The Everything Guide to Stepparenting: Practical, Reassuring Advice for Creating Healthy, Long-Lasting Relationships

This is a realistic and straightforward guide to issues that often arise in "blended" families. The authors have outlined specific strategies for maneuvering through milestones as well as the everyday hurdles many families experience. The book also takes into consideration some of the difficulties that a step parent may face within their own marriage as well as navigating issues that may arise between the other biological parent. The "thinking you're an idiot" sub-title illustrates the light natured touch the authors were able to infuse when talking about multifaceted family dynamics, making this a really enjoyable and fast read. The arrangement of the index allows the reader to revisit topics quickly. This is a must-have resource for families who are striving for peace and meaningful relationships.

Although not a stepparent myself, I have many stepparents in my busy Boston primary care practice. I found this book to be easy to read, clear, concise and very informative. The relationship between stepparents and stepchildren is very complicated and it has been invaluable to me to have this book as a reference when questions arise in the office.

Well thought out and cleverly designed. From the decision to meet a boyfriend's/girlfriend's children, to a second marriage, to full time step parenting; the author thoroughly considered the many situations that one may encounter in this complicated family dynamic. Ms. Munroe is successful in bringing a level of understanding and levity to what could be a very difficult and stressful situation. This is a must read for those who have found themselves in such a complicated scenario and want some practical suggestions to guide them through daily life. I plan to wholeheartedly recommend this to my clients in similar situations. Amy Donovan Matthews, MEd, MS, LMHC