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Gin & Phonics

My Journey Through Middle-Class Motherhood (via the Occasional Pub)

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Gin & Phonics

By: Clara Batten
Narrated by: Clara Batten
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About this listen

‘I was asked the other day what I thought the hardest part of parenting was. I’d have to say that it’s definitely the kids.’

TikTok sensation Clara Batten has dedicated the last few years to seeking the answer to one of life’s most crucial questions:

Is it possible to raise and nurture two small humans without losing your bloody mind?

The good news is, now she’s found (some of) the answers and is sharing her secrets with the rest of us! In this riotous book, Clara reveals:

  • when it’s acceptable to buy your kids lunch from a kebab shop.
  • why a jar of pickled herrings from Waitrose is the ultimate guilty pleasure, nay necessity, for a sleep-deprived parent.
  • how to finally pursue your acting ambitions in your forties (despite a toddler sh*tting on the stairs during a self-tape audition).

Most importantly, Clara shows us that no matter how much we adore our little treasures, life isn’t just about their A, B and bloody Cs.

©2023 Clara Batten (P)2023 HarperCollins Publishers Limited Marriage & Long-Term Partnerships Motherhood Parenting & Families Relationships Women

Critic Reviews

‘Brilliant, bonkers and laugh-out-loud funny. Clara’s dry, sarcastic wit is fantastic. She is self-deprecating, relatable, and absolutely hilarious’ – Amanda Holden

‘Reading Gin & Phonics is like giving the room to your funniest friend. Sharply observed, laugh-out-loud funny and gloriously compelling.’ – Simon Pegg

'Hilarious and sassy reportage from the front line of the Waitrose (sorry, I mean Sainsbury’s) wine and spirits aisle.' – Phill Jupitus

All stars
Most relevant
loved how it relates to everyone. I really hope she brings out another one

Absolutely hilarious

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honestly I was just trying to use my voucher on audible a family friend thought I needed, not really into reading but as a tik tok user I'd come across Clara on there and thought why not, at least I can listen as I struggle to read, the best part, it's read by her!
I am in year 13 of parenthood with the youngest only being 1!
I'm only on chapter 9 and I'm hooked, I feel like I'm getting a climps into the daily shaninigans of Clara's life and a feel for British life style although it doesn't seem as far stretched over here in Australia.

thank you, Clara, for giving me something I can listen to and feel like I've read and been apart off! I hope you become an actor. I'll be cheering for you!

struggling to find a book!

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Never have I read a book that felt so relatable! I was hooked from the start and even found myself doing a google search when hearing how her son lost his favorite toy! Been there done that and now have multiples! Thank you for an open and honest look into what it is to be a mother and have a career that you and be proud of. Highly recommend

So relatable!

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Wonderful insights in to the trials and tribulations of parenthood, socialising, trying to keep heads above water during COVID, a few sneaky drinks , all set in lighthearted fun, through Clara’s amazing sense of humour!

Fab lighthearted listen

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