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The Secret Diary of a New Mum Aged 43 1/4
Whatever your age, becoming a mum for the first time brings with it excitement, anxiety and numerous challenges. But how do you cope when, to top it all, you discover you are old enough to be the mother of everyone else in your NCT group? The story of one woman, one new baby, a slipped disc and rather too many wrinkles, The Secret Diary of a New Mum (Aged 43 1/4) follows the tale of a midlife mum as she tries to make the transition from experienced TV producer to utterly inexperienced parent. One in five babies is born to a mum over 35, and the number of over 40s giving birth has doubled. The first humorous narrative account of what it's really like to be a midlife mum—whether it's deftly side-stepping any questions about age and baby number two or weeping as younger counterparts ping back into their size ten jeans within thirty seconds of giving birth—this is the thoroughly entertaining, insightful and often hilarious account of what happens as you face up to menopause and new motherhood at the same time.
- GenresNonfiction
256 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2011
6 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 28, 2021
I love this new edition with all that pretty pink new cover design.
I find the writing fun and quite hilarious at times (because it's not happening to the rest of us while reading the book!) and I really appreciate how accurately and honestly this book describes what the author had to go through during her pregnancy and the first few two years of the first childbirth which happened in her early 40s.
I felt like I was as helpless as her while reading the subsequent chapters but yes, I got to learn a lot of stuffs about how things get in reality when it happens to you, both the good and the ugly, as opposed to what everyone else says to make you extra careful and extra.... about anything else when it comes to child upbringing!
It's a good, fun entertaining read. I almost forgot it's a non-fiction and I felt like I have known the author close to my heart when the book ended.
Dear author, thanks for sharing this precious book.
An eye opener!
I find the writing fun and quite hilarious at times (because it's not happening to the rest of us while reading the book!) and I really appreciate how accurately and honestly this book describes what the author had to go through during her pregnancy and the first few two years of the first childbirth which happened in her early 40s.
I felt like I was as helpless as her while reading the subsequent chapters but yes, I got to learn a lot of stuffs about how things get in reality when it happens to you, both the good and the ugly, as opposed to what everyone else says to make you extra careful and extra.... about anything else when it comes to child upbringing!
It's a good, fun entertaining read. I almost forgot it's a non-fiction and I felt like I have known the author close to my heart when the book ended.
Dear author, thanks for sharing this precious book.
An eye opener!
March 12, 2021
I am not a mother. I've never wished to be a mother. I have every respect of every woman who makes that huge huge step. Really, I'm probably not the target market for this book, but oh my goodness, I have absolutely loved every single page of it. I have laughed myself silly at times, I have read passages out to my husband .... we both laughed ... in that smug, child-free fashion that smug child-free people have!
I have also cringed, and I've also been a bit angry. Angry on the behalf of the author, who I have met, and who I do NOT consider to be old. However, in the world of pregnancy, and ante-natal, and post-natal, and afterwards, she's been told that she's old. No matter that she's highly intelligent, has had an enormously successful career, can provide financially and emotionally for her child. Oh no, that counts for nothing. It seems, to be the perfect mother, you need to be aged around 20, with bags of energy, a stomach that flips straight back to being as flat as a pancake as you leave the maternity wing, and no grey hairs!
Cari and her husband wanted their child. They didn't meet as teens, they met later in life. They were happy and they wanted a child. They were fortunate to conceive pretty quickly and whilst Cari was delighted, she kind of knew what was coming.
This is one of the funniest books that I've read for years. If and when I meet Cari again, probably at a book event, when we can leave our houses once more, I don't know how I will look her in the eye. Her startling description of a breast pump, and just how far a nipple can extend brought tears to my eyes. I felt the pain, but I also thought it was hilarious. Sorry Cari.
What shines through in Cari's book most of all, is her undeniable love for her daughter. It is clear that she and her husband are rock solid, and between them they have created and formed a funny and bright child. Some of her sayings just delighted me, and I would have loved to be that person on the park bench who she sat beside and showed her stomach too. Trips to the supermarket sounded joyful, I too will now ensure that I say hello to every fish on the counter ... who cares if they are dead? Cari's daughter certainly doesn't
This is honest, hilarious and utterly magical. When I finished the book I immediately began to miss hearing more about life in the Rosen household. Wonderful and highly recommended from me.
I have also cringed, and I've also been a bit angry. Angry on the behalf of the author, who I have met, and who I do NOT consider to be old. However, in the world of pregnancy, and ante-natal, and post-natal, and afterwards, she's been told that she's old. No matter that she's highly intelligent, has had an enormously successful career, can provide financially and emotionally for her child. Oh no, that counts for nothing. It seems, to be the perfect mother, you need to be aged around 20, with bags of energy, a stomach that flips straight back to being as flat as a pancake as you leave the maternity wing, and no grey hairs!
Cari and her husband wanted their child. They didn't meet as teens, they met later in life. They were happy and they wanted a child. They were fortunate to conceive pretty quickly and whilst Cari was delighted, she kind of knew what was coming.
This is one of the funniest books that I've read for years. If and when I meet Cari again, probably at a book event, when we can leave our houses once more, I don't know how I will look her in the eye. Her startling description of a breast pump, and just how far a nipple can extend brought tears to my eyes. I felt the pain, but I also thought it was hilarious. Sorry Cari.
What shines through in Cari's book most of all, is her undeniable love for her daughter. It is clear that she and her husband are rock solid, and between them they have created and formed a funny and bright child. Some of her sayings just delighted me, and I would have loved to be that person on the park bench who she sat beside and showed her stomach too. Trips to the supermarket sounded joyful, I too will now ensure that I say hello to every fish on the counter ... who cares if they are dead? Cari's daughter certainly doesn't
This is honest, hilarious and utterly magical. When I finished the book I immediately began to miss hearing more about life in the Rosen household. Wonderful and highly recommended from me.
April 5, 2015
A light, funny book that kept me entertained. I could relate to this book even though I'm not in my 40's.
January 29, 2021
thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
It was funny but kind of depressing if you ask me and I hope that women who try to have a baby even if they are in their forties won't be discouraged by this book. I know many younger women find so much more difficulties when they have their babies. The age is not a problem if you don't make it one.
For me, she was really a cool, fun mom and I think that she gave a lot of importance to what the others may think about her pregnancy and her age that's why she found it so difficult. It's your body, it's your life do whatever you want with it and don't give a damn about anyone, I mean when she decided to have a career before having a family she didn't care about other people's opinions, so why when she decided to have a baby.
She has to think about the other women who feel broken because they can't have kids and if you ask them that their only chance would be at 40 years old, I'm sure their answer would be a big YES!
I don't know, I'm just talking, I found it difficult to stay interested in this book and the author's situation but if I was I would have had my baby with pride at my forties or whatever age and didn't care what the society may think.
I liked this book mainly because it was well written but the topic got me annoyed. I wish that she will live happily ever after with her little girl and get rid of her age complex.
3.5 stars
It was funny but kind of depressing if you ask me and I hope that women who try to have a baby even if they are in their forties won't be discouraged by this book. I know many younger women find so much more difficulties when they have their babies. The age is not a problem if you don't make it one.
For me, she was really a cool, fun mom and I think that she gave a lot of importance to what the others may think about her pregnancy and her age that's why she found it so difficult. It's your body, it's your life do whatever you want with it and don't give a damn about anyone, I mean when she decided to have a career before having a family she didn't care about other people's opinions, so why when she decided to have a baby.
She has to think about the other women who feel broken because they can't have kids and if you ask them that their only chance would be at 40 years old, I'm sure their answer would be a big YES!
I don't know, I'm just talking, I found it difficult to stay interested in this book and the author's situation but if I was I would have had my baby with pride at my forties or whatever age and didn't care what the society may think.
I liked this book mainly because it was well written but the topic got me annoyed. I wish that she will live happily ever after with her little girl and get rid of her age complex.
March 14, 2021
I adored this book, absolutely brilliantly funny, I chuckled happily through it on the sofa on Mothers Day and thoroughly loved every page.
Not only is the author very wry, dry and a similar age to myself (all her cultural references rang loud bells!) her child clearly inherited her fantastic humour and turns out to be just as funny!
Although I had my children at a younger age than the writer, I found much of the book took me right back to those early days, a really great book I truly enjoyed.
Not only is the author very wry, dry and a similar age to myself (all her cultural references rang loud bells!) her child clearly inherited her fantastic humour and turns out to be just as funny!
Although I had my children at a younger age than the writer, I found much of the book took me right back to those early days, a really great book I truly enjoyed.
March 8, 2021
This was a fun and entertaining read.
A book about all the hurdles, stigmas and social opinions about mothers in their late 30s and 40s.
It's still very sad that people in general don't mind their own business and feel the need to interfere or say dumb things. I like to live after the motto: You do you. And in the end, who cares? The older I get the less I care about other people's opinion. I wish the main character would have been a bit more resilient. She took most of it with a good sense of humor 🙂 and I certainly giggled a few times throughout the story.
Thanks Netgalley for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A book about all the hurdles, stigmas and social opinions about mothers in their late 30s and 40s.
It's still very sad that people in general don't mind their own business and feel the need to interfere or say dumb things. I like to live after the motto: You do you. And in the end, who cares? The older I get the less I care about other people's opinion. I wish the main character would have been a bit more resilient. She took most of it with a good sense of humor 🙂 and I certainly giggled a few times throughout the story.
Thanks Netgalley for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2011
I have chatted to Cari Rosen for sometime on Twitter before I got this book to review. I have to say I was extremely excited to read it. Cari is so sweet, funny and lovely, I couldn't wait. The book did not let me down, it was sweet, funny and I felt I was right along there with Cari on her journey. I read it within a few days, it was just one of those books you were addicted to reading. Every mother has been through the majority of what she is describing, you can relate to it all.
There were so many times I laughed and snorted out loud at the funny things you do as a new mother. She really has the experience on paper down to a T. I read so many pages and thought I did that, I remember that and oh yes I'd forgotten about that one. I was laughing so much that my hubby would ask what I was reading and I'd read the paragraph out and he'd be laughing too.
The book covers Cari's her journey from pregnancy as a "mature" mother to the first two years of her daughters life. I love the way Cari compares her childhood to her daughters, it shows how much parenting has changed.
This book sums up motherhood perfectly. Like most mums Cari is in awe with her daughter and motherhood and this comes through in her book.
I would recommend this book to every mother, every grandmother, every mother to be and anyone who wants to have a good laugh. I'm sure the dads would get a kick out of it. Cari, is a fantastic mother who shows there are a lot of positive things in being an "older" mother, even if you feel like a dinosaur compared to your peers. What you waiting for... Other than the sequel.
There were so many times I laughed and snorted out loud at the funny things you do as a new mother. She really has the experience on paper down to a T. I read so many pages and thought I did that, I remember that and oh yes I'd forgotten about that one. I was laughing so much that my hubby would ask what I was reading and I'd read the paragraph out and he'd be laughing too.
The book covers Cari's her journey from pregnancy as a "mature" mother to the first two years of her daughters life. I love the way Cari compares her childhood to her daughters, it shows how much parenting has changed.
This book sums up motherhood perfectly. Like most mums Cari is in awe with her daughter and motherhood and this comes through in her book.
I would recommend this book to every mother, every grandmother, every mother to be and anyone who wants to have a good laugh. I'm sure the dads would get a kick out of it. Cari, is a fantastic mother who shows there are a lot of positive things in being an "older" mother, even if you feel like a dinosaur compared to your peers. What you waiting for... Other than the sequel.
March 17, 2021
The Secret Diary of a New Mom is an account by Cari Rosen highlighting the struggles of becoming a mother after 40.
What I liked:
The book covered some serious topics with humor and highlighted the struggle that women experience when they become an older mom, whether by choice or not. It is amazing that people continue to think they have the right to the kinds of judgements and expectations thrown at women about motherhood. I like that it also highlights some interesting double standards. I like the gem about the praise older men get when they become new dads while older women get the wrath of society for the "irresponsibility" of having a child at their age.
What I didn't like:
I found this book hard to get through because I thought that the author tried to hard to be funny. I love a funny book and love a good laugh while reading but it bordered on eye roll territory a couple times. The brand of humor also made it hard to take some parts seriously.
Lovers of light memoirs will enjoy this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Duckworth Books for an ARC of this book. It is now available in stores.
What I liked:
The book covered some serious topics with humor and highlighted the struggle that women experience when they become an older mom, whether by choice or not. It is amazing that people continue to think they have the right to the kinds of judgements and expectations thrown at women about motherhood. I like that it also highlights some interesting double standards. I like the gem about the praise older men get when they become new dads while older women get the wrath of society for the "irresponsibility" of having a child at their age.
What I didn't like:
I found this book hard to get through because I thought that the author tried to hard to be funny. I love a funny book and love a good laugh while reading but it bordered on eye roll territory a couple times. The brand of humor also made it hard to take some parts seriously.
Lovers of light memoirs will enjoy this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Duckworth Books for an ARC of this book. It is now available in stores.
April 28, 2015
Really enjoyed this so much. It was very funny and resonant (I am an older mum myself). It was also very touching about the joys and complexities of having a child.
March 11, 2021
Title: The Secret Diary of a New Mum (Age 43 ¼)
Author: Cari Rosen
Publisher: Duckworth Books
Pages: 246
Rating: 4/5
A huge thank you Cari Rosen, Duckworth Books and Random Things Tours for allowing me to read and review!
Synopsis:
The Secret Diary of a New Mum (Age 43 ¼) follows Cari on her journey of becoming an ‘older’ mum for the first time. Cari shares her journey and experiences including her highs and lows, which are insightful, honest and humorous!
Review:
First things first, I love the pretty pink colour of the front cover, it was very eye catching. This book sounded like it could be full on fun after reading the book description and despite not being a mother myself, I was excited to read this one, especially after the promising reviews too.
I loved how straight away we are given the important message that there is no rush for certain life milestones, it’s all about waiting for the time is right and waiting for the right person to begin that journey with.
Another thing I loved was the humour in this book, it was so refreshing after so much doom and gloom recently and I definitely had a huge smile on my face in parts. As well as funny however, this book really shows you the ups and downs of birth and adjusting to new mum life. It shows that it may not always be plain sailing and if I was to ever become a mother, I will bare what I’ve learnt from this book in mind!
I really felt like I was on a journey with Cari as the book is split into parts, from pregnancy, birth and then in months. Throughout though the book was east going, it was down to earth and the tone was very light hearted.
I found Cari was spot in in highlighting what society can be like these days and therefore I felt like this was also a read I could relate to at times. She highlights that despite pressures from others and media there is no need to rush into any of your decisions, including when to start a family.
There are many important lessons in there but then the innocence of her child Cari includes is a breath of fresh air. I found the love Cari had for her daughter to be heart warming and it was a privilege to hear their story. I had so much fun with this read that at times I did forget that this was actually a non-fiction book.
Cari, you are a brilliant, witty writer who has shown that age is just a number, and although you may have reminded us a little bit too often how old you were at the time, I really enjoyed reading about your journey in this insightful read.
Author: Cari Rosen
Publisher: Duckworth Books
Pages: 246
Rating: 4/5
A huge thank you Cari Rosen, Duckworth Books and Random Things Tours for allowing me to read and review!
Synopsis:
The Secret Diary of a New Mum (Age 43 ¼) follows Cari on her journey of becoming an ‘older’ mum for the first time. Cari shares her journey and experiences including her highs and lows, which are insightful, honest and humorous!
Review:
First things first, I love the pretty pink colour of the front cover, it was very eye catching. This book sounded like it could be full on fun after reading the book description and despite not being a mother myself, I was excited to read this one, especially after the promising reviews too.
I loved how straight away we are given the important message that there is no rush for certain life milestones, it’s all about waiting for the time is right and waiting for the right person to begin that journey with.
Another thing I loved was the humour in this book, it was so refreshing after so much doom and gloom recently and I definitely had a huge smile on my face in parts. As well as funny however, this book really shows you the ups and downs of birth and adjusting to new mum life. It shows that it may not always be plain sailing and if I was to ever become a mother, I will bare what I’ve learnt from this book in mind!
I really felt like I was on a journey with Cari as the book is split into parts, from pregnancy, birth and then in months. Throughout though the book was east going, it was down to earth and the tone was very light hearted.
I found Cari was spot in in highlighting what society can be like these days and therefore I felt like this was also a read I could relate to at times. She highlights that despite pressures from others and media there is no need to rush into any of your decisions, including when to start a family.
There are many important lessons in there but then the innocence of her child Cari includes is a breath of fresh air. I found the love Cari had for her daughter to be heart warming and it was a privilege to hear their story. I had so much fun with this read that at times I did forget that this was actually a non-fiction book.
Cari, you are a brilliant, witty writer who has shown that age is just a number, and although you may have reminded us a little bit too often how old you were at the time, I really enjoyed reading about your journey in this insightful read.
March 21, 2021
Cari Rosen shares a honest account of her experience becoming a new mum in her 40’s. Even though she is classed as a ‘geriatric’ mum or a mid-life mum, the challenges, worries and excitement of being a mum for the first time is the same at any age.
💭So disclaimer first from me. I’m not a mum, but I am in my late 30’s, so perhaps I can somehow relate to this insight of growing older and society throwing these expectations and stereotypes at me. To some extent I do. Cari provides a light hearted account into her ups and downs of experiencing pregnancy and being a mum later in life. She manages to side step questions and quieten the voices in her head and from other people that she’s far too old to have a baby. Cari shares interesting experiences of being a mum that are no different to any other mum at any other age. I identify her struggles and share in her observations having witnessed my own sister and friends go through similar experiences.
On the other hand, I did find the repeated references to being old to be a little off putting based on my own experiences. I’m surrounded by lots of friends who have had babies in late 30’s or early 40’s and every one of them have embraced the experience without feeling self conscious or the inclination to compare to younger mums. As Cari mentions, having babies later in life is increasing, not because of circumstance but because I believe women are choosing to have a family later in life to prioritise other life choices like career, travel and lifestyle, which is OK.
It’s great that Cari is bringing awareness of motherhood later in life. With societal changes and technological/scientific advances, this will only ever become the norm.
⚖️ Insightful and easy read with funny anecdotes of grappling life as a new mum, whatever the age.
💭So disclaimer first from me. I’m not a mum, but I am in my late 30’s, so perhaps I can somehow relate to this insight of growing older and society throwing these expectations and stereotypes at me. To some extent I do. Cari provides a light hearted account into her ups and downs of experiencing pregnancy and being a mum later in life. She manages to side step questions and quieten the voices in her head and from other people that she’s far too old to have a baby. Cari shares interesting experiences of being a mum that are no different to any other mum at any other age. I identify her struggles and share in her observations having witnessed my own sister and friends go through similar experiences.
On the other hand, I did find the repeated references to being old to be a little off putting based on my own experiences. I’m surrounded by lots of friends who have had babies in late 30’s or early 40’s and every one of them have embraced the experience without feeling self conscious or the inclination to compare to younger mums. As Cari mentions, having babies later in life is increasing, not because of circumstance but because I believe women are choosing to have a family later in life to prioritise other life choices like career, travel and lifestyle, which is OK.
It’s great that Cari is bringing awareness of motherhood later in life. With societal changes and technological/scientific advances, this will only ever become the norm.
⚖️ Insightful and easy read with funny anecdotes of grappling life as a new mum, whatever the age.
March 29, 2021
NetGalley
Member Review
Cover Image: The Secret Diary of a New Mum (aged 43 1/4)
The Secret Diary of a New Mum (aged 43 1/4)
by Cari Rosen
Pub Date: 11 Mar 2021
Review by
CATHY C, Bookseller
Last updated on 15 Mar 2021
My Recommendation
The Secret Diary of a New Mum is a laugh-out-loud account of a first time mum's account of her first two years with her daughter.
No one wants to be considered old, especially not at the age of 43 and 1/4. It's even worse when you're 43 and expecting your first baby. The medical staff refers to you as geriatric or elderly. Newspaper and magazine articles tell you what a huge mistake you're making; however, you can't exactly send baby back.
This is the story of a sophisticated career woman reinventing herself to become a first time, stay at home mom.
I would highly recommend this title to anyone looking for humorous essays about parenting.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a free digital copy of this title to review from Net Galley.
#SecretDiaryofaNewMum#NetGalley
Member Review
Cover Image: The Secret Diary of a New Mum (aged 43 1/4)
The Secret Diary of a New Mum (aged 43 1/4)
by Cari Rosen
Pub Date: 11 Mar 2021
Review by
CATHY C, Bookseller
Last updated on 15 Mar 2021
My Recommendation
The Secret Diary of a New Mum is a laugh-out-loud account of a first time mum's account of her first two years with her daughter.
No one wants to be considered old, especially not at the age of 43 and 1/4. It's even worse when you're 43 and expecting your first baby. The medical staff refers to you as geriatric or elderly. Newspaper and magazine articles tell you what a huge mistake you're making; however, you can't exactly send baby back.
This is the story of a sophisticated career woman reinventing herself to become a first time, stay at home mom.
I would highly recommend this title to anyone looking for humorous essays about parenting.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a free digital copy of this title to review from Net Galley.
#SecretDiaryofaNewMum#NetGalley
Read
March 2, 2021Thank you NetGalley and Duckworth Books for the ARC of this book.
I was super excited to read this book especially considering I’m an older mom. While I found her writing to be very witty, even hysterical at times (I laughed out loud so many times I woke my husband up), I found the constant reminder of her “advanced maternal age” somewhat annoying. She talked about how these articles about older moms made her feel negatively about herself and yet all she talked about was how her age negatively impacted her experience. At one point I wanted to yell” we get it, you’re 43!”. So as much as I would love to give this a glowing review it just didn’t meet the mark for me.
Would I read another book by her? Totally, because she does seem like she’s a great author and again, she’s super witty but next time she might want to take a general stance on whatever topic her book is on.
I was super excited to read this book especially considering I’m an older mom. While I found her writing to be very witty, even hysterical at times (I laughed out loud so many times I woke my husband up), I found the constant reminder of her “advanced maternal age” somewhat annoying. She talked about how these articles about older moms made her feel negatively about herself and yet all she talked about was how her age negatively impacted her experience. At one point I wanted to yell” we get it, you’re 43!”. So as much as I would love to give this a glowing review it just didn’t meet the mark for me.
Would I read another book by her? Totally, because she does seem like she’s a great author and again, she’s super witty but next time she might want to take a general stance on whatever topic her book is on.
March 10, 2021
There are lot of books along these lines and I’ve read a fair few of them, but this one had the extra quirkiness of being about an older mum to boot so I thought what’s the worst that could happen and ooh, I really enjoyed it. It’s written with a gritty, no holds barred honesty and a fabulous ability to laugh at your own expense that you partly develop with the lack of dignity involved in being pregnant / giving birth / having a newborn anyway but this writer goes the extra mile.
All of the conceivable (pun intended) topics covering having a baby are fully covered here, it’s been a decade since I had my youngest but this definitely brought back some brilliant memories and snortles of laugh out loud agreement and empathy. Also, as I’m in my forties now, I appreciated the honestly and laughs about being this age so double thumbs up. A genuinely funny, honest and excellent read. Thank you!
All of the conceivable (pun intended) topics covering having a baby are fully covered here, it’s been a decade since I had my youngest but this definitely brought back some brilliant memories and snortles of laugh out loud agreement and empathy. Also, as I’m in my forties now, I appreciated the honestly and laughs about being this age so double thumbs up. A genuinely funny, honest and excellent read. Thank you!
March 12, 2021
If you like Bridget Jones, you'll like this book.
This book is laugh out loud funny without trying too hard. It hits on some harder aspects of parenting such as judgment and difficulties with work but maintains the light tone throughout which makes it such a great read.
I like that it was focused on an older mother as well. It was definitely interesting to read from that perspective.
I'm not a mam, but I imagine if you are, you will find this book so relatable. This book is then Cari's memoir of motherhood in her forties but this story will resonate with so many people.
If you're not generally a fan of non fiction or memoirs but want to read more then this book is such a great place to start!
I gave this 4 stars!
Thank you Duckworth Books, NetGalley and Cari Rosen for an eArc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is laugh out loud funny without trying too hard. It hits on some harder aspects of parenting such as judgment and difficulties with work but maintains the light tone throughout which makes it such a great read.
I like that it was focused on an older mother as well. It was definitely interesting to read from that perspective.
I'm not a mam, but I imagine if you are, you will find this book so relatable. This book is then Cari's memoir of motherhood in her forties but this story will resonate with so many people.
If you're not generally a fan of non fiction or memoirs but want to read more then this book is such a great place to start!
I gave this 4 stars!
Thank you Duckworth Books, NetGalley and Cari Rosen for an eArc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2023
I brought this book not long after I had my first son in my late 30s as it appealed to me being an 'older' first time Mum.
Overall I found i could relate to a lot of the things, stereotypes, feelings Cari had experienced and felt which although not good in this day and age regarding the stereotypes, it was comforting to know others of similar ages and parents in general had similar experiences, fears and thoughts like myself. There were some light hearted and good humor at times throughout the book, and it was an easy read in terms of the written style and chapters into ages/stages. However, as much as I enjoyed this book, I felt as if it was an average read. It is a good book for any new mums of any age, but especially 'older' mums, it just didn't blow me away or reach my favourite list. Not a book i think i would reread.Therefore thats why I give it 3 stars.
Overall I found i could relate to a lot of the things, stereotypes, feelings Cari had experienced and felt which although not good in this day and age regarding the stereotypes, it was comforting to know others of similar ages and parents in general had similar experiences, fears and thoughts like myself. There were some light hearted and good humor at times throughout the book, and it was an easy read in terms of the written style and chapters into ages/stages. However, as much as I enjoyed this book, I felt as if it was an average read. It is a good book for any new mums of any age, but especially 'older' mums, it just didn't blow me away or reach my favourite list. Not a book i think i would reread.Therefore thats why I give it 3 stars.
February 22, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #Thesecretdiaryofanewmum(aged431/4) #netgalley
Cari, a editor and author, writes a memoir about the first 2 years of life with your first baby when everywhere around you the "lows* of being a parent over 35 is surrounding you.
The red striking background and large title, so perfectly named, drew me straight into this book.
This book is a page turner. You want to follow Cari through the highs, lows alongside the best, the worst and the ugly of life with a newborn.
This book does exactly what it says on the tin. A lovely read which will have you laughing out loud, reading out loud and then crying out loud and sometimes all at once.
Cari, a editor and author, writes a memoir about the first 2 years of life with your first baby when everywhere around you the "lows* of being a parent over 35 is surrounding you.
The red striking background and large title, so perfectly named, drew me straight into this book.
This book is a page turner. You want to follow Cari through the highs, lows alongside the best, the worst and the ugly of life with a newborn.
This book does exactly what it says on the tin. A lovely read which will have you laughing out loud, reading out loud and then crying out loud and sometimes all at once.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2021
When I first saw this I thought it was going to be very similar to the Gill Sims books ‘Why Mummy...’ which even though I haven’t read them, always look great and full of humour.
To me, this book was definitely more diary like and it felt like you were having a face to face conversation with Cari. It’s hard to remember this is a fiction book as it feels so relatable and you can tell it’s really come from the heart.
Now I don’t have kids and being 28 I quite often get asked about kids and told how time is ticking on for me. This book was therefore a breath of fresh air for me and made me chill quite a bit. There isn’t a rush on pregnancy and there is nothing wrong with being an ‘older mum’ - nothing apart from the fact that old is in there! Surely we should all just be mums regardless of age... (this isn’t me saying that I think everyone should have kids btw)
I did chuckle a few times when reading this book but it wasn’t the side splitting laughs that I was expecting - I think I’d just not understood properly!
The length of this is just right I think as well as Cari gets her point across and you feel like you’re getting to know her and her family but without unnecessary waffle
To me, this book was definitely more diary like and it felt like you were having a face to face conversation with Cari. It’s hard to remember this is a fiction book as it feels so relatable and you can tell it’s really come from the heart.
Now I don’t have kids and being 28 I quite often get asked about kids and told how time is ticking on for me. This book was therefore a breath of fresh air for me and made me chill quite a bit. There isn’t a rush on pregnancy and there is nothing wrong with being an ‘older mum’ - nothing apart from the fact that old is in there! Surely we should all just be mums regardless of age... (this isn’t me saying that I think everyone should have kids btw)
I did chuckle a few times when reading this book but it wasn’t the side splitting laughs that I was expecting - I think I’d just not understood properly!
The length of this is just right I think as well as Cari gets her point across and you feel like you’re getting to know her and her family but without unnecessary waffle
March 19, 2021
A true and honest account of Motherhood after 40, including all the highs and lows. I really enjoyed it! There is nothing left unspoken, from breastfeeding struggles to toddler tantrums and attending NCT groups where the majority of women are young enough to be your daughters! Whilst reading, the author reminded me a lot of Bridget Jones (in a good way!) The writing is witty, and even the difficult struggles are written with a light under tone. If you are a mum, I think you would hugely resonate with this book and find it very relatable. Although I don’t have children, I still found it enjoyable and there are some laugh out loud moments within. A refreshing and honest account of motherhood!
March 28, 2021
I read this via Netgalley for an unbiased review:
I loved this book from the very first page. It is quite rare that you read the first page and realise that your cheeks are going to be hurting as you smile, grin and chortle through each chapter. Although a decade younger when I had my first child, I could totally relate to the emotions and experiences so funnily recounted by the author. An amusing account of the experiences of a mother (at most ages), but most tellingly as a Cocoon Mum. Really enjoyed it, and wish I'd have been able to sit and read in one sitting... You'll find yourself sitting up straighter, holding your tum in and then let it all go, as you dunk another biscuit and turn the pages.. (or swish your Kindle).
I loved this book from the very first page. It is quite rare that you read the first page and realise that your cheeks are going to be hurting as you smile, grin and chortle through each chapter. Although a decade younger when I had my first child, I could totally relate to the emotions and experiences so funnily recounted by the author. An amusing account of the experiences of a mother (at most ages), but most tellingly as a Cocoon Mum. Really enjoyed it, and wish I'd have been able to sit and read in one sitting... You'll find yourself sitting up straighter, holding your tum in and then let it all go, as you dunk another biscuit and turn the pages.. (or swish your Kindle).
July 11, 2021
Where to begin? This charming and insightful memoir will keep you laughing from start to finish. I loved Cari's honest and brilliant observations about new motherhood, many of which apply to parents of any age. A former journalist, Cari seamlessly weaves in anecdotes from friends and fellow mums as well as studies and news articles to highlight the challenges women face when they enter parenthood at a pace that conflicts with the one society tries to impose.
It was so refreshing to read a book about the early days of motherhood that addresses the tougher moments with equal amounts of humor and love. I'll be recommending this to friends and am eager to read the rest of Ms. Rosen's writing.
It was so refreshing to read a book about the early days of motherhood that addresses the tougher moments with equal amounts of humor and love. I'll be recommending this to friends and am eager to read the rest of Ms. Rosen's writing.
February 8, 2023
I laughed out loud many times while reading this real, eye opening account of motherhood, when you are regarded as a geriatric mother. It's filled not just with Cari's thoughts but also that of her friends and family, and gives a great look at life as a new mum when you are slightly older.
And the antics of the child in this book are hilarious, and the things she comes out with at such a young age is either surprising to me or this is one genius child!
This was thoroughly enjoyable and I kept wanting to go back to it to read on. I don't read non fiction often and I hadn't realised until I started reading that this was real and not fictional, but I'm glad I read it, as I was certainly entertained.
And the antics of the child in this book are hilarious, and the things she comes out with at such a young age is either surprising to me or this is one genius child!
This was thoroughly enjoyable and I kept wanting to go back to it to read on. I don't read non fiction often and I hadn't realised until I started reading that this was real and not fictional, but I'm glad I read it, as I was certainly entertained.
March 9, 2021
This was an easy to read personal account of the journey into and through those early months of parenthood.
Being a mother myself, I could hugely relate to the sentiments and thoughts described through this book. There are many laugh out loud moments and I don't think the age matters at all.....other than how society perceives the right age to have a baby.....this journey is personal and independent although there is definetly a feeling of 'belonging to the club'.
This book didn't wow me and I did find it a bit monotonous towards the end. Having said that, for a light hearted read, worth a go.
Being a mother myself, I could hugely relate to the sentiments and thoughts described through this book. There are many laugh out loud moments and I don't think the age matters at all.....other than how society perceives the right age to have a baby.....this journey is personal and independent although there is definetly a feeling of 'belonging to the club'.
This book didn't wow me and I did find it a bit monotonous towards the end. Having said that, for a light hearted read, worth a go.
March 26, 2021
Admittedly it was 18 years ago for me when I last gave birth but at only 5 years older than the main character, I thought I might enjoy this.
I thought that this might be a story. It isn’t. Nor is it a diary. It’s a monologue of being pregnant, the birth to early motherhood. It’s what I would describe as observational comedy and to be fair it is funny in places and nothing more than whinging in other places.
If this had been delivered by a stand up comedian with expression and timing it would be brilliant.
I think it could only truly be appreciated by someone who is 43 1/4 who has recently given birth.
I thought that this might be a story. It isn’t. Nor is it a diary. It’s a monologue of being pregnant, the birth to early motherhood. It’s what I would describe as observational comedy and to be fair it is funny in places and nothing more than whinging in other places.
If this had been delivered by a stand up comedian with expression and timing it would be brilliant.
I think it could only truly be appreciated by someone who is 43 1/4 who has recently given birth.
April 20, 2021
A hilarious but honest recount of being a 'geriatric' mum. I honestly could not put it down until the last page.
The best part of this book was when Ms Rosen highlighted how society hardly bats an eyelid when a man becomes a father in his 60's or 70's but has a full on meltdown when a woman falls pregnant in her 50's or 40's. It is something that bothers me immensely too.
Many scenarios had me giggling as they are so familiar to me as a mom. I kept thinking to myself it was good Ms Rosen was blessed with a daughter as I daresay the comebacks and chirps from sons are more brutal than from daughters - living the reality of that with a pigeon pair.
The best part of this book was when Ms Rosen highlighted how society hardly bats an eyelid when a man becomes a father in his 60's or 70's but has a full on meltdown when a woman falls pregnant in her 50's or 40's. It is something that bothers me immensely too.
Many scenarios had me giggling as they are so familiar to me as a mom. I kept thinking to myself it was good Ms Rosen was blessed with a daughter as I daresay the comebacks and chirps from sons are more brutal than from daughters - living the reality of that with a pigeon pair.
May 18, 2021
I did think this book was funny in places and I did feel for her when she was struggling. It was really interesting to read a book from older mum view and understanding how easy and hard it is for them . Where she thought it was easy in places I thought it was hard from my view from being mum. Where she thought it was hard sometimes I did come cross that. I am really glad Cari had lots of friends to support her. Where I found this difficult because I moved somewhere new and didn’t have many people to talk about rising a child. This book was easy to read and I love the bright colour of the cover. Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this book.
December 21, 2020
Lighthearted funny take on late motherhood! A quick easy read that will make you laugh, remind you of the baby days and refresh so many memories! Although I had my children in my twenties I had friends that didn’t have children until their forties snd the experience was very different for them!
Totally agree with the author as long as the child is happy loved and content the mothers age is immaterial, I just feel for all the new mums during this pandemic who have so much to contend with, far greater worries than the mothers age!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Totally agree with the author as long as the child is happy loved and content the mothers age is immaterial, I just feel for all the new mums during this pandemic who have so much to contend with, far greater worries than the mothers age!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
March 8, 2021
✨THE SECRET DIARY OF A NEW MUM✨
The secret diary of a new mum follows the tales of a midlife mum as she tries to make the transition from an experienced Tv producer to an utterly inexperienced parent.
This was a really ligh-hearted humorous book that shows how a new baby can impact a woman’s life.
It was a fun quick read but as someone who has not experienced these situations I couldn’t really relate but this was at no fault to the author.
Thank you to the author (Cari Rosen) and NetGalley for allowing me to read in exchange for an honest review!
The secret diary of a new mum follows the tales of a midlife mum as she tries to make the transition from an experienced Tv producer to an utterly inexperienced parent.
This was a really ligh-hearted humorous book that shows how a new baby can impact a woman’s life.
It was a fun quick read but as someone who has not experienced these situations I couldn’t really relate but this was at no fault to the author.
Thank you to the author (Cari Rosen) and NetGalley for allowing me to read in exchange for an honest review!
November 14, 2022
3.5 stars
Enjoyed this one, though I had expected it to be funnier and with way more anecdotes about actually being an older mum. It's a lot of observation, some reflections, much comparison, but it also dragged in places and was rather repetitive throughout. I found myself really laughing in the later stages of the book, when the child was often being hilarious.
Still, it's a very good look behind the scenes of being a mum having a baby past the age of 40 in today's world - rather eye-opening throughout
Enjoyed this one, though I had expected it to be funnier and with way more anecdotes about actually being an older mum. It's a lot of observation, some reflections, much comparison, but it also dragged in places and was rather repetitive throughout. I found myself really laughing in the later stages of the book, when the child was often being hilarious.
Still, it's a very good look behind the scenes of being a mum having a baby past the age of 40 in today's world - rather eye-opening throughout
March 19, 2021
This book is the author’s journey to becoming a mum for the first time in her 40s and what a journey.
This is an honest, open account which was very humorous at times but dealt with a very important subject. I found it interesting how the author faced stigma during her pregnancy because of her age and that many perceive that there is an ideal age to be pregnant and have children and being in your 40s is not that ideal. I found it interesting how the author was referred to as an older mum rather than just a mum which is what she was and that at every stage of her pregnancy she was defined by her age. But the journey doesn’t stop once the baby is born and when the baby arrives it’s a whole different situation and there is so much more to learn. Like trying to balance being a mother, returning to work and taking a trip abroad which each have their own complications.
There were some instances that had me in fits of laughter but at the same time opened my eyes to a completely different world ie fake bumps in changing rooms, bike locks to secure a pram hen visiting the baby clinic, the dilemma to find the right sized first pair of shoes. The term ‘vomit comet’ is one term that I will never forget
I particularly like the format of this book. It was a small book but packed full of information. I liked how the chapters were titled as the different stages of pregnancy and continued after the baby was born (how many months old the baby was) so it was easy to pinpoint where in the author’s journey she was and the different challenges and changes faced.
An eye opening read!
I received a gifted copy for an honest review
This is an honest, open account which was very humorous at times but dealt with a very important subject. I found it interesting how the author faced stigma during her pregnancy because of her age and that many perceive that there is an ideal age to be pregnant and have children and being in your 40s is not that ideal. I found it interesting how the author was referred to as an older mum rather than just a mum which is what she was and that at every stage of her pregnancy she was defined by her age. But the journey doesn’t stop once the baby is born and when the baby arrives it’s a whole different situation and there is so much more to learn. Like trying to balance being a mother, returning to work and taking a trip abroad which each have their own complications.
There were some instances that had me in fits of laughter but at the same time opened my eyes to a completely different world ie fake bumps in changing rooms, bike locks to secure a pram hen visiting the baby clinic, the dilemma to find the right sized first pair of shoes. The term ‘vomit comet’ is one term that I will never forget
I particularly like the format of this book. It was a small book but packed full of information. I liked how the chapters were titled as the different stages of pregnancy and continued after the baby was born (how many months old the baby was) so it was easy to pinpoint where in the author’s journey she was and the different challenges and changes faced.
An eye opening read!
I received a gifted copy for an honest review
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