A Love That Multiplies: An Up-Close View of How They Make it Work by Michelle Duggar, Jim Bob Duggar

Do you watch the show? I am going to let you in on a few things here in this post: for one, I do. Usually I get to catch it on the DVR so I skip commercials. My wife and I do not have nearly the number of kids they do; we just have eight, but we share many similarities and I found for once that reading non-fiction is not a chore. Do I agree with everything in this book? No, it isn’t made to be that way. My wife read it also and I think the best thing to come from reading this book is the dialogue my wife and I shared afterwards. I will agree, there are many similarities in our families (other than the fact we have large families). The interactions between the kids always hits home for us; it seems kids will be kids. The Duggars basically lay themselves and their beliefs out there for you; I for one admire that. They even say in the book, what they believe and how they live is not for everyone, but this is how and why they do it. Their faith driven approach is inspirational.

Truthful, straight up and to the point. I for one respect that type of honesty because they presented things in a manner that was not confrontational, disrespectful or condescending. I basically read this book with the intent and desire to get a look into what their motivations and insights were as parents. What drives them, how they maintain such a nice family atmosphere, and where all the love comes from. I got my answer in spades and that made the read for me. Do I agree with all their viewpoints? No, I don’t think most would, but that is the thing, they don’t mind; this is who they are. This was a true investment of time in my marriage, my family and my life and I feel better for having taken the time to give this book a try. Give “A Love That Multiplies” a try; the Duggars show us that through their faith, hope, and hard work their family is thriving and there will always be more than enough love to go around.

Here is the synopsis:

“In this second book from the Duggars, they focus on the principles that equip them to face life's challenges—drawing from their most recent challenge with the 3-month premature birth of their newest child, Josie. They also share the new challenges their older children are facing as they prepare for adult life. Central to the book is a section on the principles that the Duggars have consistently taught their children. These simply worded principles are basic to the Duggar family and are shared in a way that other parents can incorporate in their own homes. A special chapter on homeschooling gives valuable information to parents who are considering this route or are already invested in it. The world continues to be amazed by their nineteen well-groomed, well-behaved, well-schooled children and their home life, which focuses on family, financial responsibility, fun—and most importantly, faith. The Duggars show how parents can succeed whether they’re rearing a single child or several.”