I've done it! I've discovered the secret to healthy mother-daughter communication... well, not really, but I did finish the book.
To be honest I did get a bit lost in Tannen's many personal narratives, both personal and from research subjects, and often had to wade through the stories to find her point. But I did find her conclusion very helpful.
I think healthier conversations between Mom and I can be achieved if we are both willing to ask what the other person meant by a statement that may have seemed hurtful. This is also a skill that I'm learning by living in a house with 12 girls. We women tend to seriously overanalyze and take personally what others say to us. I think a lot of conflict can be avoided with clarification, and by reading books like this!
Good pick Dad! Thanks for wanting to understand us girls better, that makes me feel very loved.
Good-night you two,
Boo
