If we’re being real here, summer reading for moms can be a bit of a pipe dream, particularly for those of us who have young kids (as in, you need to be 100 percent focused on them to keep them alive). Or kids with crazy sports schedules. Or full-time jobs. Etc., etc. But when your kids are at camp/sleeping/playing/slightly older or otherwise occupied, losing yourself in a good book can be like taking a mini-vacay without leaving your home (or pool chair). We’ve saved you the time of searching for the perfect book, by polling some of the mothers of The Local Moms Network. (Click here to find your local site!). Here are the books they say are absolute must-reads!
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Recommended by: Megan Sullivan, Greenwich Moms & The Local Moms Network
“This book about a girl abandoned by her family, who founds comfort in nature, is so inspiring and will stay with you.”
Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover
Recommended by: Jessica Blouin, Head of Marketing, The Local Moms Network
“This is a book about the power of education for girls that all of us—and our daughters—should read!
Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand
Recommended by: Katy Meyer, West Boston Moms
“Wanted to give a shout out to the last book I read on my trip to St John USVI – Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand. It was a super quick read, and loved all the nods to USVI. Plus, the author is local to Massachusetts! She lives in Nantucket, and spends time in St. John. Can’t wait for the next one in the series to come out later this year.”
The Magnolia Story, by Chip and Joanna Gaines with Mark Dagostino
Recommended by: Michelle Murphy, Capital District Moms
“I love watching Chip and Joanna on TV so of course I love this book too!”
When Life Gives you Lululemons by Lauren Weisberger
Recommended by: Melissa DeSanti, Mendham Moms
“This book is the sequel to The Devil Wears Prada. Love a fun summer read like this one that’s easy to hop back into the story if my little ones distract me for a day or two!”
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
Recommended by: Heather Andres, Denville Moms
“A murder mystery/psychological thriller that has so many twists, Pretty Girls is a book you can’t put down (not for the faint-hearted).”
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Recommended by: Melissa Post, Westport Moms
“Michelle Obama’s Becoming provides a fascinating look at her childhood, career (as First Lady and otherwise), marriage, and her life as a mom, while serving as a reminder of how incredible the country we live in really is, and how much hope we should have. It is incredibly well-written, informative, and makes you feel like you know her—as a leader and a friend.
The Alice Network & The Huntress, both by Kate Quinn
Recommended by: Meghan Salonia, Newtown Moms
“I am a huge fan of historical fiction and stumbled across Kate Quinn’s The Alice Network in a blog review. It was the last book I read in 2018, so when I heard about The Huntress in 2019 I had to read it. Both books span multiple decades and weave multiple, complex & interesting characters’ stories together.”
Love reading and want to pass that on? Read How to Raise Kids Who Love Reading.
Superbowl: 4 Craft Ideas to Try!
Whether your kids are into football or not, having something to keep them occupied during the big game can be clutch. All the adults will then be able to enjoy the action on the field (not to mention the commercials and half time show!). We rounded up 4 of our favorite crafts from around the blogosphere, perfect for game time or any time you need something to do (which, for most of us, is all the time). Pro tip: for toddlers, use plastic cups instead of mason jars, for obvious reasons.
Date Night at Home Ideas
A regular date night out is a great thing, if you can make it happen. As any good therapist (or Instagram meme…) would say, the foundation of your family started with your relationship, so keeping it strong will benefit everyone. But date nights can be tricky to plan (read: finding a reliable babysitter) and expensive (read: paying said sitter plus whatever entertainment you choose for the evening). That’s why we also love a good date night in. There’s nothing wrong with a classic Netflix and take out combo post-bedtime, but we’re sharing five creative ideas to freshen up your regular routine.
Too Cold to go Outside? Or maybe even Snow? Crafts & Recipes to Beat the Boredom!
Looking for some creative crafts that are easy and fun to do to entertain the kiddos when the weatherman predicts a snow day? Look no further than these adorable craft ideas and tasty recipes that are sure to occupy your kids’ minds and bellies. Read on for the quick and simple how-to’s that will delight your house full of stir-crazy kids!