Customer Reviews

Today I Smile

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Today I Smile is a compelling true story by a mother who had to learn to live again after the death of her daughter. A very moving story all parents should read!

I already wrote one "review" of this book, but it was before I read it. I have now read this book twice; my mom has read this book; my sister has read this book. We all knew Mandy. After my mom read the book she kept asking me why I never got involved in drugs. I couldn't give her an answer. No one knows why some children get involved in drugs and others don't. This book can help parents see some warning signs of drug use. I know it can help me. While I was reading the book, I kept thinking back to high school. I saw changes in Mandy, but I never knew why. Mandy wasn't one of "those" kids. She was from a good family. To me that is the point of this book. Every child is at risk. This book needs to be read by all people who have any contact with children. Not just teachers and parents, but also aunts, uncles, grandparents, babysitters, etc. Diane has used her pain and tragedy to help others. Thank you Diane.

I was a student of Mrs. Wattles' English class back in the 90's. I was also a friend of Mandy's.
I try to read this book at least once a year to remind me of the importance of family and why I should live each day as if it were my last. I have battled addiction for years and this book has helped, and still continues to help me immensely!!
I plan on sharing this book with my son in the coming years. He is now 10 years old.
Today, I ordered a copy as a gift for a lady who I work with. She lost her teenage daughter in a car accident a few short years ago. I am hoping this book will touch her heart, as it has mine - and will somehow bring her a sense of peace, knowing that she is not alone.
Mrs. Wattles, thank you for writing this book. You remain in my thoughts and prayers, yesterday, today, and always! Much love to you!
Carrie Malloch
MSHS Graduate, 1993

Today I Smile is a non-fiction book that is well-written and reads like a fictional story. The author tells a tale of how her daughter became drug addicted, was given help and then died in a car accident at age 18.Author Diane Wattles is the mother of the girl and beautifully details her personal story so that the reader can not only feel the pain and the joyous moments, but laugh and cry along with this mother/author as they read through her family's trials and tribulations.The writing is exceptional. A must read.

In Today I Smile Diane Wattles has written such a compelling and loving tribute to her daughter Mandy. This book should be read by parents and educators of all children, especially those approaching their teen years. Through the grieving process the author has turned her family's tragedy into constructive support for other parents. Wonderful book!

mandy was one of my friends, she was older and i looked up to her. her death is the hardest thing that i will ever have to face in my lifetime. this book helped me find some answers. it also helped me to be open about my emotions, knowing that someone will help me through this. i still miss her and i know that she can hear me when i talk to her. when she was around (my 8th grade graduation, freshman homecoming, etc...) everything was o.k. i never thought that she would ever be gone. i guess the title to this book totally describes me - "Today I Smile, Tomorrow I May Cry" i have lived like that for six years now. This book is helping me through my everyday life. i feel as though i can accept her death somewhat. knowing that she is happy.

This book is not just for parents who have lost children to addiction or death; it an honest warning to parents of teens, to teachers, to everyone that drug users do not always fit the part of what most people consider a "druggie". It's eye-opening.
Diane writes candidly about her fears, struggles, mistakes, and victories as a parent. One of the most profound aspects of the book is when Diane confesses she couldn't identify with her daughter's drug addiction until after Mandy's death--when she was awakened to her own addiction: an addiction to her daughter's presence. One of the most well-written and insightful books I've read in a long time.

I just finished reading "Today I Smile." I was struck by the author's honesty in telling a painful story. This is a well written story that allows the reader into the author's life. I felt as if I knew Mandy. I wanted to hug Kelsey and Diane. I highly recommend this book, for anyone that has lost a child, or for anyone that has a loved one involved in drugs. The story is told without self-pity, only with love and a need to share. There are many important facts that are written for all parents.
This is a "must read."

My greatest fear is losing my son or daughter, and this book was not only heartwrenching, but insightful as well, delving into young people and the continual problem with drugs and addiction. Excellent book, especially for parents or teachers of our young ones.

An important and timely read for parents and those involved with children and young people. We must all be aware and alert concerning the dangers to the unwary in our present time. A sensitive and moving story. A must read for everyone!