Cheaper by the Dozen Book Summary
TL;DR
Cheaper by the Dozen is a humorous memoir detailing the chaotic yet loving life of the Gilbreth family, led by the innovative father, Frank B. Gilbreth, and exploring themes of family dynamics and efficiency.
What is Cheaper by the Dozen about
Cheaper by the Dozen, authored by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, provides a delightful glimpse into the life of the Gilbreth family, consisting of twelve siblings raised by their father, an innovative pioneer in motion study. Set primarily in Montclair, New Jersey, the book recounts the family's adventures and misadventures, illustrating the unique blend of discipline and chaos that defined their household. Emphasizing the importance of family, the book captures the love, camaraderie, and occasional turmoil faced by the Gilbreth children as they navigate their father's eccentric rules and the challenges of a bustling household. The narrative is punctuated with humorous anecdotes, from their infamous road trips to the annual summer getaway in Nantucket, showcasing the family's quirky interactions and their father's unorthodox parenting style. The Gilbreths, who practiced 'democracy' in family decisions, often engaged in lively discussions about pets, discipline, and other household matters, providing a glimpse into their unique family dynamics. This memoir not only entertains but also offers insights into the values of teamwork, cooperation, and the joy of family life.
Cheaper by the Dozen 6 Key Takeaways
The Value of Family Dynamics
Family is central to the narrative, showing how love and support among siblings create a strong bond and resilience in the face of challenges.
Innovative Parenting
Frank B. Gilbreth's application of motion study in parenting emphasizes efficiency and creativity in managing family life, providing valuable lessons on organization.
Humor in Everyday Life
The book illustrates how humor can be found in the most chaotic and stressful moments, fostering a sense of joy and connection within the family.
Lessons from Childhood
Through their adventures, the Gilbreth children learn important life lessons about responsibility, teamwork, and the significance of family traditions.
Embracing Uniqueness
Each family member has a distinct personality, and the celebration of these differences contributes to the family's vibrant and lively dynamic.
Democracy in Family Decisions
The Gilbreth family's practice of holding family councils demonstrates the importance of communication and consensus in maintaining harmony.
Top Cheaper by the Dozen Quotes
- "The most important thing in the world is family and love. It is a blessing to have a big family that supports one another through everything."
- "We had a unique way of doing things, and that was what made our family special."
- "Every family has its quirks, but love is what keeps them together at the end of the day."
Who should read Cheaper by the Dozen?
Cheaper by the Dozen is ideal for readers aged 10 and up, particularly those who enjoy humorous family stories. Parents and children alike will appreciate the relatable anecdotes and the values of cooperation and love that permeate the narrative, making it a great read for family bonding moments.
Cheaper by the Dozen Best Reviews
- "Cheaper by the Dozen is a delightful, humorous exploration of family life that resonates with readers of all ages, filled with love, laughter, and lessons learned." - The New York Times
- "This memoir captures the essence of growing up in a large family, blending humor and heart in a way that feels relatable and timeless." - Publishers Weekly
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Cheaper by the Dozen FAQs
What is the appropriate age for reading Cheaper by the Dozen?
Cheaper by the Dozen is suitable for readers aged 10 and older, with many parents finding it particularly engaging for ages 11-12 due to its relatable themes and humor.
Does Cheaper by the Dozen have a single overarching plot?
No, the book consists of a series of humorous anecdotes about the Gilbreth family's life, rather than a single, linear plot.
What themes are explored in Cheaper by the Dozen?
Family is the central theme, but the book also explores humor, innovative parenting, teamwork, and the importance of communication within a large family.