I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
There are many "expected parenting" books on the market from people who tell you what to expect but haven't walked the walk. Michelle Swann's book differs from them by being informative and adding personal experiences that show the reader that she's been there, lived through it, and being a teen mom didn't ruin her life. Yeah, that's a common stigma against teen moms. Regardless of age, pregnancy and child-raising are not a walk in the park. It's life-changing. It can (at times) drain you mentally, physically, and financially. But it can also be the best rewarding job you will ever have!
"Teenage Mothers: Designing a Fabulous Life" is designed to target teen moms, but I found that much of the material benefited any expected first-time parent. For example, what to expect at doctor visits, how to tell family and friends, and the importance of finishing your education. As there is a stigma about teens having children, the same can be said for women over a certain age having a child. They receive some of the same treatment as their younger counterparts: stares, lectures, and unwanted opinions. Regardless of a mother's age, knowing what to expect at each appointment, common pregnancy complaints, tips on constructing a birthing plan, and what to expect in the four stages of labor can help answer questions you might not even know to ask.
I had my first child when I was twenty, but even then, I wasn't prepared for what would come. I was learning as I went along. Did I fail? Yes. Will you? Of course. Michelle Swann points out that we will all fail at some point; that's human nature. I wish this first-hand resource guide when I was pregnant. I wish someone would've spoken to me from personal experience in real terms, as the author does refreshingly. Michelle Swann did not sugarcoat that every step would go smoothly. In fact, her delivery could have been better. She had two GP (general practitioners) whose bedside manners could have been more professional.
This book doesn't lecture. It doesn't tell you one way is better than another. It doesn't make you feel ashamed about being a young mother. The author gives every side of the spectrum, so you can choose how to raise your child. Cloth or disposable diapers. Bottle or breastfeed. Make the decision that's right for you and your child.
There are a few topics that every parent should follow to a tee:
Never strike your child.
Never smoke near them.
Never shake them.
Be a good role model.
You are your child's first teacher. Teach them to grow up respecting others, and as Michelle Swann says, respect reading over screens. People around you might debate the appropriate time for a child to sit and stare at a screen. Michelle breaks it down from 18 months and up. Michelle also speaks about vaccinations. I know this is a hot topic right now. Many parents are opting out of them, even ones that have been away for decades. While I believe in vaccinations, the choice is ultimately yours to make. The writer doesn't attempt to sway you or even remark on those who abstain from them.
"Teenage Mothers: Designing a Fabulous Life" wraps up by discussing the importance of preparing for your family's future. Raising a child is a costly endeavor. Plans must be made to keep you from living in poverty. While the process might seem overwhelming, there is help out there...you need to seek them out.
Help. Help is a familiar word in this book, and that's precisely what you'll need. Whether you are 16 or 46, you will need help at some point. Lean on others. Seek medical help if you are feeling depressed. Seek financial assistance. A career counselor. Lean on people who lift you up and want to see you succeed. And never surround yourself with people who don't. Be the advocate for your family. You can do this. Michelle Swann wishes you luck, and so do I.
I could discuss so much more, but it's best coming from Michelle Swann. I recommend teen moms read this book. Despite the title, there's enough material that first-time moms of any age can find helpful.
On a final note, I loved the cute cover and all the family photos.
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Print List Price: $12.99 
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Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on March 1, 2023
- Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2023
Top reviews from other countries
- FriedaReviewed in Canada on April 26, 2023
An Authentic, Empowering Read for a Teen Mom
- Michael A StorcerReviewed in Canada on June 13, 2023
Teen Moms, Designing a Fabulous Life
- Linda Joy HoranReviewed in Canada on March 24, 2023
This book was a game changer for me!
