Here is the 'short' list of books I love. I tried to put them all in order, but that's just impossible, so start with the first six and move on down the list!
**NOTE: links will take you to Amazon.com
A look at the emotional journey of labor, and how to quell your fears before the big day.
A great way to track baby's growth, as well as your own without scaring the crackers out of you like 'What to Expect' and other books can!
Another great book on dealing with head-space for labor, delivery, and the world of parenting beyond. I recommend this for both partners, and is a great way to connect over the uncertainty of the future so you can face it more clearly, and with greater confidence.
Written by one of the most amazing women in the field of doulas, Penny gives amazing insight into the world of labor to help prepare anyone who plans on acting as labor support.
This is the comprehensive anthology on breastfeeding. Read it cover to cover and save it for reference-- a great starting point and a must-have!
This is the more modern penmanship of one of Dr. Robert Bradley's nurses. This is good for learning what to expect with labor, and how to work with your labor naturally. This is a must have.
A short book on the work of doulas, the research studies and statistics that support the work, and what you can expect from your own doula. This is a good book to buy for expectant parents (especially dads) who are on the fence about getting a doula.
A book filled with gorgeous black and white photography of newborns, and fascinating information on newborn behavior and reflexes.
This is another birth classic by Penny and the gang. It's a great starting point for a beginner, or the reluctant parent.
Penny does it again, with this short classic on preparing for labor and delivery.
Dr. Sears' take on, well, everything! Includes information on basics like how much Tylenol to give a baby, teething and sleeping secrets, and what to do about diaper rash. This anthology is part of a popular series of books written on natural parenting by Dr. Sears and his wife.
One of the many books on getting your baby to sleep-- a shorter one, and one that is easy to start with.
'Nuff said. :)
A newer addition to the doula book family, and full of good secrets from doula to you!
Written by Ina May, probably the most well known midwife in the country. She has delivered thousands of babies on 'The Farm', a holistic communal living facility in Tennessee. The book contains her secrets, her experiences, many stories, and inside secrets.
Emergency Childbirth-- Gregory White (this may be found on used book sites, as it is out of production)
A short manual on how to deliver your baby at home, in a car, or some other unexpected place or emergency situation. A short read, and small enough to keep in the car just in case.
