Mumlife

A witty, empathic, and beautifully illustrated look at the roller coaster ride that is modern motherhood.

Mum, mom, momma, or ma—whatever you’re called, being a mother can be hard, filled with stress and anxiety. But of course, it also delivers its own unique joy.

Instagram sensation @Common_Wild, the popular account run by Australian artist Paula Kuka, channels that heady stew of anxiety and love in a series of relatable, warm, and funny cartoons that are eagerly shared by women around the world.

Kuka features moments instantly recognizable to any parent, from new mom to experienced toddler-wrangler. Scenes like cooking an elaborate meal only to have it swept to the floor by a picky child, or dragging strollers home from the playground in the rain, bring parenthood to life on the page. She also winks at the societal expectations that ask women to do it all, including “taking care of themselves,” with a smile.

But most importantly, she highlights the huge love that underpins the journey of parenthood, and the sometimes-surprising things you learn about yourself while watching your children grow up.

The perfect gift for first-time parents—or for yourself, when you need to remember that you are not alone, and it’s okay to relax and enjoy the moment.