Stepmonster

A New Look at Why Real Stepmothers Think, Feel, and Act the Way We Do

By: Wednesday Martin

Narrated by: Cris Dukehart

Length: 11 hrs and 3 mins

Publisher's summary

What makes stepmothering so hard? And why are we, as people and a culture, so hard on stepmothers? How can we make it easier?

Stepmonster is a truly unique and groundbreaking book for women with stepchildren, men with kids who repartner, adult stepchildren, and anyone who cares about them. It is a comprehensive, cross-cultural, research-based reconsideration of stepfamily dynamics - from the perspective of the stepmother. How does she think, act, and feel, and why? Part no-holds-barred memoir of stepmothering in the trenches, part analysis of why stepmothering is tough and steps women with stepkids can take to thrive, Stepmonster has been hailed as "the thinking woman's guide to stepmothering" and "life altering", igniting conversations, controversy, and changes in how we perceive and experience stepmothering.

©2009 Wednesday Martin (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"[Martin's] well-researched work delves into the animal world, fairy tales, psychology, and sociobiology...." ( Library Journal)

Brilliant & validating

after listening to this book I am 100% done receiving information and advice from people who have no experience and or education in step parenting. I am moving into acceptance of the way the relationships are with my stepchildren and plan to focus on my marriage and my own happiness.

An absolute must read for stepmothers

I’ve been a stepmother for almost six years, and was still struggling with my feelings. This book validated everything I felt, and helped guide the family to a more healthy life. I highly recommend!

exactly what I needed

this book is so amazing, it explains in a very simple way the way the stepchildren might feel and the fact that is ok to feel the way we do.

An absolute must read!

If you are anywhere on the step family spectrum you should sincerely read this book! I feel that it has changed my life!

Deep, emotional, life changing

I couldn't stop listening to this book. I've had struggles myself as a step-mom, as most do. This book picked apart my soul and gave me insights into my own life that I may have never realized on my own. I plan to listen to this book again and again as well as recommending it for any and all to read! Thank you Wednesday 💜

Totally truthful!

I have been a stepmom for 10+ years.... this is crazy accurate!!! if you are in a new relationship where you'd become a stepmom read this first...please!! I wish I would have!!!

She said a mouthful...

The Book I wish I had when I became a stepmom that puts stepmothers on center stage for once.

Looking at their feelings, their thoughts and their lives as a Separate Entity, a woman, not a martyr, not a maid, not a villain, not someone who should have KNOWN what they were getting into, but a person, a human being worthy of the same love she gives to the father or partner she has made the choice to come alongside of and make a life with.

I loved it

This book was everything I didnt know I needed. I've been a stepmother for over 10 years, and this book really "gets" the thoughts and feelings that are hard to explain except for those who are fellow stepmoms!

This was what I’ve been looking for

Since I started dating a man with kids I’ve been looking for any information I could find on how to make things work. This book gets into the weeds, the history/anthropology of stepfamilies, and so much more. No matter your situation you’ll feel validated and informed. Must read for any current or future stepmoms or anyone in a “blended” family!

This will help you sleep better at night, promise.

When I first embarked upon my stepmom journey, I was desperately seeking resources to help me navigate this often-fraught role. Stepmonster came up, but the title itself deterred me. I needed a fresh, positive take; and sought to avoid any negative connotations. This decision led me in the direction of general parenting titles, which created a solid, unbiased foundation for me - a first-time parent, full-time stepmom - before revisiting this title, 3 years later. With some practical parenting experience logged, I was more anchored in my parenting self and approach, which made commiserating with Stepmonster's stories and research more enjoyable than dreadful. What I am trying to say is: if you just started your step journey, shelve this book until you have had some time to get into it and make it your own - don't read this first! That being said, the book is a welcome landmark in the sea of step-mothering. I remember listening and feeling so validated by the content, I blissfully fell asleep. It was a soothing testament, hearing a kindred voice, speaking of these challenges unique to step-mothering. Highly recommend!