Which novel do you think best represents nursing?
Kennedy: “everything i never told you” by Celeste Wu. This book captures one of the core issues of parenting that struck me: Celeste Wu. This book captures one of the core issues of parenting that struck me: I can love my children deeply, but things about myself still prevent me from seeing them clearly. We bring our own histories, fears, hopes, and unmet needs into the process of raising children, often without realizing the tragedy of this book
What is your favorite book to read with your children?
oersted: easily “Ramona” bookcreated by Beverly Cleary, completely resonates with children and adults alike. My children are older now, but one of them still brings up from time to time the time Ramona “shushed” Susan’s curls. (Side note: Stockard Channing narrates the audiobook for when you get tired of reading it aloud.)
Kennedy: For young children, “The slope won’t gowritten by Kelly DiPucchio. I love this book because it shows the power of understanding. Understanding bad behavior is not about condoning it; understanding is often a prerequisite for true behavior change. What I love is that it’s a kid who ultimately solves the town’s problems – only kids can see all the things adults miss. Children are incredibly curious and creative, and this book showcases that. Plus, it’s so much fun to read aloud.
For older kids and teens, “Killers of the Flower MoonWritten by David Grant. My son would say this is one of his favorite books and I love giving older kids books that don’t underestimate them. It reads like a gripping mystery, but it also exposes them to a part of American history they may know little about and raises big questions about power, greed, justice, and whose stories get told. I love a book that teens really can’t put down and want to talk about, and it makes them realize, too, wait, this actually happened.
Do you have a go-to guide for early evergreen parenting?
Kennedy: “How to speak so that children will listen, how to listen so that children will speak“, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. I love how practical and rational this book is. It takes children and their feelings seriously while still recognizing that parents are parents. A lot of the advice still holds true decades later. I love their book too”No competing siblings”.
oersted: “Dr. Spock’s Infant and Child Care Center”, 1985 edition. The book’s mantra is “You know more than you think,” which is contrary to a lot of what we hear online these days, which is closer to “You’ve definitely screwed up.” Some parts of the science have changed, but in terms of the overall vibe, Spock wins.
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