Inspired by her relationship with her own daughter and informed by the numerous parents and teens she's helped in her family workshops, Chérie Carter-Scott culls the ten truths she's observed about this special role:

1. Having a child changes your life.
2. Motherhood is an experience unlike any other.
3. A mother has many roles.
4. If you honor your children's essence, they will blossom.
5. Love shows up in many different forms.
6. As your child grows, so will you.
7. There will be highs and lows.
8. Remembering to care for yourself is essential.
9. There is no such thing as a perfect mother.
10. Motherhood is a process that never ends.

Part tribute, part handbook, The Gift of Motherhood exudes Carter-Scott's vitality and wit, offering moms a way to celebrate the joys and navigate the rough spots along their journey. Though every mother walks her own path and every child is unique, Motherhood shares certain universal truths.

This gem of a book acknowledges and affirms that the experience of being a mother is astounding, overwhelming, miraculous and, above all, a gift.

"It takes both courage and spirit to raise a child successfully in these challenging times. The Gift of Motherhood spells out exactly the joys and struggles that every mother encounters. This book is a must for every mother."
   KATHERINE MARTIN, AUTHOR OF WOMEN OF COURAGE AND WOMEN OF SPIRIT

"If you like Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul, you'll find this book a perfect companion! The Gift of Motherhood contains simple yet profound truths that will guide and inspire mothers everywhere -- truths that capture the essential wisdom all mothers need to know."
   JENNIFER READ HAWTHORNE, COAUTHOR OF CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE MOTHER'S SOUL