Rating: Summary: Overall, a fabulous read Review: ... As a working exec / mummy, I agree that some parts of the book make Kate Reddy unsymphathetic, but come on! It was a great read- no matter if parts of the novel ring untrue, enough anecdotes cut so close to home that the basic TRUTH of the book shines clear through---How many other novels deal honestly with this most-important-subject-in the -world: the fact that working motherhood (or any motherhood) can be funny, wonderful, horrid, demeaning, guilt-ridden, and impossibly enriching....? Even though I'm not in Kate's financial class- she does seem rich- her fears, hopes, dreams, confessions, and methods to the madness ARE just like mine- leaving me to believe that working mothers everywhere should unite.. :) The story was engrossing funny and sad (although I would have liked a different ending) and I CANNOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK MORE, especially to mommies, both working-and-not, As for Daddies: Read this book. It'll not only show you the similarities, but highlights the differences between men and those of us on the 'mommy track'
Rating: Summary: spoiled rotten Review: Normally when one hears the words "spoiled rotten" they think of children. In this case, it's a working mom who can't figure out which way is the right way or right track to get on with her life. In reality, hopefully most of us will not endure or feel the need to indulge ourselves into such out of touch predicaments to find somewhat of a balance. It's kind of a nutty book which has some truths. It's a unusual read simply due to when it's all said and done, we wonder if is she better off by having gone through self filled misery. In the real world, moms of all personalities and careers whine about everything that goes wrong and some of what doesn't. To try and do what is right for yourself, home and family, regardless of if you work outside the home, read this book and then read a great self help book for real moms and balanced family life: Mommy-CEO, Revised Edition, by family columnist Jodie Lynn. I have heard both authors on NPR discussing motherhood and I must say they were both great contributors to moms but as the talk goes out to more and more stations, Lynn has more down to earth answers.
Rating: Summary: Its just a book! !! but a hilariously sad one worth reading Review: Some reviewers seem to be taking this book way too seriously or personally. Either you get it/enjoy it or you don't. I thought the humor was great- and yes, over the top. Some of the "nasty" remarks about stay at home mothers were hilariously outrageous and (of course!) ludicrous (what some working mothers in their most hysterical, deranged moments fantasize think things are like on the other side of the fence- no need to get defensive!) This book isn't written for stay at home moms, it is written for frantic-working-outside-the-home moms (is that the politically correct phrasing?) If you are as pursued by guilt, driven by competition, and as frantic with perfectionism as the FICTIONAL character is you may find something to think about.
Rating: Summary: I only thought I felt guilty for doing too much Review: I was immediately swept into the book based on the fact that Kate was up in the wee hours trying to make bakery bought goodies look homemade. (As a Southern woman, I am more likely to be found dusting paprika onto the deli-bought potato salad, but the similarities were there.) I found that Allison Pearson could reach into the deepest fears I have as a working mother and do it with humor and understanding. I found myself often chuckling and reading passages to my husband. He also chuckled. This book is being purchased for women on my Christmas list. I loved it--and look forward to an agent provacateur bra this holiday season.
Rating: Summary: Funny -- but the ending disappoints Review: The details of Kate's life are just right, but I thought the denouement was inconsistent with her enjoyment of her work.
Rating: Summary: I Don't Know Why She Did It!! Review: I listened to friends tell me how hilarious this book was so I kept reading, hoping something interesting would happen, something at least REAL! I'm supposed to muster up sympathy for this supposedly brilliant woman who is a shark in the world of business but at home is afraid of her nanny and her housekeeper? It all seemed so absolutely silly and inane! And what was so funny about the high-school highjinks this crowd of female corporate geniuses pulled on the their co-worker after he put up nude composites of a fellow female work-mate on the internet? This was the best they could come up with?? Are you telling me you have to destroy your own career in order to get even? You know what it reminded me of? That movie "9 to 5" with Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda. Without the charm.
Rating: Summary: Terrific book! Review: This book can evoke hysterical laughter and tears - it is a compelling story that captures so many of the day to day struggles inherent for women who are mothers, career people, wives and daughters. I hightly recommend it to anyone who fits the above categories and wants a smart, poignant and entertaining read.
Rating: Summary: Skip this book Review: What a disappointment! This book is poorly written, erratic and overly cute. The topic -- balancing the overwhelming demands of a challenging career & young children -- is timely & there are flashes of real feeling & humor, but overall it is flat and a chore to read. I suggested it for my book group & am truly sorry.
Rating: Summary: Exaggerated, but still hits the mark! Review: This is an exaggerated story about the life of a working mom, but the exaggeration only made it funny. Allison Pearson's assessment of how professional women who also choose to be mothers are viewed by male coworkers hits the nail on the head! Pearson's witty writing made this book a joy to read, although I did find the ending rushed. Hope there will be a sequel!
Rating: Summary: Slightly boring Review: I've enjoyed similar (ie style) easy reads such as Animal Husbandry, Bridget Jones, etc., but honestly I was a little bored with this one. I chuckled at parts, but I actually skimmed the last 10 pages just to get it over with.
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