My Review of "Mamaleh Knows Best"

Marjorie Ingall's Mamaleh Knows Best: What Jewish Mothers Do to Raise Successful, Creative, Empathetic, Independent Children gives us an insightful and humorous parenting manual that takes into account just about every issue a parent might encounter.

Ingall begins by explaining the history of the stereotypical Jewish mamaleh and her age-old wisdom, and goes on to tackle topics such as maintaining discipline, distrusting authority, and emphasizing education without fetishizing it. The ultimate goal is "to keep our kids from becoming schmucks" and raise "self-sufficient, ethical, and accomplished kids". It a guide for parents, whether Jewish, Christian, or Muslim. While Ingall throws around Yiddish words (a glossary at the end will help) like a comedy routine that is full of chutzpah and pizzazz, Mamaleh Knows Best implores parents to be firm and sincere, and help their children create meaning in their lives. It helps them navigate those perilous waters of parenthood with a hearty dose of confidence and laughter and grace.

I received a free copy of this book as part of the Blogging for Books program in exchange for my honest review here.

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The Mrs. & the Minister

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