Blog Archives
A Feeling of Community
Notes From Motherland: The Wild Adventures of Raising Humans is a heartfelt collection of essays capturing the rollercoaster that is motherhood. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It is easy to feel isolated and alone on the motherhood journey. This book is important because it gives voice to the wide variety of experiences people have as they approach motherhood and while on the path itself. I wanted a resource for people that spoke not only to the joy but to the myriad other feelings people have. Sadly, people often find it difficult to find places to express their more vulnerable feelings about such a common thing as being a mother. My hope is that this collection provides a place for people to get a look into the breadth of feeling and experience that accompanies motherhood, that they find a sisterhood, and they the feel less alone.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
That there is not just one “valid” experience of or approach to motherhood, that we are all different and bring different things to the journey and experience of motherhood. Again, my hope is that people find this to be a supportive, informative resource. It’s not a “how to” resource but one that hopefully engenders a feeling of community.
How did you decide what to include and leave out in your collection of essays?
We invited a variety of authors to share their experiences and reflections and it was their choice what to share. So we did not hand-pick the topics or experiences that were offered.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your anthology?
I hope readers take away a sense of inclusion, support, and hope that they are not strange or bad or alone in their mothering or in their perhaps ambivalent feelings about the experience. Motherhood is SO complex. I think it is unreasonable to expect people to only feel joy and yet the cultural message that is often delivered is that there is something wrong with us if we have less than happy feelings about it.
Chris Chandler Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Sierra Melcher Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Through laughter and tears, these women reflect on the lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the growth experienced through motherhood. Each story is a testament to the strength, resilience, and love that defines the mother-child relationship.
Notes from Motherland is a celebration of the universal joys and challenges of motherhood, offering insight, support, and inspiration to mothers everywhere. Whether you’re a new mom, a seasoned parent, or simply curious about the complexities of motherhood, this anthology is sure to resonate with you. Join these women as they share their stories, reminding us all of the beauty and chaos that comes with raising humans.
Coauthors:
- Chris Chandler
- Jennifer Rhode
- Sandi Phinney
- Audra Romeo
- Sierra Lynn Riddle
- JoEllen Leigh Irizarry
- Jessica Stokes
- Erika Hull
- Brandee Melcher
- Ashley Wize
- Reah Hagues
- Rena McDonald
- Frances Trejo-lay
- Sierra Melcher
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
Why?
In Why? by Elena Kayne, readers are introduced to the insatiably curious three-year-old protagonist, Ella. From the moment she opens her eyes, Ella embarks on a daily quest for knowledge, bombarding her mother with a cascade of questions ranging from the movement of her eggs at breakfast to the whimsical shapes of clouds. Each query, no matter how whimsical, is met with patience and love, illustrating the deep bond between Ella and her mother. This story charmingly captures the essence of a child’s curiosity and a parent’s enduring affection.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the portrayal of the mother’s unwavering dedication to nurturing her daughter’s inquisitive mind. Despite the demands of her daily life, she remains committed to answering Ella’s endless stream of questions. This not only showcases a beautiful aspect of their relationship but also highlights the value of encouraging a child’s natural inquisitiveness. Tetiana Matiikiv’s illustrations add a delightful dimension to the story, with their whimsical style perfectly encapsulating Ella’s boundless curiosity. Children are likely to be drawn to the vivid imagery, following Ella and her dog through their adventures on each page. An interesting note is the author’s personal inspiration for the story – her own daughter, Ella Marie. This real-life connection adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making Ella’s character even more relatable and endearing.
Why? is a delightful book that takes readers on an immersive journey through the exciting yet challenging world of raising a curious child. The story is heartwarming and insightful, providing a unique perspective on the joys and struggles of parenting. The illustrations are beautifully crafted, adding a new layer of depth and emotion to the narrative. Whether you are a parent or a child, this book is a must-read that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.
Pages: 47 | ASIN : B0CK2LK6DL
LITERARY TITAN 