The Smart Stepmom: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive!, Ron L. Deal & Laura Petherbridge

Meet the authors & learn about the book. Read the Introduction

 

"Finally, a book that is realistic and practical for stepmoms.
I highly recommend this book."

Dr. Gary D. Chapman,
bestselling author of The Five Love Languages

New from bestselling author Ron L. Deal, with stepmom and divorce recovery expert Laura Petherbridge.

The stepmother's role is ambiguous, under appreciated, and frequently carries unrealistic expectations. This book answers women's concerns and questions, including:

• How can I be a caretaker and a key emotional connector in the family if the children don't accept my influence?
• How should I cope with children who are confused about their family and torn between loyalty to their biological mother and me?
• When should I step back in conflicts and when should I insist that my husband stand up for me?
• What is my role with adult stepchildren?
• In addition it addresses the spiritual and emotional climate of the home, providing perspective and guidelines to help stepmothers and their families thrive.

 

 

Chapters address:

• The Smart Stepmom: Who is She? Read the Introduction
• Feeling Like an Outsider
• Understanding His Kids
• Parenting Beside the Engaged or Disengaged Father
• Your Husband's Ex: Friend or Foe?
• Understanding Your Kids
• Kodak Moments: Vacations, Holidays, Mother's Day and Special Occasions
• Adult Stepchildren
• Should We Have an "Ours" Baby?
• Plus, two chapters offer husbands guidance as they support the stepmother in her role.

  Praise for The Smart Stepmom:   "Finally, a book that is realistic and practical for stepmoms. I highly recommend this book." Gary D. Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages and Love As a Way of Life "As a stepmom myself, I'm thrilled to find a solid resource that tackles the complex and multifaceted issues associated with being a stepmom." Kim Alexis, Supermodel, Speaker, and Author "Are you a stepmom who needs a shoulder to lean on? You'll find respect and a compassionate perspective for problem solving within these pages. Make the time to read them." Dr. Margorie Engel, Stepfamily Expert Council (National Stepfamily Resource Center) Former President, Stepfamily Association of America   Read more reviews here

Includes discussion questions for groups.

 

Ron L. Deal is the President of Successful Stepfamilies and a leading remarriage and stepfamily expert. He is author of the bestselling book The Smart Stepfamily: Seven Steps to a Healthy Stepfamily, a popular conference speaker, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. His work has been featured in the national media and newspapers throughout the country. Ron trains marriage educators and ministry leaders throughout the country on a regular basis.

Softcover, 267 pages, from Bethany House Publishers.
October, 2009