Believing It All: What My Children Taught Me about Trout Fishing, Jelly Toast, and Life

Marc Parent is a man who truly understands children inside and out, and he has definitely leaned his lessons first hand. His words come from the heart, based on his experience as a social worker and, in particular, as a stay-at-home Dad. As a counsellor, I have met with many a stay-at-home Dads; it is among the norm these days and on the rise. With many women returning to complete their education, joining the workforce and taking management jobs, the parenting roles have in many cases been reversed. While it has been the traditional role of mothers to provide daily care for their children, I have seen fathers who do an excellent job, and in some cases, a much better job than those moms who view motherhood as a "tied down, unfulfilling, low-paying job." Fortunately, they are among the minority, but they do exist and we have probably all met one or two who fall into that category. Parent is a unique man and a gifted writer. His touch of humor adds a special charm to the book and once read, you will be tempted to hug your child for no special reason other, than you love him/her. The author pragmatically brings to our attention, the honesty, beauty, innocense and wonder of a child, and how a look of sheer love and trust can bring tears to your eyes and conquer your soul. "Believing It All" is a five star plus and highly recommended.

This book touches me on so many levels that I can't even begin to cover it all. As a new parent, who has recently become a stay at home mom, I can totally relate to Marc's daily life. As a child who grew up on a farm and in the country, the carefree childhood memories of Marc touch me with almost a deja vu type of clarity. What can I say? From the children's fascination with a dead animal to the love of riding even after you're too big for the stroller....this book touches me as both a child who once was and a parent that I now have become. I loved it....and didn't want it to end.

A book of extraordinary wisdom grounded in the authentic experiences of a stay-at-home dad. Marc Parent stays away from sentimentality but at the same time writes from the heart. A beautiful book worthy of anyone's library. Rosie O'Donnel says, "I love this book" ......I second that endorsement.

Having read Marc Parent's brilliant first book 'Turning Stones: My Days and Nights With Children at Risk',in which he recounts his experiences as a NYC caseworker for the child welfare service, I eagerly awaited his new book'Believing It All'. 'Believing It All' is a very different book from his first but once again the reader is in the presence of an extremely gifted writer and storyteller. Mr. Parent now brings his wisdom and insight to his own children. This is a deeply moving account of his relationship with his children and lessons he has recieved from them. This is NOT a cute little quick read... it is written with a gut truth that brought tears to my eyes. It's a wake up call to us so-called adults to open our eyes to the humor, beauty, honesty, and love that only children can remind us of, be it our own or others.This is an important book that will be read and reread for years to come.

This book is so very, very real. My words can't describe how much I love this book. I want to loan it to everyone I know but I don't want to let it out of my sight. This is pure and tender yet some of it had me laughing out loud. I cried and then laughed at the very next chapter. Wow! what a book! Please don't miss this one. Or better yet go ahead and buy two. One to give away!