A Single Mother, A Few Perspectives......And anyone else that is a Single Parent

Jones’ debut guidebook on parenting offers an insightful, empowering and resourceful look at what it means to make it as a single parent.

As a single mother herself, Jones doesn’t focus on preconceived negative connotations of single parenthood, but instead provides positive support and guidance. The slim book, just 40 pages long, provides a valuable list of resources available to single parents, including a list of jobs that parents can do from home and that allow for a flexible schedule; instructions on how to apply for education-related funding; health care tips for those not eligible for government-funded health insurance; and housing advice, including how to find homeowning opportunities. She lists specific examples of how parents can increase their income using traditional job-hunting skills and suggests relieving stress by using methods ranging from meditation to masturbation. Throughout, Jones urges single parents to use creativity when confronting personal, professional or domestic challenges, and she encourages them to meditate on a positive future and take the steps necessary to make those dreams reality. The author adopts a tone that’s thoughtful and empathetic but never maudlin. In one chapter, she suggests that the reader visualize a healthier, happier and more productive self: “The goal here is seeking change in each routine or methods of living that you want to shift toward, rather than aspects of life that you want to prevent or give up.” At times, the advice is a bit idealistic—for example, she promises that, “If you can write an article, type a form or letter, research a topic such as the ‘healthiest foods to eat in America,’ then you can succeed with freelancing.” However, the book’s focus on positive thinking and resourcefulness offers readers a welcome perspective on single parenthood.

An engaging, practical guide for parents.