In "Mama Tried," Emily Flake, celebrated New Yorker cartoonist, offers a raw, hilariously candid exploration of the rollercoaster ride that is parenting. With her signature wit and relatable anecdotes, Flake delves into the less-discussed side of bringing a child into the world, from the throes of pregnancy to the chaos of early childhood. Illustrated with poignant, laugh-out-loud cartoons, this book serves as both a comic relief and a deeply honest account of the joys, trials, and outright horrors that accompany parenthood. Flake's narrative is a comforting companion for those in the trenches of parenting, providing laughter, solidarity, and a reminder that they are not alone in their experiences of this wild, unpredictable journey. Beyond the surface-level glamorization of parenting, "Mama Tried" strips down to the nitty-gritty, challenging societal expectations and uncovering the gritty reality of motherhood. From the battleground of sleep training to the complexities of navigating mommy groups and the absurdity of baby gear class-warfare, Flake addresses the topics that others shy away from. This collection of essays and cartoons is a beacon of truth for anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of being the "perfect" parent, making it an indispensable resource that reassures readers with its honesty, humor, and heart. "Mama Tried" is not just a book about parenting; it's a celebration of the unspoken, a salute to the warriors who've weathered the storm, and a must-read for anyone who's ever looked at their child and thought, "What now?"