Rating: 
Genre: Adult Fiction, Motherhood
Reading Challenges: 24 for 100+ in 2009
I really wasn't expecting very much from this novel. I began my read with an expectation that this would be a book much like the cupcake pictured on the cover; light and fluffy, and easily forgettable. Instead, I was pleased to discover a great read which made me reflect on my own thoughts and feelings of life as a stay-at-home mother to young children.
The heroine is Lanie, the mother of three energetic (to say the least) little boys, the youngest of whom is only eight months old. At the beginning of the book, Lanie explains that she has recently relocated because of a great career opportunity for Peter, her husband. Lanie has left behind her childhood home in Houston, her family, and her friends. A chance remark by a stranger at a park also convinces Lanie that somewhere along the way she has also left behind the girl she used to be, back when she and Peter first fell in love. Lanie becomes determined to reclaim her old self, but she finds this quest more difficult than she would have imagined as she tries to continue to meet her responsibilities as a wife and a mother.
I found this book to be refreshing because Lanie's life as a wife and mother, while not depicted as glamorous in any way (at one point, in an emergency, she helps her oldest boy poop into a Ziploc bag at a park), was not written as though it was one of constant drudgery. There were plenty of moments that had me smiling as Lanie's little boys tried to "help" her, and her husband Peter was portrayed as a loving, supportive, and faithful husband. I do feel that the author did a great job of capturing the exhaustion, frustration, joy, and adventure of parenthood. I also enjoyed reading about Lanie and Peter, and their relationship.
I am so glad I gave this book a chance. Ultimately, it reminded me that although I'm not necessarily the girl I used to be, it doesn't follow that this new person is any less valuable. It also reminded me to live in the moment, and be grateful for the present; stinky diapers, runny noses, and all.
: I loved this book! Destined to become one of my favorite reads of all time. I can't recommend it highly enough.
: I liked this book. It was an enjoyable read, but it doesn't necessarily stand out. Try it, you might like it.
: I didn't like this book, and I can't really recommend it.
: I loathed it! The world would be a better place without this book.
Hi! I'm so glad you liked my novel, Everyone Is Beautiful! It was such a pleasure to read your lovely review!
Warmly,
Katherine Center
I haven't finished this book but after seeing on your site I decided to give it a try. I am no where near the speed reader that you are but I dived right into this book. I couldn't put it down. I just got it last Monday and I am already to chapter 9 which for me is great.
I think this book is hilarious. A must read for all mom's- stay at home or working. I think it is great to see that someone else enjoys the up and downs as much as I do.
I want to read her other book as soon as I am done with this one. Thanks for suggesting this book
Ultimately, it reminded me that although I'm not necessarily the girl I used to be, it doesn't follow that this new person is any less valuable.
What a good sentiment. It's so true, but we tend to forget it all too often.
I also liked how Lanie remembered how and why she fell in love with Peter. So important to do when times get tough. Just a really good book!