Step Mother’s Helping Hand – Brianna Beach – Mom Comes First – Preview. “Step Mother’s Helping Hand: A Memorable Year” by Brianna Beach consists of almost 40 pages of beach-themed and mommy-step motherly advice. The story follows the family of five as they adjust to life after a divorce. Step Mother (voiced by Shea Ensminger), a single parent, has decided to move in with her sister and share the house. Step Mother is supportive of her daughter, but she still wants her own space. When Brianna’s friends help her plan her own beach vacation, it seems like every idea gets rejected.
Step Mother helps the family through each phase of the trip, from shopping for supplies to picking up the kids at the airport. The book ends with an important discussion about Brianna’s need to take care of herself during this period and how the friends’ help can alleviate her anxiety. At the end, the family decides to stay in a hotel for three nights instead of returning to their home. With a lot of support from her friends, Brianna finally makes it through her summer without needing to retreat to her room.
Beach-themed illustrations add life to the book and the story is delivered in a light and fun manner that makes it entertaining to read. The layout is easy to follow and the pictures are clear and well-lit. If you’re looking for a positive and encouraging to read about how to deal with a divorce, then this book just might be what you’re looking for.
