they HAVE parents! Not every bad experience is a "learning experience," and I think some of the advice in this book advocates a parenting style that borders on neglect. Perhaps this is because Dr. Mogel is a therapist in an affluent Beverly Hills neighborhood, and she simply doesn't see kids with "real problems."

Additionally, she states that parents should not expect their children to be good at everything. This is obviously good advice, but then she goes on to talk about how terrible it is that girls in the modern era are supposed to be good at math and science. Exactly what is she trying to get at here? That girls shouldn't be encouraged to do well in "non-traditional" subjects? Indeed, this does seem to be what she is saying.

Finally, one of the most disturbing anecdotes in this book is about a young girl who is so anxious about going away to camp that she repeatedly throws up all night long. Dr. Mogel holds this up as a great example, because the parents make her go anyway. If you are making your kid so anxious and stressed that she throws up all night, YOU ARE NOT DOING A GOOD JOB AS A PARENT. THIS IS NOT OKAY.

In sum, I would say that her underlying message, which is to parent your children and not let them run the show, is a good one. But many of her examples are distressing to say the least. And finally, she never gives any advice as to how to implement her philosophy. For example, if she says, "don't let your kid do X," she never gives any strategies for how to deal with it when your kid inevitably does X.

In my opinion, if you want some real "no-nonsense" parenting advice, call up Grandma. There's not much here that's useful.

Thought provoking and wonderful!, March 12, 2004
So what can I say that has not been said? This is a great little book! So I'll highlight some issues she brings up that I hope will catch your attention enough to investigate it.

I appreciate her point about children's freedom. Most people don't realize that statistically speaking, children are FAR more likely to be hurt/killed automobile accident than they are by being abducted by a stranger (Most kids who are hurt by others are harmed by family), and that the rate of crimes against children has NOT increased in the past 30 years. And yet so many of us behave as if our children can not be unsupervised for a second--can not walk the dog, kick a ball around in a field or ride their bike to the pool. This is really wrong, and as the author notes, robs children of the best part of childhood to appease our own irrational fantasies. We SHOULD be shaking in our boots that our car will be hit by an SUV when our child is in it, but we don't think twice about taking our kids for a drive.

Lastly, I loved her emphasis on letting the child experience making choices and experiencing relatively low cost consequences. For example, if a child chooses to have a messy room, don't help them find things that get buried, or go in to fetch the laundry from the floor. Letting them experiencing the natural consequences for thier choices is far more powerful than a million lectures. And later on, if your teen sleeps in class/dosen't do homework/skips school, don't rush in to blame the teacher--make the kid take responsibility and give him the dignity of learning to solve his own problems! It shows that I'm a former teacher here, and I loved what she had to say about supporting your child's education by supporting their character development.

My only real complaint is that she confuses being spiritual with worshiping a god. The fact that you do not believe in god dosen't mean you can't teach a child to feel awe, humility and embrace tikkun olam! Besides, are we really supposed to start believing in something irrational to help our children become more independant and rational?

Raising good kids, April 11, 2002
Wendy Mogel is a very honest, down-to-earth parent. She writes about how parents can reclaim the control in their family, and create a loving home based on Jewish values. This book is worthwhile for not just Jews, but any parent who wants to raise independent and loving children with values of repect, and integrity, while still maintaining parental sanity. Mogel does not give step-by-step advice, or a one size fits all formula. Rather, she explains Jewish values of parenting, and shows through example how these values can be applied in any home. She shows how to find strengths in any child, and how to use these strengths to everyone's advantage. The chapter on discipline is also very well written, especially for parents who want to practice and teach Jewish values, but may be unsure of how. She is also very in touch with 21st century families.

Finally! Respect is important!, June 10, 2002
After seeing the recent trend in families that I know trying to let their kids "become individuals", a book to remind you that it is okay to be a parent to your kids! Too many of the parents I know are so busy trying to not stiffle their kids, that they neglect to teach them common courtesy and respect for their elders. This book is not the solution to all behavioral problems with kids, only an insightful reminder to look at our own interaction with our children. It is a reminder that before you can teach children self-respect they need to learn how to respect others.

Not just for Jewish parents..., May 29, 2001
A (Catholic) friend gave me this book a few days ago, and I devoured it within 24 hours. It is absolutely wonderful -- straightforward, wise, and warm without being remotely preachy. Wendy Mogel is a terrific writer, to be sure -- the book is truly a joy to read -- but more important, the wisdom and clarity her book imparts is invaluable. I intend to recommend this book to everyone I know -- Jewish or no, parents or no. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Thousands of parents have asked the Baby Whisperer to help them solve their problems. With this book you too can take advantage of the advice, insights, and parenting techniques from beloved child expert Tracy Hogg. "A problem is nothing more than a situation calling for a creative solution," she reminds us. "Ask the right questions and you'll come up with the right answers."

Once you learn how to translate banguage, the "baby-language" your infant uses to communicate needs, feelings, and opinions, you can see your child for who he or she really is -- an understanding that will serve you well as your child blossoms into the toddler years. By helping you establish a daily routine and tailor your parenting strategies according to your child's unique personality and stage of development, Tracy will teach you how to:

• Ask the Twelve Essential Questions to recognize potential problems and employ the Twelve Principles of Problem Solving -- simple troubleshooting techniques for everyday situations

• Avoid, or remedy, accidental parenting -- inadvertent adult behavior that often leads to such common parenting challenges as sleep problems, poor eating habits, separation anxiety, and tantrums

• Be a P.C. parent -- patient and conscious -- who knows how to detect prime times -- windows of opportunity for teaching babies how to get to sleep on their own, introducing bottles to breast-fed babies, toilet training, and other growth issues

• Inhibit runaway emotions and foster his or her emotional fitness -- the ability to understand and manage feelings

...and so much more. For Tracy's fans, this book will be a welcome addition to the Hogg library; for readers unfamiliar with her philosophy of care, it will open a new world of understanding and insight. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Adorable Keepsake, January 5, 2009
This is such a wonderful keepsake for any new parents! I stumbled upon this at a local bookstore after having read the companion book "On The Night You Were Born." It's basically a ready-made scrapbook with pages to be filled in for all of baby's firsts, as well as info about the world baby came into, like the cost of milk, gasoline, president, etc. One of my favorite pages is the "Glad You/Mad You" page, where the parent can fill in their likes/grievances :). If you're looking for a sweet gift that'll induce tears, this is it.

documenting the first year, June 5, 2008
I liked this album in tandem with the book 'On The Night You Were born".
It is sweet. The only problem is finding the time to write in the information.

Great Baby Scrapbook, August 2, 2009
I got this book as a gift at my baby shower, and it has been so much fun filling it out! There are lots of prompts to get you thinking about what to write ("When we first heard you would be ours..." or "You delight us because..."), but some of them can be a little cheesy sounding. I just pasted photos over the prompts that I didn't like. :) There is lots of space to add pictures and other mementos, though I do wish there was the option to add more photo pages (we take SOOOO many photos!) or expand the book somehow.

What I really appreciate about this book is how inclusive it is. It is worded appropriately for babies born to their parents as well as for babies adopted by their parents. It doesn't assume a "mom and dad" scenario, so it's appropriate for GLBT families as well. And it doesn't have any religious overtones or Bible verses that bug me in other books.

Overall, a great scrapbook for baby's first year!

So happy to have found this book!, June 7, 2010
Fantastic. Exactly what we were looking for. The illustrations are great, the prompts are meaningful, and there is room for flexibility and creative interpretation. It doesn't pigeon hole you into a certain family structure but still has some traditional elements to it. Would definitely recommend this baby book.

Best Baby Book Ever!, April 14, 2009
Not your generic baby book, but entails all that you want to remember the first year of your little one's life. Includes a sweet little card to include for your little one for when they get younger. Heart Felt book and a great price!

Love this Baby Book!, August 2, 2010
I love this baby book. I bought it as a companion to "On the Night you Were Born." It has a beautiful story and wonderful pictures. My only complaint is that I wish there was more space for "keepsakes."

such a great baby book!, July 21, 2010
i love the book, "on the night you were born" so i just had to have this for my second son's baby book. i love the art and quotes throughout it. it's written so that it can be used for biological or adopted children, with wording like, "from the moment we knew you were coming..." and "where we were when we heard you would at last be ours..." topics include: baby shower, sonogram/1st photo page, 1st thoughts about baby, adventures in bringing baby home, baby name/stats page, family tree, firsts, favorites, growth chart, and lots more. plenty of room to add pictures. and it all ends with the words "YOU ARE LOVED." on the last page. a great memory book for boys or girls. easy to add to and adapt to your personal story.

Awesome!, February 13, 2009
Love, love, love the book and this first year is awesome. Adorable new little quips and notes, as well as originals from the book itself. Awesome.

what a special book, July 29, 2008
A book to remind us how special we all are!!! Just perfect for my first grandchild!!!
Fast shipper...perfect condition. :) ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Brilliant and Moving Parental Memoir, February 26, 2008
*****
This is a stunningly written, intense and emotional memoir of a father's struggle to deal with his brilliant, charismatic, and caring son's addiction to methamphetamine. It is honest and authentic and raw and heart-rending and fascinating. It is unforgettable. As I read, I felt many emotions for both the father and son---everything from anger to sadness to grief to fear. I felt as though I was right there on the emotional roller coaster with the author.

Even if you have no personal experience of a loved one's addiction, you will be moved by this father's struggle to cope with his son's substance abuse turmoils. Despite methamphetamine being this country's most problematic drug, many of us, including me, know very little about it, and may not initially feel too interested in finding out. However, the author's struggles and emotional journey are so poignant and compelling that any reader will find themselves caught up in this memoir, will benefit from what they learn and most of all, will be glad that they read it. If you know and/or love an addict, this book will be even more important---it will be vital---as you will find much to identify with and perhaps even be able to better process some of your own emotions.

Highly recommended.
*****

Harrowing and redemptive, February 26, 2008
As a parent, I was transfixed by this harrowing story of a charming, intelligent boy's addiction and what it does to his family. You instantly like the boy, Nic Sheff, yet you can feel the father's pain.

The drug problems begin when author David Sheff finds a bag of marijuana in his 12-year-old's backpack. By age 17 Nic is hooked on crystal meth, and he spirals into a decade-long pattern of drug abuse. He lies, steals, lives on the street and nearly dies. His heartbroken family takes the journey with him.

At the end, with Nic in a shaky recovery, David Sheff has a life-changing moment when he realizes that "my children will live with or without me. It is a staggering realization for a parent, but one that ultimately frees us to let our children grow up."

Sheff has good practical advice in this book, starting and ending with talking with your child early and often about drugs. There is also a huge amount of information about methamphetamines and how dangerous and pervasive their abuse is in this country. I learned a lot of scary information in this book, and I'm sure it will be a lifesaver for many.

An incredible, incredible book, May 27, 2008
Being that I'm currently going through much the same thing that David Sheff went through--albeit on a smaller scale (if there is such a thing as a "smaller scale" of addiction when your own kid is the addict)--Beautiful Boy made me cry like a baby many, many times. I'm sure if you read it, it will affect you, too. So many of the thoughts the dad has are dead on with what I've experienced over the last four years. And the realization that he finally came to--that one way or another, your child will live or die with or without you, and it's really out of your control, so you have to let go of it--is the one thing that I just haven't been able to get my arms around yet. I totally understand what he's saying. But letting go is so, so, so hard. I get daily updates from my kid's counselor at rehab (my son signed a full disclosure agreement). And I cry after reading them. I never in a million years thought that I'd have an addict for a son who would be in rehab 360 miles away from home at age 18. It's tough. To everyone who is reading this review and has a younger child: Talk to them about drugs. Talk about the dangers, talk about alternatives to self-medication, etc. You do NOT want to go through what David Sheff went through and what my wife and I are going through and have gone through for 4+ years. You'll just have to trust me on that one. Kudos to Mr. Sheff for writing one of the best books I've ever read. I wish nothing but the best for him and his son, Nic.

Bravo!, March 16, 2008
As someone who is in recovery for crystal meth addiction, I highly recommend this book to those with addiction issues, their family members and to addiction specialists. David Sheff's insight into the disease of addiction and particularly the insidious nature of crystal meth is pitch perfect. I would also like to add that I attribute any "success" to my recovery process to having done many of the "best practices" outlined in his meticulous research of treatment options. I don't think I would have made it (thus far) if I had not gone to a treatment center with a specialized program for crystal meth (using the Matrix) which lasted for more than 4 months. I also went directly from there to a 2-year recovery home where I still reside. As Sheff has learned and written so eloquently, recovery (both for addicts and their families) is a process not an event, and it never ends.

Heartbreaking on so many levels, April 19, 2008
This book has gotten a lot of publicity, and ultimately I couldn't resist the urge to read this book, even though I am blessed and fortunate to say that neither of my kids are in any sort of situation like the author describes here (knock on wood).

In "Beautiful Boy: A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction" (326 pages), author David Sheff tells the story of how his teanage son descends in the hell of meth-addiction (after having gone through a bunch of other drug-related issues). The feelings described by the father are complex, many of them having to do with guilt (the author describes his younger days of ample drug use), shame and an utter sense of frustration. "I torment myself with the same unanwerable questions: Did I spoil him? Was I too lenient? Did I give him too little attention? Too much? If only I never used drugs. If only his mother and I had stayed together. If only and if only and if only..."

It is something that I don't wish on anyone, and I pray I won't have to deal with that ever in my family. I must say, though, that one thing struck me in this book as completely incomprehensible and foreign, namely the relaxed attitude that many figures of authority (including in schools) had when the son was found to be smoking/selling pot. "They all do it." Say what? What kind of an environment or community is that? That aside, "Beautiful Boy" is a page-turner from start to finish, and I can't wait to pick up the book that the son has written (it was released simultaneously with this book).

Compelling and Courageous, March 13, 2008
David Sheff is a courageous man. Beautiful Boy is a great read, a horror story, and great reference material. It pulses with the unconditional love of a father in a way that makes me admire him and the guts it took to tell this story. For those of us with practicing and/or recovering alcoholics and addicts in our families, David's story is our story. Different drug, different town, different path....but same shame, frustration, anger, and the relentlessness of a disease with no bottom. I couldn't put this book down. Thank you, David Sheff, for your humanity and your gift of putting into words the unthinkable and the untouchable emotions in lives impacted by addiction.

A Recovering Alcoholics Review, March 10, 2008
As a woman in recovery with more than 16 years of continuous sobriety and a memoir junkie I found Beautiful Boy to be dead on in summing up the cycle of addiction. I felt as if I was sitting in a meeting and listening to someone share experience, strength and hope. Wisely written to convey the recovery process for the family of addicts, I will be recommending Beautiful Boy to many.

Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Gwen R
TwelveBeads.com

A Father's Great Love, March 2, 2008
Beautiful Boy is often times repetitive and much slower than Tweak, Nic Sheff's memoir of his own addiction. David Sheff's story is one of fearful anticipation and waiting. Waiting to hear from the police about Nic's latest crime. Waiting to hear from the hospital to see if Nic survived the night. Waiting to hear from Nic to know that he is alive. It took three days for me to read Beautiful Boy. I just couldn't stay inside David Sheff's anguish for too long at a time. David really loves his son, and Nic really loves his father, but against methamphetamines, their love is just not strong enough. All David Sheff can do is cautiously hope that his son will be one of the ones to beat his addiction. All David Sheff can do is "step back, be supportive, but let Nic's recovery be his recovery as we work on creating healthy, as Nic describes them, loving and supportive but independent relationships." He has no choice but to let his beautiful boy go and find his own life.

For the rest of this review and others, see my site.

The most important book this year!, March 6, 2008
Being the parent of an addict is one of the most difficult things a person can go through. David Sheff was able to share his story in a remarkable way. This book was not only suspenseful; I could have read it in one night if I didn't have to work in the morning, but it was highly informative. I learned so much about meth, drugs, addiction, alanon, etc. David really did his research. But, most importantly he gave a voice to all the crazy emotions I have been feeling for the last six months. I found out that I am not alone. Anyone who knows an addict or has kids should read this book. It will change the way you look at addicts and the parents of addicts! We must treat addiction as a disease so that we can start helping the youth of today get treatment they deserve.

I am living your life., April 27, 2008
This could have been written by me. I have lived though the same lies and deceit as David. Many years of pain and anguish. Tens of thousands of dollars in cash and property stolen for Heroin. I'm Trying everything to get and keep my son sober. In and out of rehab centers, In and out of jail. As with David, I keep trying and trying, hoping that someday it will sink in. In the mean-time I'm watching my son kill himself with Heroin.
This is a must read for anyone who's family member is an addict. David Sheff tells it like it is. And those of us who have or are living it, appreciate David Sheff for having the courage to put it in print.
It helps to know that I'm not alone in my frustration, my fears, my guilt, my depression. It's encouraging to know that there is hope, however remote, of recovery. Thank you, David, ... Read more

Editorial Review

It's instant relief for when your 2-year-old is on the floor of the toy store, pitching a fit. Or when brother and sister discover that they can't stand each other. Or when your son can't say no to video games.

THE POCKET PARENT is, literally, a pocket-size book of tried-and-true advice, common sense, parental wisdom, and sanity. Written by two professionals who've reared six children between them and made a career out of helping others with parenting issues, this handy book will be a lifesaver for every parent of a 2-to-5-year-old. It begins with an overall view of the Pocket Parent approach to discipline. Based on unconditional love but firm limits, and aimed at keeping the child's dignity and self-esteem intact, here are strategies that include "I" statements, modeling, family meetings, and "one word" requests. Once the ground rules are set, the guide moves to an A-to-Z compendium of common problems. Just look it up-Anger, Bad Words, Biting, Chores, Doctor Visits, Fears at Night, Lying, Separation Anxiety-and find the "Sanity Savers" list of suggestions, easy-to-follow bullets, anecdotes, and more.

For the bag, glove compartment, backpack, or shelf in the kitchen, it's there for you whenever you need it. ... Read more

Reviews

EVER WISHED YOUR CHILD CAME WITH OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS?, November 27, 2001
I have twin 2-year-olds and a new baby. Needless to say, I find my patience, parenting skills and sanity being tested daily! Sibling rivalry (including occasional hitting and biting), anger towards the new baby, not listening, whining, separation anxiety, bad words, tantrums in public...what's a mother (or father) to do when you've simply had it? "The Pocket Parent" has become a part of the essential "stuff" that I carry around with me. Because of it's size and A-Z arrangement of topics, I can look up some ideas to try on the spot. The humor and empathy throughout the book help comfort me in the thought that I am not alone and that I am a good mother in the midst of a very important and sometimes very challenging job. I have noticed that since I have been using this book that I often try to take a few moments to think before I speak. I am proud of that, because I find my communication with my children to be more respectful as well as more effective in gaining their cooperation. "The Pocket Parent" lifts my spirits-especially on one of those days when everything that can go wrong,does. I also appreciate the fact that there are many "Daddy" anecdotes included in the book. My husband and I found it very helpful to read suggestions together, followed by discussion for a few minutes before we go to sleep when we have a specific problem. I highly recommend "The Pocket Parent" for every parent that has questions about their preschooler.

A Great Resource for Parents of Preschoolers, November 8, 2001
"The Pocket Parent" is a wonderful, easy-to-access resource, which parents of preschoolers will surely refer to again and again. It offers practical, hands-on suggestions for handling many challenging, everyday parenting situations-often even supplying the words that parents can use. Readers will recognize themselves and their children in the real-life anecdotes the authors have chosen to illustrate their sound advice.

I love many features of this book, but one of my favorites is the "Take Heart" section in every chapter. Each begins with "You're not the only parent who...," and offers reassurance (and alternative strategies) to parents who may feel they've "blown" a parenting situation.

I highly recommend this book. In fact, I predict that it will become a classic-trusted and frequently used by parents of two-to-five-year-olds.

-- Blakely Bundy, M.Ed., Executive Director of the Winnetka Alliance for Early Childhood and President-Elect of the Chicago Metropolitan Association for the Education of Young Children

Practical advice - and lots of it for a small book!, November 16, 2003
I currently have twins about to turn 3, as well as a 6 year old and a 1 year old. Needless to say, the practical advice found in this book is priceless. Having looked at several books on parenting, this book stands out because of it's simple style, yet completeness in covering the topics addressed.

For all of the main areas that most parents have to deal with (tantrums, potty training, getting kids to bed, etc) this book has a section devoted to it - first with a simple question and answer dealing with the issue. Then, a list of tons of practical suggestions, briefly written with entertaining examples - this is the real meat of the book in my opinion - it's like all of the practical advice everyone has ever given on a topic is condensed into that part of this book. Then, each section ends with a bottom line conclusion. These "bottom lines" basically act as that little bit of support every parent needs to deal with the frustration of having kids.

My bottom line is: this book is a really great resource. It definitely makes the perfect gift for new parents, or even as a parent gift for the kids' birthdays. Believe me, a parent will appreciate it!

An A-Z Guide For Parents of 2-5 year olds, June 25, 2003
I have finally found the book I have been looking for! It is perfectly sized to consult at a moment's notice; all you have to do is look it up...40 worrisome issues are addressed such as ANGER, BEDTIME, BAD WORDS, CHORES, DEATH, FEARS AT NIGHT, THE "GIMMES", LYING, MEALTIME, MORNING "CRAZIES", POTTY TRAINING, SEPARATION ANXIETY, TANTRUMS, WHINING, and more. It is written the way friends talk to each other...with compassion, humor and excellent practical advice. The format is geared to busy parents-- hundreds of quick bits of wit and wisdom to help a parent restore his or her sanity! The authors call the bullets of tips..."Sanity Savers". I love the short anecdotes that illustrate the skills, often demonstrating the exact words to try in order to communicate more effectively with a preschooler. I found myself laughing out loud as I recognized myself and my children in the many examples of daily battles. I love the "Take heart" section in each chapter that reassures parents that they are not the only ones who sometimes regret what they have said or done. We all need to hear that sort of thing over and over again. Many of the sensible suggestions have been working for us. I highly recommend this book; it is the only quick-read A-Z book for parents of pre-schoolers that I have found on the market.

Perfect Parenting Companion, December 15, 2003
I find this book to be immensely helpful with the everyday struggles I face as a parent. The authors give multiple strategies so I can find the ones that will suit my situation. Aside from the appropriate and helpful advice, the book's greatest selling point is how easy it is to use. It literally provides parenting problems with excellent solutions in accessible alphabetical order (in a convenient size to carry in your bag).

OUR SUPPORTIVE #1 CHOICE OF PARENTING GUIDES, November 25, 2005
My wife and I continue to find this refernce book to be the most helpful guide we own for suggestions in dealing with the challenging behavior of our 2 and 3 year old sons for 6 reasons:

1. We love the overall tone of the book and sense of humor throughout from the authors who are also parents themselves. We feel comforted that we are not alone in the daily challenges we face with our toddlers.

2. Pocket Parent clearly taught us (formerly very permissive parents) how to become STRICT disciplinarians who no longer allow our children to "rule the roost" and get their whining demands met all the time.

3. Pocket Parent offers hundreds of POSITIVE sensible strategies of how a parent can remain in COMPLETE CHARGE of the misbehaving child WITHOUT resorting to the more "automatic negative parenting pilot" reponses of yelling, nagging, bribing, threatening, ...(which were not working most of the time for us anyway!).

4. Pocket Parent suggestions (called sanity savers) are very practical and parent friendly...the book is not clinical nor condescending with "shoulds" and "donts" from "holier than thou experts."

5. Pocket Parent covers every behavior you can think of in an easy alphabetical, quick read bulleted format. We keep our copy in the bathroom to QUICKLY refer to again and again in our few moments of peace.

6. Pocket Parent is fun to read and priced very reasonably...this year's stocking stuffer for all our friends with 2-6 year olds.

Most Supportive Book on the Market Regarding 2-5 year olds, October 15, 2004
Pocket Parent is our favorite toddler/preschool troubleshooting handbook for all those challenging behaviors that test your sanity... like power struggles, desrespectful attitude, quibbling siblings, bad words, potty training, lying, biting, the gimmmes, not listening, tantrums, whining and many others.

I love the easy to use A-Z format of this pocket guide written in hundreds of concise bullets of helpful suggestions and short anecdotes illustrating the point.

Written exclusively for the parents of 2-5 year olds, Pocket Parent is the very best book on the market today for practical tips, compassion and humor for both moms AND dads at a very reasonable price. My husband appreciated the oh-so-true dad stories (as many books are geared more to the moms).

Pocket Parent has lessened the yelling and punsihing in our house and we strongly recommend it to every family to consult as they need it. This book does not have to be read cover to cover. Each chapter stands alone and you can pick up some ideas to try in less than one minute. Also available in Spanish called "Manual para Padres."

PS...I noticed that many of the same communication techniques work very well on my 40 year old husband, too!

Pocket Parent Helps a Grandma, October 20, 2004
Pocket Parent offers a wide variety of specific tips to try in different situations in order to get more cooperation from my 4-year-old granddaughter. I also have used some of the communication strategies on Grandpa and even he seems to cooperate more--the first time I ask! I realize that when I am short of time and patience, it's easy to resort to the things that don't often work like yelling, nagging, threatening and criticizing. This quick read reference book clearly gives hundreds of wise alternatives with great "word for word" examples to follow. Although some of the tips take practice, many suggestions have already worked for me. I also appreciate the humor...we all need to know we are not the only ones that ocassionally feel we are just about at our wits' end! Raising children today is definitely not easy, but it's the most wonderful job in the world...especially the second time around with the grandchildren!

The Pocket Parent is a fun, easy to use, "grandparent-friendly" guide that I highly recommend to my generation as well.

Also recommended: BETWEEN PARENT AND CHILD, by Haim Ginott..."the guru" of my generation...which is the philosophy The Pocket Parent is based on. I noticed that Alice Ginott recently helped revise her late husband's highly respected parenting classic.

The BEST A-Z Guide for Parents with 2's, 3's, 4's and 5's, October 14, 2004
The Pocket Parent is an amazing collection of upbeat sanity saving suggestions on every possible challenging behavior you can think of...Bad words, Bedtime, Biting, Chores,the Gimmes, Sibling Fights, Lying, Interrupting, Morning Crazies, Potty Training, Whining and more. I learned that inorder to change my child's behavior, I will probably need to change my approach first.

This book with almost 400 pages is easily portable (4" X 8") and is loaded with compassion and humor from the two authors who "have been there, done that" raising their own children right along with us. There is nothing in this book that you don't already know...it's just that we forget the communication options we can choose to use instead of automatically reacting by yelling, bribing, nagging, threatening, criticizing and punishing in the heat of the moment. I keep saying to myself as I read this book..."That makes so much sense...why didn't I think of that?" But it's never to late to improve... and things are definitely better at our house.

My favorite part of the layout of the quick read bullets of information are the short true to life anecdotes. It's as if the authors had been looking in my window as my 3 and 4 year olds push my buttons!

I truly feel comforted that I am not alone in the trials and tribulations of raising a toddler/preshooler.

I especially appreciate the annotated list of 120 books to read with 2-5 year olds relating to each behavior topic. That list is worth the price of the book all by itself. My child loves to hear stories about other children that misbehave.

This book is a reasonably priced gold mine. Keep in handy either in the bathroom or on your bedside table for quick reference in your very few minutes of peace.

If you have a 2, 3, 4, or 5 year old...this book will give you ideas to try as well as make you laugh on almost every page.

Pocket Parent does not have a single "Should" or "Don't" in the entire book. I had the pleasure of hearing the author who recently visited our Connecticut school district say, "The true experts of any child are his own parents. No one knows a child better than his mom or dad. So it is the job of each parent to take these ideas and filter them through their own personality and parenting style to see what strategies make good sense for their family. And if one works once...be grateful! It may not work again!"

There are hundreds of tips, insights and techniques to try in this book. My daycare bought a copy for all 75 family at the center.

Thank you to the authors for a practical, uplifting compassionate guide that I refer to again and again. The support and ideas I have found within these pages help to refill my "love tank" so that I can be in a better emotional place to respond more sanely to the challenges my children throw my way.

Best Book on Parenting I've Ever Read!, November 6, 2001
"Parenting can be a long, lonely road on those days when you're quite sure that no parent has ever gone through what you're going through. 'The Pocket Parent' gives you support and humor, in kind and caring suggestions and stories, to help you find your way. It doesn't preach. Instead, it points to options we may not have tried. As the father of three young children, I knew the moment I picked it up that it would be dog-eared and highlighted in a matter of days. 'The Pocket Parent' is simply the best book on parenting that I've ever read.'' ... Read more

Editorial Review

Not since Blood and Money have such secrets of passion and possession been revealed about the residents of Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood, home to some of the nation’s most elite, powerful, and wealthy families.

An Exxon heiress, widowed with three children, watched as her family was divided and conquered by outsiders. Inexplicably, the outsiders were ultimately granted insider status. As a result, joy turned into torment, closeness became sexual abuse, and one of the outsiders became the “Duke” of Del Monte Drive.

Unrestrained, he soon exercised his dominion by intimidation, guided only by his insatiable lust for power and control.

An intriguing story for the student of human weaknesses and the reader who relishes insights into forbidden secrets of the fabulously rich.
... Read more

Reviews

A real thriller!, November 20, 2010
What a read! Once I started this book, after page 2, I could not put this down. I fiound that the story flowed easily as the Arthur kept one's attention thru this tale of abuse in the grandest of circumstances, big money, big abuse, big tangled family and within the big city of Houston. And it had a BIG ending that was the result of BIG stupidity. I recommend it highly!!! Perhaps Michael Phillips will publish a follow up book in several years as to what and where all the family members have ended up. The real irony here is that this is a true story. It is hard to believe that something like this really happened!

Totally awesome story, December 13, 2010
Could not put it down! A must read for anyone that has lived in Houston since late 70's. Can't wait for another book by Michael Phillips ... Read more

Editorial Review

A beautifully designed keepsake that is the perfect gift for grandmother. Meant to be handed down from generation to generation, Grandmother's Treasures is the ideal, special place for grandmother to record the story and spirit of her life, the books she's read, the music she's listened to, the places she's traveled, the values she's lived by, her joys, and sorrows. Illustrations. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Since the Bradley method was first introduced in 1970, a growing number of expectant parents have opted for natural childbirth, knowing that it's safer than medicated or surgical delivery. But where can parents-to-be go for information on how to have a successful Bradley birth? This book provides all the answers, offering sound advice on how to prepare physically for labor and what to expect during each of its stages. Photos & line drawings. ... Read more

Reviews

Excellent Method of Chilbirth and Great Book!, October 22, 1999
My first child was born after we attended Lamaze classes. Nothing in that birth was as I 'planned' and everything I did not want to happen...happened. I was an observer of a process that did not feel related to me.

During my second pregnancy we bought this book and attended the Bradley classes. This birth was excellent and wonderful!! I delivered a 10lb 3oz. baby boy with absolutely NO interventions (IV, drugs, epesiotomy etc.) and LOVED every minute of it. It was MY birth!

This book and the associated classes made all the difference in the world!! This book is not meant for those looking for the 'middle ground'. Bradley childbirth is NOT the 'middle ground'. If you are looking for reassurrance, practical relaxation techniques and guidance for your coach AND you are planning for a natural, personal childbirth THEN this is the book for you!!

Lots of help, skip the scary parts, November 3, 1999
I found this book extremely informative on Bradley technique but kind of scary when talking about alternatives and hospitals. After having two babies using medications, I was desperate to find another option. The book is extremely good about detailing the feelings you have during pregnancy and childbirth. Working on the birthing techniques with my husband was priceless and helped create a special bond between us. After having our third child without medication I have got to tell everyone how much better a drug free birthing experience can be! I only paniced once. I had praticed the pushing visualization so well it only took three pushes for our daughter to be born! The scary part can be avoided by skipping the information on Lamaze, hospitals, and doctors. It is out-dated and frightening. Move on to the excercises and have a wonderful birth experience!

An Excellent Resource For The Bradley Method, June 2, 2000
Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way is an excellent resource on the Bradley Method. Author, Susan McCutcheon introduces you to the Bradley Method, explains how it differs from Lamaze, discusses how to choose your childbirth educator and your doctor, explains the importance of nutrition and how to prepare yourself for this life transforming experience.

In addition to the general information she provides in helping you to prepare, she thoroughly walks you through the Bradley Method. Through exercise, illustration, nutrition, and practice, McCutcheon completely covers how you should prepare and deal with both First and Second Stage of Childbirth. Finally, she closes the text with a discussion of various childbirth controversies -- episiotomies, caesarean sections and homebirth.

This book excels in preparing you for a Natural Childbirth, as defined by the American Academy of Husband Coached Childbirth -- a birth that is without unnecessary medical intervention. However, some view her tone as "fear tactics" or "outdated" ideas. I disagree. Rather, she educates you on the principles of Bradley and provides you with the ability to recognize when the medical personnel are undertaking a procedure for their convenience or for your best interest. In short, she provides you with information and proven tools to make informed decisions and take responsibility for your birth.

Despite the strengths of this book, I highly recommend that, whenever physically possible, the reader enroll in a Bradley class to supplement the reading in this book. If you *really* desire a Natural Childbirth, the class will provide you with the knowledge, practice and support you need to achieve your goals. Though this book is excellent, your instructor is almost essential -- she can guide you in recognizing when you need medical assistance and when you do not!

Great info... keep the "grain of salt" handy, March 19, 2006
After having tried the Lamaze method and ending up with an epidural and feeling very "out of control" during my first delivery, I went in search of more information to help me through my second delivery. I happened upon this book at a garage sale and decided it was worth a gander.

While I agree with other reviewers that the book had some dated photos and information, this did not interfere with my personal purposes for buying the book.

Having gone through the process once, I was seeking a method which:

*informed me in detail about what my body was doing through the birthing process and how I could work "with it" (rather than "escape" from it)

*gave me natural alternatives for relaxation and bearing the pain (rather than "panting techniques," how to balance on a birthing ball, focusing on imaginary "special places," getting an epidural when I couldn't take it anymore, etc.)

*gave me exercises to prepare my body ahead of time for the physical demands of labor

*gave my husband information so he could be part of the process and feel confident in his ability to coach me through

Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way proved to be the book that would meet these needs. Putting this information to use during my second labor was amazing. I was able to use the relaxation techniques at home for as long as possible. My husband was able to correctly judge when to get me to the hospital. We were able to get through the transition stage, knowing what the signposts were and that I was "almost there." I was only at the hospital an hour before my son was born. I felt great afterwards without drugs and was more than ready to go home the next day.

Having read this book "with a grain of salt," overlooking the harsh opinions about the medical profession, my husband and I used it as a tool to educate ourselves about my body. It gave us the confidence that with God's help and with an understanding of the design for birth, we could make it through. I was personally also grateful to have a very capable doctor and nurses who were very willing to work with me, and actually stated that they were very refreshed to see my husband and I working together for a "natural" birth.

In conclusion, every birth is different, but I see this book as a great tool to be used with an open mind, not knowing exactly what your personal labor will be like. It is important, however, to invest time in learning and practicing the methods in the book if you really want to reap the benefits.

excellent guide for couples wanting a natural birth, September 18, 2000
i find the formatting of this book makes it an easy read. some pregnancy books i have read are overwhelming. the author takes the basic facts and makes them clear and simple, and i like the notations for the dads (birth partner) to zero in on. i noticed the dated photos but the birth process hasn't changed so i don't know why reviewers bother to mention it. i found her nutrition information to correlate with dr. tom brewer's studies on protein (author of "what every pregnant woman should know")and followed them in my pregnancy and did quite well. we found the relaxation information to be extremely helpful when we were in labor.

i wish that i had discovered this book (and taken a bradley class) when i was pregnant the first two times. it would've saved me from unnecessary interventions and provided me with the know-how to communicate with the doctors, and know that i had other alternatives in my births and didn't have to follow suit with routine procedures. this book has a very common sense approach and even though some people disagree with the author's statements regarding doctors because they didn't have a negative experience, i am glad that this information was in the book when i read it. if i had this information previously, i would've have had better birth experiences.

i highly recommend you put this book on your list. it really helps you to understand the importance of trusting your body's ability to give birth and how to manage your labor. bonus points for teaching our partners how to read our body signals, emotionally and physically! there really aren't books out there that are geared toward our partners (dads) helping us in labor. and this book really made a difference for us in our birth.

good labor and relaxation info, dated hospital info, December 21, 1999
For a book that was revised in 1996, the information about hospital practices is very dated, and the author is antagonistic towards hospital personnel. As a labor and delivery nurse I know of no hospital (in my area at least) that straps a woman to a delivery table or condones the "routine" use of episiotomies and assisted births (forceps or vacuum). Also, rooming in (mom and baby not being separated) is the norm, rather than the exception. The descriptions of what happens pysiologically during labor and delivery are good and I find the relaxation information helpful, not only for my next birth, but to help the mom's I'm working with relax. Get the book, skip the skewed views on hospitals and medical personnel or get the low down on the hospital you'll birth in from several people who have birthed in the same hospital

Bradley Worked For My Three Births, May 14, 2000
If you are commited to natural childbirth, or even if you are only considering it, this book is a MUST read. The text presents a very detailed and easy to understand description of labor and birth - including many accurate illustrations and photographs. In addition, it provides a wealth of information for the husband (or birth "coach") - in far greater detail than I have found in any other resource. Many husbands today, are nothing more than "observers" in the delivery room. But with the Bradley Method, your husband will learn to be your advocate, your encouragement, and will have an active role in the birth of your child.

All three of my children were delivered (using the Bradley Method) without any medication or intervention, and I can ASSURE you that the techniques in this book are practical, logical and very effective. And my husband cherishes his important role in all of the births (as do I!).

Generally an excellent summation of the Bradley Method, September 9, 1999
I was a Bradley Method instructor and I think that this book is an excellent summary of the material I taught in the class. The illustrations clearly show what is happening physiologically during labor and I just love the photographs. The best thing about this book is that it clearly shows that a totally natural birth is really possible. For many of us, when we first decided to "go natural" we got no support from our friends and family. This book will reassure you that you aren't "crazy!"

The down side of this book is that it can seem hysterically negative about the medical profession and about Lamaze. To me, that isn't productive. I am afraid that the tone can be something of a turnoff, especially for people who are undecided about natural birth. And for those already committed to the idea of going without drugs, they don't need further convincing!

All in all, worth the money if you are interested in natural birth. I had a son with the Bradley Method and it was a wonderful experience.

Simply, it is the truth, and it works!!, April 6, 2002
I decided, that, once I got pregnant, I wanted a natural birth... I live in Iowa. I may have well been an alien!! I was told "we'll see, once your in labor", or, "yeah, SURE you do!" Well, with the help of this book... and then I signed up for a Bradley childbirth class... I am not only living proof that this gives you the BEST most truthful infomation on the birth process and experience, but my son is proof that the benefits of taking these steps, and HAVING an unmedicated, but EDUCATED AND PREPARED birth is of benefit to you AND your child!! Why is this such and "out there" concept? People need to get back to basics!! EPIDURAL MEDICATIONS DO REACH YOUR BABY, and effect them for as much as DAYS from the time they are born!! Every nurse says it, the difference between babies born naturally vs. those via epidural, or other medication, is REMARKABLE! YOU CAN DO IT (naturally) !! If I can make it through transition, ANYONE can! (32 hours after membranes broke... 10 hours of true labor - one hour pushing...):) Do yourself a favor... educate yourself!! I also suggest the book written by Dr. Bradly himself (Husband Coached Childbirth) and to sign up for the class, to "practice the relaxation techniques! (also recommend "Good Birth, Safe Birth"
Good Luck!!

This book helped me a lot, March 20, 2000
I couldn't take a Bradley class, so I got this book, among others, and read and practiced the techniques. When my first birth got complicated, I knew enough not to be afraid. My second birth was easy and drug-free, using this method. You don't need to be afraid of hospital personnel, as this book implies-- just get an idea of what to talk to your doctor about. This book helped me feel well-informed and able to take charge of our health care. ... Read more

Editorial Review

When you learn to awaken your family’s creativity, wonderful things will happen: you’ll make meaningful connections with your children in large and small ways; your children will more often engage in their own creative discoveries; and your family will embrace new ways to relax, play, and grow together. With just the simple tools around you—your imagination, basic art supplies, household objects, and natural materials—you can transform your family life, and have so much more fun!

Amanda Soule has charmed many with her tales of creativity and parenting on her blog, SouleMama. Here she shares ideas and projects with the same warm tone and down-to-earth voice. Perfect for all families, the wide range of projects presented here offers ideas for imaginative play, art and crafts, nature explorations, and family celebrations.

This book embraces a whole new way of living that will engage your children’s imagination, celebrate their achievements, and help you to express love and gratitude for each other as a family.

To learn more about the author, Amanda Soule, visit her blog at www.SouleMama.com.

Click on the thumbnail to view a larger image.



Pages 58–59



Pages 60–61



Pages 62–63 ... Read more

Reviews

A sweet book, but a little disappointing., November 14, 2008
I thought this was a sweet book, and a pleasant read. Amanda Soule is a wonderful writer. I was a little disappointed that there were no new ideas presented here though. I felt like I was reading the same Waldorf family book I've read several times before. People say "everything has been done before", but I feel that authors can still incorporate new ideas or put their own twist on things. I did not see this here.

I was also disappointed with the craft projects. Aside from the fact that many were the same projects found all over the internet and in many other craft books, I found that most of them were projects geared towards adults with small touches added by children. I was expecting more projects actually for children, or where children played a much bigger role.

I think this would be a perfect book for someone who is new to Waldorf and Montessori philosophy and was looking for ways to incorporate these philosophies into their family life, or for someone who is looking for a simple, pleasant read paired with beautiful pictures. If you've been involved in simple family living for quite some time and are looking for something new, I would look elsewhere.

A really sweet book about celebrating your family, April 5, 2008
"The Creative Family" is really, very simply, a sweet, gentle, and dear book on family traditions and togetherness.

Most of the ideas in this book were not new to me. In fact, much of it could be written about my actual family life. If you are familiar with the Waldorf tradition, and books such as "You are your child's first teacher", "The Children's Year" and "All Year Round", "Heaven on Earth", or some of the other little "Waldorfy" craft books out there, then many of the ideas in "The Creative Family" will not be new to you, either.

But I don't think that "being new" is the most important thing about this book. I think that it is really fantastic that Amanda Soule has taken many of these tried-and-true (perhaps less well-known/mainstream) ideas about parenting, family life, and creativity, and blended them together into one simple, easy to read, compact and easy to reach for, updated resource.

The photography is really beautiful, and the projects are all simple enough to be done by a pre-schooler (some with more help than others).

This is more than a project book, however (in fact, I would not even describe it as being a project book). It is more about a way of life -- taking a step back, learning that a "no" really can be a "yes," and so on. Her thoughts about toys were excellent -- again, exactly what our family has already practiced since our first child was quite small -- but, in observing so many of my friends with young children, ideas that would help many an overwhelmed family learn to say "no" to too much stuff.

I was most inspired by her tips on art supplies -- a good comprehensive list of supplies, along with tips on their storage. It's one thing that I don't think we had a good system for before, and I will definitely be incorporating some of her ideas into our life.

This book is a gem. It's small and simple. It suggests simple steps that any family can take to make their lives more family-centered and joyful.

For your child... and your inner child, April 23, 2008
You may think this is an arts and crafts book. But really, it's a parenting guide. Though it's filled with things you can do with your children, it also brings out the kid in you, and in the process helps you become a better mom or dad. The activities involve getting dirty with your kids, going outside and finding things like cool leaves and bugs, or drawing with crayons. Most are best suited for families with preschool- through elementary-aged kids.

The book is divided into four sections, each with three chapters:

Part One: Gathering
1. Preparing Your Creative Mind
2. Gathering Materials
3. Being Resourceful

Part Two: Playing
4. Encouraging Imagination
5. Supporting Your Young Artist
6. Sharing the Tradition of Handmade

Part Three: Living
7. Exploring Through Nature
8. Capturing Moments
9. Everyday Rituals

Part Four: Connecting
10. Celebrating Your Family
11. Handmade Holidays
12. Creative Connections

At the end of the book, a six-page resource guide lists other books and websites on the same topics.

Even though my daughter is 14, we both found this book worthwhile. For example, we set up a Nature Table. Before, all the tiny miracles we brought home in our pockets ended up in the trash. Now we have a spot. At the moment it has a handful of seashells, three skate egg cases, some hot pink sea whips, an orange sponge and a sparkly rock she snared last week on a trip with her dad out to the Grand Canyon.

consider me inspired!, April 1, 2008
This book is pure, unadulterated creative dynamite! I wanted to review this book knowing that I would enjoy it, but I had no idea to what extent it would challenge my family and I. Amanda and the rest of the Soule family do an excellent job in this book of inspiring creativity, of living artfully and of helping other families reach their creative potential as well. Last night, after reading a little over half of the book throughout the day, I could not sleep for hours (and I usually have no problem) but my mind was stewing, in hard-core overdrive imagining all the fun things we can do together as a family, thinking of all the neat projects that my two little boys are old enough to do now that are in this book!


Some of the exciting projects include little hands learning to felt, sew, make stuffed art, knit, and embroider. Other projects that stood out to me were family drawing time, making traditions, handmade holidays, art placemats, and "craftivisim" . If you have thought about the level of creativity in your house, and desire it to ebb and flow out of all of you and yours, The Creative Family by Amanda Blake will be a sweet dream that can be your new reality, an amazing place that after you have entered you'll know you just gotta stay. The best thing is that kids are drawn to create and it need not be something you are apprehensive about, take it from Soule, she believes that, " as human beings, we are all born with the ability, the desire, the passion, and the drive to be creative. We may become anxious about "teaching" creativity to our children, but there is really no need for us to teach. They know how to be creative. The know it with every ounce of their being- it isn't conscious or rational. It is simply who they are. Until somethings stands in their way [...]they will be creative" (p. 13).

Consider me inspired: Yesterday I set up an inspiration wire (p. 21), and several times I noticed my little one checking out his art on the wall with intense pride. I went out and found some things that our art cabinet (dresser)(p. 25) was in need of, and I was dying to do the projects in the book. Today, after reading the section on letting your kids use good quality things I (must admit reluctantly) let my four-year-old paint with my paint brushes...the results were just beautiful, let me tell you that next time I will not hesitate, he can use my brush! This weekend we are going to do the freezer-paper stenciling (p. 74) after I find the shirts we need, and because our "inspiration wire" is already way too full I am going to put together some sturdy art clips (p. 83) up at some point in the near future. The project that I am incredibly excited about though, and have already been eyeing materials for is the incredible "Banging Wall" (p. 197) I cannot wait to get that up in our backyard! Those are the projects that have inspired me, since yesterday...and there are many more in this book waiting to be used as well.

One of my favourite aspects of this book is the desire to bless others with your art, for whom you want to express love or care for. Here is an especially great quote on just that, Soule says, " Living a creative live is made all the more fulfilling and rewarding when we are creating with, for or because of others. Much creative drive is certainly internally driven, but there is such benefit to creating beyond ourselves, beyond our family, and beyond our homes, for our community and the world around us. Connecting with and creating with others can be a powerful and inspiring act, as well as a wonderful gift for our children, teaching them how to connect and share their own passions with others" (p. 191). It is beautiful to allow art to not only influence your family, but to impact those around you as well. Kids and parents alike learn life lessons from such acts.

This is one of those books that come around very much too infrequently that you would like to buy 100 of and give one to all your friends because you know they would love it too...but then you do the calculations and realize that would not go over too well with family budgeting. No, seriously I will buy this book for several of my close friends who I know will love it just as much as me, and to all the rest of my friends who would also love it just as much I will give it the highest recommendations possible. All I can say, if you believe in creativity, or would like to start...buy this book and you will want all your friends to buy it too!

Oh, and check out her pretty much daily blog at: http://soulemama.typepad.com/soulemama/

Gorgeous book, best for new moms, has some flaws, September 24, 2009
I waited over a year before reviewing this book because I wanted to give it a 5-star review. I love the idea behind the book, and I enjoy the author's blog a great deal. When I couldn't rate the book as highly as I wanted to, I decided not to review at all. However, I always look at the 1,2, and 3 star reviews before selecting a book because they give usually give the most useful information, so I'm going to point out where I think the book shines and where I think it falls short.

First, this is a beautiful book with lots of inspiring photos of the author and her children being happy together, and of pleasant spaces in and around the author's home. The projects are simple and, as other reviewers have noted, nothing that you couldn't find in other craft books, blogs, and magazines. However, they provide a good selection of techniques and media, and they are well-presented.

This would make a great book for a new parent looking for ways to nourish her own and her child's creative spirit. I would give it to moms who already had a creative mindset but I think it could also make a good gift for a parent who isn't especially crafty, because there are plenty of ideas for simply providing open-ended materials for kids (and adults) to play around with. I think it would also make good reading for families who've lost touch with their creative selves or with each other.

I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone who already has a creative, nurturing family life or who already 'makes stuff' with her kids. There really isn't anything new here for such readers. Even if you're an avid bibliophile like me, I would hold off on this one in preference for something with more projects or more in-depth discussions of how to nurture children. The writing style is enjoyable but the content is a little shallow and there are too many passages that sound vaguely familiar, as though the author is repeating herself in slightly different words.

I would also warn readers that the author sometimes comes across as condescending or smug. Her advice to buy small quantities of high-quality art materials rather than a whole lot of crap is good as far as it goes, but she is a little too sanguine in her reliance on thrift stores and surplus sales. Yes, sometimes you can get extremely lucky at the thrift store or a yard sale, and perhaps some art schools really do sell off surplus materials, but in the end most of us will have to budget for markers, paints, fabric, and yarn and we will have to make compromises based on what we can afford. The 'resource list' at the end of the book is painfully brief and includes only moderate to very expensive retailers. The book would have been better with a longer list of resources and more ideas about what materials to splurge on and what materials to buy cheaply.

In another section, the author encourages readers to find a 'special spot' out in nature where they will feel 'grounded and connected to the earth.' She urges us not to let 'financial or geographical circumstances get in the way of having a spot.." because nature can be found in the middle of a city! Coming from someone fortunate enough to live in coastal Maine, this is a bit much. I live in the city and yes, we have wildlife of the plant and animal kind here, but it does make a difference, contrary to what the author says a few pages later, "whether it's a small patch of dandelions on a tiny strip of city grass or a remote, wide-open lake with room to explore." It's silly and a little insulting to pretend that place doesn't matter.

Many readers, looking at the photo of the author's children paddling a canoe or playing on the beach will feel a little wistful that they can't provide that kind of experience for their children very often or even at all. Those of us who live in cities (or in poorly-planned suburbs) know that, despite cultural amenities and public transportation, the noise, crime, grime, and nature deficit all take their toll. Those of us who struggle financially know that it's impossible not to allow financial constraints to 'get in the way.' On the other hand, I almost feel I should praise the author for even alluding to a subject many authors would simply have ignored. I also feel I should thank the author, because she inspired me to begin writing a zine about enjoying nature and living creatively for limited-income urbanites like me!

That note of privilege and blissful ignorance is present throughout the book, as is a mild dose of self-congratulation. I think it's pretty easy to get past that and to enjoy the evident joy and pleasure the author takes in her children and in her lifestyle. It's refreshing to read about a homemaker who finds the work fulfilling and rewarding, especially because the decision to be a homemaker is almost incidental. Although the author can sometimes seem repetitious or a little smug, she also comes across as a happy, fulfilled mother who has lots of good ideas to share.

Misleading Title, November 1, 2008
I had this book on my "wishlist"on Amazon for some time & decided on a splurge for myself instead of a new treasure for the kiddos. I wished I'd checked her blog before I bought, I could've save myself some money. This is a classic case of don't judge a book by it's cover. The front is very captivating w/ the author & her beautiful children giggling & creating together. I was bummed to find that there are very few actual art projects in the books and the ones that are in the book are rehashes from old Martha Stewart Kids magazines or that we'd already done through Waldorf classes.
For those who are in awe of her parenting style, have they never heard of Waldorf? This book would be more aptly titled, "Living the Waldorf Life". You may be money ahead to find some Waldorf books on Amazon. All is not lost though, the photgraphs were fun to get a peek at her life & precious children. The photo of her son putting on make-up is priceless, what a handsome little boy. I also have to admit that I am a tad jealous of the armoire that they found by the side of a road as a freebie. Why aren't my curbside finds that good?!
Honestly though, this is really just a book on living the Waldorf lifestyle.

wishing every parent could have this book, April 7, 2008
I was excited to receive an advance copy of Amanda Soule's new book. The Creative Family is her sweetly inspiring collection of projects, ideas and thoughts on family life at home. Home with little ones- precious, curious children just beginning their own creative adventures. Like her blog, the book is a clever handbook of the ways that a family can simply play and learn together, enriching each other's creativity with imagination and invention.

I am loving this little book- small enough that it sits perfectly on top of the stack here. It is beautifully designed and easy to dip into, though harder to put down. Most of all, I love the way that Amanda's parenting style fills their lives with creative discovery. Children are natural teachers too, their gentle ways instilling respect and affection for siblings, a calmer pace for the household. I like the accessible crafts that the family has created- sewn, built, mixed from simple materials and resources. Handmade knitting needles (how cool!), art-on-the-go bags, a banging wall from kitchen pots and pans. Rituals, traditions, parlor games, all within budget, without commercially marketed products. Fabulous, thrifty, home-made fun.

You know how you hear people jokingly say over the heads of their children, Where's the owner's manual? I think it's here, in the pages of thoughtful books like Amanda's. This wonderful book reminds us that there is no better, or more natural way to nurture our children- and ourselves- than with our own enthusiasm, patience, care and creativity.

Very Inspirational, May 16, 2008
I love this book SO much - it's so simple, yet holds a lot of inspiration and joy. As others have said, it goes beyond just crafting, and explores a way of BEing with your kids, appreciating what (and who) you have around you. I am deeply connected with my boys, but I never did a lot of crafty stuff with them; I never believed I was 'talented' enough to do that. I got inspired after reading Amanda's book, and the boys and I are choosing things to do together. They are 9 and 15, and have really enjoyed it, so it's definitely NOT just for younger kids. Her ideas and examples have also provided jumping-off places for them to create stuff on their own, that they might not have tried otherwise.

I highly recommend this book for all families.

Didn't love it, July 11, 2008
Do yourself a favor and check out her website before you order this book. If you like the sugesstions and tips she has there then you'll probably enjoy the book. I found it to be way too simplistic. She repeats a mantra of our ancestors being naturally creative because they had to, be creative and your children will be.... Just not what I was looking for.

A book to create much more than home projects, April 6, 2008
I just received this book, read 2 pages, and knew that this was just what I needed! The ideas, and information that are in the book are things that as a child 30 years ago my family did together and the book takes me there and away from what today's society has created for our children. Some of us easily get caught up with what is on your local chain store shelves as being educational and fun, rather than looking in our own back yards and with items that we already have to create memories, education, and beautiful projects. I love the section that talks about sharing blessings at the dinner table, for an agnostic family I loved the examples and traditions that were thankful but not based on beliefs that we are not part of.
For someone who would like to SIMPLIFY, and create more bonding and memories in there family life, to get away from consuming more with the parenting of today, this book is perfect! Like the others I am truly inspired and so excited!
... Read more

Reviews

A LOVING TRIBUTE TO MOM..., February 28, 2006
This book is, indeed, a tribute to the author's mother. In it, the author, a man whose mother was white and his father black, tells two stories: that of his mother and his own. Tautly written in spare, clear prose, it is a wonderful story of a bi-racial family who succeeded and achieved the American dream, despite the societal obstacles placed in its way.

The author's mother was a Polish Orthodox Jew who migrated to America at the age of two with her family during the early nineteen twenties. They ultimately settled down in Virginia, where she led an isolated and lonely life; shunned by whites because she was Jewish and shunned by blacks because she was white. She was raised in a predominantly black neighborhood, where her father, a despicable and harsh man who brutalized his handicapped wife, ran a local grocery store, where he priced gouged his black clientele.

She left home and moved to New York when she was nineteen and never looked back. She met and married the author's father, a black man, when mixed race marriages were still frowned upon by both whites and blacks. Still, she always felt more comfortable around blacks than around whites. When he died sixteen years later, she married another black man who nurtured her eight children by the author's father and proceeded to give her four more children.

The author tells of his childhood, of his family, and of the issue of race that ultimately colored his life while growing up in predominantly black neighborhoods, where his mother stood out like a sore thumb because of the color of her skin. It was always an issue his mother avoided discussing with him, as for her it was not an issue. It was not until the author wrote this book that his mother discussed the issue of race within the context of her own life. From this dialogue emerges a fascinating look at the issues of race, as well as religion, and how it impacts on an individual's identity within our race conscious society.

It is also a very personal story. While the author's family was economically disadvantaged, his eccentric and independent mother always stressed education. She was a strict disciplinarian who brooked no nonsense from her twelve children. A convert to Christianity through her first husband, with whom she founded a Baptist church, she provided her children with the will to succeed. Consequently, all twelve eventually went to college and did her proud. The story of this unique family is told from two distinct, parallel perspectives: that of the author and that of his mother. While both are interesting, it is his mother's story that dominates this beautifully written book, which is, indeed, a tribute to her. It is truly a story told from the heart, as the love that the author has for his mother is evident with every written word.

Shades of gray, January 24, 2008
I feel almost silly adding another review when others have said so much already. So, I'll keep it brief. This is an extremely well written book. It flows seamlessly back and forth between time periods and generations until, before you know it, it's over. And, contrary to what some others have written, it is not obsessed with race. Race, as McBride presents his struggles, can be seen as a metaphor for exclusion. McBride's experience brings to life the consequences of the unfortunate human tendency to separate people into in-groups and out-groups, and to denigrate those who belong to any out-group. Most of all, this is a heartwarming story about the power of love to overcome trauma. I recommend it to everyone, and most especially to anyone who has ever felt that they didn't fit into someone else's dichotomous box.

Great Book, a touching story, February 17, 2010
This book is a true story by james Mcbride. He wrote this masterpiece as a tribute to everything his mother went through for him and his siblings. The racial problems they went through describe a story many have gone through before and shows a side of society that not many understand. I also beileve it shows a side of this country some would like to deny exists or acknowledge. As to the one star review i would like to point out that what you have stated is a false accusation as well as ignorant beyond belief. Your view point does not represent the message the book is trying to send which i believe is that though there may be obstacles in one's life, they can overcome them and make their situation better. Ruth did this for her children by making them get an education and teaching them about racial ignorance and how to overcome it. Your statement however is saying the only reason this book is applaued is it was written by a black man whos mother happened to reject and renounce her jewish faith and it offends you because of this. Further more you say that if it were a jewish man who wrote a story such as this it would be rejected and deemed outrageous. This however just shows how close minded people are when they think opoinions such as these. It shows the same intolerance and slander against one ethnic group. Statements such as that one is what brings hatred and anger into this world. The book however is nto this at all. It is more however showing the side of not only racial boundries shattering but the loving care a ffamily really gives. It shows how a mother has the greatest impact on a child and to them seem bullet proof and act in such a manner. When you really see the side so many hide, you see struggles and hardships many face but bury away for they have something greater to think about, they think about their children, familys, loved ones and close friends and making it better for them. As a final note I beileve you have to understand that the author tells the truth and cannot hide the reality of what really happened. His mother is also human and like many humans has flaws. Readers must get that this book shows the flaws as well as how strong and a great mother Ruth really was.

An extraordinary story, July 6, 2006
James McBride creates a not-very-flattering portrait of race in America in this outstanding story of his white Jewish mother and black father and stepfather. Ruth McBride was born an Orthodox Jew who came to America at the age of two. The product of a traditional, arranged, loveless marriage, her family lived in the South, and from a young age she found warmth and love only in the black community. As a teenager she left home for New York, married a black man, raised 8 children, founded a church in Brooklyn, and married again as a widow and raised another 4.

Her Jewish family cut her off as if dead, and so too was her Jewish self dead, as she lived in the black community in a white world that treated her with contempt and treated her children as black. And that was fine with James, who was deeply ashamed to have a white mother, at least until he became an adult and realized her extraordinary strength and courage and faith. It took him 14 years to unearth her story, and when published 10 years ago, this memoir was a literary sensation.

Ruth had the good fortune to marry two extraordinary black men, and her Christian faith carried her past all the obstacles society created in the post-WWII period. White society scorned her for marrying black men, and her children were segregated as all other black children at that time--there has never been a "half-white" category in America. But Ruth did not let this stop her from sending her children to the best schools possible, and all 12 today are college graduates, with a good number of doctors thrown in for good measure. Throughout she was accepted and supported by her black neighbors and friends and churches. We may balk now reading of her iron discipline and corporal punishment, but it was always tempered by the love of both a mother and father. We may wonder if it would have been better for her to be open about her past with her children, but she transformed herself from Ruchel Shilsky to Ruth McBride as a matter of survival. This is an extraordinary story of an admirable woman's survival in the less than admirable society of the time, and well worth your time.

A profound reading experience, March 18, 2006
For nearly 10 years now, I have given this book to others as a gift, especially those who are interested in profound, moving literature. This book FLOWS and speaks to all of us: black, white, Jewish, gentile, young, old. I recommend this book to those I work with, to my son's high school English teachers, to anyone who is searching for a satisfying, uplifting experience. I say experience rather than 'book.' To me, reading this book is an experience. I pull it out and re-read it every year. It encourages me to face hardships, to count my blessings and to recognize that all of us are put on earth for a reason. Thank you, James McBride, for a book that has become a cornerstone in my life.

Unbelievable non-fiction, January 5, 2007
I have used this book with an Advance Placement Language class in high school. It is an astounding biographical account of both James McBride's mother as well as a semi autobiography of McBride himself. How McBride's mother was able to sustain herself through many difficult and trying early years, and to raise a large mixed race family is the stuff that one assumes can only be found in imaginative fiction. It reads easily and frequently has one gasping, or laughing, at the many recounted incidents over many years in the evolution of this family. It is inspiring, thought provoking and illuminating.

The Color of Water, January 28, 2009
In his book, The Color of Water, James McBride tells the story of his mother's life and the story of his own search for identity. It is the remarkably moving story of a young woman who is compelled to leave her home, her family, and her Orthodox Jewish faith and heritage behind her. Rachel Shilsky moves from Virginia to Harlem and marries Dennis McBride, a Christian black man. When her family learns what she has done, the entire family (collateral relatives included) declare Rachel dead and sit shiva. At that point, Rachel realizes that all ties to her past are severed. She becomes a Christian, changes her name to Ruth, and wholeheartedly throws herself into her new life without a backward glance. She founds the New Brown Christian Church in the Red Hook projects in Harlem, and raises twelve outstanding and highly accomplished children.

Ruth's path in life is filled with crises, obstacles and painful situations. But Ruth's journey is one that is driven by love, compassion and determination. Fortunately, Ruth is equipped with a strong will and an amazing insight. When one son asks her the color of God's skin, her response is "God is the color of water". Like everyone else in this world, Ruth makes mistakes and has to deal with personality flaws. This woman does so with grace.

James McBride shares his personal struggles as well. Throughout the majority of the book, young James grapples with racial identity issues, anger and anxiety. When James loses his stepfather in his early teens, his grief is so profound that he becomes unmoored for a few years. I am mixed race and was raised in a household of conflicting ideologies. I have to say that James McBride puts my feelings about my mixed upbringing into words -- and he gets it right.

I alternately cried and laughed as I worked my way through the final five chapters of the book, its epilogue and afterword (I even cried and laughed through McBride's acknowledgements). I identified with virtually every sentence. This book has my highest recommendations.

A soaring celebration of familial love, February 10, 2008
Some reviews here say it all. This is indeed a remarkable biography/autobiography, so I would only add my praise for such a loving, touching homage to a very special lady and her remarkable family. I loved the forthright descriptions of this numerous mixed-race family and was touched by Mrs. McBride Jordan's personal tale, kept inside for so long. Her buried past and the author's own reminiscences entwine flawlessly, making this an emotion-stirring book. By writing it, James McBride is finally able to piece together his own past and that of his mother, thus quenching his desire to learn more about his origins.

The difference with the original edition is an interesting Afterword, summarizing the 10 years since its first publication (1996) and the impact its success had on the author himself, his family and, above all, his mother. I shall not disclose anything here, but it is worth to look into.

I truly think this is a standout among the various memoirs I have read so far, an inspiring and remarkable contribution to race-related literature.

First rate memoir, October 12, 2008
I started to write first rate mixed-race memoir, but hell, this is just plain first rate writing no matter how you slice it. As one of 12 kids in desperately poor conditions, McBride survived and triumphed, as apparently did all 11 of his siblings. And they owe much of this to their mother, who did her best for them. This is a "double memoir," being the story of both the author and his mother, a Jewish immigrant who survived an abusive and nearly loveless childhood, but finally found love - twice - and somehow successfully raised all those kids, the products of two good matches with men who took their parenting responsibilities seriously. I wonder if Barack Obama has read this book. There are undoubtedly personal and racial identity problems here to which he could relate. If I could call him up, I'd certainly recommend it to him. I'm also recommending it to another author I know, Stella Suberman, who wrote the warm memoir of growing up Jewish in the south, THE JEW STORE. But hey, I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know a little more about the nature of being a human being. - Tim Bazzett, author of Reed City Boy

Uplifting and Inspirational, April 6, 2008
This was the second copy of this book I purchased after the first disappeared into circulation among my friends. A timeless story interstingly structured and skillfully told. A worthwhile read. ... Read more

Editorial Review

 
THE ONE GUIDE MOST PEDIATRICIANS RECOMMEND
 
From the American Academy of Pediatrics—the nation’s most trusted name in child care—Your Baby’s First Year is the definitive all-in-one guide to caring for your infant. Revised and updated, including two new chapters on sleep and allergies, Your Baby’s First Year provides authoritative advice on all aspects of infant care, including
 
• expanded sections on raising twins, multiples, and children with autism
• new material on prebiotics, probiotics, and the Tdap vaccine
• a month-to-month guide to your baby’s first year with vital facts on growth, behavior, and development
• a complete health encyclopedia covering illnesses, injuries, and disabilities
• advice on breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and introducing solids
• guidelines for choosing a child care provider
• safety checks for home and car, including a car safety seat shopping guide
• And much more
 
    Comprehensive, reassuring, and up-to-date, Your Baby’s First Year is an indispensable guide for all parents who want to provide the very best care for their baby. ... Read more

Reviews

Can't do without!, August 11, 2010
I have an older edition of this book but I'm sure the updated version is only that much more helpful.
This has everything. Developmental milestones, physical growth, insturctions on how to feed at each stage, sleep training, and an entire section on all the major health problems babies can have. It has tylenol dose charts, etc. It is so helpful in so many ways!
I intend to buy a book from the American Academy of Pediatrics for the next phase as my son just turned age one!

Ok book - there are better ones, December 11, 2010
Bought this book in addition to Baby411 and What to expect 1st year. It's an ok book but the other two books are better. There is not that much useful info even though this book is pretty thick. The text is dry and clinical. Baby411 has tips and suggestions while this book just describes things with no potential solutions. I wouldn't recommend it to a friend. ... Read more

Editorial Review

There’s little doubt that parenting can be one of the most rewarding and satisfying experiences you’ll ever have. But it can be plenty tough, too: Around the clock, you’re working to keep your little one healthy, teach her the difference between right and wrong, and make sure none of her little fingers find their way to the electrical outlets, the dog’s nose, or grandpop’s cup of coffee. In YOU: Raising Your Child, Drs. Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen, the New York Times #1 bestselling authors of the YOU health series, help you navigate the often tricky journey of parenting with the ultimate guide to raising a happy, healthy child.

Dr. Mehmet Oz—host of television’s The Dr. Oz Show—and Dr. Michael Roizen—chief wellness officer and chair of the Wellness Institute of the Cleveland Clinic—have sold millions of books informing readers about healthy dieting, aging, and overall health. Picking up where their prior book, YOU: Having a Baby, left off, the docs provide oh-wow information and insider advice to help parents understand the biology and psychology of raising a child from birth to school age.

With humor and cutting-edge biological insights, the authors address everything from troubleshooting infant health issues to creating an environment that supports the emotional and intellectual development of your growing child. They talk about the various approaches to parenting—are you a Marshmallow Mommy or an Iron Maiden, passive or hyperinvolved? The docs help you identify your style of parenting, encouraging passive parents to create clear boundaries and hypervigilant ones to step back more often and let their kids develop. You will learn to become the ideal parent: firm but flexible. The docs also provide an extensive overview of nuts-and-bolts health problems— from asthma to fevers to emergency room visits and the sensitive issue of vaccinations.

In YOU: Raising Your Child, America’s most trusted doctors, who co-host a daily Sirius/XM radio program for Oprah Radio, once again come to the rescue with wisdom about how to provide an enriching environment with the ultimate goal of raising a child with a healthy body—and mind. As the docs say in their introduction: “Our goal is to teach you how to create the optimal environment for your child—an environment that’s most conducive to your child thriving in all areas of life, physically, emotionally, socially, and developmentally. Why? Because the latest research shows us that the environment—as defined not only by physical space but also by the behaviors of parents and caregivers—is the number-one determinant of your child’s future.”

 *** 

YOU: Raising Your Child offers a brand-new way to think about parenting. Imagine child development—and your child’s journey though life—as a ride down a long, often unpredictable river. You are the guide, there to control the direction and speed that you travel. For the fi rst few years of their lives, your children are your precious cargo—the passengers who take in everything they see and who learn from you how to paddle on their own. As the guide, you can control the path you take and the environments you choose to travel in—with the goal of creating a healthy and happy life for your child. Here’s just a sample of what you’ll learn:

• The mind relies on the environment to give clues and signals about how it’s supposed to develop and what it’s supposed to learn. Dr. Roizen and Dr. Oz show you how to create the best learning landscape possible to help your child thrive.

• Breast milk provides the perfect concoction of nutrients to help protect your baby against infection, asthma, and many other conditions (it also burns 500 calories a day to help you lose that baby weight!). But if you aren’t able to breastfeed, we have plenty of tips on exactly what and how much to feed your baby to make sure that he or she is getting the best possible diet from day one.

• Get the truth about high fevers and learn the most accurate way to take a temperature (it’s not what you think!). You’ll also get insider tricks for handling everything from earaches to febrile seizures.

 • Whether your child is allergic to gluten or peanut butter, there are two dominant theories about why more kids have allergies today than ever before. YOU: Raising Your Child explains them and tells you unique ways to prevent and treat allergies in your child.

Our goal is for YOU: Raising Your Child to be the map that you need to safely navigate the waters of your baby’s life from day one to day 2,190, and in it we will give you all the tools you need to steer the best possible course.

... Read more