Mothering in the Margins
On motherhood, faith, and finding meaning in the mess
Midweek Musings is a cozy mix of book recs, library lists, and reading reflections. Thoughtful updates I’d share at a playdate or while browsing the shelves with a friend.
Lately, my reading stack has been filled with books that speak directly to the quiet, complicated layers of motherhood, especially the parts that don’t always make it into the group text or the baby book. The identity shifts. The holy exhaustion. The ache to do it “right,” whatever that means. And the longing for something steady to hold onto while the ground shifts beneath our feet.
These three titles gave me language for things I didn’t know I was carrying and offered grace in places I didn’t know I needed it.
1. To Have and to Hold by Molly Millwood, Ph.D. - This one reads like a lifeline for mothers in the thick of it. A blend of clinical insight and tender reflection, Millwood makes space for the grief, rage, identity loss, and quiet joys that often go unnamed in early motherhood.
“Motherhood is a psychological and spiritual crucible. It burns away all that is extraneous and false and leaves behind a new version of the self.”
It’s not a parenting manual, it’s a mirror. If you’ve ever felt like you were disappearing in the service of your family, this book sees you.
2. Missional Motherhood by Gloria Furman - This book reframes motherhood through a theological lens, seeing the mundane as missional and the daily tasks of parenting as sacred work.
“We are nurturing life in the presence of the Giver of life.”
It’s beautifully rooted in Scripture, and while more prescriptive than Millwood’s, it’s an encouraging reminder that faith can anchor even our most chaotic days.
3. Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley - A practical, faith-forward guide to building rhythms into family life that shape hearts and minds. From mealtimes to screen time to bedtime prayers, Earley reminds us that small, consistent practices form the culture of our homes.
“Every household has habits, whether we choose them or not. The question is: are they forming us into who we want to be?”
It’s deeply intentional without being overwhelming, perfect if you’re craving structure with soul.
4. Hunt, Gather, Parent - What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans by Michaeleen Doucleff
This one surprised and grounded me. Doucleff travels the world to learn parenting wisdom from Indigenous cultures, what she finds is a quiet, cooperative, and deeply respectful approach to raising children.
“We’re taught to control children, rather than to teach them to control themselves.”
It’s part anthropology, part personal journey, and fully fascinating. If you're craving a parenting philosophy that feels less performative and more peaceful, this is it.
More Like This - 3 Books to Add to Your Stack
Liturgy of the Ordinary by Tish Harrison Warren
This one feels like a deep exhale. Warren gently walks through a day—making the bed, brushing teeth, losing keys and shows how each ordinary act holds space for sacred connection.
The Lifegiving Home by Sally & Sarah Clarkson
A cozy, comforting guide to creating rhythms, rituals, and a home culture that nourishes everyone inside. This one is especially lovely if you’re in your nesting era and want to slow down.
Risen Motherhood by Emily Jensen & Laura Wifler
Gospel truths for everyday moments, diaper blowouts, tantrums, Target runs. Written in short, digestible chapters, it’s ideal for moms with little reading time but big questions.
This Beautiful Truth by Sarah Clarkson
Part memoir, part spiritual reflection, Clarkson writes about beauty as a lifeline in the midst of suffering, motherhood, and mental illness. It’s lyrical, honest, and quietly powerful.
If you’re in the thick of it right now, whatever it looks like, I hope one of these books finds its way to your nightstand or your heart. Motherhood is hard and holy. And sometimes, the right words at the right moment can remind us we’re not doing it alone.
What parenting book has stayed with you? I’d love to hear.
See you Friday for a Petite Pause and until then, may your coffee be warm (or at least reheated once), your toddler’s snack demands reasonable, and your soul just a little bit lighter.
Want to shop my shelves? I keep my Pango Bookshop stocked with gently loved reads from my shelves to yours. Take a peek here!
The Second Act is an entirely reader-supported publication written and created by Danielle Wraith. Click here to subscribe or gift a friend a subscription here (if a friend sent you this —tell them thanks!). Anything you want covered? Questions? Reply with a comment below! You can also find me on Instagram. Please come say hi!