What one book do you think *all* MNers should read?

[Pruni]

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'How Children Fail' by John Holt.
I believe every parent with a child in the education system would benefit from reading it.

The Corrections by jonathan franzen because its the most amazing, funny and sad book about the fragility and strength of family relationships. It is a good reminder of how not to be and how people react differently to the way they've been brought up. I love it!

Which book would you suggest Pruni?

How to be a chilled out parent

I don't know if it's been written yet but it should be

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mmm that sounds somehow serene

'John Holt' has also written 'discipline without tears' which is very good. I think he makes an awful lot of sense and is not namby pamby right on.

Best friend's guide to toddlers - Vicky Iovine

Obviously only relevant if you are at that stage or going to be at that stage but it is a funny and frank book about the realities of raising toddlers without the 'oh I'm such a failure, fabian only had one organic meal today' type tone.

Northern Lights by Philip Pullman. I aspire to be as stylish and eeeeviiiiil a mother as Lyra's.

Artaud for Beginners

'Heart of Fire' by Senait Mehari. From Child Soldier to Soul Singer.
A true story which would make most of us realise how lucky we and our children are.

"Get Out of My Life, But First Take Me and Alex into Town: A Parents Guide to the New Teenager" With children seemingly becoming teenagers earlier & earlier, this is a book we all need to read at some point - it really makes sense - even DD admitted it got it right.

Right, I've just ordered the Get out of Town book. Thanks for that! Sounds ace!

If This is a Man by Primo Levi

Also big fan of John Holt

Toddler taming by Dr Christopher Green.

Even if it doesnt help you will have a bit of an "ive been there" laugh...plus (hopefully) his accounts of what other peoples toddlers do will make yours seem like a walk in the park and keep things in perspective.

A Life's Work by Rachel Cusk. SO honest. SO scary and amazing.

any book by bruno bettleheim

Anything by Steve Biddulph.

The Continuum Concept by Jean Leid - erm - loff I think.

Yes to John Holt.

Nothing by SWMNBN.