Blending Families

June 1, 2016
Considering that 50 percent of families in the U.S. are formed by a remarriage or recoupling, this optimistic and realistic book will be a good resource for many parents and stepparents. The content is geared toward those who are considering combining as well as those who are already blended and facing challenges. The book is organized into three sections. Opportunities and Challenges includes a useful quiz about adult attachment styles to help readers understand their own style and that of their partner. In section 2, the authors lay out the Five Things You Must Have to Succeed, and section 3 covers Stories and Practical Insights. In the Do's and Don'ts list in section 3, the authors reach beyond their own expertise and include insights from marriage-expert John Gottman and financial-expert Suze Orman. Mullineaux's own story adds a personal touch and credibility to the mix. Despite the large number of blended families, there aren't a lot of titles on the topic. Blending Families: Merging Households with Kids 818 would be a useful addition for any public library.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)