Milton Keynes-based dad and writer Gareth Ellis has published his debut book, Dad’s the Word: Tips and Tales from a Stay-at-Home Parent — an honest, funny and heartwarming account of modern fatherhood.
Released on 14 October 2025, the book offers a candid look at life as a full-time dad to two young children, tackling everything from nappies and nap-time to social pressures and the chaos of parenting life.
“Dad’s the Word is the resource I desperately needed back then,” said Gareth. “My incredible wife was my rock, but I was determined to prove I could handle it all without adding to her load. This book is a shout-out to all the stay-at-home heroes out there — you’re not alone, and your feelings are totally valid.”
The launch event, held in Milton Keynes, featured guest speaker Gemma Spinks, founder of the Mindful Mama Club and director of Spinks Creative, who shared her experiences of balancing business and motherhood. Gareth also joined Susie Lodge, founder of WikiPlaces for Kids and ICF-trained coach, for a ‘fireside chat’ about the realities of stay-at-home parenting.
Reflecting on the experience, Gareth said: “There were moments I felt like I was starring in my own personal sitcom — and not always a good one! The comments at baby groups and the picture-perfect social media feeds really made me question if I was doing enough.”
Gareth continues to run his Milton Keynes-based business, Cloud Nine Writing, alongside family life, sharing his experiences on his long-running blog also titled Dad’s the Word.
The book is available now and aims to offer reassurance and humour to anyone navigating the early years of parenthood.
