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The World's Worst Mom
From the New York Times bestselling author of The World's Worst Assistant and co-host of the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, a hilarious, irreverent book about the expectations vs. reality of parenthood.
Sona Movsesian never meant to become the World's Worst Assistant. But with Conan O'Brien as a boss, what else did we expect?
Sona Movsesian never thought she'd be the World's Worst Mom, either. But when her twin sons, Charlie and Mikey, arrived, she realized she had been totally naive to all the ways even loving and devoted parents can feel like they fall short at raising kids these days. Life as the carefree, worry-free, stress-free person she was ended and her reign as The World's Worst Mom had begun.
In this new book, Sona regales her fans with stories from the trenches, with hilarious how-tos (like how to escape from a WebMD vortex of symptom searching), comics and illustrations throughout (like one where Sona time travels to show off her minivan to her younger self), and behind-the- scenes stories with comedy legend Conan O'Brien (and how being the world’s worst assistant prepared for her being the world’s worst mom).
Ever feared you're the worst parent in the world? Do you feel like the parent you are and the parent you thought you would be are two completely different people? Take comfort in these stories that prove absolutely no one has this figured out, and if you don’t find a way to laugh through the chaos, well, you may be missing the point entirely.
* This audiobook edition contains comic book snapshots of Sona's life as World's Worst Mom illustrated by her husband Tak.
Sona Movsesian never meant to become the World's Worst Assistant. But with Conan O'Brien as a boss, what else did we expect?
Sona Movsesian never thought she'd be the World's Worst Mom, either. But when her twin sons, Charlie and Mikey, arrived, she realized she had been totally naive to all the ways even loving and devoted parents can feel like they fall short at raising kids these days. Life as the carefree, worry-free, stress-free person she was ended and her reign as The World's Worst Mom had begun.
In this new book, Sona regales her fans with stories from the trenches, with hilarious how-tos (like how to escape from a WebMD vortex of symptom searching), comics and illustrations throughout (like one where Sona time travels to show off her minivan to her younger self), and behind-the- scenes stories with comedy legend Conan O'Brien (and how being the world’s worst assistant prepared for her being the world’s worst mom).
Ever feared you're the worst parent in the world? Do you feel like the parent you are and the parent you thought you would be are two completely different people? Take comfort in these stories that prove absolutely no one has this figured out, and if you don’t find a way to laugh through the chaos, well, you may be missing the point entirely.
* This audiobook edition contains comic book snapshots of Sona's life as World's Worst Mom illustrated by her husband Tak.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Note: I received access to read this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In some ways I like this better than her first book, but there's still the same editing problem where it feels like it should have all of its repetitive parts cut. The writing feels stronger and there's a real heart in every admission of vulnerability. There's no stories that top her dating ones from the first book though.
In some ways I like this better than her first book, but there's still the same editing problem where it feels like it should have all of its repetitive parts cut. The writing feels stronger and there's a real heart in every admission of vulnerability. There's no stories that top her dating ones from the first book though.
September 28, 2026
I was lucky to meet Sona in person at a book event, and loved her genuine and fun energy. This book reads just like her and I appreciate her candor and humor.
October 21, 2026
Sona spent 15 years as Conan’s assistant and has been, and is currently, a cohost on his podcast. I read her first book, World’s Worst Assistant a couple years ago. In this book she takes us through meeting her husband, and their journey to have kids. They have twin boys, conceived through IVF. She goes through all their choices with humor and honesty, and is never judgy with her opinions. I’m a huge fan of Sona and was super excited when she was doing a book signing close to my house. Getting to meet her in person was awesome. I’ll share that experience below. This was an easy and fun quick read, and good for anyone, regardless of your offspring situation. Enjoy the ride (in her minivan or yours - your choice 😂).
Sona book signing recap
I got to meet Sona Movsesian, former assistant to Conan O’Brien, and his current podcast co-host. I’ve been listening to Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend since just before COVID, thanks to a recommendation from Jake Petr. I absolutely adore Sona. I read her first book a couple of years ago, and when I saw that she was making one East Coast stop for this book, I just had to go. She did a talk about the book, and then a signing. I knew going in that I was going to tell her we had a mutual acquaintance. The daughter of one of my mother’s friends used to work for Conan, and Sona even mentioned her by name in her first book. This is someone I used to see a lot when we were growing up, but haven’t seen in ages. Still, a fun coincidence! So when it was my turn, first Sona told me that she loved my hair, and I nearly died. Sona has gorgeous, big curly hair, so coming from her, it was the best compliment. Then I told her we know the same person. She asked who and I said Keri O….. She says, “REALLY?!?!?!” And then yells across the bookstore, like only Sona would do “KERI!!!!!!! Come here!!!” And lo and behold, Keri was there! The two of us caught up, while Sona told me how they were roommates in California back in the day. I told Sona how I went to NYE parties and summer BBQs at Keri’s house growing up, and how our moms have been friends for over 40 years. Then I told her how much I loved her, and how amazing she was. She was super gracious and funny and kind and I wouldn’t expect anything else from her. Such a fun fun night!!
Sona book signing recap
I got to meet Sona Movsesian, former assistant to Conan O’Brien, and his current podcast co-host. I’ve been listening to Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend since just before COVID, thanks to a recommendation from Jake Petr. I absolutely adore Sona. I read her first book a couple of years ago, and when I saw that she was making one East Coast stop for this book, I just had to go. She did a talk about the book, and then a signing. I knew going in that I was going to tell her we had a mutual acquaintance. The daughter of one of my mother’s friends used to work for Conan, and Sona even mentioned her by name in her first book. This is someone I used to see a lot when we were growing up, but haven’t seen in ages. Still, a fun coincidence! So when it was my turn, first Sona told me that she loved my hair, and I nearly died. Sona has gorgeous, big curly hair, so coming from her, it was the best compliment. Then I told her we know the same person. She asked who and I said Keri O….. She says, “REALLY?!?!?!” And then yells across the bookstore, like only Sona would do “KERI!!!!!!! Come here!!!” And lo and behold, Keri was there! The two of us caught up, while Sona told me how they were roommates in California back in the day. I told Sona how I went to NYE parties and summer BBQs at Keri’s house growing up, and how our moms have been friends for over 40 years. Then I told her how much I loved her, and how amazing she was. She was super gracious and funny and kind and I wouldn’t expect anything else from her. Such a fun fun night!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Actual Rating 4.5/5
*Thank you Dutton and Netgalley for the EArc
If you don't know who Sona Movsesian is she is best known as Conan O'Brien's assistant and is one of the co-hosts on Conan Needs Friends. She is funny, crass and tbh I care more about she has to say over Conan. I read her first memoir The World's Worst Assistant where she shares her lack of work ethic while working for one of the biggest comedians on late night.
I remember listening to the podcast and Sona had announced she was pregnant with her twin boys shortly after that I found out I was pregnant with my own daughter. So when I found she was writing a book about motherhood and with a title like The World's Worst Mom I knew she would have experiences I would be able to relate to and it would be funny.
There is a lot in this where I felt seen and validated. How at the end of the day, I am absolutely like other moms both in flaws and strengths. So if you are a new mom, someone who is considering motherhood or Child Free by Choice looking for an extra form of birth control I highly recommend checking it out. This was an E-Arc so thank you Dutton and Plume for the free copy and you can check it out on September 1st, 2026. So not too long of a wait. Also if you are an audiobook reader Sona will most likely narrate the book much like her first and she is fun to listen too.
*Thank you Dutton and Netgalley for the EArc
If you don't know who Sona Movsesian is she is best known as Conan O'Brien's assistant and is one of the co-hosts on Conan Needs Friends. She is funny, crass and tbh I care more about she has to say over Conan. I read her first memoir The World's Worst Assistant where she shares her lack of work ethic while working for one of the biggest comedians on late night.
I remember listening to the podcast and Sona had announced she was pregnant with her twin boys shortly after that I found out I was pregnant with my own daughter. So when I found she was writing a book about motherhood and with a title like The World's Worst Mom I knew she would have experiences I would be able to relate to and it would be funny.
There is a lot in this where I felt seen and validated. How at the end of the day, I am absolutely like other moms both in flaws and strengths. So if you are a new mom, someone who is considering motherhood or Child Free by Choice looking for an extra form of birth control I highly recommend checking it out. This was an E-Arc so thank you Dutton and Plume for the free copy and you can check it out on September 1st, 2026. So not too long of a wait. Also if you are an audiobook reader Sona will most likely narrate the book much like her first and she is fun to listen too.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This second book from Sona Movsesian is a love letter to parenting and all the mess, beautiful, and frustrating moments that come with the first years, times 2. As a follow up to The World's Worst Assistant this is a good book, better written with more focus than the previous story. While there are occasional illustrations and repetitive moments, reading this book you can tell she was writing a story for the normal, everyday parent managing kids in the 2020s.
The best part of the book is something that was unintentional, the emails to her kids. These snapshots into what she was feeling and thinking at the time show the realities of not only parenting, but family, and childhood. More than anything this book is great because it shows parents do not have to be perfect, it is a pro-kid are great additions to one life book, at a time when most young women feel the opposite about little people.
Overall, a solid 3.8-4.1 out of 5. Thanks to NetGalley & Dutton/Plume for the ARC.
The best part of the book is something that was unintentional, the emails to her kids. These snapshots into what she was feeling and thinking at the time show the realities of not only parenting, but family, and childhood. More than anything this book is great because it shows parents do not have to be perfect, it is a pro-kid are great additions to one life book, at a time when most young women feel the opposite about little people.
Overall, a solid 3.8-4.1 out of 5. Thanks to NetGalley & Dutton/Plume for the ARC.
September 15, 2026
I’m not a huge reader, nor am I a parent, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading The World’s Worst Mom nonetheless. I first discovered Sona through watching Conan and always thought she was hilarious, so when I found out she had released a book about motherhood, I was intrigued. I hope to have kids of my own someday, and I thought it would be interesting to hear her perspective on parenthood.
I ended up reading the whole book in two days, which is pretty fast for me. It’s an easy and entertaining read, but I also found myself stopping quite a bit to think about what parenthood might look like for me when I eventually decide to have kids.
What I especially enjoyed was how the book managed to provoke so many thoughts about parenting while still making me laugh and smile throughout. Sona’s humor and style of delivery made it feel lighthearted and relatable, even for someone who isn’t a parent yet. I went into it expecting a funny book about motherhood and came away with a lot more to think about than I expected.
I ended up reading the whole book in two days, which is pretty fast for me. It’s an easy and entertaining read, but I also found myself stopping quite a bit to think about what parenthood might look like for me when I eventually decide to have kids.
What I especially enjoyed was how the book managed to provoke so many thoughts about parenting while still making me laugh and smile throughout. Sona’s humor and style of delivery made it feel lighthearted and relatable, even for someone who isn’t a parent yet. I went into it expecting a funny book about motherhood and came away with a lot more to think about than I expected.
October 17, 2026
This is soooo relatable!
I’m a big fan of Sona’s previous book “Worlds Worst Assistant” and love her on Conan O’ Brien’s podcast. Although I’m a dad, all the infant and toddler stories I could feel them in my bones.
I laughed a lot having been there too. So much talk with my wife about poop! Feeling the immense radiating love I have for my littles... even though they give me high anxiety for their wellbeing and they do all the things I wish they wouldn’t. I feel it all. I also sometimes feel like a shitty parent. That too is relatable. We’re all just winging it and doing the best we can. The book is honest about parenthood. And I loved hearing Sona’s perspective of it all.
I too feel the “Old School” analogy where Will Farrell aka “Frank the tank” avoids drinks at a party because him and his wife have plans at Home Depot that weekend. That is where I’m at in life. That weekend sounds fantastic as a 40 year old. My younger self would probably think I’m boring as hell now too. This is fantastic follow up book!
I’m a big fan of Sona’s previous book “Worlds Worst Assistant” and love her on Conan O’ Brien’s podcast. Although I’m a dad, all the infant and toddler stories I could feel them in my bones.
I laughed a lot having been there too. So much talk with my wife about poop! Feeling the immense radiating love I have for my littles... even though they give me high anxiety for their wellbeing and they do all the things I wish they wouldn’t. I feel it all. I also sometimes feel like a shitty parent. That too is relatable. We’re all just winging it and doing the best we can. The book is honest about parenthood. And I loved hearing Sona’s perspective of it all.
I too feel the “Old School” analogy where Will Farrell aka “Frank the tank” avoids drinks at a party because him and his wife have plans at Home Depot that weekend. That is where I’m at in life. That weekend sounds fantastic as a 40 year old. My younger self would probably think I’m boring as hell now too. This is fantastic follow up book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As a longtime fan of the Conan O’brien’s podcast, I’ve grown to love all the segments with Sona and Matt more than sometimes the actual interview. She is so funny and I absolutely live for the added chaos elements she brings.
I loved “worlds worst assistant”, and though I am not a mother I still knew I had to read this book. Sona perfectly balances humor with a genuine heart and it’s so apparent that she's actually a great mom who cares deeply, but hey sometimes things can get a little messy!
If you’re a fan of Sona or just a mom trying their best you’ll love this book.
Thanks so much netgalley for sending this one over. It was a great one!
I loved “worlds worst assistant”, and though I am not a mother I still knew I had to read this book. Sona perfectly balances humor with a genuine heart and it’s so apparent that she's actually a great mom who cares deeply, but hey sometimes things can get a little messy!
If you’re a fan of Sona or just a mom trying their best you’ll love this book.
Thanks so much netgalley for sending this one over. It was a great one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!
I loved Sona's first book and was happy to receive an early copy of this one. Since discovering Sona I also watched Conan's HBO show with her as well. This book carries on will her style of comedy, which I loved. Though topics could get heavy, she still had a comedic spin including the "positive" aspects of losing her house to the Altadena fire. Loved hearing about her journey into motherhood, especially welcoming the twins.
I loved Sona's first book and was happy to receive an early copy of this one. Since discovering Sona I also watched Conan's HBO show with her as well. This book carries on will her style of comedy, which I loved. Though topics could get heavy, she still had a comedic spin including the "positive" aspects of losing her house to the Altadena fire. Loved hearing about her journey into motherhood, especially welcoming the twins.
September 5, 2026
I enjoyed this one and blazed right through it, even if I didn't find it as entertaining as her first book. Took me back to my early days with my kids. Sona keeps it fresh and funny and I think a lot of parents will find it very relatable (I know I did). That said, it's more for those still in the trenches of babyhood to kindergarten. Will be interesting to see if she has a follow-up as her boys grow!
September 7, 2026
After detailing her own foibles as Conan O'Brien's assistant in the appropriately (?) titled The World's Worst Assistant, Sona Movsesian returns to humorously detail the trials of motherhood. From the struggle to conceive to staying up at night wondering if your kid is dying because their poop changed color, and from figuring out how to keep safe two small creatures who are determined to toddle towards danger to accepting that you are the type of person who owns a minivan, Movsesian handles even the most serious topics with (often blunt) humor.
4/5
4/5
September 17, 2026
I was so excited to read this book following her previous book *The World’s Worst Assistant* and watching the snippets of her doing (or not doing) her job on various Conan episodes/specials over the years.
One of favorite parts about reading this was every time my child leaned over my shoulder and said “she can’t possibly be the world’s worst mom.”
The interspersed emails to her children capturing how manic a moment can feel when all you want is your kid to be clean, fed, safe, loved and sometimes quiet.
One of favorite parts about reading this was every time my child leaned over my shoulder and said “she can’t possibly be the world’s worst mom.”
The interspersed emails to her children capturing how manic a moment can feel when all you want is your kid to be clean, fed, safe, loved and sometimes quiet.
September 19, 2026
A funny take on the shitshow that is early motherhood told from an amateur comic/podcaster/Conan O'Brien assistant. Armenian American author Sona Movseian shares her experiences of parenting twins during the pandemic and beyond in this relatable, humourous motherhood memoir that's perfect for fans of authors like Libby Ward. Worth a listen and highly relatable!
October 3, 2026
Charming, funny, and enjoyable, just like Sona's first book. I may not be the target audience but I still enjoyed it. The audiobook version is a must listen for all CONAF fans. I still got the physical book so I could check out Tak's comics, they were hilarious as well.
October 8, 2026
As a Conan fan, I read and enjoyed Sona's first book a few years ago. This one is more honest, more vulnerable, and more contemplative. Sona explores being a parent from IVF through to toddlerhood. It's fun and touching and straightforward.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm biased since I am friends with Sona (and maybe mentioned in this book a few times), but she really nailed this one with the perfect blend of heart, humor, and vulnerability.
September 3, 2026
I am also biased as I know Sona through my son Brad,
I listened to her first book and read this book snd loved it!!! She not only brings humor but speaks from the heart and holds nothing back👏👏👏
I listened to her first book and read this book snd loved it!!! She not only brings humor but speaks from the heart and holds nothing back👏👏👏
September 4, 2026
managing reality with expectations
I love Sona’s style, transparency and relatability. She brings actual anecdotes with her own children and her fears and expectations.
I love Sona’s style, transparency and relatability. She brings actual anecdotes with her own children and her fears and expectations.
September 5, 2026
Very refreshing book on the reality of motherhood! I was hoping to laugh out loud and alas, did not, but maybe you will as motherhood deserves some laughs!
September 14, 2026
I love Sona! An honest and hilarious look at motherhood.
September 23, 2026
I looove Sona and her writing style. Felt I had to deduct a star because it seemed like the copy editor(s) kinda phoned it in.
September 26, 2026
I enjoyed this despite being barren
September 30, 2026
Moderately entertaining ode to motherhood.
October 4, 2026
A fun read to keep you laughing and nodding along to the hilarity of parenthood.
October 11, 2026
Liked it better than her first book, especially the heartfelt parts on IVF and the struggles of parenthood.
October 27, 2026
I’m not the ideal audience for this book, but I really love Sona! I think this would be highly relatable and comforting for a parent, especially a new one.
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October 27, 2026Highly recommend the audio version. I love Sona and her sense of humor. This take on parenting was very funny and very real.
October 30, 2026
I think I will read anything if it's written in Sona's voice. Loved her first book and this one doesn't disappoint either.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews