Dr. Sears is probably the most famous proponent of "attachment parenting" and this pregnancy book lays the groundwork for that approach by advocating Dr. Sears is probably the most famous proponent of "attachment parenting" and this pregnancy book lays the groundwork for that approach by advocating unmedicated childbirth, preparation for breast feeding, and other "natural" approaches. But in addition to this less interventionist sort of advice, Dr. Sears also provides more mainstream medical information, about things like prenatal testing and options for pain relief during birth. I found this balance to suit me very well, and referred to this book often throughout both my pregnancies. It also has very good checklists and diagrams summarizing what is going on at each stage of pregnancy and what to expect as each month goes on, emotionally, physically, and medically....more
I found this book, by the authors of the equally indispensable Bridal Bargains, incredibly useful when I was trying to sort through the one million itI found this book, by the authors of the equally indispensable Bridal Bargains, incredibly useful when I was trying to sort through the one million items that appear to be required when you're having a baby. This book isn't 100% comprehensive on brands and models, but it sure helps separate the must-haves from the nice-to-haves from the totally-don't-needs, all kept short and sweet with a witty tone....more
Parts of this were a little smug in a hipper-than-thou sort of way, but for the most part, Ayun Halliday's stories about having and raising her kids iParts of this were a little smug in a hipper-than-thou sort of way, but for the most part, Ayun Halliday's stories about having and raising her kids in the East Village are utterly hilarious and unpretentious....more
Vicki Iovine rather revels in her status as a princess type, with the money, the manicures, the jewelry, etc., but even if you can't quite relate, thiVicki Iovine rather revels in her status as a princess type, with the money, the manicures, the jewelry, etc., but even if you can't quite relate, this book is a refreshing change from the bulk of pregnancy advice books that tend to the natural-granola-woo-woo-power of womanhood vibe (and don't get me wrong, I'm all in favor of getting all woo-woo with your pregnancy and baby). It's funny, and it speaks to you if you're the kind of person who, while cooing over your new baby in the hospital, might still want to put on a little lipstick before anyone starts taking pictures....more
I still think this is the best baby and child care book out there. The Spock authoritative parenting approach is loving and sensible, and the health aI still think this is the best baby and child care book out there. The Spock authoritative parenting approach is loving and sensible, and the health and medical advice is easy to find, clear and succint. I can't tell how often I have turned to this book and found the answer I need, easily indexed, to one after another childhood injury, illness, or behavior conundrum. And advice on issues of sexuality, food, and learning is truly progressive....more
This is the worst pregnancy book ever written. It takes what should be a time of relaxing into the amazing things your body does to make a new human, This is the worst pregnancy book ever written. It takes what should be a time of relaxing into the amazing things your body does to make a new human, and turns it into a festival of anxiety over every twitch and every morsel you ingest. The monthly pictures of the baby's development are pretty cool, and there are a few decent checklists, but that stuff is easy enough to find elsewhere. It's no wonder I see dozens of copies of this on used bookstore shelves -- everyond buys it and everyone tries to unload it....more
Loading...
