Blog Archives
Mommy Needs A Minute
Mommy Needs a Minute is a heartfelt and candid exploration of the journey from burnout to empowerment in modern mothers’ lives. Drawing from her personal experiences and extensive research, author Alyssa Brade offers a compassionate look into the struggles of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of self-care, mental health, and maternal intuition. The book is a blend of memoir and practical advice aimed at helping mothers find balance and reclaim their sense of self amid the chaos of raising young children.
From the very beginning, Brade’s writing is engaging and relatable. The introduction sets the tone with humor and authenticity, capturing the reader’s attention by vividly describing the less-than-ideal circumstances many mothers find themselves in while trying to find a moment of peace. Her honesty about her own struggles, such as feeling inadequate and overwhelmed, resonates deeply, making it easy for readers to connect with her narrative. The book’s structure, which blends personal anecdotes with insights and practical tips, keeps the reader engaged while providing valuable information.
Brade’s discussion of information burnout is one of the book’s strongest aspects. She effectively highlights the paradox of the modern age, where an abundance of parenting advice often leads to confusion and self-doubt rather than empowerment. Her anecdote about obsessively researching the perfect swaddle for her baby only to find that her husband’s simple solution worked best perfectly illustrates how parental intuition can sometimes be more effective than expert advice. This theme is consistently woven throughout the book, encouraging mothers to trust their instincts and find a balance between external advice and personal intuition.
Brade also tackles the challenging topic of mental health burnout with sensitivity and depth. She shares her own journey of recognizing the need for mental health care and provides practical, actionable steps for mothers to prioritize their well-being. The chapter on slow living was particularly impactful to me. It offered concrete steps to simplify life and reduce stress. Brade’s emphasis on self-worth and the need to set boundaries is a refreshing reminder that taking care of oneself is not only beneficial but essential for effective parenting.
Mommy Needs a Minute is a must-read for any mother feeling the weight of burnout and the pressures of modern parenting. Alyssa Brade’s compassionate and authentic voice and her practical advice make this book an invaluable resource.
Pages: 168 | ASIN : B0D523K45F
The Flight Home: Nine Journeys, Nine Lessons
Veronica Llorca-Smith’s memoir The Flight Home: Nine Journeys, Nine Lessons is an engaging journey that captivates a wide array of readers, whether you’re a wanderer at heart, a professional navigating the business world, or a parent. It’s a narrative that resonates universally, drawing readers into its embrace regardless of their background.
Llorca-Smith, whom I’ve come to admire immensely through her writing, crafts a poignant and humorous narrative. Her skillful storytelling makes for an effortless and enjoyable read, blending an extraordinary life story with relatable human emotions. The memoir delves into her childhood and teenage years, marked by a nomadic existence due to her father’s career. This backdrop sets the stage for a tale of resilience, joy, and the challenges of growing up in various cultures. Her experiences in countries like Italy, Spain, France, the Netherlands, Brazil, and various Asian nations are not just travelogues but are imbued with deep cultural insights and personal growth. Llorca-Smith’s vivid descriptions bring these places to life, allowing readers to experience the world through her eyes. Beyond a story of geographical journeys, this book also explores themes of adaptability, the strength of women, and the power of determination. It’s a testament to setting goals and the relentless pursuit of dreams. This memoir is not just a recounting of Llorca-Smith’s life; it’s an inspiring narrative encouraging readers to embrace their journeys.
The Flight Home: Nine Journeys, Nine Lessons is more than a memoir; it is an enriching experience, offering both a window into diverse cultures and a mirror reflecting our own potential. It comes highly recommended for anyone seeking inspiration, cultural exploration, or simply a beautifully told life story.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0CNK1BCVG
Tristan
Tristan, authored by Patricia Crosby, is a deeply moving narrative that delves into the complex relationship between a mother and her daughter during challenging times. Patricia Crosby, a woman of strong faith, finds herself grappling with the rebellious phase of her teenage daughter, Tristan. The book poignantly captures Patricia’s journey as she receives a divine indication of her daughter’s impending departure from this world, compelling her to come to terms with this devastating reality.
Drawing from her personal experiences, Crosby crafts a story that is both authentic and touching. She portrays Tristan’s life with a level of realism and depth that brings her memory to life. The narration offers a window into Tristan’s struggles and the emotional turmoil she faces, making her journey and eventual passing deeply resonant. Patricia Crosby’s portrayal of strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming grief is admirable. Her ability to navigate this heart-wrenching loss provides inspiration and a sense of companionship to readers who may be experiencing similar challenges. Crosby’s writing style is engaging and sincere, creating an atmosphere of intimate reflection. The book does more than just share a story; it serves as a mentor to parents, offering insights and guidance on navigating the complexities of raising children.
Tristan is a significant and impactful work. Crosby’s courage in sharing such a personal and painful part of her life is commendable, making this book not just a tribute to her daughter but also a source of hope and solace for others.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0BTFSV2RZ
Circling Home: What I Learned by Living Elsewhere
Circling Home: What I Learned by Living Elsewhere, by Terry A. Repak, offers an insightful and captivating account of her family’s life during their time overseas. Repak’s narrative style is engaging and eloquent, drawing parallels between their international experiences and the challenges akin to scaling a mountain – demanding yet extraordinarily rewarding. The memoir skillfully intertwines her personal journey with her husband Stefan’s professional endeavors in addressing the AIDS crisis. It presents a rich tapestry of experiences, evolving from her initial days as a new mother in Ivory Coast to becoming a seasoned traveler settling in Seattle.
Repak’s memoir stands out for its honesty and emotional depth, particularly in depicting family and friendship dynamics. Her interactions are not limited to fellow expatriates; she equally values her relationships with locals like Gladys, Adama, and Ousmane, showcasing the enduring connections formed despite geographical relocations. The narrative poignantly covers challenging times, such as her father’s illness, with a rawness that deeply resonates with readers.
Repak’s portrayal of her relationship with her daughter, Elena, is an especially compelling aspect of the book. Parents who have adopted will find comfort and understanding in Repak’s reflections on parenthood and the unique experiences of expatriate children. The portrayal of Elena’s growth is handled with nuance, acknowledging the complexities of her experiences thoughtfully and respectfully.
Circling Home is a commendable memoir, particularly for those intrigued by travel and life in foreign lands. Repak’s narrative is a reassuring guide for anyone navigating the intricacies of living in unfamiliar territories, providing a sense of kinship and understanding for those who have ever felt like outsiders. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the enduring strength of human connections, regardless of physical distance.
Pages: 308 | ASIN : B0BQDTBVSJ
A Soul-Happy Mom
Life Magic Mastery for Moms helps women navigate the world of motherhood without losing sight of themselves and their own goals and dreams. Why was this an important book for you to write?
As an ambitious mom of 6 who has experienced so many breakthroughs and experiences in her life, I know first-hand that when you keep your cup full, you have the best of yourself to give. I am very passionate about sharing that message with the world.
Motherhood can be the most tiring yet the most fulfilling job in the world, and it can pull you down when you sacrifice your dreams for it. So why not pursue your dreams aligned with your values? Your kids will learn from your actions, and you won’t feel that you have lost yourself in motherhood. They will benefit from having a soul-happy mom.
I do need to comment that, for some people, motherhood is the dream, and that’s wonderful, too.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Definitely the power of perspective and how it can change our experience of life.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
I did get a wonderful piece of advice from my mom who is also a mom of 6; she always said that the answer to any problem was to choose what makes you happy. It was from that wisdom that I knew the importance of prioritising joy.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
I hope that the main thing for the moms who read this book is to do parenting your way! It’s not all about doing what is conventional. We are here to guide our children, not to mold them into something we want them to be. A mother’s intuition is strong and will help in this beautiful and nurturing process. Our children grow up so fast!
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Life Magic Mastery for Moms
Many women navigate motherhood whilst also pursuing their ambitions. It is often not about balance, it is more about perspective which can be the difference between succeeding and not. As a mum of six and an ambitious leader, Karen shares her insights, thoughts and knowledge with readers so that you can find the way that works best for you as you navigate the wonderful chaos of raising the next generation whilst also raising yourself.
Karen Weaver is a multi-award-winning author, publisher, life philosopher and the founder of Serenity Press, MMH Press, KMD Books and Duchess Serenity Press.
She is a multi-genre author of over forty books, a Forbes influencer, a three-time TEDx speaker and a proud mum of six. As an advanced Law of Attraction practitioner, she is passionate about teaching people how to attract anything they want into their lives through her extensive knowledge and vibrant energy.
She has a ‘no excuse’ policy: if she can do it, anyone can! She believes in the power of mums in business leading the way for the next generation to live to their highest potential. Karen is on a mission to share the power of stories with the world.
Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature
In her riveting memoir, Places We Left Behind, Jennifer Lang crafts an inspiring narrative about love’s resilience in the face of geographical distances, cultural differences, and familial challenges. Lang explores her journey across three continents, juggling the upbringing of three children and managing the complexities of divergent religious beliefs. This tightly packed memoir resonates with poignant undertones of homesickness and self-sacrifice, revealing the remarkable strength of a woman who ceaselessly prioritizes her family’s welfare over her personal needs.
In Places We Left Behind, Lang chronicles her personal trials and tribulations and delves into the complexities of culture, religion and their impact on interpersonal relationships. The memoir is a testament to the immense power of love and sacrifice in holding a family together.
This concise yet deeply emotive memoir is ripe with hidden layers of meaning, making each page a journey in itself. Though Lang’s story is an extraordinary one, readers who have experienced the uncertainties of a new environment or have strived for harmony within marital relationships will find her tale highly relatable.
While it isn’t necessarily a self-help book, readers stand to gain invaluable insights from Lang’s resilient coping mechanisms and indomitable courage in the face of grave adversities, including her experience navigating terrorist attacks to ensure her family’s safety. Amidst all these challenges, her humility and warmth remain intact, creating a strong bond with her readers.
Lang’s unique narrative style, sprinkled with effortless humor and candid confessions, humanizes her as more than just an author – she feels like a familiar friend sharing life experiences. The book is cleverly structured with timelines, diagrams, and footnotes, creating a creatively educational format. This is particularly beneficial for readers unfamiliar with certain key themes in the book, such as Judaism and yoga.
She skillfully alternates between prose and poetry, adding a captivating rhythm to her storytelling. A particularly engaging feature is a series of reflective questions provided at the end of the book, prompting readers to introspect and connect more deeply with her experiences.
Pages: 95 | ASIN : B0C5Y5YY91
The Golden Ticket: A Life in College Admissions Essays
In The Golden Ticket, author Irena Smith invites readers to embark on an intimate exploration of her life as a Russian immigrant in America. Navigating the complexities of language barriers and the added burden of discrimination due to her Jewish heritage, Irena and her family remain steadfast in pursuing the American dream. Born into a lineage of engineers, Irena defies expectations by embracing her passion for literature, ultimately studying at the prestigious UCLA with her parents’ encouragement.
Post-graduation, Irena discovers her true calling as a college admissions counselor, specializing in guiding students toward the coveted HYPS institutions: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and Stanford. Her unique perspective gives readers insight into the extraordinary lengths parents are prepared to traverse to secure their children’s admission into these esteemed establishments, often at any financial cost.
Irena’s multifaceted life experiences extend beyond her professional endeavors. As a mother to three children, one autistic and the others exhibiting neurological differences, she exemplifies resilience and devotion. Her candid portrayal illuminates the challenges of raising children with diverse needs while simultaneously working with families whose priorities are strikingly different than her own family’s.
The Golden Ticket is a compelling memoir that unapologetically delves into Irena’s journey. Her emotive storytelling and vivid descriptions forge a connection with readers, transcending its ostensible purpose as a guide to crafting college essays. It encapsulates the essence of Irena’s life, imparting invaluable lessons on determination, the pursuit of knowledge, independence, and curiosity.
The Golden Ticket is an exceptional read for anyone seeking a glimpse into the world of a college admissions wizard. Delving into the intricacies of the application process, this engaging and informative book comes highly recommended for readers interested in both personal narratives and the college admissions landscape.
Pages: 238 | ASIN : B0B8H4K7HZ
Nobody’s Daughter
In Nobody’s Daughter, author Rica Ramos shares a deeply personal memoir that recounts a difficult childhood marked by an unsupportive mother and the lasting impact of those experiences. Ramos navigates the intersections of past and present, illuminating the constant presence of a mother who consistently failed to provide the care and protection her children needed. The narrative delves into the author’s experiences with abuse, exploring her feelings of resentment towards not only her abusive stepfather but also her mother for neglecting to shield her children from harm.
Ramos tackles a range of sensitive subjects. However, the memoir’s primary focus extends beyond the traumatic experiences that occupy a substantial portion of the narrative. The ultimate goal becomes evident in the concluding chapters, as the author applies the healing she has undergone through therapy to nurture the newest generation of her family—her grandchild. By reflecting on her mother’s actions and consciously choosing to treat her grandchild with gentleness and love, Ramos offers solace to her inner child.
While the book contains moderately detailed accounts of sexual abuse, making it unsuitable for readers who may find such topics distressing, it is an invaluable resource for those who have experienced similar emotional detachment from a parent. The author’s journey toward healing provides a cathartic and potentially helpful perspective for individuals grappling with comparable childhood traumas.
Nobody’s Daughter is a compelling memoir that I would recommend to many who have overcome abuse or who know someone who has suffered from abuse. It is also an insightful look at the mother and daughter relationship and shows readers that their own self-worth matters over the cultural stigma of honoring their mother. Through Rica’s story, other women will find validation and strength to stand up for themselves and know their voice matters.
Pages: 187 | ASIN : B0B8H4T8MQ
LITERARY TITAN 