The Headmaster's Wife

‘She’s so good at playing the violin, she’s practically Asian!’…a line from fiery Gabrielle in an episode of Desperate Housewives where she suffers from competitive mum syndrome!

Tiger Mother was the hot topic at the latest Book Club meeting (I know I say it each time, but it was another great get together with good people).  Parenting is so very personal and once shared with a wide audience can be contentious and critique comes easy…we all have our own style, traditions, beliefs, etc. and any attempt to coerse parents to take on your methods is dangerous ground.  But I don’t think this was essentially Amy Chua’s purpose when she wrote her journal of family life.  I must say I admire her devotion and determination, but can’t help wondering if this came at a price.  Her willingness to share so openly her ‘tiger’ parenting, and as such to invite readers to form an opinion about her family life is awfully brave.

Look out for the next Book Club read…The Help by Kathryn Stockett (already made into a movie due out this summer).

The Artist and I recently had the opportunity to see The Tiger Who Came to Tea live on stage before it runs in London during the summer and I urge you to book tickets now!  The book (first published in 1968) is a firm favourite at the Headmaster’s House and Judith Kerr’s illustrations are delightful.  This article from The Telegraph provides great insight into the life of a most fascinating lady and I can’t wait to see her new books about The Great Granny Gang!