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MILF: Motherhood, Identity, Love and F*ckery
'The most raw, funny and liberating look at what it is to be a woman.' – FEARNE COTTON
'Gritty, funny, poetic and freeing.' – ANNA MATHUR, Psychotherapist and bestselling author
Can women have it all?
What does it mean to be a woman and a mother in the modern age?
In this passionate, funny and fierce polemic, Paloma Faith delves deep into the
issues that face women today, from puberty and sexual awakenings, to battling
through the expectations of patriarchy and the Supermum myth.
Infused with Paloma's characteristic humour, and raw honesty about the
challenges of IVF and the early years of motherhood, this book is a beautiful
celebration of women's work and the invisible load women carry.
Moving from questions around identity and how motherhood impacts on that, to what it even
means to be a 'good mother', how we need to embrace messiness,
imperfection and the bitter sweet pleasures of being 'selfish' and putting
ourselves first.
Paloma invites us into her own coming of age and relationship with her mum, to
explore how our bonds with our children evolve into adulthood. We see a
glimpse of the complexities and joys of Paloma's experience of juggling
romantic love, heartbreak and dating with the demands of motherhood.
'Gritty, funny, poetic and freeing.' – ANNA MATHUR, Psychotherapist and bestselling author
Can women have it all?
What does it mean to be a woman and a mother in the modern age?
In this passionate, funny and fierce polemic, Paloma Faith delves deep into the
issues that face women today, from puberty and sexual awakenings, to battling
through the expectations of patriarchy and the Supermum myth.
Infused with Paloma's characteristic humour, and raw honesty about the
challenges of IVF and the early years of motherhood, this book is a beautiful
celebration of women's work and the invisible load women carry.
Moving from questions around identity and how motherhood impacts on that, to what it even
means to be a 'good mother', how we need to embrace messiness,
imperfection and the bitter sweet pleasures of being 'selfish' and putting
ourselves first.
Paloma invites us into her own coming of age and relationship with her mum, to
explore how our bonds with our children evolve into adulthood. We see a
glimpse of the complexities and joys of Paloma's experience of juggling
romantic love, heartbreak and dating with the demands of motherhood.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 4, 2024
I loved the raw honesty of Paloma Faith in this book. She holds nothing back
Feminists and fans of Paloma will love this.
Feminists and fans of Paloma will love this.
June 4, 2024
of course it’s 5 stars. it could have been 300 blank pages and i’d give it 5 stars. so many thoughts and will hopefully put some into words in the vlog <3
June 7, 2024
Thank you to Palomq Faith, Netgalley and Penguin for this advanced copy. Paloma’s words really resonated with me and I loved reading her insightful and honest words about her female health experiences and life. I am sure that this story will resonate with many women in their 40s who have had struggles conceiving and fought the battle with being a working Mum. Thank you Paloma for writing this and stating the things so many of us feel.
July 28, 2024
I was first captured by Paloma’s powerhouse vocals on the iconic track ‘New York’ as well as by her vintage styling.
MILF is very much about motherhood but she doesn’t discuss her journey in a way that would alienate childless women. The Motherhood discourse often makes the point of how often women actually mother in many areas of their lives through in a guise of people pleasing and nurturing nature in their relationships with men, friendships and families.
Her unapologetic and frank honesty is refreshing.
MILF is very much about motherhood but she doesn’t discuss her journey in a way that would alienate childless women. The Motherhood discourse often makes the point of how often women actually mother in many areas of their lives through in a guise of people pleasing and nurturing nature in their relationships with men, friendships and families.
Her unapologetic and frank honesty is refreshing.
September 17, 2024
This book has over 70 chapters. I did enjoy it overall, especially the shorter chapters that were just dedicated to one little funny story or anecdote. Loved the honest stories of motherhood.
However I found the book repetitive in parts, especially some of the longer chapters.
It didn't put me off finishing the book though and I found myself nodding along the whole way though. If you're a mother, you'll find this book super relatable and will probably take some wisdom from it too.
However I found the book repetitive in parts, especially some of the longer chapters.
It didn't put me off finishing the book though and I found myself nodding along the whole way though. If you're a mother, you'll find this book super relatable and will probably take some wisdom from it too.
August 14, 2024
I’m not a mother but I am a woman and this felt like a hug from an older, understanding, validating sister 🩷
August 8, 2024
Excellent…. Written from a mothers heart
August 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. She was funny, thought provoking and relatable in many ways. I loved her openness and ability to share personal things that many other people would not.
I could relate to a lot of her thoughts on motherhood and womanhood. Her chapters were short and it was an easy enjoyable read.
I would recommend this book!
I could relate to a lot of her thoughts on motherhood and womanhood. Her chapters were short and it was an easy enjoyable read.
I would recommend this book!
June 20, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of MILF in exchange for a review.
I was drawn towards reading this after seeing a clip on Fearne Cotton’s Instagram which said that Paloma talks about her experiences of IVF and miscarriage – which I hadn’t known that she had been through. As someone who has also experienced both of those things, I was intrigued.
I didn’t know very much at all about Paloma before reading this book, and I’ve really come to like her now! She’s a very straight-talking, down-to-earth kind of person!
The book is split into lots of short chapters on different aspects of being a woman, a mother, a partner, and a human being! And there are a lot of crossover themes around the battles women face trying to ‘have it all’ – versus how this goes for men. There was so much that I agreed on (not all, but plenty) – to the point that there were times that I was furiously nodding, and saying out loud, “Yes, Paloma, YES.” It was quite cathartic to realise that famous and successful women also go through the exact same things as us regular women! Including the stress of being the one that always has to plan and manage everything at home – the yearning that your partner just take the initiative with things instead of asking what they can do to help!
Reading this was a good reminder to me to have more open and honest talks like this with friends, because I’m sure we are all experiencing the same things but you don’t really end up talking about it and then it can sometimes feel isolating when it needn’t be.
There were a couple of pages that I even took photos of because they resonated with me so much – one was about wanting a t shirt to describe her everyday feeling – ‘Bandwidth exceeded’. The other says ‘if you are the mother of children, all the roads lead to you, and you are always both in the moment you are in, and thinking about twenty other things you need to organise for them as well.’ Yes!
At times it was a little bit stream of consciousness but overall an affirming read that gave me a bit of space to reflect on my own ‘bandwidth exceeded’ behaviours! I enjoyed the input from Paloma’s mum as well, which added another way of looking at things.
I was drawn towards reading this after seeing a clip on Fearne Cotton’s Instagram which said that Paloma talks about her experiences of IVF and miscarriage – which I hadn’t known that she had been through. As someone who has also experienced both of those things, I was intrigued.
I didn’t know very much at all about Paloma before reading this book, and I’ve really come to like her now! She’s a very straight-talking, down-to-earth kind of person!
The book is split into lots of short chapters on different aspects of being a woman, a mother, a partner, and a human being! And there are a lot of crossover themes around the battles women face trying to ‘have it all’ – versus how this goes for men. There was so much that I agreed on (not all, but plenty) – to the point that there were times that I was furiously nodding, and saying out loud, “Yes, Paloma, YES.” It was quite cathartic to realise that famous and successful women also go through the exact same things as us regular women! Including the stress of being the one that always has to plan and manage everything at home – the yearning that your partner just take the initiative with things instead of asking what they can do to help!
Reading this was a good reminder to me to have more open and honest talks like this with friends, because I’m sure we are all experiencing the same things but you don’t really end up talking about it and then it can sometimes feel isolating when it needn’t be.
There were a couple of pages that I even took photos of because they resonated with me so much – one was about wanting a t shirt to describe her everyday feeling – ‘Bandwidth exceeded’. The other says ‘if you are the mother of children, all the roads lead to you, and you are always both in the moment you are in, and thinking about twenty other things you need to organise for them as well.’ Yes!
At times it was a little bit stream of consciousness but overall an affirming read that gave me a bit of space to reflect on my own ‘bandwidth exceeded’ behaviours! I enjoyed the input from Paloma’s mum as well, which added another way of looking at things.
July 12, 2024
**I listened to the audiobook as well as reading the hardcopy**
Oh I have waited what seems forever (as I preordered) for this book to be released. I adore Paloma Faith. I have followed her music career since the very beginning, and thinks she's a complete ledge!!
However, since her separation from her husband - I do feel like she has been a bit 'preachy' with some of her words and advice. Particularly after her Glastonbury set. I know she has faced a lot of criticism with her speeches too (people saying "she's not the first woman to raise her children on her own' etc.)
So I was a little dubious about her book - I was worried it would be a bit 'preachy' - but it was the complete opposite.
Paloma Faith is so honest, as ever. She writes about almost every aspect of motherhood including the birth! I love how real she is! There is advice in there, but it's from the heart and from her own experiences. But more than anything, it's an insight into her life and of course motherhood. I am not a mother (hopefully one day!) but I still found this book super interesting. It's incredibly uplifting, despite some of the traumatic events mentioned.
I also loved that Paloma narrates the audio book!
I adored it, the only downside was that it was too short!!
Oh I have waited what seems forever (as I preordered) for this book to be released. I adore Paloma Faith. I have followed her music career since the very beginning, and thinks she's a complete ledge!!
However, since her separation from her husband - I do feel like she has been a bit 'preachy' with some of her words and advice. Particularly after her Glastonbury set. I know she has faced a lot of criticism with her speeches too (people saying "she's not the first woman to raise her children on her own' etc.)
So I was a little dubious about her book - I was worried it would be a bit 'preachy' - but it was the complete opposite.
Paloma Faith is so honest, as ever. She writes about almost every aspect of motherhood including the birth! I love how real she is! There is advice in there, but it's from the heart and from her own experiences. But more than anything, it's an insight into her life and of course motherhood. I am not a mother (hopefully one day!) but I still found this book super interesting. It's incredibly uplifting, despite some of the traumatic events mentioned.
I also loved that Paloma narrates the audio book!
I adored it, the only downside was that it was too short!!
August 28, 2024
I fell in love with Paloma’s music when seeing her perform at North Sea Jazz. A couple of years later I watched a documentary about her life on tour and loved her character too. When I heard she was bringing out a memoir I knew I wanted to have it. I then realised the memoir would be about becoming a mother, the changes it brings and how you lose yourself in this new role. Exactly how I felt. The book for me was great because it was so relatable to me. I fully understood her feelings about becoming pregnant, being pregnant and life with small kids. The only concern I had with the book was that it was a bit repetitive but other than that I loved it. It is nice to feel understood and see someone struggling with the same things, it makes you feel heard. I would highly recommend this but only if you have an association with motherhood.
June 17, 2024
I think this is a very honest, raw book.
There's a lot about motherhood (stating the obvious as it's in the title) and not being a mother myself, I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I loved how she explained things - her ups and downs, and actually how women probably often feel, but aren't able to be honest about it.
I respect her a bit more after reading it.
Enjoyed it and liked reading about her different experiences.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There's a lot about motherhood (stating the obvious as it's in the title) and not being a mother myself, I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I loved how she explained things - her ups and downs, and actually how women probably often feel, but aren't able to be honest about it.
I respect her a bit more after reading it.
Enjoyed it and liked reading about her different experiences.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2024
2.5
The psychotic episode post birth set my expectations high, and it was funny in places, but maybe this is better aimed at someone who’s children are younger and so they can relate to this a little bit more. I’m looking for something like this, but less polite, a bit more gritty
The psychotic episode post birth set my expectations high, and it was funny in places, but maybe this is better aimed at someone who’s children are younger and so they can relate to this a little bit more. I’m looking for something like this, but less polite, a bit more gritty
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2024
I highly recommend listening to this one. Paloma Faith is so delight ful. This book is for all the ladies, not just moms. Inspiring, honest, relatable and/or insightful…I was emotional from the first chapter/intro.
June 18, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. It voiced a lot of feelings I have about womanhood and motherhood and fuckery tbh!
July 28, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ audiobook made it even better, a feminist and sex positive book shining a light on the female and motherhood experience, more books like this are needed!
August 8, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ I found this really honest and open, and think it would definitely resonate with many Mums.
August 29, 2024
Brilliant! Really made me chuckle.
July 26, 2024
Where it wasn’t relatable it was eye opening. Love Paloma and loved this
July 26, 2024
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐💫
August 1, 2024
Super relatable and I loved the honesty. A great book for mums!
September 13, 2024
This book is EVERYTHING. Beautifully honest testing the trials and tribulations of a modern day woman/mother/worker beating the misogyny that’s drilled into woman from an early age. *****+
August 12, 2024
Pretty good, easy read.
I enjoyed the honest, relatable content. The writing style was a little juvenile for me and the really short chapters were unnecessary I felt more could of been put into one chapter.
I love Paloma Faith however and do absolutely find her so relatable and someone I would get on really well with irl 😂
I enjoyed the honest, relatable content. The writing style was a little juvenile for me and the really short chapters were unnecessary I felt more could of been put into one chapter.
I love Paloma Faith however and do absolutely find her so relatable and someone I would get on really well with irl 😂
July 7, 2024
Brave but chaotic
Not really for me though I admire her honesty and candidness. It's jarring and didn't flow well, more like random musings and rants which made it feel hard work to read. Probably better for mums of young children, certainly the first chunk of the book. I get there's a lot of turmoil here but also a lot of over analysing. I had 3 kids, miscarriages and lost a parent but enjoyed the ups and weathered the downs. Be kind to yourself as don't expect perfection.
Not really for me though I admire her honesty and candidness. It's jarring and didn't flow well, more like random musings and rants which made it feel hard work to read. Probably better for mums of young children, certainly the first chunk of the book. I get there's a lot of turmoil here but also a lot of over analysing. I had 3 kids, miscarriages and lost a parent but enjoyed the ups and weathered the downs. Be kind to yourself as don't expect perfection.
August 23, 2024
Much of this book is perfect; a good 70-80%. Paloma's writing speaks to all that womanhood entails (as a man I cannot vouch for or relate to much of this, but as a result) I found this incredibly eye-opening, honest and open, and enlightening. There are aspects of a woman's life that I had not considered in sufficient depth, or had not thought about the range of impacts that can surround these events.
I picked this up on discovering that the majority of the authors whose work I've read lately are men, and was looking for more female voices (and by extension, writing on female experience). I definitely feel that most men I know would benefit from reading either this book, or others like it.
Sadly the book is not entirely like this. There are two substantial issues I have with this book.
The first is the use of stilted dialogue used to prove points: there are conversations that Paloma has with her mother that are simply beyond unrealistic. I get that they are included as part of the discussion, but the way they are used is so clunky that it undermines the point that is being made. Conversations similar to those written may have happened, but they should have been reflected more humanly.
My second issue is the way men are treated. It seems that both Paloma and some of those closest to her have had bad experiences, and the writing should be viewed through that lens. Having said that, a lot of the discourse around the relationships between men and women, and the differences between them are downright corrosive. Language similar to "...All men (excluding the few good ones...", or expressing thoughts that she no longer cares about men's feelings, or attacking campaign drives that have tried to increase men's awareness of their own mental health ("What about women's mental health?"), is very damaging. These types of arguments only serve to perpetuate bad stereotypes, reverse misogyny, and male depression and suicide. Perceived gaps like those highlighted by Paloma need to fixed with love, not hate.
It's such a shame that there are these asterisks, as (as I said) most of this book is excellent. Even with these caveats, it's a fantastic read.
I picked this up on discovering that the majority of the authors whose work I've read lately are men, and was looking for more female voices (and by extension, writing on female experience). I definitely feel that most men I know would benefit from reading either this book, or others like it.
Sadly the book is not entirely like this. There are two substantial issues I have with this book.
The first is the use of stilted dialogue used to prove points: there are conversations that Paloma has with her mother that are simply beyond unrealistic. I get that they are included as part of the discussion, but the way they are used is so clunky that it undermines the point that is being made. Conversations similar to those written may have happened, but they should have been reflected more humanly.
My second issue is the way men are treated. It seems that both Paloma and some of those closest to her have had bad experiences, and the writing should be viewed through that lens. Having said that, a lot of the discourse around the relationships between men and women, and the differences between them are downright corrosive. Language similar to "...All men (excluding the few good ones...", or expressing thoughts that she no longer cares about men's feelings, or attacking campaign drives that have tried to increase men's awareness of their own mental health ("What about women's mental health?"), is very damaging. These types of arguments only serve to perpetuate bad stereotypes, reverse misogyny, and male depression and suicide. Perceived gaps like those highlighted by Paloma need to fixed with love, not hate.
It's such a shame that there are these asterisks, as (as I said) most of this book is excellent. Even with these caveats, it's a fantastic read.
July 5, 2024
A lot of wonderful man bashing by Paloma
Much resonated …
“Finding that sweet spot between who we were and who we have become
When men come home, no one clings to them
A man who is actively parenting his children is labelled a good dad for tasks it is taken for granted that women should do
There is an invisible mental load that all mothers have while pursuing their careers, they also have explicitly obvious motherly duties and also their responsibilities to the dedication to their friends and relatives
Whether single or with another parent, the chances are the mother is the default parent on parental whats app groups, the one the school rings when they’re sick and the one woken up in the night.
We are all are children’s personal assistants. We are all squeezed for our last drops of juice every day.
Women are stretched
I wish days away but pray they will stop growing and remain little forever
Using initiative is sexy - delegating every last thing is not.
To want to have sex, one needs to FEEl sexy. When the children are small there is very little chance for a woman to be alone, you crave the freedom to walk around without being touched for thirty mins. you want to be left alone.
When you are young you have many friends. Friends for all occasions. As life begins to consume your time between work & children and your relationship you have less time for many friends. Life gets in the way.
This government doesn’t adequately subsidise childcare costs for families working with children under the age of 3, so what’s the option? Put your salary on childcare or not work at all? Either way what are people living off?
I am honestly humbled to be a mother and sometimes that manifests in me turning into a loyal servant character with my kids giving orders from above
Are men spoilt as children? Are they overindulged by their mothers and society into thinking they are justified in constantly centring their suffering ? “
Much resonated …
“Finding that sweet spot between who we were and who we have become
When men come home, no one clings to them
A man who is actively parenting his children is labelled a good dad for tasks it is taken for granted that women should do
There is an invisible mental load that all mothers have while pursuing their careers, they also have explicitly obvious motherly duties and also their responsibilities to the dedication to their friends and relatives
Whether single or with another parent, the chances are the mother is the default parent on parental whats app groups, the one the school rings when they’re sick and the one woken up in the night.
We are all are children’s personal assistants. We are all squeezed for our last drops of juice every day.
Women are stretched
I wish days away but pray they will stop growing and remain little forever
Using initiative is sexy - delegating every last thing is not.
To want to have sex, one needs to FEEl sexy. When the children are small there is very little chance for a woman to be alone, you crave the freedom to walk around without being touched for thirty mins. you want to be left alone.
When you are young you have many friends. Friends for all occasions. As life begins to consume your time between work & children and your relationship you have less time for many friends. Life gets in the way.
This government doesn’t adequately subsidise childcare costs for families working with children under the age of 3, so what’s the option? Put your salary on childcare or not work at all? Either way what are people living off?
I am honestly humbled to be a mother and sometimes that manifests in me turning into a loyal servant character with my kids giving orders from above
Are men spoilt as children? Are they overindulged by their mothers and society into thinking they are justified in constantly centring their suffering ? “
May 31, 2024
MILF by Paloma Faith
(Motherhood, Identity, Love and F*ckery)
Rating: 3/5
Release Date: 6 June 2024
In this impassioned, witty, and bold manifesto, Paloma Faith delves into the myriad challenges confronting women today. From navigating puberty and sexual awakening to confronting the pressures of patriarchy and the myth of the Supermum, she fearlessly explores these issues.
Infused with Paloma's trademark humour and unfiltered honesty, the book offers a poignant reflection on the struggles of IVF and the early stages of motherhood, celebrating the often unseen labor of women.
Transitioning from discussions on identity and the impact of motherhood to the elusive concept of being a 'good mother,' Paloma advocates for embracing imperfection and prioritising self-care. She shares her own journey of growth alongside her mother, highlighting the evolution of parent-child relationships into adulthood.
Through Paloma's personal anecdotes, readers glimpse the complexities of balancing romantic love, heartbreak, and dating with the responsibilities of motherhood, offering a nuanced portrayal of life's joys and challenges.
Despite my initial anticipation, I found myself disappointed upon reading this book. While I expected a personal exploration of Paloma's experiences, it felt more like a one-sided sermon directed at the reader. The lack of interaction between Paloma and the audience left me feeling as though she was solely focused on imposing her opinions rather than fostering a meaningful connection.
Although the book is a quick read, I'm hesitant to recommend it based on my own experience.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Ebury Publishing, Penguin Random House | Ebury Spotlight, and the author, Paloma Faith, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
(Motherhood, Identity, Love and F*ckery)
Rating: 3/5
Release Date: 6 June 2024
In this impassioned, witty, and bold manifesto, Paloma Faith delves into the myriad challenges confronting women today. From navigating puberty and sexual awakening to confronting the pressures of patriarchy and the myth of the Supermum, she fearlessly explores these issues.
Infused with Paloma's trademark humour and unfiltered honesty, the book offers a poignant reflection on the struggles of IVF and the early stages of motherhood, celebrating the often unseen labor of women.
Transitioning from discussions on identity and the impact of motherhood to the elusive concept of being a 'good mother,' Paloma advocates for embracing imperfection and prioritising self-care. She shares her own journey of growth alongside her mother, highlighting the evolution of parent-child relationships into adulthood.
Through Paloma's personal anecdotes, readers glimpse the complexities of balancing romantic love, heartbreak, and dating with the responsibilities of motherhood, offering a nuanced portrayal of life's joys and challenges.
Despite my initial anticipation, I found myself disappointed upon reading this book. While I expected a personal exploration of Paloma's experiences, it felt more like a one-sided sermon directed at the reader. The lack of interaction between Paloma and the audience left me feeling as though she was solely focused on imposing her opinions rather than fostering a meaningful connection.
Although the book is a quick read, I'm hesitant to recommend it based on my own experience.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Ebury Publishing, Penguin Random House | Ebury Spotlight, and the author, Paloma Faith, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
June 24, 2024
I really don't know what to say about this book.........
MILF - Motherhood, Identity, Love and F*ckery by Paloma Faith was frecking Brilliant!! and a MUST READ!!!!!
This book will have you laughing out loud, until you have tears running down your face! its just a fantastic read all about US!!!! Us women, Yes You!!!!
Paloma Faith has written with passion, it's bloody funny and fierce polemic, and delves dshe eep into the issues that face women today, from puberty and sexual awakenings, to battling through the expectations of patriarchy and the Super mum myth.
Paloma talks about her and her challenges of IVF and the early years of motherhood, this book is a beautiful and a celebration of women's work and the invisible load women carry everyday!
This book is very raw and honest throughout that I can honestly say is one of the best books I have read. There's no Black and white here! just pure truth on how it is........
Paloma invites us into her own coming of age and relationship with her mum and to explore how our bonds with our children evolve into adulthood. We see a glimpse of the complexities and joys of Paloma's experience of juggling romantic love, heartbreak and dating with the demands of motherhood.
A brilliant read and I highly recommend it. Can't wait for it to come out on audiobook.
Big Thank you Paloma for writing this and stating the things so many of us feel. Especially if you can not have children! I could relate to her pain of all those questions on when you gonna start a family? etc.
MILF - Motherhood, Identity, Love and F*ckery by Paloma Faith was frecking Brilliant!! and a MUST READ!!!!!
This book will have you laughing out loud, until you have tears running down your face! its just a fantastic read all about US!!!! Us women, Yes You!!!!
Paloma Faith has written with passion, it's bloody funny and fierce polemic, and delves dshe eep into the issues that face women today, from puberty and sexual awakenings, to battling through the expectations of patriarchy and the Super mum myth.
Paloma talks about her and her challenges of IVF and the early years of motherhood, this book is a beautiful and a celebration of women's work and the invisible load women carry everyday!
This book is very raw and honest throughout that I can honestly say is one of the best books I have read. There's no Black and white here! just pure truth on how it is........
Paloma invites us into her own coming of age and relationship with her mum and to explore how our bonds with our children evolve into adulthood. We see a glimpse of the complexities and joys of Paloma's experience of juggling romantic love, heartbreak and dating with the demands of motherhood.
A brilliant read and I highly recommend it. Can't wait for it to come out on audiobook.
Big Thank you Paloma for writing this and stating the things so many of us feel. Especially if you can not have children! I could relate to her pain of all those questions on when you gonna start a family? etc.
June 13, 2024
When I found out I was pregnant, I decided to keep a journal, my plan was to write in this journal throughout my pregnancy, and up until my baby turned 1. I don't think I got far past the first scan tbh. But if I had, it would probably read much like this book! To know, that someone as inspirational as Paloma Faith, who I genuinely look up to as a working Mother, who I thought had it all, feels the same way I do about pregnancy and motherhood, honestly it was just so affirmative. I absolutely devoured this book, I laughed out loud, I felt emotional and found myself wiping tears away, I felt rage as a Woman and the amount of snippets I showed to my husband to try and reaffirm some of the things I've been telling him for the last 2 years (since having our son).
I can understand why some people may have seen it as a 'winge fest', but isn't it time Women spoke up about all things womanhood, in such a raw and honest way? I really wish there were more books like this. I wish it were more common place to talk about our lives and our bodies and experiences as humans in such an open way. Why are Women's bodies still so taboo?!
Thank you Paloma for writing this book and being so honest, and Thank You NetGalley, as always for giving me the opportunity to share my thoughts in exchange for this wonderful book.
I can understand why some people may have seen it as a 'winge fest', but isn't it time Women spoke up about all things womanhood, in such a raw and honest way? I really wish there were more books like this. I wish it were more common place to talk about our lives and our bodies and experiences as humans in such an open way. Why are Women's bodies still so taboo?!
Thank you Paloma for writing this book and being so honest, and Thank You NetGalley, as always for giving me the opportunity to share my thoughts in exchange for this wonderful book.
July 21, 2024
I’m not a particular fan of Paloma’s music, but I remember enjoying her camaraderie with Noel Fielding and her adorable quirkiness and colourful outfits on Never Mind The Buzzcocks. I also listened her account of her journey to have her first daughter on the Happy Mum Happy Baby podcast. I was going through an infertility journey of my own, and drank in all she said. As a new mother now, I bought the audio versio of this book to hear more about Paloma’s motherhood journey. My main impressions after finishing it are that she complains a lot about how hard pregnancy, birth and caring for children is (though she does emphasise often how much she loves her girls), and how hard it is to be a single mother in particular. She never adequately explains why she chose to end her relationship. It comes across that being with a younger man was fun while child-free and relatively young herself, but that after children arrived, she really would have preferred someone more practically and financially supportive - a better provider. She hardly ever admitted her own shortcomings, and was defensive of her own fairly selfish behaviour. She kind of came across as a bit spoiled and hard to identify with, I guess. I did enjoy parts of it, but my overall impression was one of a lot of complaining and self-justification.
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