Here's what people are saying about the book:

“We were not a military family so this was all new to us. This book helped us learn the lingo and understand the new experiences. It decreased our anxiety and taught us about West Point and its great traditions.

"Thank you for being a life-saver!” — Lori Irelan


“A fantastic guide for moms of those considering, starting, or continuing a West Point journey. Practical tips for every milestone and major event are provided by those who have lived it, loved it, and know it best. Thank you for the amazing and insightful advice. I went from being a nervous mother opening the cover for the first time to a confident and excited champion of my cadet.” — Kimberly David-Chung


“Turn to this book for knowledge that will ease your mind, cause laughter from uniquely USMA stories, and provide comfort in the support of fellow West Point Moms!” — Deb Parkins


“I ordered the book thinking ‘not that I need it, but just gotta have it.’  I was wrong! It is an invaluable source of information for any WP mom (even those of us who are half-way through). This book is written as a conversation and takes one through an assortment of emotions. I laughed, cried, and had a few light bulb moments too. I wish I’d had it from the beginning, but am glad I have it now. Thanks Lisa and Debbie for this, it’s clearly a labor of love for both of you.” — Maxine Oberle


“To say it is a 'must-read' is an understatement. It’s a survival guide and, at the same time, an entertaining, lighthearted read. Do not send your offspring to West Point without reading it.” — K.B.


“Thanks Lisa Browne Joiner & Debbie Wright Roszel for a great read . . . [even for] a mom of a rising Firstie.” — E. Degener


“My husband bought this book for me while he was at West Point on R-Day. I was not able to attend. I wish I’d had it before my son left for WP. MANY THANKS to Lisa and Debbie for taking the time to put this together to help us understand what our New Cadets are experiencing. I loved it. I am re-reading and highlighting some pages, special notes, events, attractions. You even give suggestions on how to locate our New Cadets after the A-Day parade and ceremony. The way you explained the class ranks (by chapter) and their required leadership training helps us moms to get a better understanding of how to support and encourage our [cadets] through these 47 months. This is definitely a must-have for all new moms at West Point. One last thing you should know: my husband asked if he could read it when I’m done. He saw how informed I was! Thanks again for sharing, ladies. I recommend it to all moms (and dads)!!!” — Sonia Zuniga


“Received my book yesterday and read it cover to cover (what else to do when it's 105 degrees?!) - It is wonderful! What a gift to all of us Mommas, present and future. The girlfriend chapter was especially good - I don't have to deal with that yet, but when I do, I'm going to re-read that chapter. Great reminder to have GRACE when that time comes. Thanks. My younger son has two friends applying this year and if they accept, I'm buying the book for their Mommas the same day!” — Karen Becky Weber


“I am so glad to have met you and to have devoured your book during the flight home. Thank you for taking the time to pull all of that knowledge together; it was very helpful. Writing is so hardto create words and sentences for hundreds of pages. Thank you for your efforts!” — Dr. Tracey Perez Koehlmoos


“I bought one and read it on the way home from R-day. Thank you for sharing this information.” — Dawn Jolly


“Love 'The Mom's Guide'...half way through it already!!!” — Sue Shepherd


“I received mine in Frisco, Colorado! Had a chance to read through Chapter 11. I have laughed out loud and also teared up throughout my reading thus far! Thank you so much Lisa and Debbie!” — Karen Vanderkooi


“Got mine in So Cal, too! Already halfway through and I love it!!” — Nicole Klevens


“Received our copy Monday and am about half through it. After I mentioned some of the topics/content to him, my hubby is anxious to read it, too.” — Joan Jones


“Just finished reading The Mom's Guide to Surviving West Point. This should be required reading for all new WP moms! It is so informative and honest. I have to add that I laughed out loud when I read about LOO :)” — Debbie Wacker


“This is an extremely valuable resource for moms, and families, sending a child to the United States Military Academy. From buying boots before arrival, to graduation day, it's in here. Informative, friendly, and supportive, I wish I'd had this resource 2 years ago when my oldest son left for R Day! We're halfway through our 47 month roller coaster ride, and this book will help me get the rest of the way.” — Barbara Knepper


“I LOVE IT!!!!!!” — AJ Levin Flanagan


“This is the book I wish I had had when my son entered USMA.  A lot of ‘mom’ information mixed with a little humor would have gone a long way to make my first year as a West Point mom smoother!” — Claire Clark


“It’s a journey … and we are all in this together!” — C.S.M.


We would love to hear what YOU think

When it comes to USMA, no two experiences are exactly alike. We hope that ours will help you make it through yours that much more easily. We'd love to hear about your experiences and we'd like to know if our book is a help to you. Please drop us a note to let us know. If your comments are appropriate for public consumption, we'll include them here on the website for others to enjoy.

Please send all comments and reviews to comments@momsguidetosurviving.com.

Thanks!