jessejane306 's review for:

How to Dungeon Master Parenting: A GuideBook by Shelly Mazzanoble

4.0

funny informative lighthearted fast-paced

---

I’d recommend this for a new(er) parent. The early chapters aren’t as relevant when you’re on Kid 2. Although her descriptions of the early stages are pretty entertaining. I was surprised Mazzanoble went to the later stages of parenting a kid. I know hers is roughly a tweenager at the time of publishing. I’m sure DM skills are applicable there

I really liked the section on discipline. It gave good explanations on different styles and how they work. The D&D tie-in to not spoiling your kids works well too. Hearing how popular D&D became and how helpful it was for kids and their schooling was heartening. There’s a lot to enjoy here. 

Mazzanoble does her own audio for this and she does a fantastic job. She strikes that balance of not-too-dry, not-too-conversational perfectly. When you’ve heard enough audiobooks getting it wrong, you really appreciate someone getting it right. 

My favorite quote from this was: “Someone is comparing themselves to you right now, wishing they could be half as confident and capable as you are.” I believe this but that’s because my kids make me look like a better parent than I am. 

Remember, if you’re the kind of parent who reads parenting books and cares about the job you’re doing, you’re doing great. 

If you’re not a fan of D&D, skip this. The references are deep. I’ve only played a handful of times and my knowledge is surface level. Several references went right over my head and were Googled. If you’re into this niche, you’ll love it. Everyone else will be confused. 

I was entertained and fellow dungeon dwelling parents will be too. 4/5