I was told there'd be a village Transforming motherhood through the power of connection

It may take a village to raise a child, but for some parents, finding that village can be a challenge. It took a personal crisis for Wirt, a mother of six and founder of a breastfeeding apparel business, to realize that although she appeared to "have it all," she was profoundly isolated as a parent. In spite of creating her own robust online community and her active participation in many other communities, she understood that her virtual ties were no substitute for close, in-person relationships. She chronicles her journey to change that, taking small, intentional steps to create a circle of friends, relatives, and acquaintances that would become a supportive community. Her shared personal stories and the stories of mothers she encounters along the way are combined with positive, commonsense advice for parents in the thick of the child-rearing years who yearn for connection and support. Inspiring and motivating, this is a solid addition to all parenting collections.

Lamenting how a "hyper-individualist mindset" leaves parents overworked and overwhelmed, Wirt, founder of breastfeeding apparel company Latched Mama and a mother of six, debuts with an empathetic guide encouraging mothers to find support in communities. The first step toward connecting with others is putting oneself out there, Wirt contends, suggesting that readers might arrive early when picking kids up from sports practice or day care to chat with other parents. Wirt shares stories that illustrate the benefits of banding together, as when she describes how one woman overcame her shyness and joined a moms' group that provided valuable advice on breastfeeding at the office and reassurance that she wasn't the only one to sometimes lose her temper at her newborn's incessant crying. Surveying how readers might show up for other mothers, Wirt proposes dropping off food, hosting group playdates, sharing advice, and giving away old toys or clothes, which will set a precedent and prompt other moms to help out in turn. Wirt makes clear that such practices are no substitute for affordable childcare and universal pre-K, but in the meantime, the compassionate advice will help lessen the stresses of motherhood. It's a heartening take on the rewards of community. (Apr.)