Helpful Score: 1
I only wish I had read this book BEFORE having children or at least soon after my first child was born. The suggestions and personal experiences in this book are very helpful for first-timers as well as experienced mothers. If you've ever questioned why it was so difficult to transition from independent woman to motherhood or blamed yourself for those weeks/months of unhappiness when everyone around you thought you should be thrilled; this book answers those questions. It isn't a how-to manual...those are a dime a dozen, but it does explain thoroughly why the introduction to motherhood can be so traumatic and unsettling. What Mothers Do helps you learn to relax and enjoy the journey and accept or disregard all that unwanted advice that gets dumped on you the moment your belly starts to grow. It also gives you hope, encouragement, and the confidence that you can do this "toughest job you'll ever love" and it does make a difference. Note: British author, so spellings and some terminology differences. Pro-breastfeeding, co-sleeping, and stay-at-home mothering, but not preachy or judgemental at all. All parenting styles are treated with respect.
