“The Unexpected When You’re Expecting”
Thursday, October 30th, 2008Milkscreen Moms book pick of the month - “The Unexpected When You’re Expecting” by Mary K. Moore is a must have for all parents, expecting and experienced. The newly released book is a parody on the book “What to Expect” and it is absolutely hysterical. It has gotten rave reviews and is on the recommended reading list from Glamour Magazine.
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Mary about the book and her thoughts on motherhood. Take a look at the conversation below.
What made you want to write “The Unexpected When You’re Expecting”?
“I wanted an alternative to all the advice guides that were out there. This book is pure escapism–no advice whatsoever. It’s the fun gift at the shower or the book you read when you want to molest a pint of ice cream. I also wanted it to be funny whether you had someone marinating in your uterus or not. In fact, I’ve had a great response from men who have read it and that thrills me. It’s a parody so that allowed me to be a bit snarky and over the top. Just because you lose your ability to menstruate, doesn’t mean you lose your edge. Essentially, I was aiming for Daily Show with a due date.”
Do you have any advice for Moms who might want to write a book?
”It’s a business like anything else. I was a magazine editor in New York for 10 years before I started with books so the industry wasn’t completely unfamiliar. If you’re new to publishing though, the best place to start is researching the type of book you want to write. Read what’s out there and figure out how you can fill a niche. Essentially, the whole time you’re thinking of an idea–ask yourself literally “Who is going to care about this?” Then find out. Prove it to yourself first, and then you can prove it to an agent or publisher. I will say, writing a book is the best gig ever for a mother. It’s one of the few jobs in the world that you can do with a child in your lap.”
What was your funniest moment breastfeeding?
“When random men would come up and ask for “a hit”. I’m kidding. I didn’t breast feed. Mine are recreational use only.”
What is your greatest dream as a mom?
“For my kid to find true happiness. And to be the kind of mom who can show her the way there, whether her destination is a place I’m familiar with or not. Oh, and for Bugaboo to install a drink holder.”
Thanks to Mary for for her time. We can’t wait to hear about your next literary adventure!


