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Continue reading →: ‘Free to Learn’ by Peter GrayIn ‘Free to Learn’, Peter Gray explores the benefits of natural, self-directed learning and provides a compelling argument against the traditional schooling system. One of the most well researched books I have read to date, it is difficult to give this book anything but 5 stars. Short take: The book…
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Continue reading →: ‘Hold onto Your Kids’ by Gordon Neufeld and Gabor MateIn a world where peer influence seems to dominate, ‘Hold onto Your Kids’ is a book worth reading. Originally published in 2004, the book underscores the importance of parental attachment and challenges prevailing cultural norms that prioritise peer relationships over family bonds. Short take: The book encourages parents to foster…
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Continue reading →: ‘Buddhism for Mothers’, by Sarah NapthaliBuddhism for Mothers by Sarah Napthali is one of my all time favourite books when it comes to parenting and raising kids. It offers a thoughtful and refreshing approach, exploring how Buddhist principles can be applied to the challenges of motherhood. Like Napthali, I use the term ‘mother’ in this…
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Continue reading →: Our Big Home: An Earth Poem. By Linda GlaserThe concept of the earth as a shared home can be difficult for young children to grasp, but Our Big Home does a wonderful job of introducing kids to the idea that people, plants and animals are all deeply connected and must live in harmony with one another. The story…
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Continue reading →: A Pebble for Your Pocket. By Thich Nhat HanhA Pebble in Your Pocket by Zen master, poet, peace activist, and Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh brings us wisdom and pure joy straight from Plum village. Written as a series of short, illustrated stories, the book uses metaphor and imagery to teach kids practical exercises in breathing, sitting and walking…
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Continue reading →: Dumbing Us Down. By John Taylor GattoDumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto offers a critical examination of the American education system. The book argues that mainstream schooling does more harm than good by stifling children’s creativity, discouraging independent thinking, and hampering intrinsic motivation, holistic growth and learning. Short take: Written as a manifesto for change,…
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Continue reading →: Under the Bodhi Tree. By Deborah HopkinsonUnder the Bodhi Tree is a beautifully written picture book about the life of Siddhartha Gautama and his journey to becoming the Buddha. It offers gentle yet powerful messages about compassion, suffering, and the path to leading a meaningful life. The story captured the attention of my girls and sparked…
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Continue reading →: Cry, Heart, But Never Break. By Glenn RingtvetCry, Heart, But Never Break is a story about four children who are visited by Death as their grandmother nears the end of her life. Death shares a story that helps them understand why sorrow and joy must exist together, and why we cannot live without periods of sadness and…
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Continue reading →: ‘The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down’ by Haemin SunimCalm and poetic in tone, this book is full of wise, simple messages that made me nod my head and smile. Its short chapters, interwoven with illustrations and aphorisms, encourage readers to reflect on modern busyness and to prioritise meaningful relationships, purposeful pursuits, and being present in the Now. Short…
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Continue reading →: ‘Hooked’ by Joe McIlhaney and Freda McKissic Bush‘Hooked’ offers a succinct and pointed exploration of the intersection between neurobiology, bonding and sexual partners. The authors argue that casual sex can have negative long-term effects on attachment and relationship stability. They encourage parents and young people to aspire to have just one sexual partner in a lifetime. Short…
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Continue reading →: ‘Till We Meet Again: A Children’s Book about Death and Grieving’ by Julie BogartA wonderful story to help children cope with losing a loved one. This story both validates the experience of grief and offers practical strategies for continuing bonds. Adopting a non-religious frame, the author explains how the spirit or soul of someone who has passed away continues to exist after death.…
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Continue reading →: ‘Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture’ by Meg MeekerIn this 2019 parenting book, Meg Meeker offers up sensible and practical advice from decades of experience as a paediatrician and mother. Short take: Meeker covers broad terrain in this book, touching on topics such as friendships, sexual intimacy, gender expression, parenting awareness, spirituality and faith. She carves out separate…
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Continue reading →: ‘Wild Creature Mind’ by Steve Biddulph‘Wild Creature Mind’, the latest book by Steve Biddulph (author of ‘Raising Girls’, ‘Raising Boys’, and ‘The Secret of Raising Happy Children’) offers an intriguing dive into role of right hemisphere processes in emotional awareness, holistic wellbeing, and psychological healing. Short Take: This book encourages readers to harness and nurture…
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Hello,
I’m Lizzie
A child clinical psychologist supporting parents, teens and kids. I’m currently available for online clinical consultations. You can also read some of my book reviews, which provide an introduction to my clinical philosophy and approach.
Child Psychology Book Lady 