Mommy Wars

More about the book

With motherhood comes one of the toughest decisions: stay at home or pursue a career? This dilemma divides mothers and creates internal conflict. Leslie Morgan Steiner, an executive, writer, and mother of three, has experienced the “mommy wars” firsthand. Instead of merely observing, she commissioned twenty-six mothers to share their stories, resulting in a candid and refreshing exploration of American motherhood. These women, aged twenty-five to seventy-two and spanning the U.S. from New Hampshire to California, represent a diverse array of lifestyle choices. From full-time stay-at-home moms to hard-driving executives, each offers unique insights. Pulitzer Prize winner Jane Smiley reflects on her generation's workplace struggles, while Terri Minsky shares the emotional turmoil of leaving her children to launch a career-making show. Susan Cheever discusses the fierce competition between different parenting styles in Manhattan, and Lois R. Shea recounts her choice to prioritize family life in the countryside. The essays are engaging, honest, and often humorous, providing an intimate portrait of contemporary motherhood. This collection is a tribute to the real experts on motherhood: the women navigating the challenges of home and work every day.