“In the constant maelstrom that is raising young children, it’s hard to take time for yourself—and enjoy it. This entertaining, well-researched book can help.”
— People
“Honest and funny, this feels like a much-needed conversation with a good friend, which is always worth the time.”
— Booklist
“[The Kids Are in Bed] is a practical, well-thought-out argument for a different [parenting] approach—one in which . parental free time is a priority.”
Bestselling Author and Mother of Two Reminds Parents They Can Have Fun: ‘Let Go of the Guilt’
MWF Seeking BFF: Reviewed by Lisa Kay Greissinger, People Magazine
Permission to Parent Less: Rachel Bertsche urges parents to plan playdates for themselves, Chicago Magazine
One Woman's Quest for Happiness Through Favorite Celeb Beauty Routines
Free time for parents: Chicago author Rachel Bertsche maps a plan to grab your life back, in just 20 minutes
Author Rachel Bertsche attempts to live like a celebrity
"This charming, funny chronicle of an 'experiment in extreme friending' explores the bonds between women--and the idea that the world is peopled with potential BFFs"
— People
"If you've ever found it hard to make friends as a grown-up, this book is for you. ... (The meet-ups are as awkward and funny as you'd imagine)."
— Fitness
"Whether you’re looking to make new friends or think you’re totally set in your ways, MWF Seeking BFF is highly enjoyable, smart edutainment. Rachel’s writing has that effortless balance of funny-clever-cool…"
— HelloGiggles
"A breezy, unexpectedly thought-provoking book that does to conventional wisdom about female friendships what Thelma and Louise — oblique spoiler alert! — did to that nasty trucker."
"A reader cannot help but root for Bertsche, cheer her successes and consider trying out some of her ideas."
"Illuminating and funny."
"Bertsche's natural voice and easy, honest prose may leave readers wanting to befriend the first-time author themselves."
— American Way
"Written with verve, insight and humor, Bertsche somehow manages to be clever but not judgmental — even about some of her nuttiest encounters in the world of speed-friending and blind dates.."
— Chicago Tribune, Editor's Choice
"A humbling, hilarious journey most postcollege women can relate to, thanks to Bertsche's candidness...Put MWF on your book club list now."
"Bertsche hit a nerve with the publication of her spirited account of her 2010 quest to create a local friendship network after relocating from New York to Chicago to be with her future husband."
"Bertsche’s pursuit is grounded in what most everyone is looking for—more fulfilling relationships and a sense of belonging—and she bravely provides some of the tools, including openness, persistence, and self-awareness, needed to attain these rewards."
"In another’s voice, the material could have easily become trite or annoying, but Bertsche is just so darn, well, friendly that readers might even find themselves questioning or conquering their own occasional antisocial tendencies."
— Booklist
"As they cheer Bertsche on in her quest, readers will appreciate the friends they have and even pick up useful–and entertaining–tips for finding new friends of their own."
"Hilarious beach read."
— Self
"Bertsche is funny, creative and, more importantly, manages to stay sane. While she is trying to see if celebrities hold the secret to happiness, she is also trying to have a baby, which brings perspective to what she is trying to do… This book is for everyone, not just women, because what guy doesn’t want David Beckham’s abs or Will Smith’s charm?"
"The process not only provides Bertsche with fruitful writing fodder but also prompts readers to examine their outlook on perfection, self-acceptance, and aspiring to be one’s very best self."
"Readers will find themselves invested in the project, rooting for Bertsche to master Gwyneth’s 10-Hour Chicken recipe as though she were the protagonist of one of her beloved reality show contests."
— Psychology Today
I Lived Like a Celeb for Eight Months
— Glamour
Fun Lessons We Learned From The New #Celebspiration Book Jennifer, Gwyneth & Me
— InStyle
Q&A: What Happened When This Woman Tried To Live Like Jen & Gwyn
Celebri-Me! Writer Gazes at Stars To Chart Winning Course for Life
"Do I look like Ethan Hawke in 'Reality Bites'?": Nightmares of the comic novelist!
— Salon, group interview
