Lovveeeddd this book so much. A lot of reviews are exasperated by the men in this story, and I fear that that might have been the point. Humans, and especially male human leaders, have historically been so imperfect and selfish and this book made me yearn for a better world.

Literally told my therapist that if anyone wants to fully understand me, they need to read this book. And yes, maybe it's because once I was also an angry, emotional, lonely teen with an overbearing Filipina nurse mom and emotionally-shunted white American dad.

Every character felt rich and vibrant and imperfect—VERY imperfect. You will find yourself getting annoyed at the main character.... because she is annoying as she navigates her anger and grief. My favorite part was how you could tell that Marisol loved her mom even while she complained about her mom. I loved how the story progressed and how it ended. It inspired me to keep healing from generational trauma. What a fantastic read.

One of the most satisfying and heartbreaking books I've ever read. Frankly, I don't have the words to write one of my typical, long reviews. Finishing this book left me feeling so much that it was hard to figure out what to read next, because I had just finished a masterpiece.

I somehow guessed one of the biggest plot twists and this is the proudest I've ever been of myself 👂🏻📍

I think this is a must-read for Americans.

This book is not anti-Christian. In fact, in many ways, this book might be one of the most Christian books I've read.

The way the authors walk through the false promises that Christian parents were given was fascinating. Their logic and analyses were strong throughout the book. The authors shared quotes from popular Christian parenting leaders, and it was appalling and heartwrenching to read. One of the most insightful parts of the book was when the authors highlighted links between popular Christian parenting teachings of authority and compliance to Christian nationalism. Most importantly, the authors share the voices of abuse victims who wanted to share their stories.

I think all Americans should read this book because it will help us see how American parenting culture has been contaminated by ideologies that go against family science and child development. I think those who have lost their faith or experienced religious trauma may feel seen while reading, and those who have never been Christian may understand what's happened in many American Christian communities. I think this book could help bridge the gap between families and communities if people approached the book with an open mind, humble hearts, and willingness to heal what's been broken.