Mother’s Day Reads: Insightful Books That Celebrate the Joys and Realities of Motherhood

This Mother’s Day, skip the scented candle and give Mom something even more meaningful—stories she can see herself in. Four Mothers by Abigail Leonard (Algonquin Books, $30) is a standout pick that explores the first year of motherhood through the eyes of women in Japan, Kenya, Finland, and the U.S. With compassion and cultural insight, Leonard reveals how mothers across the globe raise their babies, navigate societal pressures, and lean on their communities to thrive. It’s an eye-opening and affirming read for any mom who’s ever asked, “Am I doing this right?” Whether paired with breakfast in bed or just two hours of quiet, these stories offer perspective, comfort, and a powerful reminder: no two motherhood journeys are the same—and that’s something worth celebrating.