Keep Talking: Conversations with Our Kids When They Want Us Least but Need Us Most

2026 Independent Publishers Book Awards (IPPY Awards) Silver Medalist, Parenting

2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist, Parenting/Family (Non-Fiction)

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual. But fellow mom Jen Shoemaker Davidson is here to offer straight talk and practical strategies for establishing loving and trusting communication to last a lifetime.
When her own kids entered their teenage years, Jen realized she had important topics she wanted to share with them—but getting them to open up and talk to her would take her full commitment to showing up, even when it was hard. What started as simple “life lesson lunches”—intentional times to sit down and focus on important conversations—became a tried-and-true philosophy for fostering connection throughout their teenage years.
In Keep Talking, Davidson has created a trusted companion for parents navigating the meaningful—and often messy and embarrassing—conversations essential for maintaining open communication with your kids. Through her practical tips and tools, here’s just a glimpse of what you’ll and end a conversationBe an active and thoughtful listenerHandle silence when that’s their answerBe less judgmental and anxiousInstill confidence and a growth mindsetAvoid pushing perfectionMaster the art of an apologyWith sample conversations to help you get started, Keep Talking offers parents open and honest guidance without judgment, delivered with laughter and love.