Something drew your attention to this book. It probably wasn't the snappy title. It might have been the fancy cover, but most likely you're trying to understand why your relationship with your mother has always been confusing, disappointing and painful.
Despite your best efforts, you just never measure up. A visit with her sucks your emotions dry and you leave exhausted and wondering why it always has to be this way.
One possible explanation might be that your mother is a narcissist. There are a variety of definitions of narcissists, but primarily they are people who have a desperate need to feel superior to others, crave attention and lack empathy.
In other words, she's demanding, never satisfied and has no consideration for the thoughts and feelings of others.
If this sounds like your mother, she might be a narcissist.