The phrase "unsuccessful stepfamilies" doesn't make it sound like something to strive for, does it?

What is an "unsuccessful stepfamily" and what is the difference between unsuccessful stepfamilies and successful stepfamilies? What are the key issues of stepparenting?

In this groundbreaking book, Kali and Elizabeth Schnieders share their painful, powerful, and ultimately joyful story. They lead you from the creation of an unsuccessful stepfamily through to the joy of becoming a successful stepfamily - a family.

Many of us have grown up with the story of Cinderella, the classic story of a family that is broken when it becomes a stepfamily. For those who have survived the challenges of being a member of a stepfamily, you know that the goal is to become a blended family - a true family.

Confusion, grief, jealousy, frustration and anger are all commonplace in unsuccessful stepfamilies.

"All of our temptations are common to man, but God is faithful..."

(1 Cor. 10:13)

Stepparents are tempted to think:

"I'm in over my head. Maybe I've made a mistake with this marriage."

"Divorce is NOT an option, but how can I stay sane while waiting for an empty nest."

Stepchildren are tempted to think:

"Why did this woman have to marry my Dad and wreck my life?"

"I want my real mom!

Through pain, hard work, and their faith and reliance on the bible, blended families such as that of Kali and Elizabeth Schnieders have achieved great success. As Kali and Elizabeth will tell you, the guidance of family and friends and the bible made all the difference to this blended family.

While Kali and Elizabeth's family might be referred to as a "bible blended family," it is not only reliance on the bible and their faith that made the difference. As you will learn in this remarkable story, it is also the strength and determination of these two women that enabled them to become a loving family.

Of the many women's issues faced in today's complex world, creating blended families and stepparenting have become far more common. If you are struggling with this same issue - that of being a member of one of a growing number of unsuccessful stepfamilies, of being a stepparent or stepchild - read this book! It will give you the hope and the confidence that make all the difference.

This book does not try to convince you that there is a quick fix to your problems. What it does do is help you ask yourself some key questions to use as a springboard for working through your own issues.

You're NOT My MOM offers hope.

It also offers:

• Help. Gain a fresh perspective on your own situation as you discover the secrets of staying the course (when you'd rather toss in the towel). Through our ups and downs you will see how growth eventually comes if you stick with it.
• Comfort. Breathe a sigh of relief, as you discover that you are not alone...your struggles are commonly shared by stepparents (and many birth parents as well.)
• Peace of mind. Feel the "worry wrinkles" ease from your brow as you come to believe that any stepfamily can learn to cope with the day to day issues.
• Insights. Thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter will help your family grapple with the tough stuff, and discover ways to move from conflict to love.
• Power. You will encounter bitter enemies who defeated their hatred and became best friends. Discover their secret weapon, and find the surest way out of the darkness into the light of family joy.

Whether your stepfamily was created through death or divorce, you will be reassured by the words and inspired by the outcome of this story. The thought-provoking struggles, and tender moments are infused with a polite dose of heavenly grace that will encourage people of all faiths.

And you may find yourself believing for the first time that if your family will reflect on its behavior, commit to growth, press on in spite of pain and allow the light of God's love to work — there can be harmony, unity and blessing in your future.

"If an inadequately prepared and ill-equipped businesswoman who never even babysat can turn into a successful (step)mother, there's hope for anyone!"

Kali Schnieders

Learn more about the authors and their individual backgrounds.