The Sh*t No One Tells You

A Guide to Surviving Your Baby’s First Year

by Dawn Dais

4.2(742 ratings)

11 min read

Brief overview

This book offers a frank, funny, and comforting look at the messy realities of ending one chapter of life and figuring out the next. It dives into the emotional, physical, and mental challenges of a major upheaval while providing encouraging ideas and insights for anyone navigating a tumultuous transition.

Introduction

We all daydream about a smooth, secure future—until life reminds us that change isn’t always under our control. The author openly shares her experiences of unraveling a long-term relationship, stumbling into new modes of living, and learning how to piece it all back together. The result isn’t a tidy manual, but rather a raw guide steeped in humor and heartfelt honesty.

This is a story about discovering who you really are once old structures come crashing down. There are rants, random attempts at meditation, and revelations in the form of punching bags. Instead of painting a glossy picture, the writing admits that feeling lost is sometimes the first step toward finding clarity.

Throughout these pages, you’ll see how chaos can give rise to surprising growth. The journey forward is paved with personal anecdotes, trials, and breakthroughs that anyone can relate to, whether they’re recovering from heartbreak or simply curious about what lies beyond a major life quake.

“Grace always does bat last, and the light always overcomes the darkness.”

Behind the Scenes Stress

Most people have no clue what chaos lurks behind even the smoothest façade. This book highlights how seemingly small annoyances, like paper towels piling on the countertop, can evolve into glaring signs of a partnership cracking at the seams. We see how one mild frustration can snowball into something monumental over time.

With humor sprinkled between tough moments, the author emphasizes that daily irritations often mask deeper problems. You can feel the tension mounting in every task—washing dishes, tidying up small messes, and trying to keep appearances. The quiet resentment that builds in these routines can be the undoing of any relationship if left unspoken.

We’re urged to look more closely at what doesn’t seem right and to address it earlier rather than later. The admission that we sometimes stay in denial for fear of rocking the boat serves as a cautionary tale. Ultimately, this section reminds us that unresolved issues, no matter how banal, will eventually demand our attention.

Believe it when something tells you it’s broken.

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What is The Sht No One Tells You* about?

"The Sh*t No One Tells You: A Guide to Surviving Your Baby’s First Year" by Dawn Dais offers a refreshingly candid take on early parenthood. Embracing humor and raw honesty, this no-nonsense guide exposes the ups and downs of navigating a newborn's first year. Many parenting books showcase the blissful moments, but Dais bravely dishes out the not-so-glamorous sides, from sleepless nights to unexpected emotional roller coasters.

Central to the book are topics such as redefining personal identity amidst the chaos, the realities of co-parenting, and finding humor in seemingly insurmountable situations. By uncovering truths often left unspoken, Dais empowers new parents to embrace imperfection and find comfort in shared experiences. This book is a lifeline for new parents striving to maintain sanity while adapting to the complex dynamics of family life.

What sets this book apart is its impact on readers, as it breaks the silence around the less-discussed aspects of new parenthood. Dawn Dais’s deft touch ensures that while the journey may be bumpy, joy and love remain ever-present, making the often challenging first year manageable and even enjoyable for parents everywhere.

Review of The Sht No One Tells You*

In "The Sh*t No One Tells You," Dawn Dais addresses the untidy truths of parenting with a mix of wit and realism that resonates deeply. The book's key strength lies in its unapologetic portrayal of common struggles new parents face, shattering the idyllic image often portrayed by mainstream parenting literature. Through personal anecdotes and relatable humor, Dais makes new parents feel seen, understood, and less alone in their unique journeys.

The writing style is straightforward and accessible, ensuring that the advice is practical and easy to digest, whether you’re reading during a rare moment of quiet or in the midst of baby chaos. This readability ensures that the book serves as a practical go-to guide when guidance is crucial. While emphasizing individuality, Dais also highlights vital takeaways like embracing alone time and co-parenting complexities. She offers practical solutions, acknowledging that what works for one may not for another, thereby advocating for personal solutions over a one-size-fits-all approach.

New parents and caregivers will find this book indispensable. It's a brilliant companion for sleepless nights filled with doubt and laughter, and Dais gently reassures her readers that it's okay not to have everything perfect. Highly recommended for anyone about to embark on the adventure of raising a child, this book is a comforting and enlightening read that reinforces the value of authenticity over illusion.

Who should read The Sht No One Tells You*?

New Parents: This book offers realistic insights and humor that validates the chaotic first-year experiences.
Expectant Parents: Provides a preparatory view, setting realistic expectations before their newborn arrives.
Healthcare Professionals: Offers a first-hand perspective that can enrich patient interactions and support.
Grandparents: Keeps them informed of modern parenting challenges and dynamics in a relatable way.
Support Groups: Facilitates discussions by presenting honest narratives that resonate with many members.

About the author

Dawn Dais is a freelance writer, designer, and filmmaker from Sacramento, CA. She is the author of the popular "The Sht No One Tells You" series, which includes guides on pregnancy, toddlers, and divorce. Her books have topped Amazon.com best-seller lists and have been featured by numerous TV and print media sources. She has written multiple books, including "The Nonrunner's Marathon Guide for Women" and "It All Goes By So Fast, Except Maybe This Part," showcasing her versatility and expertise in various topics.