Customer Reviews
Truth Not Lies! 
2008-07-24
I like to be prepared. Although everyone tells me you can't prepare for Motherhood, it has not deterred me from reading every book on the topic I can find. Wolk's book was an easy read with real examples, humorous "it happened to me" tales, and serious advice fused together with wit and obvious love for her husband, children and the job of Motherhood. I have often felt that women hold back and don't tell everything about pregnancy, birth and Motherhood but after reading Wolk's descriptions I feel like I've been given a behind-the-scenes glimpse. There are so many gems of wisdom that I have not found anywhere else that this book of "lies" will be on my nightstand throughout my pregnancy and into the changed life that comes with the new baby. I have already given two of my expecting girlfriends copies and I'm sure it will be a staple gift for years to come. Thank you Claudine for sharing these secrets! It may not get easier, but it sure sounds like fun.
Smart, warm, and funny -- but not in a sickening way 2008-07-09
This book is one of the best I've seen on this subject. Part personal chronicle, part self-help, part baby book - it hits every mark. I wish books like this existed when my kids were born. One terrific thing about this book is how Wolk shares details of her own child-bearing and child-rearing experiences throughout, making it very clear that she's not some expert on high. She's in the trenches, engaged in the daily balancing act that being a woman and a mother entails. So she can relate -- and relate she does!
The first part of the book accurately covers the early days of motherhood, from labor to the first weeks at home. I can imagine many new mothers reading the book post-birth will wish they had the book before going into labor, because Wolk's tips on dealing with labor and delivery issues (pain management, breast feeding, nurses) are great.
The book then delves into the early days when mother and child are home, out of the cocoon of the hospital. Wolk's suggestions for getting baby on schedule and getting Mom back on her feet are excellent, but unlike some books of this type, she always digs deeper. She touches on the emotions (exhaustion, isolation and confusion) that women may experience and offers ideas for taking care of oneself physically and mentally. And it's not all sweetness and light. There are discussions on coping with challenging feelings, like being bored at home or wanting back pre-baby freedom and hating housework. I thought her discussions about how a baby can affect marital relationships were particularly insightful. And as she always does, she combines theory with practice. Her suggestions for co-parenting and marital issues (teamwork, scheduling, romance) are useful, witty, and wise.
In the latter parts of the book, when Wolk steps back to deal with the big picture, she really bats the ball out of the park. This section of the book offers the most accessible discussion of the psychological dimensions of motherhood that I have ever read. Wolk very astutely describes the conflicts many women experience when they become mothers. She handles sensitive topics, such as the shifting sense of identity and uncomfortable resentments over money, sex, and housework, with frankness and compassion. I loved it.
This is a great book for anyone interested in child-care, self-help, parenting, and women's issues.
The Truth Shall Set Us Free 2008-04-14
Finally...FINALLY...women are letting down their ponytails and talking OUT LOUD about the reality of new motherhood. It's so refreshing to hear stories that you can actually relate to, and Claudine Wolk takes it one step further, offering advice for surviving those early months. If only she'd been living next door to me when I was going through it all.
Laugh out loud! 2008-03-28
I loved this book! It made me laugh out loud. I have two kids, ages 6 and 9, and worked full time until I got pregnant with my second. I remember the guilt I felt going to work each (OK, most!) days. Claudine gives an honest look at working and stay at home moms alike.
I need the follow up book now!
Love the Honesty 2008-03-22
What a refreshing and honest view on the challenges of motherhood. Claudine gives you the ability to let go some of the "Mommy Guilt" which we all feel at one time or another. This was an easy read and I enjoyed the sporadic laughs and humor.
It Gets Easier -- especially if you read this book! 2008-03-18
This fun, honest, reflective and prescriptive guide for the new mother will actually make new motherhood easier. Interviews with hundreds of moms and the author's personal experience, come together as this fun book breaks new ground with its honesty and humor mixed with practical strategies to give new moms a "leg-up" on the very often scary experience of motherhood. Through the conversation style, this book drives home the point that new moms are not alone and that there are some things they can try to make new motherhood a little more controllable and a lot more enjoyable. The index for easy reference and the resources for further exploration creates a valuable book to be read, and then read again as new mother "opportunities" arise.
"It Gets Easier! And Other Lies We Tell New Mothers, gives new moms uncensored advice they won't find anywhere else. Claudine tells it like it really is, with honesty and humor!" - Amy Tiemann, Ph. D., author of the award-winning Mojo Mom
I Laughed, I cried, I screamed, "Amen, sister!" 2008-03-17
My youngest is 5, my oldest is 12 but this book brought back some special memories and stirred up some feelings about becoming a stay-at-home mom that I had forgotten about. I loved the frank, conversational style that Claudine writes with. I totally agree with her advice on the the schedule, finding balance in your life, and taking the help that is offered. It is the toughest job you'll ever love and this book has great advice to pass on to new moms. I'm buying this for my little sister next, she's expecting soon!
When you new moms are ready to get organized, check out my book:
Absolutely Organized: A Mom's Guide to a No-Stress Schedule and Clutter-Free Home
Great book! Can't wait for toddler edition! 2008-03-17
A must read for women during the difficult transition from being an independent, self sufficient career oriented professional to a new mommy. I applaud Claudine's courage to document the reality of what many new mothers experience after childbirth and the months immediately following but are afraid to admit. Claudine comically describes real life scenarios and provides practical solutions that baffle many new mommies. As a mother of 2 toddlers ages 5 and 3, I could have gained some insight into dealing with those very stressful days and nights during my children's infancy. This is an excellent book for women to read prior to the birth of their children to gain realism for what lies ahead. I would love to read more from this author regarding toddlers. Any solutions for potty training one stubborn little angel????
Laughs and straightshooting stories for new moms 2008-03-14
Everyone says that all babies are different, and they are! So are all moms. Some can handle the night feedings and look fresh in the morning, others are completely drained by the emotional and physical changes in their lives. It's great to have books that remind you that everyone has their challenges, whether they show it or not. But the most wonderful thing I've learned through it all is how much you can love these little people!
Great book for expectant mothers AND grandmothers 2008-03-11
Don't let the title fool you. There's nothing but the absolute truth in this book! Claudine Wolk has all the answers to the questions you wouldn't even think to ask. And if you did happen to ask them, you wouldn't get these answers from your doctor, mother, or even your very best girlfriend! This is a must read for expectant mothers even if it's not your first time to the delivery room. Grandmothers and aunts, you too should read this book so that you can be of greater assistance to that new mom in your life. Thanks Claudine. I loved it!
