5 comments about Parenting From the Inside Out.

1. Parenting from the Inside Out is an easy-to-read book on the neurobiology of parenting. It builds upon the attachment theory of child development and contains useful exercises that are aimed at helping readers identify and work with psychological issues related to parenting.
   
   The core theme of this book is that when parents cultivate a strong, healthy relationship with their children, it promotes development in areas of the brain enabling emotional, cognitive, and interpersonal skills. Experiences and memory shape emerging neural connections; essentially parents sculpt the minds of their children.
   
   Unresolved issues from childhood may reduce the quality of the parent child relationship. Through deepening self-awareness and processing past issues in order to give meaning to them, parents can change ingrained patterns and help their children thrive. Parents can grow together with their children, enjoying them for who they are. Children in turn can become grounded in reality and more self-assured. Specific psychological concepts are introduced and clearly explained.
   
   Siegel's openness in regard to his experience as a parent is courageous and serves to normalize the inevitable fact that parents are imperfect. Parental ambivalence is approached with sensitivity and guidance is provided regarding how to identify and heal negative patterns.
   
   I highly recommend this book for parents who wish to deepen their relationships with their children and enhance the quality of their lives together. This book is also very useful for anyone working with children.



2. This book helped me gain enormous insight into myself and also create a compassionate space in which to parent. It is not an easy read, but it is important and well worth the effort. I've read some beautiful parenting books, but what many of them lack is what this book presents so beautifully. Until you can understand yourself better, all of the good intentions in the world will just crash down, leaving you feeling like a failure. I am so grateful that this book found me.



3. Really good info for parents concerned with giving their kids the best of their parenting abilities. Kind of a technical read in some spots. Very interesting.



4. If you want to avoid making the same mistakes your parents made, if you know there is a better way of parenting than the one you have been exposed to, if you want to be a better parent. or if you want to parent with compassion and understanding.



5. written by a brilliant woman trained in child psychiatry whose path was influenced by a need to heal the damages of her own childhood. That's How the Light Gets In: Memoir of a Psychiatrist by Susan Rako, M.D. owes its title to a song by Leonard Cohen: "There is a crack, a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." Rako's book is remarkably candid, fascinating, and wonderfully well-written. It's a great read. The writing just flows.

5 comments about Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew.

1. The book was in good shape as the seller advertised. It was shipped out and I recieved the book sooner then expected. I would definitly buy from this seller again!!!



2. Anyone who comes in contact with a person on the autism spectrum should read this book. It is a quick and easy read with the ten characteristics clearly stated and easily understood. The suggestions are concise and to the point. Every teacher should have this as a resource and it should be a mandatory read. Having taught children with autism has been a privilege and reading a parent's perspective has reminded me of that once again.



3. I really enjoy learning more about autism. It help me understand what my child is going through. Finally out of darkness into the marvelous light. I highly recommend this book for families that are experiencing autism.
   Buy as soon as possible.



4. This book reads easy and fast and it should be handed out to every parent whose child is diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum. It can change the perceptions of anyone--family, friend, educator or counselor--who is face with the baffling behavior of an autistic child. I cannot impress just how much this slim volume can help.
   The core beliefs in 10 Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew are:
   -All behaviors happen for a reason.
   And
   -All behavior is communication.
   The focus is on presenting (not really exploring or solving problems) the possible causes of "bad" behavior and realigning the thought patterns neurotypical people have when dealing with those on the spectrum. It can also help parents get behind the possible causes of misbehavior on the part of "normal" children.
   Some principals in this book are--or should be--universal. Don't let one term (Autism, ADHD, or even "trouble child") define all your child is. Focus on what your child can do instead of getting lost in what he or she can't do. All behavior has a cause, ferreting out the cause can go very far in helping to resolve negative behavior. And most importantly of all, love should not be dependent on good grades, good behavior or "being normal". Love should be unconditional.
   If there was ever an Idiot's Guide to Raising a Child this might be it. An essential book for understanding the social, language and sensory challenges experienced by many types of special needs children. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone whose life is touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders.



5. Typical curebie propaganda, and a deliberate, hurtful attempt to parody an article an actual autistic adult wrote entitled Ten Things An Autistic Adult Wishes You Knew. Point number one of Ten Things An Autistic Adult Wishes You Knew was that we are not "people with autism", but that our autism is an intrinsic part of who were are. Quite a polar opposite to what this author thinks tomorrow's autistic adults want you to know.
   
   ObviouslyNotAutistic, as she should be called, is simply taking curebie words, shoving them into childrens' mouths, and asking you, the public, to cough up money for it. If the "knowledge and understanding that is increasing even as you read this" statement on her page was true, then books like this would be being cancelled by publishers, and banned as hate literature by countries with true social consciousness.
   
   If you think I am exaggerating, bear these two points in mind. One, I am an autistic adult who is a poster child for what abusing an autistic child or teenager can do years down the track. You can see me describing the horrible conditions I had to grow up in anytime on YouTube, just search for an autistic adult speaking for himself (something curebies like this want to silence). Two, these curebie cowards cannot get the time of day in places like Australia, which happens to be where the foremost expert in autism in the world is based.
   
   Ten years from now, the children ObviouslyNotAutistic is drowning out will rise up and speak for themselves. And what they have to say to her will not be pretty.

5 comments about For Men Only: A Straightforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women.

1. I listened to the audiobook of this. My first problem was that the authors chose to use the book as a vehicle to spread their misguided brand of evangelical Christianity. This was an affront to my intelligence.
   
   Secondly, they clearly had no idea how to conduct a proper scientific study. The information presented in the book was based on an amateur survey and should be given little or no credence.
   
   I would recommend to the authors that if they wish to publish further works on topics like this, they should go back to school and learn about statistics, random sampling and how to conduct scientific studies. Then, they should realize that there is no place for religion in books of this type.
   
   If the authors want to write about their religious beliefs, that's fine, but the title should clearly reflect that so people who have a genuine interest in the workings of the human brain do not waste their money.



2. This book almost perfectly describes my thoughts and feelings in my marriage. I've been married nine years and my husband still doesn't understand me. I'd really like for him to read this.



3. This book is outstanding! It helped my husband understand things that I had been trying to explain to him for years. He now has a very clear understanding of the female brain and the many emotions and thoughts that dominate a woman's life. It has opened up many deep conversations between us and aided in our growing much closer emotionally, physically and spiritually. It is VERY user friendly with a cleverly presented "Quick Start Guide," and written in "guy" language.



4. Our pastor recommended this book (who knew!). My husband read "For Men Only" and I read "For Women Only." Before we were married, we decided that each year, we would read a 'foster our relationship' book together. This is by far the best read we've done! Very insightful, specific and a fun read. We've already recommended these books to a number of friends and family members- both those with great marriages and those that could stand a little assistance. We recommend these books to anyone that isn't a mind-reader when it comes to their spouse!



5. The book gives a good, grounded introduction into the inner workings of male - female relationships and is suitable for both married and unmarried men.

5 comments about What to Expect the Toddler Years.

1. I enjoyed the previous books in the series. And this does not disappoint. Great book, you don't feel like you have to read 20 chapters to get to where your kid is at in development.



2. Unfortunately, the first section I read of this book was the section on weaning. It left a pretty bad taste in my mouth, making it rather hard to enjoy the rest of the book. And for the non-believers, The American Academy of Pediatrics has this to say about nursing beyond one year of age:
   "Increased duration of breastfeeding confers significant health and developmental benefits for the child and the mother, especially in delaying return of fertility (thereby promoting optimal intervals between births)."



3. I agree with other recent reviewers that this book is very outdated, especially as regards their recommendation on weaning at one year. Not only does the AAP say nowadays that breastfeeding should continue for at least the entire first year, but also that it should continue for as long afterwards as is mutually desired by mother and child. Moreover, the World Health Organization recommends that breastfeeding along with complementary foods continue for up to two years OR BEYOND.
   
   It is serious misinformation to state, as the authors do, that breastmilk has no nutritional value beyond the first year. It still contains many important nutrients and conveys important immunological benefits (in other words, it still functions to pass your immunities to your child and helps to prevent your child from getting sick!)
   
   They really need to do a revised edition that includes this extremely important health information and notes the immunological benefits of continued breastfeeding. It is problematic for the unrevised book to still be on the market with the series as popular as it is and misinformation that could be injurious to public health.



4. I am a first time mom and loved the first two books of the "What to expect" series, but I found this one to be a bit negative regarding the milestine reached. I was reading the first chapter and it said that they MUST reach "Milestone X" by 13.5 months or they need to be seen by the doctor and checked for abnormalities...FIRST OFF...milestones are reached at different time by each kid! If you child isn't walking by age 3 then maybe there is a problem, but if he isn't walking by 13.5 months, it's probably because he is content with crawling, or he is REALLY smart and knows that you will carry him, so why try! Some say that's a "dumb baby" I say that that is a "Crazy Smart" baby! Why walk around when someone can carry you! We need to learn from babies!



5. It is a very useful book that guides you through your baby's growth through toddler years.

5 comments about Get Out of My Life, but First Could You Drive Me & Cheryl to the Mall: A Parent's Guide to the New Teenager, Revised and Updated.

1. The CD's were easy to listen to and make alot of sense. I look forward to the time when my children outgrow this stage, but the insights given by the author and practical ways of communicating with teenage daughters has been helpful in cutting back on the stress in our home.



2. After having yet another argument with my 12-year old on why she needed to do her chores and homework instead of playing on the computer she threw at me the old "I hate living here and wish I could live with Dad!" So I went onto Amazon.com in search of a book that would solve the mysteries of why my lovable little girl was turning into a monster before my eyes. I ordered "Get Out of My Life, but First Could You Drive Me & Cheryl to the Mall: A Parent's Guide to the New Teenager, Revised and Updated" and couldn't put it down. If reinforced many of the parental decisions and rules I have already made and gave me insight and ideas on how to deal with other situations. Most of all, I feel it somewhat prepared me for "what is to come." I also loved that the book explained the differences between how adolescence affects boys and girls. I have 2 stepsons, 12-year old twins and did not realize the differences in how they do and will react to things compared to my daughter. After finishing the book, I handed it off to my husband and told him he needed to read it too!



3. After several recommendations by friends with teens, I've almost finished this book after a couple of days of reading. Helpful points include the reminders to not engage in pointless arguments and to state my position clearly and concisely and not to lecture. My problem with the book is the lack of any apparent consequences for bad behavior. Teen comes in an hour past curfew? Re-state the appropriate curfew time and move on. Teen lies about grades on homework? Overlook the lie and re-state expectations about homework. Teen calls parent a f-ing b*tch? Ignore the name calling and remain silent. While I agree it creates ongoing conflict to call kids out on these behaviors and punish them, I think that is a necessary part of the landscape and to think otherwise is unrealistically permissive.



4. I found this book to be of great value in improving communication with my 9th grade daughter. I wish I had read it sooner!



5. wolf uses many examples of actual conversations between parent and teen and then re-writes these conversations as to how they should have played out. very helpful and insightful. easy for me to apply to my own negative outcomes with my teens.

5 comments about Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex.

1. Only people of compatible personality types can have a great relationship. You won't know what personality type you are unless you invest your money in Socionics by Rod Novichkov. Communication problems start with misunderstandings and misunderstandings are from the way we process information and give out the answers. Only C1 partners (you'll know what that is if you read Socionics) have the right combination of compatibility where when you say "Honey, I want to be left alone for a few minutes because I want to think things over" means just exactly what you meant to say and nothing more and your partners understands it that way.



2. A lot has been said already about this book over the years since it first hit the shelves, and I'm not sure I can offer any new information. I believe everybody should either read this book or books like it. We all need a greater understanding; not just of others (our partners, family and friends), but also of ourselves.
   
   The more compatible a couple naturally is the better they will get on. That's just logical. But sometimes we need to be aware of, and reminded of, the differences between men and women so they ae are more tolerant and understanding; particularly during rough patches of life.
   
   Dr. John Gray offers a great insight into these differences and tackles the subject matter in an informative, but at the same time, light-hearted and fun manner. I enjoyed this book. Some of the information I already knew, but there were definitely new insights I learner and understood better regarding men and women. I regularly find myself refering to this text to remind myself of these differences, and to remember to be more tolerant and understanding.
   
   How To Keep Your Man: And Keep Him For Good
   
   Real Life Dramas - Volume One
   
   Darren G. Burton



3. This book provided good insights into my makeup as well as insights into the opposite sex. I recomend it for anyone who intends to marry or is married.



4. This book was very beneficial for understanding the opposite sex, and how they are "wired" differently! We had to read it for pre-marriage couseling, and it really opened our eyes about each other, and why we do those crazy things we do! It really helped me to learn that the things he does that drive me crazy are instinctive for all men, and not to take them personally. I would recommend this if your relationship/marraige has reached a rough spot, or if you are just interested in those quirky aspects of the opposite sex!



5. Before you buy this book and before you start applying these principles to your life, you have a right to know about John Gray's qualifications. Both his bachelors and masters degrees were awarded by a farcical unaccredited "school" run by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, which is difficult to pin down, but rumored to have consisted of a few desks in a hotel in Seelisberg, Switzerland. His PHD was "earned" from Columbia Pacific University, a mail-order diploma mill that was shut down by the California attorney general. I'm not saying that his ideas are all worthless; I've read the book and there do seem to be a few common sense pointers. I'm just saying approach with caution, because Mr. Gray seems to have a huge credibility gap, as far as I am concerned.

5 comments about The Heart of the Five Love Languages.

1. This book gives actual steps to do, and explains the theory why it works.
   
   The author tells why, and ways to really get their mate to understand. I liked it because make your marriage wonderful" book.
   
   The examples are great, and it is a very easy.
   
   Other book about love that helps me with my marriage is I Love You. Now What?: Falling in Love is a Mystery, Keeping It Isn't



2. I read Chapman's book and was pleased. I am not yet a married woman, but it provided a lot of insight. I have a better understanding of myself and love. I learned new things about myself and I learned new things about the opposite sex. The greatest gain for me in reading this book was the understanding I gained about myself and MY "love languages."
   
   I recommend this book for everyone....especially engaged couples.
   
   IT WAS A BLESSINGS!!



3. There is alot of information in this little pocket sized book. If only my boyfriend would have acutally read it with me!!!



4. Someone lent me The Five Love Languages. I loved it so much, I bought a copy for myself, and The Heart of The Five Love Languages for my sister who is too busy to read the whole book. I think everyone should read it who has or wants to have a relationship of any kind with anyone. I liked it so much, I bought the Five Love Languages for Teenagers and The Five Love Languages for Singles.
   
   Mr. Chapman claims that there are five primary love languages: words of affirmation, physical touch, acts of service, receiving gifts and quality time. Although we all need to be loved in all the ways, there is one love language that is our primary love language. If we are not loved in this primary love language, then our love tank becomes empty and we feel unloved, even if all four other love languages are being spoken to us.
   
   So my conjecture is this may be then, why someone with the love language of words of affirmation would 'fish' for compliments, because they have a deep need to hear affirming words.
   Happy reading!



5. I failed to read the full description on this book. It is very small and short. Not the real full version of the original book.

5 comments about Louder Than Words: A Mother's Journey in Healing Autism.

1. This book tells an important story. It's important because it's not just one mother's story or one child's story. One out of every 150 children now has a dx of autism. As the mom of an autistic 11 year old boy whose descent into autism followed his vaccine schedule, I am grateful to Jenny McCarthy for telling it like it is. I hope this book leads parents of autistic kids to her book Mother Warriors.



2. I bought this book as I have two grandchildren who are considered special needs students. One is a high functioning autistic and the other is in the spectrum. Before I was able to read it, my husband decided to beat me to it. He was fascinated! (Due to a reading comprehension problem, he had only read books he was forced to read.) Needless to say, he loved it and do did I! If you know anyone who has a child dealing with this, please do yourself a favor and buy the book and read it. Ms. McCarthy writes in a down-to-earth fashion that keeps you spellbound. I cannot wait for her to write more.



3. (written by Dan's mom) Sad sad sad that professionals who work with kids on the spectrum and who actually HAVE an education and experience with these kids are ignored, but Jenny has an epiphany and gets a book tour. I am now a mom of kids with Autism, but even before that I worked with them, studied them, loved them. (and I still do all of those as a pediatric OT) When Jenny was bouncing around on MTV, I was in grad school, when she was sitting on a toilet modeling Candies shoes, I was working in the schools, when she had her son, I already had one on the Spectrum. Too bad no one listens to me and the fact that I have been looking at immunizations, diet, and environmental impacts for years and have yet to find the answers she claims to have found with her Google U diploma. Guess my boobs aren't big enough. What she's doing here is shaming moms who are already guilty enough, using her celebrity to promote bad science, and generalizing her very unique experience to everyone. Such a sad situation.



4. Jenny says at the end of her story, "I hope you have figured out by now that this isn't a story about autism, it's a story about faith". If you buy this book understanding that, then you will not be disappointed. This is an emotional, authentic story about a woman with a compelling, love-inspired drive to heal her son. Throughout her quest to find answers for her son she is transformed by the depth of her love and commitment to him. And to Jenny's credit, her experience was harrowing. Her son had what sounds to me like a moderate case of autism complicated by severe, difficult to control epilepsy that resulted in cardiac arrest. It is truly miraculous that Evan recovered so fully within two years of beginning therapies.
   
   Throughout the book, Jenny's authenticity shines through. Her forcefulness will inspire some readers, and alienate others. It's true, her language is less than classy. And yet, Jenny's focus is so deeply inspiring, the langauge is only minimally detracting. The f-bombs convey Jenny's intensity and drive in a flawed yet simple way.
   
   I am somewhat bemused at the shrill defense of the "medical profession" by some. Some reviewers are shocked that any mother would scream at a nurse or doctor while their child hovers near death, having seizure after seizure. These reviewers' awe for anyone with a medical degree is apparently unimpeachable.
   
   I'm not a doctor-worshipper myself, so I read this account of Jenny's experience without the need to take a break to gasp at her audacity. In Jenny's defense, it is not reasonable for a child having seizures as severely as her son was having them to be treated by staff Interns for two days before seeing a neurologist. It is also pretty incredible that her original neurologist was completely blind to very clear symptoms of autism.
   
   (I really do wish that the general public would find an antidote for doctor-worshipping. It is a sick practice, and it prevents doctors from being held accountable.)
   
   Having said that, there are more sophisticated and mature ways of dealing with incompetent medical personnel who will not accept your input than screaming profanity.
   
   For all of the true passion that Jenny brings to her story, and for all of her autheticity and her discovery, this book has its flaws. First, it could have used some good editing, especially in the last few chapters. There are some errors that just jump out. For example, Catholics will recognize immediately her misspelling of Medjugorje in one of the first chapters of the book. Second, when Jenny slips out of simply telling her story and begins to offer political and medical perspectives, she sounds like someone on the subway who you've just decided to strike up a random conversation with. She doesn't have a clear, organized rhetorical position, and she could have used an advisor on this book to get her there.
   
   For those without expectations higher than a quick, emotional read, this book is a great way to feel connected to another Autism Mother.



5. My heart broke for Jenny and she told the story of Evan and his journey with Autism. My son is about the same age w/ASD and is improving daily. It's encouraging to know that even famous people go through the same heartaches as everyone else and have the same struggles. Thanks for sharing your story Jenny!

5 comments about He Loves Me! Learning to Live In the Father's Affection.

1. This book has revolutionized my thinking in many ways. I graduated from Bible college and have read many wonderful books on God's love and grace such as "The Ragamuffin Gospel," by Brennan Manning and "What's so amazing about grace," by Phillip Yancey. However, this book is a unique and wonderful new take on what God's love and the cross are really all about. This book will challenge your theology and your heart. It will cause you to ask deep questions of yourself and God. More than anything, it lead me to a deeper love and relationship with the Father. the chapter "What really happened at the cross," was one of the most revolutionary takes on the cross I have ever seen. I will be processing the insights gained from this book for years to come. Go and buy this book now!



2. For anyone who is interested in knowing more about the heart of God, this is the book for you. He Loves Me was a great encouragement to me and invited me to rest at a deeper level in Father's love. It was challenging, insightful, inviting, and revealing. What a loving Father we have and I am thankful for Wayne Jacobsen's writing.



3. This is the absolutely BEST book I have ever found on the love of God. It is fresh & refreshing & free from "religiosity". For those who are brand new Christians or those (like me) who have been saved for many years, this book will give you new lenses through which to view God & His love for you. It truly is a blessing.



4. If you are beginning your journey with God, this book can help. Unfortunately, I found it derivative and repetitious. The Search for Significance is 10 times better.



5. "He Loves Me! Learning to Live in the Father's Affection" by Wayne Jacobsen is a wonderful book designed to combat "Daisy Petal Christianity." It is filled with practical as well as Biblical reminders that God loves us immeasurably. From the cover that reminds us of the childhood game, "He loves me, he loves me not," to the wonderful quotes that begin each chapter, this is an enlightening and insightful read. I can't wait to sit down and savor this book again. There are plenty of group discussion questions at the end of each chapter. There is also a section containing thoughts to ponder and reflect on, yourself. This would be a super group study!

5 comments about The Lost Boy: A Foster Child's Search for the Love of a Family.

1. This book helped open my eyes to what children go through in Foster Care. It helped me to relize that you can't judge a book by its cover. That the struggle for acceptance,love acknowledgement or to be recognized can consume & overwhelm a child...to even the point of doing something you know in you heart is wrong. This book makes me want to work hard, so I can buy a big house, Just so I can provide enough love and support and room for not only my three children, but for those children in need of a place to call home & to know that they have someone who care about them.



2. The Lost Boy: A Foster Child's Search for the Love of a Family by Dave Pelzer is a sequel to the heartbreaking memoir, A Child Called "It". Pelzer explains what happened after he was taken away by his abusive mother and neglectful father. This book is really uplifting and moving. I highly recommend this fascinating story and his quest to find a foster family who will love him unconditionally. Enjoy!



3. This book among others written by Dave have left me riveted. I can't put them down. All I see is a man who has overcome the circumstances placed before him. He is such an inspiration, I only wish more people would read his books and make something out of their lives, instead of playing the victim (which is much easier to do)



4. I also enjoyed this book as much as A Child Called "IT". This also made me cry as much as as the first one. I could not put it down as well.



5. Some of the writing is uneven, the plot a little bit disjointed, but in fairness to the author, he is writing from the perspective of a twelve-year-old boy.
   
   This book is vitally important, because there still isn't much in the way of non-fiction written by grown men who were abused as children. Their needs are completely different from those of girls. Pelzer's reaction to being placed into his first foster home - literally bouncing off the walls, jumping on all the beds, is perfectly normal behavior for a boy who has been abused. At times, boys taken into foster care are doubly abused, by well-meaning caretakers who don't understand the unique temperament of the abused male child.
   
   In my view, the system very nearly failed Pelzer by shifting him from one placement to another, often at the last minute. However, his positive attitude is truly inspiring, and he has only praise for the social workers and foster parents he dealt with as a child.
   
   It is impossible for a normal person from an intact Brady-bunch family to understand why a child, placed into a loving and safe second home, would start acting insane and doing everything they could to get kicked out of that home. It's a child's fantasy that holds out even into teenage years, that somehow, being kicked out of a foster home means that they're one step closer to going home, even if deep down, they honestly know that they can't ever live with their parents again.
   
   I highly recommend this book to any person considering becoming a foster parent, and for people who are employed as caretakers in group homes or who work with children and young adults in placement. The writing style is easy enough to appeal to even a middle-school age child, especially one that is already in foster care.