Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Hope For Moms: It's Tough Out There, But So Are You by Anna McArthur is a deeply touching exploration of the challenges all mothers face, alongside McArthur’s journey through parenthood. She shares the emotional difficulties of raising children, including post-partum depression, the things nobody tells you about adoption, and the realization that no amount of academic preparation can fully equip one for the realities of motherhood. McArthur speaks on raising Black twin daughters and her son Caleb's coming out, detailing as much of her experiences as possible as a mother trying to support her children through issues like race, identity, and acceptance. Throughout, McArthur harnesses the importance of self-compassion, boundaries, and support networks, urging mothers to balance the needs of their families with their own and recognize their worth beyond caregiving.

Hope for Moms is a refreshingly honest and thoughtful read that, at some points, had me close to tears. It is one of the few books I've read where I felt seen, especially as a woman with children whose melanin doesn't match my own. I have, and continue to receive, so many of the same questions people ask. McArthur's emphasis on the power of boundaries—both personal and familial—is a massively valuable lesson on how to protect one’s peace in a world full of intrusive expectations. These are sensitive topics, and McArthur addresses them with a natural ease that makes her advice feel grounded. While many parenting books offer one-size-fits-all solutions, McArthur's perspective encourages readers to trust their instincts and embrace their own unique journey. There’s a rare authenticity here, and she doesn’t shy away from anything. She gives real, actionable insights that feel very supportive. Whether you’re struggling with guilt, navigating change, or seeking balance, Anna McArthur’s words will resonate and offer valuable guidance to both seasoned and new parents alike. Very highly recommended.