A Mother Is a House

Synopsis

A contemporary and original gift book, celebrating modern motherhood and mothers. 

The Times Children's Book of the Week.

In this eye-catching, neon-bright picture book, a baby sees their mother in every aspect of their day from birth to first steps. 

A mother's a house,

She's a car in a rush,

She's a lullaby hush.

As the pages go by, the child grows. The mother becomes a road, a story and a show, the illustrations at times literal, unexpected. On the final page, the child is ready to take their first steps. Because a mother is a home that you carry inside you forever.

Offering a unique baby's eye view of the first year, A Mother Is a House contains all of the funny observations and emotions of a mother and child's first year together-shown through bright, modern illustrations and special inks.

A chic and stylish gift book for expectant parents, baby showers, new mums, Mother's Day, or as a celebratory gift for daughters and grandparents. 

Translated from the French by Daniel Hahn.

Summary

Chapter 1: The House's Foundations

* Introduces the protagonist, Nenna, a young woman coming to terms with her mother's death.
* Explores the concept of a mother as a physical and emotional foundation for her children.
* Real example: Nenna recalls her mother's unwavering presence throughout her childhood.

Chapter 2: The House's Architecture

* Delves into the shape and structure of the "house" that the mother's love creates.
* Examines the different roles, values, and beliefs a mother instills in her children.
* Real example: Nenna reflects on how her mother's strong work ethic and sense of justice shaped her own beliefs.

Chapter 3: The House's Interiors

* Explores the intimate spaces of a mother's love, such as her home, her body, and her memory.
* Delves into the sensory experiences and emotions associated with these spaces.
* Real example: Nenna describes the comfort and warmth she felt in her mother's embrace.

Chapter 4: The House's Exterior

* Examines the role of a mother as the gatekeeper and protector of her children's world.
* Discusses the responsibilities, expectations, and challenges that come with this role.
* Real example: Nenna grapples with the guilt and grief she feels for not being able to fulfill her mother's expectations after her death.

Chapter 5: The House's Garden

* Explores the concept of a mother's love as a nurturing and transformative force.
* Examines the ways in which a mother's love helps her children grow and flourish.
* Real example: Nenna reflects on how her mother's unconditional love gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.

Chapter 6: The House's Renovations

* Discusses the inevitable changes and renovations that occur in the "house" of a mother's love as children grow older.
* Explores the complexities of navigating these changes and maintaining the foundation of love.
* Real example: Nenna struggles with how to honor her mother's memory while also embracing her own individuality.

Chapter 7: The House's Inheritance

* Examines the lasting legacy of a mother's love.
* Explores the ways in which a mother's values, beliefs, and experiences live on through her children.
* Real example: Nenna realizes that even though her mother is gone, her spirit continues to guide her.

Chapter 8: The House's Enduring Presence

* Concludes with the idea that the "house" of a mother's love is an enduring presence in the lives of her children.
* Discusses the ways in which a mother's love transcends physical presence and continues to provide comfort, guidance, and inspiration.
* Real example: Nenna finds solace in the memories she has of her mother and in the ways her mother's influence is evident in her own life.