I've not been in the best place mentally in recent weeks, so I assumed this book would add fuel to the self-flagellating fire and leave me feeling like a terrible parent. Rather wonderfully, it had the opposite effect - this book is all about compassion and empathy, starting with ourselves, and I have already used some of the advice and tips at home. It could be coincidental that my kids have just been in mellower moods lately, but generally I have been better able to handle mood swings, arguments and meltdowns, starting with getting a handle on my own reaction to situations. I loved the first book and I really hope the 12+ book is written ahead of my eldest hitting secondary school, I need all the sage and practical wisdom I can get.