This year I read over 120 books from middle grade on up to adult fiction (not including re-reads of old favorites), and have chosen about 60 to shine a spotlight on in this end-of-the-year wrap-up. Like I did in last year’s best book post, I grouped them by age range, but this time I’m also […]
A Little Pride Month Reading
(Or: How to Be a Better Ally) May this Pride Month be the one during which we all open our minds and hearts and arms a little wider to embrace the LGBTQIA+ community for who they are, and help everyone fully be who they are with our support our listening our actions our votes our […]
How I Made Mom Friends When I Was a Desperate Weirdo with Clingy Little Kids
A strange thing happens once you become a mom, constantly surrounded by small human beings who never, ever leave your side: you feel more alone than ever. The desire for that proverbial village that’s supposed to help you raise your kids doesn’t always match the availability of one. I found myself reeling from this sudden […]
To the People Who Broke Through My Walls When I Was a Kid
Like many kids, I had the kinds of things whispered to me that no one should have to hear as I grew up. These were the unfortunate recordings of my life that played on repeat in my head, and they weren’t healthy soundtrack material: “You aren’t wanted.” “I hope you grow up ugly.” “No one […]
The Gift of Sometimes Just Not Giving a Crap
“Don’t glue your brother! I MEAN it!” Most days you give a crap. You really do. You make sure no one does anything that could directly lead to bleeding from the ears or grand larceny. You don’t Helicopter Parent—who has the energy for that, anyway?—but you spew a nonstop stream of dialogue at the kids […]
The Cheerleader
There’s always at least one of us at every kids’ sports game or match. Yes, we are loud and enthusiastic. Yes, our voices carry. Yes, our hands clap particularly loudly. Yes, the whole gym/court/field can hear us rooting for our kid’s team, our kids, their teammates. We are aware of all of this. Your discomfort […]
If Moms Gave Out Valentines
Sure, Valentine’s Day is for romantic declarations. But we moms also have love in our hearts for those who make this gig so much easier, and aren’t afraid to shout it from the rooftops. Here are some valentines for the people who deserve them most! Valentine’s Day Poems from Moms to Everyone Who Helps Make […]
Books for Your Whole Family to Read This Black History Month and Beyond
Let’s take a look at your bookshelves and library loan history. How many books there are by black authors? About black peoples’ experiences? How about your kids’ bookshelves? Chances are, the numbers aren’t as high as they could be. The good news is that while changing a habit may take deliberate effort, it can result […]
Surviving Can Be a Goal
I entered 2018 a dichotomy. I was motivated and optimistic to finish a middle grade novel some literary agents voiced interest in just after hearing the elevator pitch. There were magazines and other outlets I had ideas for that I planned to get my words into. I felt I could find a way to increase […]
How to Live in This World
Five years ago I could not breathe as I listened to the radio during errands. When I got home, I wrote down what was in my head to get it out. I needed it out. That same day it was published on The Huffington Post before we got all the details. It has been five […]