Parenting Reviews
Every parent's journey is different, yet many of the questions we ask ourselves are surprisingly similar.
These reflections came from readers who found something meaningful in
Parenting: Return on Intention and chose to share their experience with others.
Marina D.
"It made me want to shift my focus toward building a relationship rather than trying to manage everything."
What stood out to me most was the contrast between Nadia’s parenting and her own upbringing. It made me reflect on my own approach.
“The Night the House Softened” stayed with me. It showed a different way of handling situations, less control, more connection.
After reading, I realized I can be too controlling, and it made me want to shift my focus toward building a relationship rather than trying to manage everything.
Julie B.
"The stories are raw and real, yet also beautiful and inspiring."
From the very beginning, the book drew me in. The stories are raw and real, yet also beautiful and inspiring.
Moments like when soup was dumped on Art’s head or when he stood up for himself at camp were deeply moving.
The stories stay with me because they show both the struggle and the growth, and they make me reflect on my own parenting in a very real way.
Laura B.
"Those moments where love overcomes rigidity are incredibly meaningful."
The stories and reflections are all very strong: the experiences, the difficulties, and the way both Nadia and her son responded to them. What stood out to me most was the bond between them, especially when it was just the two of them, and how Nadia raised her son to be independent and free.
I was especially moved by the stories where the heart takes precedence over rules. “The Night the House Softened,” “The Quiet Contract,” and “Speak Their Language” are all powerful examples. I could relate to being a strict, “critical parent” at times, and I think those moments where love overcomes rigidity are incredibly meaningful.
This book offers many insights, especially for parents of younger children. Not everything can be applied exactly the same way, as personalities differ, but it raises important ideas and encourages reflection. It makes you pause and consider how you might approach situations differently.
Rosemary L.
"It reminded me that parents are allowed to be fragile too."
The book felt strongest in the personal stories and lived experiences Nadia shared from her early life and with both of her children. Those moments truly anchored the message for me. They pulled me in emotionally and gave real weight and credibility to the wisdom she shares. The lessons felt most powerful when they emerged naturally from the experiences.
“The Quiet Contract” moved me the most. I deeply connected to the way Nadia captured what it feels like to get lost inside her own heartache and still choose to show up for her child. Her honesty and willingness to show herself as imperfect brought me to tears. It reminded me that parents are allowed to be fragile too, and that fragility doesn’t have to define us.
Reading Nadia’s stories made me want to be more present in the small, everyday moments: to slow down, really look my kids in the eyes, and truly listen. It also helped me notice how often I get wrapped up in adult worries and compensate with grand gestures, when what matters most are the simple, consistent ways of showing up.
Marina K.
"It confirmed feelings I already had about parenting but couldn't always clearly articulate."
The book felt very true and natural. It reflects real-life parenting in a way that feels honest and relatable.
“The Cat or Me” resonated with me the most. It confirmed feelings I already had about parenting but couldn’t always clearly articulate.
It gave me a sense of reassurance and alignment in my thinking about raising children.
Sara D.
"She just explained my daughter to me!"
I thoroughly enjoyed Nadia's memoir. I took away so many useful tidbits as a parent of younger daughters myself.
Thank you for your vulnerability and wisdom!