We can’t decide what’s more overwhelming, the Pandora’s Box that a virtual search opens when you naively type in “baby book” on Amazon.com, or hauling your ample ass to an actual brick and mortar bookstore in some mall or shopping center. While some mamas-to-be scoff at parenting books, we’re all in favor of anything that makes you feel more at ease with the task ahead. But before you melt-down in aisle five of Barnes + Noble, we did you a favor + canvassed some mamas on their must-read essentials. The reading part, sadly, is all you.
The Essential Baby Book List
For les French Maman
Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman
“It’s very easy to get caught up in trying to do everything right and being alpha parents. It’s nice to know that sometimes less is more.” – Jill W.
For Life After Delivery
The Fifth Trimester and Expecting Better: The Working Mom’s Guide to Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby by Lauren Smith Brody
“This book gives real, practical, proven information for living your life during and immediately after pregnancy.” – Laura S.
For That Crazy 4th Trimester
The First 40 Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing The New Mother by Heng Ou
“I found this book to be incredible in learning about traditions and how to treat yourself and your body with kindness. It changed the last few months of my pregnancy.” – Rachel M.
For Nursing Success
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League
“It’s absolutely essential. Breastfeeding without it would have been impossible for me.” – Julie A.
For Those WTF Moments
Heading Home with Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality by Jennifer Shu and Laura Jana
“It had a lot of practical information about what to expect in those early days.” – Lauren S.
For the Mind-Body Mama Connection
Nurture: A Modern Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, Early Motherhood and Trusting Yourself and Your Body by Erica Chidi Cohen
“It’s straight-forward, non-judgemental and just enough information without feeling overwhelming.” – Rachel K.
For the "OK Now What?"
Baby 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice for Your Baby’s First Year by Dr. Ari Brown and Denise Fields
“It’s a user’s manual for a new baby.” – Rebecca B.
