I picked up Stepmother based on a recommendation from a friend. It pulled me right in. It was a quick paced, easy read that I devoured in two days.

Only when I was partway through I realized I was reading a Diverse Book, something that I have pledged to read more of this year. It wasn’t diversity in terms of race, religion or sexual preference as I normally think of when I think diverse book. However, Marianne endured the stereotypes of being a stepmother and I realize blended families are another type of diversity. I am fortunate that I have been married over 20 years and both my parents and in-laws are also still together. However, once I expand my circle to include siblings, cousins, and close friends, I have lots of blended or shattered families in my life. I always knew they had their own set of difficulties but this book opened my eyes to all of the issues that they have to face on a daily basis.

Marianne wrote the book in a way that would appeal to stepmothers and non-stepmothers alike. Although it was from her point of view as the stepmother she truly emphasized with all the other people and showed their sides to the reader, particularly her husband and two stepchildren. But she also gave us an idea of what it must be like for all the extended families, her stepchildren’s mother, her biological child, and the community when a new family is created after a divorce.

Having read this book I will take a closer look at how I treat the blended families, divorced parents, single parents, and their children often standing on the edge of the soccer games. They deserve much more than a polite nod. ( )