Literary Mama: Reading for the Maternally Inclined

A book even designed with busy mom's in mind. I was able to read brief snatches in between snack time and dragon hunts. The images and language are with me even after the book is finished. This is a collection of writers talented enough to do motherhood justice. It goes beyond the sentimental fluff flooding the mother market. Read it not only for the insight it provides on parenting but also as an example of great writing. It is a perfect mix of poetry, fiction and essays. Great gift for Mother's Day!

I knew I still had a brain but I didn't know where it was until I found it again by reading these smart, funny, touching and poignant essays, poems, stories. One thing I liked about this collection that made it more interesting than many other similarly themed books is that a number of different literary forms are included. Like any collection some pieces are better than others but overall the quality is high and all are short enough to read in the moments between feedings and diaper changes.

This book is a collection of essays edited by Andi Buchanan and Amy Hudock of LiteraryMama.com -- a website that has raised the bar for writing about motherhood both on and offline. What I love about this collection of writing is what I love about LiteraryMama.com: the fact that it reflects the reality of motherhood. The writing isn't saccharine and cutesy. Rather, the book is honest enough to admit that there are times when we are disappointed and frustrated and angry with our kids -- and times when we feel guilty for feeling that way -- as well as times when we feel so happy about having a chance at motherhood that we are almost giddy. Here's something else I love Buchanan and Hudock's collection. Rather than limiting themselves to "name brand writers", Buchanan and Hudock have sought to give voice to both well-known and lesser-known writers. The result is a highly personal collection of memoir, reflections, and poetry from a highly diverse and talented group of everymoms. Highly recommended.