Reviews...
From the back of the book
"First time author Jean Lanahan takes us through a journey of awe, wonder and enthusiasm as we hear and feel her children’s Enchanted Whispers. In our need to hurry and get through life we forget how to honor our children and our own inner child. This book allows us all to remember and hold dear those precious moments of childhood….and parenthood… A must read for parents, grandparents, and anyone interested in staying young at heart."
Loretta LaRoche, Author of Life is Short Wear Your Party Pants; Inspirational Speaker/Humorist; Star of PBS
"As the mother of a 4-year old, I truly felt that Jean Lanahan captured on paper the enchanted world that children live in – their questions, their enthusiasm, and most of all their innocence. As with children, throughout the book it was the littlest snippets, the smallest phrases, and the slightest nuances that left the greatest impressions. A terrific read for anyone who wants to revel in, or even relive their childrens’ wonder years."
Diane Danielson – National Director, Downtown Women’s Club; Co-author of Table Talk: The Savvy Girl’s Alternative to Networking
Excerpts from Enchanted Whispers
From Introduction:
Like every mother of youngsters, my laundry is three days behind. Crowded countertops in my kitchen scream for organization while my children demand an audience. But I’m willing to bet that your kids are as witty and challenging, and without a doubt as captivating and convincing as mine. Therefore, I feel comfortable as a member of the Honorable Sorority of Motherhood. One who strives to breathe through the difficult moments, laugh through the funny times, and capture the monumental ones. As far as the physical changes in me, I hate to admit it, but I definitely look like ‘A Mother’ these days. My shoe size no longer exceeds my dress size, my hair is a tad more grey, and my attire is not as stylish as it was in years past. And yet, I am a whole lot smarter. I’m learning that teaching children to count, unhurriedly, is not the same as coaching ourselves to count, reassuringly. (It’s not the same at all.) I’m also well aware that eating my kid’s leftovers, even corners of PB&J sandwiches and a few lonely tater-tots, really does count as calories. But forget about the anti-wrinkle cream which no one warned us should be applied beginning at adolescence. (Sorry Moms. It’s probably a little too late!) Yep. I’m learning it all. Everything that’s most important anyway: With young children to nurture and love, today is truly our most precious gift!
However, I still can’t comprehend why bending and picking up a thousand toys a day doesn’t count as calisthenics? Or why moving in any direction with 10 to 50 pounds in tow doesn’t count as aerobics? (Mind boggling, isn’t it?) Well, enough about me already. Let me introduce our children. ****From Conclusion:
Parents and children teach each other priceless lessons. But sometimes those valuable lessons are painful - like we missed out on a whole lot in our former lives.
Every time my kids give me a surprise hug or whisper an unexpected “I love you”, I think about all the times my mother yearned to receive those same messages from me. For so many years I worked hard to build a wall around my heart. That wall was effective for keeping out hurt, but more effective in keeping out love. Learning and loving with my children has helped me to bulldoze that wall. That’s probably the best lesson my children have taught me and one of the greatest lessons I want them to learn as well.
Come here girls, so I can give you both a big hug!!
****Mom: Good night, Babies. Sleep tight. I love you.
Elizabeth: I love you more, Mom.
Jackie: And I love you more than more, Mom.
Mom: Good night, girls. And then, as if playing one final ‘got you last’ game for the day, I whisper, LOVE YOU MORE!
**** THANKS
...To my children, Elizabeth and Jacquelyn, for encouraging me to design my own pair of rose-tinted magnifying glasses.
...To my mother for proving that Motherhood – and Childhood – are rewarding vocations.
...To my husband, Tom, for being the partner, father, comedian that you are!
...To my sister, my friend, Lisa Campbell, for giving me an example by which to critique.
...To the rest of my family and friends, for your encouragement, support and hugs.
...To JoJo, Tarah, Cara, and Love, for your help with straightening socks, and so much more, these past few years.
...To all other (real) people mentioned in this book, for being there.
...To all “b-tend” persona in this book, for being an interesting part of our lives.
...To all the Mommas and Pappas who previewed my thoughts these past four years, for your eyes and ears!
...To Loretta LaRoche, for her inspirational torch, “So when’s the book signing party?”
...To my favorite ‘Mother and Daughter, Refine and Design Team,’ Marian Atkinson and Peg Atkinson-Mavalia. Marion, for mothering me through this project; for insisting that each entry say its part. And Peg, for ensuring each page look its part! Love the awesome cover, artwork and overall book design. Thank you so!
Momma Jeana
oxox
More about the book:
Jean Lanahan started this book back in 2000, after the death of her mother. She wrote Enchanted Whispers as a tribute to both childhood and parenthood, to this precious place called 'now'.
** * * *
* * * *Anecdotes, essays, observations, and quotes highlight lessons parents teach, children learn, and those they teach/learn together.
** * * *
First time author, Jean Lanahan, presents:
Enchanted Whispers:
'Wit & Wisdom' from the
Mouths of Babes
(and Momma Too)
A book to enjoy with your children, family, and friends!
"Oh, the lessons to be learned - and relearned - during our journeys through childhood - and parenthood!"
Be sure to check out Jean's "Published Articles" in
The Wareham Observer
The Tri-Town Observer
The Enterprise (Bourne/Sandwich/Maspee)
The Patriot Ledger
What people are saying (online reviews)
"Must-Read for Parents.....If you'd like to take a journey to a wonderful place where there are challenges to face, accomplishments to be made, smiles to be given and received, and lessons to be taught and learned, then pick up a copy of Jean Lanahan's Enchanted Whispers: Wit and Wisdom from the Mouths of Babes (and momma too). A humorous and heartwarming tribute to parenthood as well as childhood."
Lisa McLellan, Babysittingworld.com
"....The culmination of her work is the sometimes serious, often sweet Enchanted Whispers: Wit and Wisdom from the Mouths of Babes (and Momma too). The book features anecdotes and advice, organized into chapters on pretending, taking risks, role playing and other relevant topics." ..........
Jennifer A. Spira, Bentley Observer, Winter 2006
"Wisdom filled lessons are heard through anecdotes, poems, essays, and straight-from-the-heart conversations between parent and child. Text is displayed beautifully - easy to read - with a fairy’s touch throughout." - Parent/Friend
“Snippets, wisdom filled quotes, anecdotes, and laugh out loud essays highlight the author’s point of why to STOP AND SMELL THE WEEDS FOR THE FUN OF IT! And thank you, Jean Lanahan, for reminding us that children are what they are, replicas of ourselves!” - Anonymous Reader
“This is a beautiful book written from one mother and her children to many mothers and their children. I enjoyed the book very much.” - Wendy Fair, Reviewer
“In a lighthearted tone, Jean Lanahan chronicles the triumphs and challenges of childhood – and parenthood. A laugh out lout yet heartwarming book for the whole family to enjoy.” - Reader
"The title of the book says it all. It's definitely an enchanting read, in one sitting or in a month of Sundays. Lessons children learn are tempered through their delicate voices (although Momma has great bits of wisdom to add regarding the importance of letting our kids be kids). The passages are humorous, and yet, heartwarming and thought provoking at the same time. Quite an accomplishment for a first time author. Can't wait to see what Jean Lanahan comes up with next." - Parent/Reader
Note to The Bourne Enterprise: I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you how much I enjoy reading columns written by Jean Lanahan. Her quick wit is just what you need after a long, stressful day and she really makes you appreciate what you have, especially your kids. It is also nice to know that someone else thinks the way I do! Thanks for bringing us her work, hope to see her featured in your newspaper more often. - Suzanne Hebb, Bourne Parent/Reader
Excerpt from Enchanted Whispers
Comments from the 'Hood", Parenthood that is!:
“I am a mother of two, a grandmother of one, a teacher of young children for more than 20 years, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Momma Jeana’s’ awe-inspiring words. She truly captivates her audience, of young and old, with her telling of events from her young daughter’s lives. In doing this, she illustrates with her writing, the innocence and wonders of young children in their quest to understand and learn about their world. An easy, relaxing read for anyone to enjoy, and when done, all will have a smile on their face!”
Judy Tocci, Director, Rainbow Preschool, Sagamore Beach, MA
“Jean Lanahan puts pen, paper, and feelings into a witty, lighthearted, and truthful read that all mothers can relate to. This book lets you know that you’re not alone going through the same wonderful joys (and the same trying moments) of parenthood. As a mother of four girls (ages 5 to 19), I am qualified to give Enchanted Whispers a five-star review!”
Michelle Oliver, Stay at Home Mom, Bourne, MA
“A note of heartfelt thanks to the author for reminding me of many things that are so important… to laugh when it’s funny, to cry when it’s sad, to appreciate our children for who they are, to lighten up when I should, to listen when I said I would. And most importantly, to smile just for the simple reason that my children loved it when I do!”
Tarah Denesha, Domestic Engineer, Sagamore Beach, MA
“Parenting, fishing, … It’s all about being there – in the right places at the right times!”
Thomas Lanahan, Dad and Fisherman, Sagamore Beach, MA
