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Mom, Rediscovered: My Midlife Breakup with Drinking and Diet Culture
She lost herself in motherhood. She numbed herself with wine. She measured her worth by the scale. Until one day, she didn't.
In Mom, Rediscovered, a woman cracks open the myth of having it all together and tells the truth about midlife unraveling-and rebuilding. With humor, humility, and heart, she invites readers into her deeply personal journey of letting go-of the wine that once felt like relief, of the diet culture that whispered she wasn't enough, and of the pressure to be a perfect mom with a perfect life. This is not a how-to guide. It's a story for every woman who's ever looked in the mirror and wondered where she went.
For every woman silently asking, "Is it just me?"
No. You are not alone. And you never were.
In Mom, Rediscovered, a woman cracks open the myth of having it all together and tells the truth about midlife unraveling-and rebuilding. With humor, humility, and heart, she invites readers into her deeply personal journey of letting go-of the wine that once felt like relief, of the diet culture that whispered she wasn't enough, and of the pressure to be a perfect mom with a perfect life. This is not a how-to guide. It's a story for every woman who's ever looked in the mirror and wondered where she went.
For every woman silently asking, "Is it just me?"
No. You are not alone. And you never were.
- GenresMemoir
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
3 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 22, 2025
Jen Butler’s Mom, Rediscovered is a heartfelt and beautifully written debut that drew me in from the very first page. In it, she invites readers into the most personal parts of her life—her early childhood, her evolution as a wife and mother, and the discovery of her own power. With honesty and grace, she shares what it looks like to live under the weight of perfectionism and what it takes to slowly let that go in favor of radical self-acceptance.
What struck me most was how relatable Jen is. Even if your story doesn’t mirror hers exactly, there’s something universal in the warm, clear way she explores identity, belonging, and growth. Her journey out of the lonely, often-overlooked terrain of gray-area drinking is followed by a raw unraveling from diet culture and growing openness to who she is capable of becoming. Jen doesn’t shy away from showing just how disorienting each process was and is, but also how freeing it is to begin living in a body you no longer try to numb or shrink or punish. She’s buoyed by a group of diverse, supportive friends who remind her that she doesn’t need to fix or change herself to be worthy of being loved and seen. Watching the world that opened to her as she stepped into that truth was one of the most powerful parts of the book.
While I typically gravitate toward audiobooks and don’t usually read memoirs, a friend recommended this one and I’m so glad they did. I couldn’t put it down. Jen’s writing is honest, warm, and engaging in a way that feels like sitting across from someone who’s finally able to share the whole truth about their life. As a reader, I couldn’t help but lean in.
Mom, Rediscovered is a moving, authentic, and hopeful reminder that who we are right now is enough. It’s a celebration of the beautiful (and sometimes messy) process of becoming, a gentle encouragement to embrace ourselves exactly as we are, and it left me with much to reflect on long after the last page. Whether or not you consider yourself a fan of the genre, this book is absolutely worth the read and I’ll be recommending it to others the way it was recommended to me.
What struck me most was how relatable Jen is. Even if your story doesn’t mirror hers exactly, there’s something universal in the warm, clear way she explores identity, belonging, and growth. Her journey out of the lonely, often-overlooked terrain of gray-area drinking is followed by a raw unraveling from diet culture and growing openness to who she is capable of becoming. Jen doesn’t shy away from showing just how disorienting each process was and is, but also how freeing it is to begin living in a body you no longer try to numb or shrink or punish. She’s buoyed by a group of diverse, supportive friends who remind her that she doesn’t need to fix or change herself to be worthy of being loved and seen. Watching the world that opened to her as she stepped into that truth was one of the most powerful parts of the book.
While I typically gravitate toward audiobooks and don’t usually read memoirs, a friend recommended this one and I’m so glad they did. I couldn’t put it down. Jen’s writing is honest, warm, and engaging in a way that feels like sitting across from someone who’s finally able to share the whole truth about their life. As a reader, I couldn’t help but lean in.
Mom, Rediscovered is a moving, authentic, and hopeful reminder that who we are right now is enough. It’s a celebration of the beautiful (and sometimes messy) process of becoming, a gentle encouragement to embrace ourselves exactly as we are, and it left me with much to reflect on long after the last page. Whether or not you consider yourself a fan of the genre, this book is absolutely worth the read and I’ll be recommending it to others the way it was recommended to me.
August 19, 2025
Jen provides a raw and inspiring account of her life, woven together seamlessly chapter by chapter. Jen’s story is one that can resonate with anyone regardless of age or lived experience and readers will inevitably find parts of themselves inside Jen’s story at one point or another. Through sharing her story, she opens up the space for others to share their experiences which they may have never been able to or felt comfortable to discuss openly. With smart and witty writing, reeling you in from page 1, this is a stellar debut and I cannot wait to see what she creates next.
August 19, 2025
Never before has a book and an author resonated so deeply and instantaneously with me as a reader. Jen does a phenomenal job of catapulting her readers into each moment and mindset right along with her—from her coming of age as a child of divorced parents, to her embracing her truest self as a powerhouse mom of two.
I am in awe of the heart and honesty Jen poured into this debut. It’s rare for a first book to feel this powerful, but Jen’s voice shines through with authenticity and strength that will stay with me long after the final page.
I am in awe of the heart and honesty Jen poured into this debut. It’s rare for a first book to feel this powerful, but Jen’s voice shines through with authenticity and strength that will stay with me long after the final page.
August 28, 2025
Jen Butler’s debut novel and memoir, Mom Rediscovered, offers an unflinchingly honest and relatable narrative that will resonate with a wide audience. The story explores universal themes of loss and healing, adapting to change, and the emotional complexities of motherhood. Through her personal experiences with her parents’ divorce, frequent moves, and perfectionism, Jen crafts a poignant and compelling account that feels both authentic and heartfelt.
She openly addresses topics such as parenting, diet and fitness, and “mommy wine culture” with honesty and vulnerability, making her reflections all the more impactful. Her writing is exquisite - each word carrying a subtle yet powerful weight. The vivid imagery almost seems to shimmer off the page, immersing the reader in her world.
Mom Rediscovered is a story of raw emotion and genuine storytelling that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a beautifully written, heartfelt journey that many will find both familiar and inspiring. What a story, what a book!
She openly addresses topics such as parenting, diet and fitness, and “mommy wine culture” with honesty and vulnerability, making her reflections all the more impactful. Her writing is exquisite - each word carrying a subtle yet powerful weight. The vivid imagery almost seems to shimmer off the page, immersing the reader in her world.
Mom Rediscovered is a story of raw emotion and genuine storytelling that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a beautifully written, heartfelt journey that many will find both familiar and inspiring. What a story, what a book!
August 27, 2025
While reading this book, I felt like I was walking with a friend. Jen Butler has put her experience and empathy on the page to create a book full of heart. As she's learning to process all the things--grief, joy, fear, love, confidence, shame, peace--her open dialogue encourages readers to do the same. As a writer of memoir, Jen doesn't shy away from the tough topics, instead she digs in to find answers for herself and by extension: you. This a great read for any mid-life mama, but especially for those who have a debilitating desire to please people, take sips to numb the feelings, or experience crippling self doubt. The best part? Jen demonstrates that with tenacity, intention, and care, midlife can be the start of an amazing new chapter.
September 4, 2025
Jen Butler’s Mom, Rediscovered is one of the most relatable memoirs I have read. Butler shares the deeply personal details of her life in such an honest and vulnerable way. From her parents divorce at age 5, to the challenges of motherhood and the frequent moves she made to support her husband’s career. It is not surprising that she finds herself at midlife caught up in “wine mom culture”. Jen shares her journey to become a sober woman. This memoir is not just the story of Jen’s life but also a heartfelt exploration of resilience, struggles and moments of profound self-discovery. Jen has a gift for storytelling. Readers will find themselves moved and inspired. Highly recommend.
August 20, 2025
Jen Butler’s Mom, Rediscovered is a must read for all women. Jen has the gift of connection and as a reader you feel like you are taking her journey with her, while at the same time, exploring your own identity. I devoured this book in one day and was struck by how authentic and relatable it was (and never preachy!) - a necessary escape from the Instagram highlight reels we’re bombarded with each day. Jen perfectly captures all facets of motherhood and womanhood - the joy, love, pain, fear, shame, uncertainty, ambition, exhaustion. With her beautiful and captivating writing, you feel every emotion along with her. She is brave and vulnerable and says out loud what so many women think and feel but cannot voice. Jen’s gift is her ability to use her own story and experiences to inspire her readers to go on their own journeys - whatever that may look like - to be their authentic selves. Jen is the voice we need right now. This book should be at the top of everyone’s list for their book clubs - I can’t think of a better way for women to come together and connect with each other than by discussing Jen’s incredible debut memoir.
August 25, 2025
Jen’s book sucked me in from the jump because of her raw honesty and beautiful way with words. True confession, she’s a friend in real life and this is the same thing that tethered me to her side as a pal. Our conversations have always been vulnerable, but funny, and epic in their telling.
Highly recommend this to anyone who needs a reminder that being honest with yourself is the hardest but best thing you can do for everyone in your orbit.
Highly recommend this to anyone who needs a reminder that being honest with yourself is the hardest but best thing you can do for everyone in your orbit.
September 26, 2025
Mom, Rediscovered is a fantastically relatable memoir about a woman who, in her forties, is finally allowing her real self to shine. It is a coming-of-middle-age tale about finding yourself when you have spent your entire life pleasing people and checking boxes. Don’t let the subtitle deceive you – this book is not just for mothers or those struggling with drinking and dieting culture – it is a book for anyone who has ever felt “less than” for any reason. Jen writes honestly (and oftentimes humorously) about the events of her life that led her down the black-hole of female perfectionism. While her experiences are different than my own, I found myself nodding along and drawing parallels with patterns in my own life that have made me feel the same way – small, unloved, unexceptional. Seeing her actively start to take up space in the world and advocate for herself, while shedding the unnecessary guilt that weighs down motherhood and womanhood in general, was empowering. While this memoir may not have some of the sensational elements that seem to define memoirs these days, to me that makes her story all the more real and relatable. It’s not about the big drama but about the constant little things that make up life for real people, and Jen describes in vivid detail some very personal real-life stories. In Mom, Rediscovered, we see Jen as every woman in the quest of self-discovery, and her book inspires the reader to question their own feelings of self-worth and think about how they, too, can become more than what is expected (or accepted).
September 25, 2025
A wonderfully disarming personal story and relatable read. Thank you for being so vulnerable, Jen, and letting us into your life!
August 20, 2025
A touching and beautifully written memoir that will pull at your heartstrings. Jen’s style is relatable, filled with both humor and raw emotion. It’s not often that a memoir is a page-turner, but this one is just that.
Jen expertly describes various life events — grief, trauma, friendships, marriage, motherhood and self-worth— in a unique and touching way. Her writing transports you right to her side as she navigates life from small town Chicago, through adolescence and into adulthood. It’s messy, unpredictable but best of all, inspiring.
Every reader will see a part of themselves in this memoir. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll most definitely find yourself rooting for Jen’s success.
Jen expertly describes various life events — grief, trauma, friendships, marriage, motherhood and self-worth— in a unique and touching way. Her writing transports you right to her side as she navigates life from small town Chicago, through adolescence and into adulthood. It’s messy, unpredictable but best of all, inspiring.
Every reader will see a part of themselves in this memoir. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll most definitely find yourself rooting for Jen’s success.
August 20, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down, it was that good! I could have read it in one day! I loved how Jen’s writing just sucks you in to her story from childhood to adulthood, dealing with her struggles of perfectionism, being a gray area drinker, and also dealing with being a mother and wife. I love the vulnerability of her writing. I definitely related to her story. You need to read this book!!!
August 20, 2025
This flies by. While it’s a memoir of just one woman’s struggles there’s a lot that most of us can relate to w regard to motherhood, personal fulfillment and more.
September 22, 2025
If you’ve ever felt unseen, overwhelmed, or just disconnected on this crazy motherhood journey, then Mom Rediscovered is the book you need to pick up. I finished it feeling so validated and, honestly, hopeful. It’s one of those rare reads that leaves you feeling profoundly seen, like the author reached across the pages and gave your hand a squeeze.
Jen’s writing has this unflinching honesty that makes it feel less like reading and more like listening to a profoundly insightful friend. The book is a swift, compelling read, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a real punch. Jen tackles the heavy stuff we all whisper about but rarely say out loud: the complex dance with our changing bodies, the minefield of "mom friends," and the strain on our relationships when everyone is just trying to keep their head above water. She perfectly captures that profound sense of losing the person you were before the minivan and the mortgage took over.
What makes it so special is how Jen writes from the heart. Her style is evocative, painting clear pictures of her struggles, but it’s always utterly accessible. You aren't just observing her journey; you feel like you're right there with her, nodding along with each turned page. The connection is immediate and powerful.
This isn’t a preachy self-help book with a rigid ten-step plan. Instead, it’s a genuine memoir of reclamation. It’s the story of making a conscious decision to stop numbing the feelings and stop criticizing yourself—and to start rediscovering the strength and identity that were always there, just buried under a mountain of responsibility. You’ll finish it not only with a deeper understanding of Jen’s journey but with a renewed sense of permission to begin—or continue—your own.
Jen’s writing has this unflinching honesty that makes it feel less like reading and more like listening to a profoundly insightful friend. The book is a swift, compelling read, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a real punch. Jen tackles the heavy stuff we all whisper about but rarely say out loud: the complex dance with our changing bodies, the minefield of "mom friends," and the strain on our relationships when everyone is just trying to keep their head above water. She perfectly captures that profound sense of losing the person you were before the minivan and the mortgage took over.
What makes it so special is how Jen writes from the heart. Her style is evocative, painting clear pictures of her struggles, but it’s always utterly accessible. You aren't just observing her journey; you feel like you're right there with her, nodding along with each turned page. The connection is immediate and powerful.
This isn’t a preachy self-help book with a rigid ten-step plan. Instead, it’s a genuine memoir of reclamation. It’s the story of making a conscious decision to stop numbing the feelings and stop criticizing yourself—and to start rediscovering the strength and identity that were always there, just buried under a mountain of responsibility. You’ll finish it not only with a deeper understanding of Jen’s journey but with a renewed sense of permission to begin—or continue—your own.
October 1, 2025
Jen’s inspiring memoir is incredibly relatable, funny as hell at times, and truthfully a necessary read for all women evaluating their life goals and open to offering some self-love… whether a mom or not. Her writing is honest and raw, and feels like you’re chatting with her over a coffee. Her stories will bring you back to your own memories, offering such powerful moments for reflection. Awesome for commute or bedtime reading!
September 26, 2025
Jen Butler has written an emotional, inspiring, and completely relatable memoir that will stick with me forever. The story flows so well from her early childhood to adulthood. The trials of motherhood and self-acceptance really resonated with me. I found myself nodding and exclaiming, "Yes!" in my head quite a bit. I was crying and rooting for the author. Mom, Rediscovered is a wonderfully written and beautifully executed debut.
September 22, 2025
I was fortunate enough to secure an advance copy of Mom, Rediscovered. This is an honest, raw, and deeply relatable memoir that explores the intersections of family, identity, motherhood, grief, and sobriety. Jen Butler writes with such vulnerability and humor that I often found myself laughing one page and crying the next. So many of her reflections, whether about growing up as a child of divorce, chasing approval, navigating unhealthy relationships, or confronting alcohol’s grip, rang familiar.
Even though Jen’s story of motherhood diverged from my own life, her insights into resilience, healing, and rediscovering joy felt universally resonant. Her writing reminded me that none of us are alone in our struggles and that there is incredible strength in telling our truth openly.
This is a powerful, moving book that will stay with me for a long time. I would recommend it to any woman who has ever wrestled with the question of enoughness and to anyone looking for a story of hope, humor, and renewal.
Even though Jen’s story of motherhood diverged from my own life, her insights into resilience, healing, and rediscovering joy felt universally resonant. Her writing reminded me that none of us are alone in our struggles and that there is incredible strength in telling our truth openly.
This is a powerful, moving book that will stay with me for a long time. I would recommend it to any woman who has ever wrestled with the question of enoughness and to anyone looking for a story of hope, humor, and renewal.
September 21, 2025
This book captivated me from the beginning - Jen’s storytelling and vulnerability create one amazing memoir. I think so many people can relate to this and it will be a powerful book for people!
October 19, 2025
Jen Butler pulls you into her journey of self-discovery as she explores if she is enough in her debut as an author and her memoir Mom Rediscovered. A bit lost in young motherhood Jen reflects on life’s twists and turns and finds the courage to be vulnerable and the bravery to peel back the layers of the onion to find herself. With raw emotion and some humor Jen’s story pulls you in and reads more like a novel than a memoir. You will find yourself walking alongside Jen as she finds her way out of trying to live the life of a super mom that has become normalized in today’s world. Jen's phrase gut hug deserves to be heard around the world.
September 1, 2025
Raw, vulnerable, and honest. Jen’s story of overcoming her struggles with alcohol, body image, sexual assault, career, and family pressures is universally relatable and is sure to help many feel more confident in dealing with their own such struggles.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2025
Jen Butler blends heart, humour and hard-earned wisdom in this five star read.
I was hooked right from the dedication : “for every woman who has ever felt like the only one who doesn’t have her sh*t together” I know I have sure felt like that - many times.
There were so many things in Jen’s memoir that i could relate to.
- joining weight watchers and never feeling thin enough - hell, most days, I still don’t.
- her writing “maybe someday I could value myself, stop judging myself and even learn to love myself again” perimenopause and menopause have been brutal for my mental health and self esteem. This quote hit really hard.
- never feeling like you are enough
- losing yourself in motherhood
- the watching of Tiger King during the Pandemic 😂
Jen talks openly about parenting, issues with weight and diet as well as “mommy wine culture”. It is a beautifully written memoir that many will find relatable and inspiring.
If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough as a mom—or felt yourself disappearing under the weight of everything you’re juggling—this book will speak straight to your heart. It’s not just a story about letting go of alcohol; it’s about finding your way back to yourself, one honest, messy, beautiful step at a time.
I can’t recommend it enough for any mom (or anyone, really) who needs the reminder that imperfection doesn’t make you less—it’s what makes you real.
Thank you, Jen, for inviting me to read your incredible story. I am truly honoured ♥️
Find me on IG
@holliebarnes.reads
I was hooked right from the dedication : “for every woman who has ever felt like the only one who doesn’t have her sh*t together” I know I have sure felt like that - many times.
There were so many things in Jen’s memoir that i could relate to.
- joining weight watchers and never feeling thin enough - hell, most days, I still don’t.
- her writing “maybe someday I could value myself, stop judging myself and even learn to love myself again” perimenopause and menopause have been brutal for my mental health and self esteem. This quote hit really hard.
- never feeling like you are enough
- losing yourself in motherhood
- the watching of Tiger King during the Pandemic 😂
Jen talks openly about parenting, issues with weight and diet as well as “mommy wine culture”. It is a beautifully written memoir that many will find relatable and inspiring.
If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough as a mom—or felt yourself disappearing under the weight of everything you’re juggling—this book will speak straight to your heart. It’s not just a story about letting go of alcohol; it’s about finding your way back to yourself, one honest, messy, beautiful step at a time.
I can’t recommend it enough for any mom (or anyone, really) who needs the reminder that imperfection doesn’t make you less—it’s what makes you real.
Thank you, Jen, for inviting me to read your incredible story. I am truly honoured ♥️
Find me on IG
@holliebarnes.reads
October 21, 2025
Thank you for the chance to read this!
I really enjoyed this. I'm not normally a memoir girl, but this deep dive into a woman's downward relationship with wine, and especially how it ties into mommy culture, was really intriguing to me.
What I loved about this is how much you felt like you were on this journey with Jen. It wasn't "OH I need to stop drinking...GO!" Instead, it was an in-depth look into the complicated relationship that exists between drinking, motherhood, social media, and expectation. It was about love and marriage, child rearing, coping mechanisms, and expectations from our society. You really felt like you were in her head and experiencing this roller coaster with her. I only wish her journey had been documented outside of Weight Watchers social media so I could go back and read it all.
A really touching memoir if you are a person struggling with addiction or maybe just struggling with the false expectations of motherhood. Pick it up.
I really enjoyed this. I'm not normally a memoir girl, but this deep dive into a woman's downward relationship with wine, and especially how it ties into mommy culture, was really intriguing to me.
What I loved about this is how much you felt like you were on this journey with Jen. It wasn't "OH I need to stop drinking...GO!" Instead, it was an in-depth look into the complicated relationship that exists between drinking, motherhood, social media, and expectation. It was about love and marriage, child rearing, coping mechanisms, and expectations from our society. You really felt like you were in her head and experiencing this roller coaster with her. I only wish her journey had been documented outside of Weight Watchers social media so I could go back and read it all.
A really touching memoir if you are a person struggling with addiction or maybe just struggling with the false expectations of motherhood. Pick it up.
October 16, 2025
Jen’s book beautifully captures the tug-of-war so many women feel: the pressure to be perfect and the longing to be present. Through honest reflections on her own childhood and her journey as a mom, she shows how perfectionism quietly shapes our choices — and how letting go of it can open the door to deeper connection.
What makes this book so relatable is Jen’s willingness to say the quiet parts out loud. She doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes her story powerful. It’s a reminder that being a good mom isn’t about doing everything right — it’s about showing up, being real, and loving fiercely.
What makes this book so relatable is Jen’s willingness to say the quiet parts out loud. She doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes her story powerful. It’s a reminder that being a good mom isn’t about doing everything right — it’s about showing up, being real, and loving fiercely.
October 24, 2025
I loved this memoir! So much that is relatable as a mom and midlife woman!
August 21, 2025
I received this as a pdf review copy from the author. While I don't usually like reading books digitally, I figured I'd read a few chapters at a time. Well, I sat down at my computer in the morning and didn't get up until late afternoon. I could not stop reading!
This is an immersive, authentic memoir about the author's life. Beginning in childhood, she depicts the vivid scenes and emotions of her early years. From her many disruptive moves and her time spent with her dollhouse or playing with friends, to her parents' failed marriage and her emerging academic drive, Butler takes us along during each interaction and emotion. Prep schools, playgrounds, apartments, Broadway shows. . .her life is filled with stimulating experiences that are sometimes overwhelming, often confusing, but always fascinating.
As she grows into her teenage years, her life takes on a pattern of doubting her self worth and her appearance. Though she continues to keep her thoughts to herself, she begins to set the stage for more troubling behavior in the future. By the time Butler reaches college, she appears to have things figured out, but deep down, she's still struggling. When she finally reaches adulthood and achieves her dreams, she knows that she should be grateful. But the continued upheaval that follows her threatens to break her spirit. Through it all, she drinks wine. Though her behavior is nothing different from hundreds of other moms with young children, Butler comes to terms with her unhealthy relationship with drinking, and later with eating. Facing reality, she's determined to take back control of her life.
Written in a smart, conversational style, this memoir is the most satisfying type. It's honest, raw, and makes me feel like I just spent the day with a close friend. There's humor, sadness, and so many relatable thoughts and ideas sprinkled throughout the book. The ultimate take away is that no matter how much our past may shape us, we have the power to mold our own lives into whatever we want them to be. As a bonus, there are excellent resources at the end, including a playlist and book list.
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading inspiring, analytical stories that explore love, acceptance, and growth.
This is an immersive, authentic memoir about the author's life. Beginning in childhood, she depicts the vivid scenes and emotions of her early years. From her many disruptive moves and her time spent with her dollhouse or playing with friends, to her parents' failed marriage and her emerging academic drive, Butler takes us along during each interaction and emotion. Prep schools, playgrounds, apartments, Broadway shows. . .her life is filled with stimulating experiences that are sometimes overwhelming, often confusing, but always fascinating.
As she grows into her teenage years, her life takes on a pattern of doubting her self worth and her appearance. Though she continues to keep her thoughts to herself, she begins to set the stage for more troubling behavior in the future. By the time Butler reaches college, she appears to have things figured out, but deep down, she's still struggling. When she finally reaches adulthood and achieves her dreams, she knows that she should be grateful. But the continued upheaval that follows her threatens to break her spirit. Through it all, she drinks wine. Though her behavior is nothing different from hundreds of other moms with young children, Butler comes to terms with her unhealthy relationship with drinking, and later with eating. Facing reality, she's determined to take back control of her life.
Written in a smart, conversational style, this memoir is the most satisfying type. It's honest, raw, and makes me feel like I just spent the day with a close friend. There's humor, sadness, and so many relatable thoughts and ideas sprinkled throughout the book. The ultimate take away is that no matter how much our past may shape us, we have the power to mold our own lives into whatever we want them to be. As a bonus, there are excellent resources at the end, including a playlist and book list.
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading inspiring, analytical stories that explore love, acceptance, and growth.
September 30, 2025
Jen Butler's "Mom, Rediscovered" is a warm, honest, funny, sad, bittersweet, relatable and loving account of what she calls her "midlife breakup" with alcohol and the social tyranny of stereotyped notions of what women's bodies are supposed to look like. Those are big subjects for sure, and Jen handles them with a literary prowess that is truly impressive for any writer, much less someone treading such difficult turf in a first book. But Mom, Rediscovered is about even more than those things. It's about a young woman growing up, trying to figure out who she is and what she came from, how she was shaped by a difficult parental divorce, her early explorations of her sexuality, the challenge of trying to be both an amazing mom and an ideal partner to her husband while still wanting—needing—to fulfill her potential as a highly educated, highly intelligent adult. From the perspective of a man, a husband and a father, I found the book to be like the conversations we men imagine women have among themselves to which we are never privy—perhaps the ones that our female partners wish they could have with us but instead have with their best girlfriends. Jen's is an unabashedly female perspective, but it's an inclusive one that carries wisdom for all genders and anyone who, whatever their status, is coping with the issues she confronts. Given the arc of her life, it's no wonder that Jen struggled with the seduction of alcohol and labored to change her body in ways that never felt sufficient or authentic. The wonder here is how beautifully she details the process of self-examination that allows her to identify these issues and the courage with which she fights back. Mom, Rediscovered isn't only for moms seeking to find their place in a society where their best may never seem enough. It's for any human being who has ever struggled with a sense of inadequacy, of uncertainty, of self-doubt—and wants to know that they're not alone, and that there is a way out and a way up. What a wonderful story to tell.
September 23, 2025
Mom, Rediscovered by Jen Butler, is her beautifully written debut book. This heartfelt and honest book drew me in from the very beginning. Jen’s story is raw but extremely relatable. In Mom, Rediscovered, Jen shares with readers some of her most personal and painful parts of her life. As soon as I started reading, I immediately felt a connection to this story. I, too, was a child of divorce. Our stories had similar experiences, but we each had our own, too. Her feelings of not feeling good enough are so common for children of divorce. We often wonder what we did wrong, and we become people pleasers. I’ll admit, I carried a lot of baggage into my adult life, too. Jen’s story shows that we are not alone, that there are people out there who do understand. It’s a shame that we often hide our fears, doubts, worries, and pain. Jen lost herself in motherhood (I can definitely relate).
Even if you can’t relate completely to Jen’s story, there are parts of her struggles that we as wives and mothers can relate to. No matter how strong and confident we may seem, we all struggle with self-doubt. How we choose to handle that can look different, but we are all struggling to find our way, especially in a world where so many people are ready to criticize every little thing a mother does.
Mom, Redicovered shares the lonely path we often face as mothers. In her story, Jen shares how she found her way out of the gray area of drinking. A small glass of wine that leads to another. Oddly, we see this glorified in today's culture. All you have to do is open up Facebook or Instagram, and you will see moms everywhere sharing their wine glasses. Jen shares how hard it was to admit the truth and ask for help. I love how honest Jen was about her struggle with drinking, diet culture, and being who you are. I love how she shared her triumphs and setbacks. Her story is real. I’m so glad she shared it with the world. I truly believe that so many women could benefit from reading this memoir.
I don’t usually read memoirs, but I am so glad I read this one. Jen’s honesty is so refreshing in a world where we are constantly bombarded with fake lives and images. Jen courageously shares what it feels like to live under the weight of trying to be perfect and what it takes to break free from that. She shows us how to find our own self-acceptance. To know that we do have worth and that we deserve to be loved for who we are.
ARC Review
Even if you can’t relate completely to Jen’s story, there are parts of her struggles that we as wives and mothers can relate to. No matter how strong and confident we may seem, we all struggle with self-doubt. How we choose to handle that can look different, but we are all struggling to find our way, especially in a world where so many people are ready to criticize every little thing a mother does.
Mom, Redicovered shares the lonely path we often face as mothers. In her story, Jen shares how she found her way out of the gray area of drinking. A small glass of wine that leads to another. Oddly, we see this glorified in today's culture. All you have to do is open up Facebook or Instagram, and you will see moms everywhere sharing their wine glasses. Jen shares how hard it was to admit the truth and ask for help. I love how honest Jen was about her struggle with drinking, diet culture, and being who you are. I love how she shared her triumphs and setbacks. Her story is real. I’m so glad she shared it with the world. I truly believe that so many women could benefit from reading this memoir.
I don’t usually read memoirs, but I am so glad I read this one. Jen’s honesty is so refreshing in a world where we are constantly bombarded with fake lives and images. Jen courageously shares what it feels like to live under the weight of trying to be perfect and what it takes to break free from that. She shows us how to find our own self-acceptance. To know that we do have worth and that we deserve to be loved for who we are.
ARC Review
September 13, 2025
Mom, Rediscovered is a deeply heartfelt memoir that lingers long after the final page. With striking honesty, the author reflects on her relationship with her mother, father, and husband, and, perhaps more powerfully, with herself. What makes this book so compelling is the way it captures how memory can both wound and heal — how revisiting the past can open old hurts, yet also illuminate the path toward compassion, connection, and growth.
The memoir doesn’t shy away from hard truths. It reckons with gray-area drinking, the grip of diet culture, and the quiet but persistent feelings of not being enough. These themes are handled with nuance and bravery, never sensationalized, but explored in a way that feels both personal and deeply relatable. Through this lens, the book becomes not just a story of one woman, but a mirror in which many readers will see themselves.
The writing is warm, clear, and deeply human. It captures both the ache of longing and the joy of rediscovery, offering a reminder that our relationships — with our parents, our bodies, and ourselves — are constantly evolving. In the end, Mom, Rediscovered is a powerful testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the enduring strength of love.
Highly recommended for anyone drawn to memoirs that are unflinchingly honest yet ultimately hopeful.
The memoir doesn’t shy away from hard truths. It reckons with gray-area drinking, the grip of diet culture, and the quiet but persistent feelings of not being enough. These themes are handled with nuance and bravery, never sensationalized, but explored in a way that feels both personal and deeply relatable. Through this lens, the book becomes not just a story of one woman, but a mirror in which many readers will see themselves.
The writing is warm, clear, and deeply human. It captures both the ache of longing and the joy of rediscovery, offering a reminder that our relationships — with our parents, our bodies, and ourselves — are constantly evolving. In the end, Mom, Rediscovered is a powerful testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the enduring strength of love.
Highly recommended for anyone drawn to memoirs that are unflinchingly honest yet ultimately hopeful.
October 18, 2025
This is such an important book, not just for a particular demographic and not just because it is so timely and relevant. Yes, it speaks so authentically and eloquently to mothers of a certain age and for those of us at the same age and stage of life as the author, there is so much that is resonant. But the book also achieves the very difficult task of memoir, and that is to also tell a page-turning story. She does that, taking us on a compelling hero's journey. We are with her, rooting for her every step of the way. We are invited into her living room as she struggles with the vice-grip of addiction. She turns those moments into riveting narratives that everyone, even non-addicts, can relate to, if not fully understand. We empathize with the guilt and shame that follows her drinking episodes. We worry about her and her kids and their future, as we would with the protagonist of any good novel. She has crafted it in a way where we care so much about the main character. The writing is lyrical, but not stilted, so that everyone and anyone can pick up this book and find a home for themselves inside the pages. I would re-read and recommend this beautifully-wrought story about adolescence and motherhood, about learning to love ourselves in spite of our flaws, about overcoming addiction and emerging victorious on the other side.
August 24, 2025
Wow, what an amazing, heartfelt, inspiring, reflective, roller coaster of a journey this book was. I could not put it down!
I was immediately drawn in by the funny, raw and emotional prologue (I’m not crying, you’re crying) all the way through to the end. So many parts of this book resonated with me on many different levels.
Such smart writing with some standout subtle references to relics to pin the reader in a time period right along with the author.
That and the generational comparisons, hindsight/shifted views with a different lens of perspective and experience later in life was so amazing to experience.
I also appreciated that the author is not at all preachy or judgy but moreso invites the reader to be curious about things in their life that may not be serving them anymore and to not be so hard on yourself; to be compassionate instead of harsh and see where that might lead.
So many beautiful lessons and inspiring realizations we all need to embrace. Thank you for sharing your story Jen; it’s authentic and inspiring and so relatable and I can’t wait for everyone to be able to read it!
I was immediately drawn in by the funny, raw and emotional prologue (I’m not crying, you’re crying) all the way through to the end. So many parts of this book resonated with me on many different levels.
Such smart writing with some standout subtle references to relics to pin the reader in a time period right along with the author.
That and the generational comparisons, hindsight/shifted views with a different lens of perspective and experience later in life was so amazing to experience.
I also appreciated that the author is not at all preachy or judgy but moreso invites the reader to be curious about things in their life that may not be serving them anymore and to not be so hard on yourself; to be compassionate instead of harsh and see where that might lead.
So many beautiful lessons and inspiring realizations we all need to embrace. Thank you for sharing your story Jen; it’s authentic and inspiring and so relatable and I can’t wait for everyone to be able to read it!
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