Through Mom's Eyes: Simple Wisdom From Mothers Who Raised Extraordinary Humans

by Sheinelle Jones (Author & Narrator)

From the beloved Today show host Sheinelle Jones comes an inspiring collection of heartfelt life-lessons from hard working moms who raised some of our favorite celebrities.

When Sheinelle Jones launched “Through Mom’s Eyes,” a recurring Today show segment interviewing celebrities’ mothers about raising successful kids, she had an ulterior motive—she wanted to bring all their wisdom to bear on raising her own three children. So she asked Lin-Manuel Miranda’s mom about staying present with kids while balancing a demanding career, talked with Lady Gaga’s mom about how to recognize bullying, and got tips from Steph Curry’s mom on making sure even future NBA royalty does his chores. She has since interviewed dozens of remarkable women and gathered a candid, warm, and insightful collection of valuable lessons about life, love, and parenthood.

Now in her first book, Through Mom’s Eyes, Sheinelle is ready to share even more of those life-changing secrets with the world. Combining insights from celebrity mothers with her own journey through modern parenting, Sheinelle reveals how to make it through the hard parts of motherhood and still tap into the joys of it with empathy, generosity, and solidarity. Through Mom’s Eyes is a beautiful celebration of those who are the guiding light for their loved ones—mothers.

Featuring advice from the moms

Lady Gaga * Kevin Durant * Matthew McConaughey * Venus and Serena Williams * Lin-Manuel Miranda * Steph Curry * Padma Lakshmi * Tyra Banks * Donnie and Mark Wahlberg * Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski * Jessica and Ashlee Simpson * Shaquille O’Neal * Brandon Maxwell * The Jonas Brothers * Thomas Rhett

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir

Audible Audio

Published April 14, 2026

Reviews

[Mary Radford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sweet book with great stories from many mothers of successful children. I was a bit confused at first as the author wove her story throughout the chapters along with the mothers' stories and I wasn't sure whose story was being told.

[Samantha Lyons · Rating 3 out of 5]

Someone close to me recommended I read this book.

It was a good listen. I am glad I did not purchase the physical book.

Some of it was solid advice but there were parts that I was not too interested in hearing about. Parts that I felt were not relatable in the slightest bit as a “new mom”.

Overall, just okay.

[Ariana Sanders · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of the celebrities seem a bit outdated since this is from her years of tv interviews.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every insightful piece of this book and her audio and dialogue was fabulous!

[Kimball Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet memoir by a young mom who gets the thoughts on motherhood from the mothers of famous offspring while goi g through the dark days of loosing her husband to brain cancer. It is full of great stories and thoughtful advise for mothering and just being human.

[Gina Jacques · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so thoroughly enjoyed reading this book with different Mother’s perspectives & insight! It is great to read for Mothers of all ages & so fitting to finish it the day before Mother’s Day. A lot of inspirational parts had a lot of meaning for me. I highly recommend this feel good book of Wisdom from mothers who raised extraordinary humans!

[Mary Cummins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Tribute To Mothers!
Thank you to NetGalley for this e-copy of Through Mom’s Eyes by Sheinelle Jones in exchange for a honest review.I have been a big fan of Sheinelle’s from her time on Philadelphia’s morning news to her time now on Today and the Jenna and Sheinelle. She has always been a quiet, calming voice of strength even through the loss of her husband so I was definitely looking forward to reading her new book.Through a series of interviews with the mothers of famous sports figures such as Shaquille O’Neal’s mom , famous actors’ moms such as Matthew McConaughey’s mom and famous singers ‘ moms such as The Jonas Brothers’ mom, the reader gains insight into how these moms were able to help their children succeed in their given field.In each chapter entry Sheinelle ties in personal experiences from her own life that corresponds to what the famous mom is discussing.Between each chapter she offers personal antedotes from many of her fellow cohosts.This is a perfect book to buy for the mother in your life for Mother’s Day.This is a very personal moving tribute to all the great mothers out there.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheinelle Jones from the Today Show was inspired to write “Through Moms Eyes” when she did a series about motherhood and interviewed mothers of famous actors, singers, athletes, etc. She learned so much from them, so she decided to create a book about motherhood and parenting. Therefore, she could share their wisdom in more detail and talk about her own experiences with motherhood.

Motherhood is not perfect and has its ups and downs. Each mother defines who they are and how they raise their children. These were all themes with each mother sharing their wisdom.

A wonderful book that is fascinating to read! It’s an uplifting and inspiring book. I loved how Sheinelle Jones included “Mama Said” at the beginning of each chapter! It’s a book that is perfect for your nightstand as you can read it cover to cover or just read a chapter that speaks to you at the moment! A great book to gift to fellow mothers and moms-to-be!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Elizabeth Greene · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stories in this book (each from a different celebrity mother) feel like warm conversations—real, relatable, and filled with wisdom. Whether you’re a mom yourself or just love stories about family, this book reminds us that behind every mom is a journey of strength, grace, and endless love. It’s a perfect blend of vulnerability and encouragement that will make you laugh, cry, and feel all the feels. 💕

As a mother currently in the trenches with a young toddler and newborn- this is the exact book I needed!

💬 “Motherhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence.”

Thank you to NetGalley for the e arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

THROUGH MOM"S EYES
BY: SHEINELLE JONES

"RAISE YOUR WORDS, NOT YOUR VOICE.
FLOWERS GROW BETTER IN RAIN THAN THUNDER."---RUMI

I am simply in the wrong demographic for this book which really didn't teach me anything that I already didn't know. My kids are in their twenties and while to be fair to the Author I read this from start to finish I've thought that this would be a great gift to those expecting mothers or mothers who have much younger children. The Audible version would be another inspirational way to help mothers with much younger children, so I'll keep this in mind to buy for a gift.






































THROUGH MOM'S EYES
BY: SHEINELLE JONES

"RAISE YOUR WORDS, NOT YOUR VOICE.
FLOWERS GROW BETTER IN RAIN, THAN FROM THUNDER." RUMI

This would make an amazing gift to mothers who have young children or just had a baby, or are expecting one. I loved the sections at the end that say "Mama Said." I am the wrong demographic for this because even though I read it from start to finish, it really didn't tell me anything that I already didn't know. My children are grown and in their twenties, and I already knew most of what I read, actually all of it. I can see it as helping Mothers whose kids are much younger, and inexperienced with stressful lives of kids that are looking for tips, and it would also make a great listen to expecting mothers wanting to prepare, or learn from Celebrity Mothers who have tips to pass on to mothers who haven't already faced the issues brought up which I admire the author's efforts, there was just not anything I didn't already know, but as I said for mothers to be, or for those of us looking to gift this it was inspiring.

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheinelle Jones, a host from the "Today" show, interviews the mother's of many noteworthy celebrities (from Lady Gaga to Padma Lakshmi to Mark Wahlberg and more) and pulls in her own experiences as a mother to pass on words of wisdom to the reader. It really felt like a friend retelling the interviews to you while you both sat down with a cup of coffee.

I particularly loved that when I finished reading this novel I did not feel overwhelmed or ashamed about what I have done (or not done) as a mother, but instead I felt empowered and reassured that I am doing what is best for my family. Many parenting books push certain ideas or opinions that make you feel bad for disagreeing with, but this book does not do that. I would highly recommend any mom, but especially a mom of little ones, to read this.

Thank you to G.P. Putnam's Sons publishing and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[TL Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5? This was a weird one for me. First, to be fair, I am not the target audience. I don't like the Today Show (or shows like it), I am not a mother, and I'm not a big celebrity follower. That said, I do like uplifting and heartwarming segments and fun stories, and I was expecting more of that here. This is really not the simple wisdom from mother's so much as the author's thoughts on the interviews (ones she did over the years I would assume) of other mothers. Her story is predominant in each of the chapters over the top of the mom being discussed. It's pretty well written and that's ok, but you aren't getting a story of the mom and kid, which is what I was thinking it would be. It's really her memoir but with an occasional quote or reference to a mom she interviewed over the years (many are pretty dated as far as fame goes but so am I, so that was fine). A mix of results as far as each chapter in terms of interest, but all were at least ok.

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concept is solid, the stories are interesting enough in their own right and perspective, but over all it leaves something wanting. The author mixes her own thoughts and experiences into the stories told and tries to relate how she is going to put the lessons she's gleaned into practice. In a lot of ways this is a book you'll lean into and take what you want from if you read it in the right mindset. Parts are relatable, parts are not. It's not a "one size fits all" read. I think it would have been a lot more helpful to have the story chapters followed by a set of workshop questions or recapped takeaway prompts to work out how you could journal out how these lessons could fit and work into your own experiences. It's supposed to be inclusive, it's supposed to be advice, given with grace, but it's written from a point of privilege and mother's interviewed are reflecting on motherhood rather than in the trenches of actively mothering.

[Gabriela Everett · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a timely read as we approach Mother’s Day!

While I am not a mother, I have one of the most incredible mothers, and was lucky to be raised in a lineage of immensely strong (and stubborn!) women. Additionally, I’m now in the stage of life where I’m getting to watch my dear friends become moms.

This book filled me with so much warmth and adoration for the role mothers play in our society. It also made me feel some tough feelings for all the unseen things moms face. It’s a reminder to check in on the moms in our life. They’re constantly, selflessly showing up for everyone else, but who shows up for them?

This book also made me laugh. Mothers truly have seen it all. The ability to still show up with joy and laughter each day and to create magical lives for their offspring is truly the greatest of gifts.

I can’t recommend this book enough.

[Sara Morrisey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a solid 3 stars for me. I enjoyed reading it and enjoyed the short chapters, each by a different mom. A few of the chapters drug for me a bit. I did enjoy reading how the moms interviewed handled various issues in life to include their child being bullied (Lady Gag) and embarrassing moments at a parent of adults (Jessica Simpson). The theme that stuck out at me the most is just teaching your kid to be resilient and kind. Don't focus on the small things. Focus on their strengths, not weaknesses. And as a mom; to not be too hard on yourself and make sure to establish some "me" time.

Thank you to NetGallery and Penguin Group for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[Abee Bittle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

“Through Mom’s Eyes is for anyone raising children who wants to feel encouraged—and to perhaps laugh a little—thanks to loving advice from the mothers of some people who have achieved huge dreams and won the respect of millions in the process.”

Moms of Venus & Serena Williams, the Jonas brothers, Shaquille O’Neal, Matthew McConnaughey, Lady Gaga and more discuss their journey of parenting.

I love all parenting books that focus on mindset and this was a real treat. The quote above is a perfect summary of what to expect. It was reflective, funny, and inspiring. The stories from each mom were the perfect length for me to feel engaged. I enjoyed Jones’ reflections on her own motherhood and family.

I recommend!

[Kimberly Tierney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts:
Sheinelle Jones is a contributing reporter on The Today Show. Before the pandemic, she began a regular segment called "Through Mom's Eyes," in which she spent time with the mothers of celebrities, picking their brains about how they managed to raise these now-famous people. She soon began implementing their nuggets of wisdom into her own parenting journey when she came across a situation where something they had mentioned fit her current parenting moment. Those conversations and her own parenting journey turned into this book. And while it is part parenting guide, part memoir, it is a full reminder that the hard days of parenting are made a little easier when we have mom friends to lean on.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read! Sheinelle Jones, a co-host on the Today Show, writes about interviews and conversations she had with mothers of celebrities. Each mother has her own chapter, and Sheinelle also talks about her relationships with her own mother and children throughout the book. I enjoyed reading about how each of the mothers had their own version of raising children and the life lessons they learned along the way. While the book does discuss motherhood, I think it has a broad appeal for all women and would be enjoyed by any reader.

Thanks to Penguin Group and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Virginia Cannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sheinelle Jones co-hosts the Today show. One of her assignments was to interview moms of famous people. Jones gathered enough material to write a book. Jones and her interviewees share triumphs and learning experiences. The overall message: Parenting is one of the hardest jobs! Be kind to yourself as you navigate parenthood. Look to build up your child's strengths, so your child can explore the world. And finally, community is important because those people become your encouragers and role models.

Thank you #SheinelleJones, #PenguinGroupPutnam, #GPPutnamsSons, and #NetGalley for my e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Sarah H · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a first time parent, it was good to hear real life accounts of people who have been in the trenches and made it out the other side! I did enjoy reading about different parenting styles & experiences, and how they shaped some household names.
I did find some of the chapters to be dense and seemed to last forever. There were a few chapters that had the name of a celebrity parent, but only one or two quotes from that person & the rest was the author’s experience. Whilst it was nice to see her experience as well, it took away from the premise of the book IMO.
Overall, I enjoyed it, I found it heartwarming and inspiring. I’d recommend it to other Moms!

[Allie Kane · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW What a book!! How fitting I read it around Mother’s Day. This is a MUST to gift to any soon to be mom, your mom, you or anyone who knows a mom. It’s ALL about mom’s and how Sheinelle interviewed celebrity moms & asked them all for advice. They all had their own spin on motherhood - from children count, personalities, circumstances, family dynamics, etc. It was quite an inspiring read as well as affirmation that I’m so proud to be a mom. The title has a lot more weight than most give it credit for & this book truly shows that. Be prepared to tear up, shed some tears, laugh & even self reflect. What an AMAZING book!!!

[Brittany Strehlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect compilation of stories from other moms who have been there and just get it. It’s a wonderful book to keep on hand for when you want to just read a chapter at a time as they are separated stories (though all obviously interconnected to the theme of motherhood.)

Sheinelle Jones did such a great job bringing these stories to life and gathering them in such a wonderful way for everyone to enjoy. I’m glad this book is finally being released!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this for an honest review.

[Jodi]

This book is really well written and interesting, but I had to put it away about halfway through. Reading about and from mothers of insanely high achieving people who I can only relate to in the fact that we're humans and mothers was just too hard. Of course shared humanity and roles aren't nothing, but I realized while reading that I much more enjoy stories from and about ordinary people who stay ordinary and don't (intentionally or unintentionally) create some standard that's impossible for the rest of us.

[Bek · Rating 3 out of 5]

I overall enjoyed this book, especially the sections where she wrote about how her late husband inspired her to finish this book. However, I do think the book would have been stronger if her choices of inspirational moms differed a bit more. I am not particularly inspired by celebrities, and I would have liked to hear from moms of celebrated teachers, doctors, etc. The author did a good job of driving the main idea home. We are all different mothers with different children finding our own path towards success.

[Miriam Brito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and heartwarming

This book written by Sheinelle and expressing motherhood feelings has brought to light all the problems and joys a mother goes thru.
As a second generation mom to my grandkids due to their Mother's death, I can tell you that the hard times are hard but the joys are inmense.
Hard to be a mother to little kids and not a full grandmother, were love has no boundaries.
This book has open many windows were door were closed with love and it was well written
Lots of love to Sheinelle Jones and congratulations in all her programs, we enjoy them all.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

NBC journalist Sheinelle Jones adds author to her impressive resume with Through Mom's Eyes, and she does a spectacular job narrating her own audiobook.
The book offers insightful, engaging, and uplifting stories from the mothers of highly successful people. What I loved most is that you don't have to be a young mother to find value here. It focuses heavily on building solidarity and reassuring the community of mothers navigating modern parenting struggles. It truly takes a village to raise a family, and this book is a wonderful tribute to that bond.

[J. Bergan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed all the different perspectives in this book. The different backgrounds of each mom and the author's experiences really painted a few different pictures of parenthood and how mom's rock the world the best they can. I appreciate the variety of stories and I loved having that variety of moms from celebrities that I recognized. Moms, grandmas, great grandmas, and soon to be mamas definitely consider this one of your next reads if only to help you feel better about momhood!

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through Mom's Eyes was an amazing book, full of stories, of Moms who raised their kids, and what they went through, the lessons learned, the balance, the love that connected their family, where they are today. Each chapter is a different Mom, so it will be a great book to have, because motherhood is hard, as I read it, it gave me different perspectives, and it made me feel like I was less alone.
I received an ARC from G.P. Putnam's Sons through NetGalley.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

An interesting collection of essays, blending the author's own experience as a mother with interviews of famous moms. I think I expected more from the interviewees and not as much slef-reflection from the author. There were many little nuggets of wisdom in here. It could be a nice Mother's Day gift.

[Kate Deters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life as a mom needs support. Coffee with friends, a talk with your big sister, or a book about moms of famous people. This hit the spot.
I was more familiar with some moms than others, but each story rang true with each heart for their children.
This would be great for a mom's group or your own mother!