
How to Be Second Best
by Jessica Dettmann
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Pub Date Dec 17 2018 | Archive Date Feb 01 2019
HarperCollins Publishers Australia | HarperCollins AU
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Description
A hilarious and heart-warming debut that captures the dramas, delights and delirium of modern parenting. This is Marian Keyes meets Allison Pearson, with a dash of Caitlin Moran.
Going from one child to two is never all that easy for a family, but when Emma's husband simultaneously fathers a third child three doors up the street, things get very tricky, very fast.
No longer is it enough for Emma to be the best wife and mother - now she's trying to be the best ex-wife, and the best part-time parent to her ex's love child, and that's before she even thinks about adding a new bloke to the mix.
Set in an upwardly mobile, ultra-competitive suburb, this is a funny, biting, heartwarming modern comedy that looks at the roles we play, how we compete, and what happens when we dare to strive for second-best.
'Hilarious, heartwarming [and] all too relatable ... Ultimate summer read' Herald Sun
'Sharp and crisp and funny. I was dazzled.' Mia Freedman
'A refreshing and honest depiction of the delirium of modern family life ... while it is undeniably laugh-out-loud funny, it is also incredibly heartwarming and real' Better Reading
'Heartwarming yet biting' Sunday Telegraph
'Full of funny moments, this debut takes a wry look at parenthood, divorce and the messy reality of blended families. ****' Who Weekly
'Jessica Dettmann is a fine comic writer. She has an eye for the small details, irritations and inspirations of life which coupled with a truly original turn of phrase and great way with a gag makes for sparkling and heartwarming reading.' Ben Elton
Advance Praise
'Jessica Dettmann is a fine comic writer. She has an eye for the small details, irritations and inspirations of life which coupled with a truly original turn of phrase and great way with a gag makes for sparkling and heart-warming reading.' Ben Elton
'Sharp and crisp and funny. I was dazzled.' Mia Freedman
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9781460755969 |
PRICE | A$29.99 (AUD) |
PAGES | 368 |
Featured Reviews

I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review
This is one of the funniest books I’ve read in years. The characters were warm and relatable, and you really feel for the protagonist’s conflict as her love for her children is very believable. Made me re-think a few things. Stellar mom-lit.
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