Bonkers

by Olivia Siegl

A Real Mum’s Hilariously Honest Tales of Motherhood, Mayhem and Mental Health‘A wonderful book all mums should read!’Gemma Atkinson’A book to be shared the world over.’’ I do believe this book will save lives!’’This book made me proud to be a woman’‘You see, pre-motherhood I had this image of the sort of motherhood I was going to have. Happy, confident and in total control, breezing through my perfect new mum life, clad in white linen with a smiley easy-going baby attached to my hip. But then, something happened.’A moving, inspirational and at times hilarious book from best-selling author Olivia Siegl. Part-memoir, part guide, Bonkers follows Olivia's story of motherhood as she juggles two babies under two alongside two harrowing battles with Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis.Olivia’s refreshingly honest approach leaves no area of motherhood uncovered in her bid to empower women to be able to talk about all areas of motherhood – NO judgement! Throughout the book, this engaging and straight talking author shares her story of motherhood and how she has since overcome what she bills as “the most harrowing times of her life” to prove that suffering with a mental health illness is by no means the end of the story. A must read for anyone in need of hope that they can get through even the darkest of times.For every mum out there feeling lost in the wilderness. For every mum feeling pressure to be perfect. For every mum questioning if they are good enough. You are magnificent.

384 pages, Paperback

Published February 22, 2018

Reviews

[Emmalene Umar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a warm and in-depth look at motherhood and the wide range of emotions and states of mind encountered on the journey. I loved to read Olivia’s story. I found it honest and real and fascinating. I enjoyed some of the ‘How to’s’ and ‘tips’ sections, but I really preferred to hear all about the author’s own experience. I like that the focus of the book is about not judging other mum’s and standing together as women and being there for each other. I was really interested in the Post-Natal psychosis section and I would have enjoyed an expanded version of her account, but obviously it was brave enough to share anything at all. I have recommended this book to my new mumma friends and I have found this book informative even as I am now pregnant with my third. I found it refreshing the way that the author kept giving the message to give yourself permission to take it easy! Highly recommend this book!!

[Niamh Seren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this. She keeps it so real. Stories like these are so important

[Jessica D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wise, witty and reassuring

As a new mum it was just what I needed in so many ways. I love the conversational style and length; it made the book easy to read which is essential for sleep-deprived parents.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read for pre and post mummies. Great author. Just tells it exactly how it is. No sugar coating here. Brilliant read.

[Norina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Refreshing honesty.

[Melissa Board · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Olivia's honest reflections of pregnancy and early years of parenting, particularly her openness around mental health. Very helpful to be aware of these things.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75⭐️

[Hazel MacLean · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some useful information regarding maternal mental health, but the writing style wasn't my cup of tea. Frequent use of the word 'bitch' felt especially out of place in a book aiming to uplift women.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this so much and I don’t have kids. I would love to come back and read this in the future if I’m lucky enough to become a mom.

[SJ RocknRoll · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read the first 3 chapters and cried 5 times. I have returned the copy I was reading to the library and have purchased my own. No need to damage their copy with my many "this is so true, it's almost painful to read" tears.

Where was this book 3 years ago?