"Mama Needs a Minute!" had me feeling so many different ways. On one hand, if you read to break away from your everyday life, then DO NOT READ THIS. However, if you are looking for a relatable book, you want to stop feeling like you are all alone in your daily struggles and frustrations, if you sometimes just need to laugh at the daily ridiculousness and realize that you are not alone... in that case I 100% RECOMMEND this book. There were times I laughed because Starr's story was funny, or so relatable that all I could do was laugh. Sometimes the laugh was a "yep! I get it!". Then there were times where the words were hard to read because... Why does it have to be like this? Why is it so hard? Why does it have to be an argument instead of a genuine willingness to help? I am not even sure that I could rehash the whirlwind of emotions (good, bad, and indifferent) that I felt while reading this.

I felt this was well done, and it was structured in a way that we are reading a story, but it was broken up by little skits, or AIM messenger windows (which had me dying laughing), or candid conversations, and cute little pictures to illustrate... well... the Peanut Butter.

I would recommend this, and I will be gifting this for birthdays and holidays next year.

I originally picked this up expecting a cute little picture book and after that initial shock I quickly felt myself getting really into this.

This was a funny and clever reflection on what it is like to live in our current society as both a wife and a mother and all the "norms" (aka stereotypes, grievances, etc) that go along with it. I found myself often seeing a panel or so and screeched at just how much I agreed with what was on page. E.g. "YES, YES THAT!! That is EXACTLY what it feels like." or "OH MY GOD, YES!" There was a particular moment where I couldn't control my reaction at all when viewing the page titled 'What Labor and Birth Were Actually Like' and felt myself belly laugh so hard there may as well have been a sonic boom attached to the end of it.

I did feel particularly sad when it came to the more depressing societal double standards of men vs women and how women are expected to be the de-facto "main" parents and how that affects us emotionally and physically. I hate how true it is and appreciate commentary like this to help bring more awareness to it and hopefully change the cultural norms and expectations for our future daughters (and sons).

In the end I felt this was so relatable to so many women out there I cannot recommend this enough. The humor, cheeky satire blended in with truth was everything and went beyond my expectations.

"Sometimes the hardest part is letting go of my own need for control and trusting him to handle things in his own way (and if he doesn't, letting him deal with the consequences of his actions or inactions)"

Mama needs a Minute brings to light a lot of issues in motherhood and marriage that can be worked through as a team.

I liked the fun "comics" that went along with the different points the author was making. The examples of issues were so relatable and I enjoyed the real life advice.

This was a book Mom's should enjoy. I gave it four stars because it was a good read, with so much good information to take into account.

This is a funny story, but also very serious. It is the story of a mother who wants to do it all, know it all, be prepared, and a husband who figures it will all work out because it always does.


The book follows along as we see that the only way it will work out, is if the mother does do it all. She reflects in the story, that she should have planned better, that she should have brought in her husband sooner, that she shouldn’t have been quite so picky.


There is a great point, where her daughter says that she doesn’t want to play basketball, because she wants to do art. Her mother tells her she can do it all. The daughter says, no, that would be too much. And the mother realizes that she is right.


Sad at times, as we see the mother spiraling, but beautiful too, as she realizes what is going on, and brings her husband in as much as she can.


Much of this has been online, but this is the total collection, plus her thoughts on what she wrote about. Perhaps this is the book that expectant mothers should be reading. :)


Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be coming out on the 11th of March 2025.

I am a sucker for memoir-esque graphics about parenthood. It's a super niche topic, and I devour just about any book that fits this category. I love how there were anecdotes, tied in with some more harrowing moments of parenthood.

3.5 ⭐️I was given the chance to read the ARC and I must say it was raw and very real yet funny at times lol. Sometimes I would go "YEP!" I COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND! lol The comics really brought her points to life and made them enjoyable! We don't share the same views in some areas but this is her story/life that she wanted to share to maybe encourage those who do share those views.

I originally thought this book was about just funny things moms had to deal with and it is in a different way. It’s a literal book about the author’s life experiences. Not what I was expecting but it was interesting to see a different perspective of how a book could be written.

Fans of Mary Catherine Starr's Instagram will be wholly satisfied with her book. Providing readers with more of her signature style comics, the book also gives insight into Mary Catherine's life and marriage before motherhood. Often I've found myself laughing in frustrated recognition at her comics-she has a way of presenting a familiar annoyance and cutting to the heart of the issue.

real, raw, and honest. did i say how HILARIOUS and relatable this was? you can laugh along with and nod in agreement, we’ve all been there with the big ideas and then had to change the plans at the last minute because everything wasn’t working out. i really hope it helps some parents realize the front others put on is just a front.

life works better when we support each other and laugh together.

thank you so much Chronicle books for my free book! this made motherhood a lil easier for me lol

This is the most relatable book I've ever read. The challenges of parenthood are so real, and so varied for everyone, yet so similar. It's great to be able to share in our misery lol

I discovered Mary Catherine one day while scrolling through Instagram (@momlife_comics), and let me tell you, it was like a sign from the gods that we collided. Her words and insight on motherhood is like a balm to any mama’s soul. She sees you, makes you feel less alone and helps put a name to those icky feelings you have festering inside when you feel like you’re just in the thick of this thing called motherhood and you have nothing left to give.

Mama Needs a Minute! is a comic memoir that captures the all-too-relatable labor of love that is modern motherhood. I often find myself thinking I have dementia, but then remind myself that it’s just the invisible mental load that I am carrying. Mary Catherine gets it – and not just in words, but perfectly in images as well. Spousal resentment? Have that. Feeling like you’re drowning in laundry? I’m with ya. Always have an audience in the bathroom? Me too. I knew motherhood was going to be one of the hardest – and most rewarding – things I ever do in life, but some days I just feel like it’s impossible. And I just have one child.

This book feels like I am not alone. It’s filled with humor, astute observations, wit and warmth. I found that I wanted to devour it because I felt so seen, but I had to set it down because I found that I was getting heated at times because it was hitting a little close to home. Was I seething in the corner staring at my husband as he obliviously ate peanuts on the couch while there was a mound of dishes to be done? You bet. But, this book delicately reminded me that I need to do the work to communicate my needs or he’s never going to get off the couch and do.the.dishes.

I adored this book, and I think it would be perfect for any mom in the throws of motherhood. It offers a great message of “I see you,” which I think we sometimes need to feel.

Thank you to Mary Catherine Starr, Chronicle Books, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of the book for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a funny and honest look at motherhood and marriage. She brings to light a lot of the inequality of running the household and she tells her story with hilarious comics.
I'm not a mom to kiss but am a dog mom so I could actually relate to some of this. This is a great book for moms or soon-to-be moms.

This book is so relatable as a mother of young children. Mary Catherine Starr's instagram post went viral when she compared outsiders' perceptions of mothers vs fathers doing the same thing. She really cuts to the core of current modern mothering issues. I really enjoyed the style of this book

Mama Needs a Minute! by Mary Catherine Starr is such a fun, relatable read for anyone who’s ever felt the chaos of motherhood. The book’s a great reminder that it’s okay to take a step back and take care of yourself, even when life is hectic. I loved the mix of humor and honesty—it’s like reading a letter from a mom who gets it. It’s refreshing, lighthearted, and comforting, offering a sense of solidarity to anyone juggling the demands of family life. I think our library patrons, especially parents, will really enjoy this one—it’s the perfect pick-me-up for a busy day!

This book is one of the best parenting books I've read! Mary Catherine Starr's "mom life comics" went viral. a few years ago when she pointed out the double standards our society holds moms and dads to. This book dives into the inequalities of parenthood, using her marriage as an example. I loved the honesty and candor with which Starr tells her story; it is clear that she and her husband have worked hard to confront the challenges she outlines in this book. This book is laugh-out-loud funny, deeply relatable, and also hits with some gut punches as well. It is a must-have for all new parents!

I thought from the title and cover that this would be funny, and it was, but it was also stressful and heartbreaking, because I found it so relatable. This kind of stress is so common, and Starr really knows how to put it on paper.
Of course, it's common for women to take on so much of the work of parenting, and at least here we see a couple trying to sort out the responsibilities to make it more fair. But even when people want to work together it can be difficult, and it can be even more difficult once habits are established.
I was worried about what kind of partner Starr had when she described her early relationship, where she lived abroad and wanted her then-boyfriend to bring her peanut butter. He had his grandmother bring a small jar and didn't even let her have all of it, and had no idea why she was upset. It wasn't about the peanut butter! ::)
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this amazing graphic novel.

Very eye opening for not only the joys of motherhood but it fully encapsulates struggles of everyday life in general. I’m honestly not the biggest fan of the format, it got a little wordy for me considering that it is a graphic novel. Overall though, a great book.

This is a great book for those who connect with the joys and hardships of being a mother! The author really tells you how it is and makes you well aware of what motherhood has in store for those who don't know. Some say she is a little rough on her husband, but she is just being honest. It is hard being a mother and she's not sugar coated it at all. I am glad that I read it because it helps knowing that there are others that relate to all the "fun" and fun comes with being a mom.

Mary Catherine Starr writes and illustrated such poignant comics about modern motherhood and the mental load that comes with it. She does such a fantastic job of expressing this and giving hope for ways that we can work with our partners to address it.

Based on the cover, I thought this book would be a collection of comics documenting the ups and downs of motherhood. Is it not exactly this. It is actually an illustrated yet wordy recounting of the author’s journey from fresh, single young woman to harried, overworked, overtired, over-everything mom/wife. It’s cute but way more wordy than I was expecting. This is not a bad thing, but it was a surprising thing. Clearly I did not read the description of this book closely enough.

The illustrations are very cute, and what they depict are painfully accurate. I loved the “what I thought it would be” vs “what it really was” comparisons sprinkled out. I think I will make my husband read the parts where she illustrates the dad experience at things vs mom’s.

I highly recommend this for anyone, but it will probably be most meaningful for couples and parents.

(ARC received from NetGalley)

Top notch. I’d give this book more stars if it were possible. Mary Catherine portrays an honest view of mothers and primary caretakers in our society. It’s raw, and real. Sometimes absolutely hilarious. This book is perfect for your new mom friend about to lose her ish. I cannot say enough good things. I had a great time and loved reading it.

I received a copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Honestly, some of the comics were cute and rang true, but there were parts where it felt (deservedly) harsh on her husband. I know she's telling her truth and many women's truth, but there were very few positive outlooks on her marriage/husband. That being said, I love how open she is about mental health and the necessity of openess of communication in a partnership.

I went into thinking it would be a light, funny book but it was much heavier and wordier than anticipated.

This was a very relatable book! It was nice to hear from another mother who also suffered from the crazy postpartum anxiety and depression that comes after having a child! I loved how the book was laid out, with both passages and comic portions of the book. I did feel there were a few parts that went very slow and I felt it talked a lot about laundry, almost too long about it. But, overall I really enjoyed this book and loved being able to feel seen and heard by a fellow mom who went through the same struggles I go through!

Motherhood is rough. I have long enjoyed Mary Catherine Starr’s comics on Instagram so when this came up on NetGalley I was thrilled. Starr shows her personal journey to motherhood, the double standards we face in society, and the sheer craziness of it all. Love her voice, the style of art and the relatable content. I would love to gift this to friends on their first pregnancy journey.

This book is everything you'd hope to be and more. It's about being a woman, wife, mother, and how the self disappears in all of that. I didn't really expect to cry and laugh as much as I did reading this. It felt like all my vulnerable thoughts about those moments which I feel guilty for resentment were talked about without shame, and for that, I love this book.

The first moment of sudden realization of "this person knows how I feel, think, and my experiences" was the comic where the dad couldn't find anything during the first few weeks of baby.

The comics are brilliant. I really liked how it felt like a consistent interview throughout the book. The comics are really what takes this book from good to brilliant. So much more to the story is conveyed through the comic strips, like dirty dishes or the messy bun. It's a reflection of me.

This would be perfect for anyone who wants to be a mom, will be a mom after pregnancy or adoption, is a mom, or knows a mom. Really, it's a fantastic book for anyone to get a good idea of being a person who balances it all while society always has expectations about it.

As a longtime fan of Mary Catherine Starr’s @momlife_comics on Instagram, I couldn’t wait to dive into Mama Needs a Minute!—and it absolutely delivered! This illustrated memoir captures the hilarious chaos of motherhood with Starr’s signature wit and relatability.

From sleepless nights to endless toddler interruptions, Starr perfectly encapsulates the joys, frustrations, and absurdities of mom life. Her comics had me laughing out loud, nodding in solidarity, and occasionally tearing up at how seen I felt. The blend of humor and heartfelt moments strikes a perfect balance, making this a book that feels like a much-needed chat with a mom friend who gets it.

Whether you’re a fan of @momlife_comics or just looking for a lighthearted gift for a mom in your life, Mama Needs a Minute! is a delightful and relatable read that will leave you feeling less alone in the chaos of motherhood. Highly recommend for anyone who’s been covered in sweet potato and wondered if they’ll ever pee alone again!

I felt like this book offered a lot of insight into things in my life that I could look at through a different lens. I really enjoyed it, and liked the illustrations as well.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book for an honest review. This is raw and a comical take through comic analogies. I related to the authors experience in motherhood and honestly found a few moments that I could share with my husband and it led to some decent discussions.

@momlife_comics is one of my favorite instagram accounts. I absolutely love this, it would be the perfect gift and a must for moms. Hilarious, accurate, relatable and informative. From dating all the way through the kids and the mental load. (The divorce tree was also (weirdly?) relatable.)

I definitely enjoyed this book and Starr's take on motherhood. Not exactly what I was expecting but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

As soon as I saw the title, I knew I needed this and it did not disappoint! Most books like this almost make the mom look like she's complaining and awful but I loved this one.

This book, like the author’s comics, made me feel less alone in my parenthood journey. I appreciate her take on motherhood and the struggles it contains.

I’ve followed the momlife comic online for a while and I expected this book to be a compilation of those comics. I did t expect to see all the complicated feelings I have about marriage and motherhood dissected in such a relatable way. The illustrations address so many moments and emotions in succinct and meaningful snippets, but the book is so much more than that. I miss my kindle highlight feature, though I related to so many things the whole book may have been highlighted.
This book literally illustrates the disparity between moms and dads, the crushing guilt of not being able to do it all, and the mental load of motherhood in a way that made me feel seen.