BLENDING FAMILIES: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS, STEPPARENTS, AND EVERYONE BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL NEW FAMILY
1999 Berkley
ISBN: 0-425-16677-5
Trade paperback $12.00 (CAN $17.00)

With the growing role of second marriages, new family structures are forming and with these structures come unique problems and needs. How can all of these needs be met without hurting feelings or creating confusion and resentment? In this insightful problem-solving guide, Elaine Fantle Shimberg, a grandmother to two stepgrandchildren, offers viable solutions-and includes real-life stories from families who have confronted the same problems. She explains the viewpoints of everyone involved-children and adults-and shows how to navigate the situation and new family faces.

Naturally, there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution for second-marriage families. Each is unique, with its own composition, personalities, and problems. But with patience and understanding, this new family can work, live, and eventually love together.

'This helpful guide discusses such issues as family communication, dealing with former spouses, grandparents and stepgrandparents, juggling households, community children, discipline, school issues, customs and rituals, religious differences, ways to reduce stress, adult time, money issues, holiday planning, vacations, curfews and other rules.'