Last week, I was able to see an advance screening of The Book of Henry and meet director, Colin Trevorrow (Jurassic World). This movie made me laugh and cry while also keeping me on the edge of my seat. The Book of Henry is a rare movie as it is a family drama while also being a heart pounding thriller. Surprisingly, the two genres successfully blend together.

@thebookofhenry was amazing! Get ready to laugh and cry (a lot)! Emotional, but truly worth the journey!! #thebookofhenry #mustsee pic.twitter.com/azFtGZZTU8

— Rachel K. (@CouponingRachel) June 7, 2017

Naomi Watts stars as Susan Carpenter, a single mother of two boys, 11-year-old Henry (Jaeden Lieberher) and 8-year-old Peter (Jacob Tremblay). She a mom with normal struggles that we all can relate to, such a keeping up with a messy house and getting the kids off to school on time. While she isn’t the most responsible parent and is even child-like herself, one thing that is certain is how much she loves her boys.

Photo courtesy Focus Features

Henry, her oldest, has a big brain and even bigger heart. He enjoys working on contraptions in the amazing treehouse in his backyard but still stays on top of his family’s finances, by making savvy investments. Henry is also attuned to other people’s problems and suspects that not all is well next door with his neighbor, Christina (Maddie Ziegler). She lives with her stepfather and is sullen and withdrawn. Unfortunately, while he feels that she is in danger, he finds it hard to convince others.

Photo courtesy Focus Features

Because I don’t want to give too much away, I will share very little. Sensing that Christina is in danger, Henry cooks up a plot to rescue Christina from her stepfather (who is also the town’s police commissioner). Henry develops an elaborate plan complete with maps and diagrams and puts them all in a little red book. Rounding out the cast is Susan’s best friend (Silverman’s Sheila) who is a co-worker at the local diner and charming Dr. Dreamy (aka Dr. Daniels), who spends time with the family when health issues arise.

The Book of Henry is a must-see movie, especially for moms! You will fall in love with this family and the storyline. The endearing relationship with this mom and her boys is heartwarming. This movie will remind you what a gift it is to be a mom or parent! This movie is sure to stick with you long after the credits roll.