For some women becoming a mother seems to diminish their individuality in the eyes of the world. No longer are they a unique person with strengths, weaknesses and intriguing quirks; they feel that in spite of becoming a 'revered archetype', they have no experience at this role and are very unprepared for it. "The Real Mother's Handbook" is a reassuring and entertaining read for every mother. It discusses all of the different facets of motherhood, from dealing with issues of identity to in-laws, working, relationships, health, safety, housework, schooling, and all those tricky questions children ask, often at the most inopportune moments. Francesca Newby has interviewed hundreds of mothers and shares their often funny experiences of raising children. Without offering advice on how to bring up kids - something others seem all too willing to do - this book reassures the reader that there is an infinite number of ways to be a mother.