After several months of first-time parenting, I realized I didn't actually read a lot of parenting books before I had my baby. I had spent a lot of time with little ones as a camp counselor and an older sister, so I had some ideas about taking care of children and figured I would learn on the job. This is not a post to say that I regret that choice, but rather, that reading these books while I have turned into a mother has helped me better understand the changes in life. This guide includes some of the best first time mom books I really appreciated listening to and reading during the long hours of baby sleep struggles, cluster feeding, and overnight wake-ups. Most of these books for new moms are actually not just about parenting or pregnancy, but they are insightful, comforting, and truly great reads for new parents. Whether you are looking for books for new boy moms or books for new girl moms and wondering where to start, or looking to shop for a thoughtful gift for an expecting friend, these recommendations might be just what you need.
Whether you're looking for a book to help you navigate the early weeks of motherhood, understand your child's development, or simply enjoy a good read, this list has something for you. I’ll also rate and share my thoughts on each author and why these books stood out during this journey.
From birth to the first few months of baby sleep adjustments, these books offer wisdom, support, and a little bit of reassurance during this beautiful but exhausting time.
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Wintering: The Power of Rest And Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
Maybe it's because I was in the fourth trimester over fall and winter, but this book was like a warm hug from a friend who understood what it meant to be forced into hibernation. Katherine May has beautiful writing and stories. Though this book doesn't much to do with parenting specifically, it's a wonderful read to remind yourself that this season is short and spring is coming. I listened to this as an audiobook while going on walks with my little one and it is narrated beautifully.
Bringing up Bebe: One Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman
Okay, I lied a little because this was the only book that I read before having my daughter. This book is a classic and I would recommend reading it early on. What I really got out of it was the focus on being a chill, French mom. I don't know what French moms are really like, but for all the examples of this book, the overarching point is be relaxed, let kids be themselves and don't feel the need to helicopter over every action, a message that everyone can heed. There was a section on getting your baby to sleep through the night at 12 weeks that I thought would work for me, but here I am many months later with a baby who is horrible at sleeping.
To Have and to Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma by Molly Millwood
This book was amazing at being reaffirming about the changes that mothers experience in their relationships after having a child. Though it gets a bit repetitive and there is a slight holier-than-thou message from the author in term of how good she is as a mother, this book is still a huge breath of fresh air in reminding a mother that things change and you're not alone in this. I would highly recommend reading this when your baby is about 1-2 months old, not while pregnant, so as to not stress yourself out.
Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans by Michaleen Doucleff
Similar to Bringing Up Bebe, this book looks at other cultures of parenting and what we can learn from them. Again, the overarching message reminds us that children are resilient and want to help us and be independent. A lot of interesting examples from indigenous cultures around the world, this is wonderful when you have a newborn. I imagine I will re-read it when I have a toddler who wants to get her hands into everything and help out.
It. Goes. So. Fast.: The Year of No Do-Overs by Mary Louise Kelly
This is a book about the other end of parenting. In this, Mary Louise Kelly writes about her last years of parenthood before her son goes away to college. I considered her reflections insightful as I am contemplating where my own career was heading to in light of the changes in my life.
Are there any books that you would recommend for a new mother to read? What Any thoughts my suggestions? Let me know in the comment section!
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