All Joy And No Fun: The Paradox Of Modern Parenthood (2014) - Plot & Excerpts
This is NOT a self-help book at all but an excellent overview of collated research studies on the effects of parenting ON THE PARENTS. Raising children is a big job, often joyful, always tough. Read and learn about the changing parenting culture by the middle classes in the developed world - it's fascinating. I would particularly recommend this to people who are not parents YET.... this is quite the eye-opener on the effects of having children on your marriage/relationship, identity, work-life balance, friendships, physical and mental health etc. You'll better understand what you're letting yourself in for. The book is not looking to help readers change anything (unless you do), but an understanding (and acceptance) of the dynamics in a nuclear family is half the battle when it comes to experiencing more joy in family life. I'm hours away from giving birth to my first child. I'm (naturally) terrified of the "forever-ness" of the decision we made to have a baby. This book did little to help me get over the fear of forever being responsible for another life, but it was reassuring to read about the other parents. I found the glimpses into the lives of the parents fascinating and would've liked to read about more parents being parents. The data and statistics on what happens to marriages after a child is scary...so I'm trying to just ignore it. Jesse is most likely tired of me asking him for reassurance that we'll still be solid after having a baby. I've also asked more than once how we'll divide household chores (I'll be honest...he does most of them now). But these are good conversations to have!An interesting read for anyone with kids of any age -- or anyone even considering having them!
What do You think about All Joy And No Fun: The Paradox Of Modern Parenthood (2014)?
Listened on CD. Interesting and informative. Easy to get through.
—Pawan
If you have a kid or several, read this book.
—Alice
