Be the Best Mom You Can Be: A Practical Guide to Raising Whole Children in a Broken Generation
4 January, 20164 Min Read
When I was pregnant with Tessa, I went to my local Christian used book store and walked out with a stack a quarter my size (not even exaggerating) of about 30 parenting, motherhood and marriage books. No. Joke.
While the daunting, clueless and borderline terror emotions of new motherhood have by and large passed, I am still a self-improvement book junkie, especially in the domestic subject realm. So when I had the chance to review Be the Best Mom You Can Be by Marina Slayton, I pounced!
About the Book
Book description from Amazon.com:
What if you could sit down with a wise, experienced mom–someone who has dealt with her child being bullied, who has seen the impact of permissiveness, who has been forced to depend on God for every single day, and still talks with grace and compassion?
Through many years of tested faith, and her close walk with God, Marina Slayton has written this amazing book to help guide mothers through today’s often times impossible expectations. In her book, Marina will help you to write a life-changing family vision statement, break the cycle of generational sin, and explain why you don’t have to measure up to many of the difficult expectations society has created. With every move across the country, every illness she’s struggled through, Marina knows more in heart, as to what it truly means to rely on the only trustworthy source of life. What is the source to being a good mother, and the strength to go through life’s hardships? Quite simply, Jesus Christ.
In an age when brokenness abounds and cultural voices only add to the confusion, Godly mothers have never been more crucial. Many parents–and children–feel lost amidst the decaying family values in the culture, and the ever increasing amount of “best” parenting practices in the market place of ideas. With all of these issues and struggles being raised in today’s modern family, some questions are raised by many mothers:
How can we avoid the pitfalls of a secular culture? How do we raise children who are healthy emotionally and spiritually? What if we’re doing it wrong?
Many mothers can agree, that wise counsel from a friendly corner is desperately needed. And Marina Slayton is here to do just that, sharing her experiences, her struggles, and her faith as she walked with God through it all.
Marina has spent the past thirty years as a mother raising four kids. From California to Bermuda, from public school to homeschool, Marina has been there, and she’s not afraid to share her mistakes, epiphanies, and practical ideas. But she doesn’t stop there. In this incredible book that Marina authored together with her husband Gregory, Marina demonstrates how the power of God’s Word, and the work of the Holy Spirit can give direction and freedom to parents who need it most. In this practical book for mothers, you will gain a deeper understanding of what it really means to Be The Best Mom You Can Be.
My Thoughts on the Book
I didn’t hate the book, but I don’t think I will file it away for future reference and re-reading. Overall, this book was quite simplistic and a little repetitive.
The book has its highlights and great moments, but it gets off to a slow start, with Chapter One focusing on loving our children. A basic concept, and one that doesn’t need a lot of page space to cover, but its given a lot of time. Again, not bad, and enjoyable to read, but not overly educational – which is what I look for in self improvement books (obviously).
But once the book hits its stride, it covers lots of lessons to help with real world issues for moms raising children in a dangerous world. The author focuses on a wide range of key topics, from helping your child deal with stress to setting up safeguards to protect against internet dangers. There are some good – although basic – advice in how to raise kids to be healthy emotionally and spiritually while helping them to avoid the brokenness of a secular culture.
Even so, the author talked in circles quite a bit, touching on the same points over and over, sometimes without providing any real, clear strategies.
At the end of each chapter, there is a “For Further Reflection” section with Bible verses, questions to ask yourself, and a one paragraph summary. ANY reflection on issues of motherhood based in Gods Word is time well spent in my opinion, so the book is not a waste of time.. just not my favorite, when there are so many other, more pointed and focused books out there on the topic.
[Disclaimer: There are no affiliate links in this review. I am an independent product reviewer. I only review products I am truly interested in. I don’t accept payment for reviews. The products I take the time to jabber on about are either items I have personally purchased, or the product has been provided for review after me initiating contact and incessantly nagging for a sample. All of my reviews are unbiased regardless of how the item was obtained.]
What is YOUR favorite parenting or motherhood books? Share below!
I shy away from books that talk like they have all the answers, basically I don’t think anyone has all the answers… motherhood is tough, what works for one child won’t work for another, as mothers we make mistakes because we are human… I think this is where forgiveness is learned, both for the child and the mother.
I love self help books too… anything that makes us better is good… motherhood is about mistakes, getting back up and doing it all over the next day and yes loving our children are important.
It’s been awhile since I was reading parenting books, but there were many good ones I read over the years. I loved Parenting With Love and Logic, and How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk.
I don’t ever want to know how much money I spent on maternity and parenting books! Way too much. Now that my kids are in their twenties I know these things for certain. 1, They learn by example. If you don’t walk the talk they won’t either. 2, Nature plays a huge role in who your child becomes. My two are so different it’s hard to believe that they came from the same family. Having said that, nurture also plays a huge role. Plant those seeds early and be a good role model.
Our society is so bipolar. People say one thing and then do another. I feel like we don’t value life, don’t respect one another, and want instant gratification. It’s sad and scary. The good news is that there are parents like you who do care and think of God and family first. Because of that your daughters will grow up to be great people.
So very true! I am noticing more and more that Tessa copies EVERYTHING I do.. even the tiniest little things. I will never be able to teach her anything as effectively as just modeling for her. Its a scary and daunting thought! And soon THYME will be copying me too! Eep!
Parenting books can be a little hard for me to read. It’s not that I haven’t enjoyed some it’s just that each of our experiences are a little different and it’s hard to share things in a way that can be common ground sometimes. If that makes any sense…
When the time comes for me to be a mommy I’ll probably buy tons of books too and have favorite, until then it’s very interesting to read your posts and your opinion)
Great book review!
I’ve read my fair share of parenting books over the years and some were really good. I’d get all pumped up – and then fail in the execution. Two of my faves though, which I do refer back to are The Secrets of Happy Families by Bruce Feiler and All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior.
I have never been into parenting books because what works for one doesn’t necessarily work for another and most do take too much of a simplistic approach to parenting. Which is unfortunate since it is a complex endeavor. http://www.toyastales.blogspot.com
Thanks for a realistic book review, might skip out on this one. Anyhow, I love John Rosemonds practical parenting approach and rely on him for pretty much everything. I loved his toilet training book, it was tough love, but if you follow the book you kid is potty trained under a week as promised. And yes, I wanted to hit Rosemond with his book many times until I realized how right he was! He also writes a book about training 2 year olds (and their strong wills!!!) and I found that helpful too.
Laura, thanks for the advice, I’ll have to check out Rosemond’s books. I’m just now getting into all of these parenting books. Any other authors you recommend?
Would have loved books like this back in the day when raising my own girls! What a wealth of encouragement is available these days. Yet, I’m guessing the job, the call, the task is just as awesome as it was back then.
Being a parent in these times is almost a scary experience – my own mother has told me she’s glad she didn’t have to raise kids nowadays. With the technology and all of it’s reaching influences on our everyday lives, there is a lot to keep up with and protect our children from. I get overwhelmed thinking about it sometimes, I just have to remember its one day at a time, and to be extra present with my son. We all can only do our best.
Good luck! http://www.everydaystilettos.com
Yeah, especially seeing those shows where they do stings to catch little girls trying to meet men online… we saw a show where some parents caught their 11 year old trying to meet a 21 year old man from Facebook… freaked me out. Its a scary world these days…
I bought a book for parenting teenage girls. I’m a little scared to start it, but then again, I’m scared not to start it. Frances is 12 and we are just beginning this tween/teen journey. It looks to be a bumpy ride!
You look stunning! http://www.mylouisvuittonhandbag.com
<3
Lovely book!!!
Happy new tear!
Kisses, Paola.
Expressyourself
My Facebook
Happy New Year to you too!! <3
I shy away from books that talk like they have all the answers, basically I don’t think anyone has all the answers… motherhood is tough, what works for one child won’t work for another, as mothers we make mistakes because we are human… I think this is where forgiveness is learned, both for the child and the mother.
I love self help books too… anything that makes us better is good… motherhood is about mistakes, getting back up and doing it all over the next day and yes loving our children are important.
Yeah, I know what you mean… when someone takes on a know it all tone, I start to tune out.. knee jerk reaction I guess? lol.
This may not be the best read but glad that it is at least not a waste of your time :)! Wishing you a great 2016!
Prudence
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com
You too sweetie!! <3
It’s been awhile since I was reading parenting books, but there were many good ones I read over the years. I loved Parenting With Love and Logic, and How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk.
I just saw an advertisement for that last book on Facebook!!! I was actually thinking of getting it!
Fab review!
xoxox,
CC
<3
I don’t ever want to know how much money I spent on maternity and parenting books! Way too much. Now that my kids are in their twenties I know these things for certain. 1, They learn by example. If you don’t walk the talk they won’t either. 2, Nature plays a huge role in who your child becomes. My two are so different it’s hard to believe that they came from the same family. Having said that, nurture also plays a huge role. Plant those seeds early and be a good role model.
Our society is so bipolar. People say one thing and then do another. I feel like we don’t value life, don’t respect one another, and want instant gratification. It’s sad and scary. The good news is that there are parents like you who do care and think of God and family first. Because of that your daughters will grow up to be great people.
Thanks for the honest review, Gingi.
So very true! I am noticing more and more that Tessa copies EVERYTHING I do.. even the tiniest little things. I will never be able to teach her anything as effectively as just modeling for her. Its a scary and daunting thought! And soon THYME will be copying me too! Eep!
Parenting books can be a little hard for me to read. It’s not that I haven’t enjoyed some it’s just that each of our experiences are a little different and it’s hard to share things in a way that can be common ground sometimes. If that makes any sense…
Yeah, every once in awhile I read a book where they suggest something or say something and Im like… uhhhh, what???
You are so blessed to have a Christian used bookstore!!! How wonderful! Thanks for the review!
For sure!! <3 <3
Thanks for the honest review!
xo
<3
When the time comes for me to be a mommy I’ll probably buy tons of books too and have favorite, until then it’s very interesting to read your posts and your opinion)
Great book review!
You will make a GREAT mommy!!
I’ve read my fair share of parenting books over the years and some were really good. I’d get all pumped up – and then fail in the execution. Two of my faves though, which I do refer back to are The Secrets of Happy Families by Bruce Feiler and All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior.
I have never heard of those!! Ill need to go check them out!
I always enjoy how honest your reviews are. It sounds like an interesting book.
Hope you had a great New Year’s!
I rely on reviews to make purchases, so I make sure I am up front for others!!! <3
Happy new year my dear!
I wish u all the best! If u want we can follow each other!
http://highheelpoodl.blogspot.rs
Happy New Year to you too!! <3
I have never been into parenting books because what works for one doesn’t necessarily work for another and most do take too much of a simplistic approach to parenting. Which is unfortunate since it is a complex endeavor.
http://www.toyastales.blogspot.com
Yeah, I think the more pointed and topic specific books are best when it comes to parenting.. a broad approach is far too wide…
Sounds like an interesting book, but it’s a little frustrating when a book is repetitive.
Tell me about it!
Thanks for a realistic book review, might skip out on this one. Anyhow, I love John Rosemonds practical parenting approach and rely on him for pretty much everything. I loved his toilet training book, it was tough love, but if you follow the book you kid is potty trained under a week as promised. And yes, I wanted to hit Rosemond with his book many times until I realized how right he was! He also writes a book about training 2 year olds (and their strong wills!!!) and I found that helpful too.
What is this book!!!! I need it.. Tessa is having a hard time potty training.. she does real well for awhile, then she falls back on making messes. 🙁
Laura, thanks for the advice, I’ll have to check out Rosemond’s books. I’m just now getting into all of these parenting books. Any other authors you recommend?
Would have loved books like this back in the day when raising my own girls! What a wealth of encouragement is available these days. Yet, I’m guessing the job, the call, the task is just as awesome as it was back then.
;-}
Yes, we certainly are living in the information age right now!
Aw that book sounds interesting. I will check it out when I have kids. Happy new year! All the best!
xx
cvetybaby.com
Happy New Year to you too sweetie!!
My sister should get a copy of this! ha! I don’t want her to break her kid!
LOL.. my sister always asks me, Is the baby still alive? lol
So much of parenting is instinct …
Most, in fact that should be ALL of parenting is about love and sharing …
All the best Jan
I very much agree!!
Being a parent in these times is almost a scary experience – my own mother has told me she’s glad she didn’t have to raise kids nowadays. With the technology and all of it’s reaching influences on our everyday lives, there is a lot to keep up with and protect our children from. I get overwhelmed thinking about it sometimes, I just have to remember its one day at a time, and to be extra present with my son. We all can only do our best.
Good luck!
http://www.everydaystilettos.com
Yeah, especially seeing those shows where they do stings to catch little girls trying to meet men online… we saw a show where some parents caught their 11 year old trying to meet a 21 year old man from Facebook… freaked me out. Its a scary world these days…
I bought a book for parenting teenage girls. I’m a little scared to start it, but then again, I’m scared not to start it. Frances is 12 and we are just beginning this tween/teen journey. It looks to be a bumpy ride!
Oh goodness, that is the age that scares me the most.. this baby thing I got! haha..
Oh, it’s never fun when nonfiction books start to talk around themselves. Sorry you didn’t LOVE this one.
Yeah, I dont mind it so much when it is relevant, but some authors have a tendency to go overboard…