Donna Amey Bhatt’s debut Non Fiction book HOW TO SPOT A MUM embraces and celebrates mothers everywhere, and would make the perfect gift for any mum, seasoned and new, to share with their children. Indeed this original book really does have ingredients that will appeal to both!

My own children pounced on it as soon as it arrived and climbed into my lap, ready to suss me out. They studied the natural habitats and mulled over the clues, conferring together behind cupped hands. It opened a wonderful discussion about what a Mum is, and it felt as if we were playing a game. Although they could be rather brutal at times:

Trendy? Snort!

Organised? Nope.

Last Minute Mum? Ding! Ding! We have a winner!

Aura Lewis’s clean lines and pastel palettes give the illustrations a real up-to-the-minute feel. As a stationery addict, I particularly enjoyed the Washi-taped notes and lists providing helpful hints and tips on spotting the many kinds of mothers we are fortunate enough to know and love – whether they are biological mums, step mums, foster mums and more.

Reassuringly, the various parenting styles actually highlight how much we all have in common, rather than what sets us apart. So, while Sporty Mum and I might only be able to discuss the comfort-factor of leggings, I could see bits of myself, and my own mum, in the other profiles too. This is summed up beautifully in the closing pages with an illustrated Thank You list – for things like making toast and not sleeping very much.

If you’re looking for quirky mum traditions from around the world, an anatomical guide to multi-functional Mum Bods, or you just want to reassure yourself (and your children!) that there is no “right” way to be a mum, this book is for you.

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