‘Purple Leaves, Red Cherries’ – A wonderful gift for mothers

“Purple Leaves, Red Cherries: A Gift for Mothers with Short Stories, Journal & Toolkit,” co-authored by Tania Elfersy and Andrea Katzman and illustrated by Nomi Melul Ohad, is a must for every new mom or mother of young children. This beautifully illustrated, full-color book offers women tools to cope with the challenges of the early years of motherhood. It was designed “to embrace new mothers” and help them feel “they are not alone,” explains Elfersy in the book’s preface.

The title evokes a “world of journey and discovery” according to the authors.

“We were looking for a name that would portray a healthy world of journey and discovery, where in the end you get to enjoy the fruits of your exploration.” The purple leaves are the words of the contributors – other mothers – which, in turn, inspire new moms to reflect and create their own narrative. The red cherries are the moments in motherhood that enlighten or empower women.

Opening the book, one is immediately struck by the magnificence of the artwork. Soft, pastel hues are the backdrop for every page that includes illustrations of blossoms, birds and, of course, women.

The 48 short stories, some of which are authored by local community members, are inspiring.  Every mom can relate to stories such as “Transformed,” “Getting it Right,” “The Power of Pee,” “Dirty Dishes” and “Want.” However, the book is meant to be “descriptive and not prescriptive,” meaning the authors did not want the stories to tell mothers how to mother but, rather, share the breadth of experiences as a mother. The journal pages encourage the user to reflect on the joys and complexities of motherhood. The format prompts one to create one’s own stories on subjects such as finding balance, difficult days, relationships, work and expectations.

In addition to the short stories and journal pages, this delightful book also includes a “toolkit.” This unique feature has pages dedicated to anecdotes, tips on reducing stress and a Declaration of Mothers’ Rights. The Mothers’ Toolkit Supplies are located in a pocket at the back of the book. Complete with rice paper, stickers, quotes and a booklet called “Five-Minute Wonders,” the authors have thought of everything a woman needs to practice self-care during the early years of motherhood.

The best part is that reading this book is manageable for a busy mom. The stories are intentionally short (each one is 140 words or less), the writing prompts do not demand more than jotting down a few thoughts and the ideas in the toolkit can be completed in as little as five minutes.

“Purple Leaves, Red Cherries” is also a book that gives back. The book’s publisher Flower Cap Press partnered with Every Mother Counts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making pregnancy and childbirth safe for women by raising funds that support maternal health programs around the world. When you buy “Purple Leaves, Red Cherries” (purpleleavesredcherries.com), $5 will go directly to programs that improve maternal and child health.

KARA MARZIALI is the Director of Communications for the Jewish Alliance and mom to a terrific son.

Title:  Purple Leaves, Red Cherries:  A Gift for Mothers with Short Stories, Journal & Toolkit

Authors: Tania Elfersy & Andrea Katzman

Genre: Parenting & Families/Self development

ISBN: 978-0-9829759-2-3

Publication Date: May 2011

Pages:   176

Price:    $28.95

Publisher: Flower Cap Press