First and foremost–congratulations!
As an expectant parent, you are probably looking for helpful books to help guide you through an exciting and transformative experience. First Things First partnered with the Phoenix Public Library to create a list of the most popular pregnancy books. These books should be available in many libraries both in physical and digital formats. Please check out your local library to see if these books are available.
Note: The book list below offers a variety of evidence-based research, approaches, personal reflections and experiences. It is important to confirm with your healthcare provider to ensure the information is credible and safe for you and the baby.
- What to Expect When You’re Expecting (Updated in 2024) by Heidi Murkoff
Now in its sixth edition, this is considered the essential guide for any new parent. This book has been on parents-to-be nightstands since 1984. It provides a week-by-week guide through pregnancy.
Why should you read it: Good for parents who only have time to read one pregnancy book. - Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong – and What You Really Need to Know by Emily Oster
Expecting Better challenges common wisdom through an economist lens of reliable data and academic research. This book provides data-driven research to allow women to make informed decisions for their own pregnancies.
Why should you read it: For parents who like facts and research to help make decisions. - Bumpin’: The Modern Guide to Pregnancy: Navigating the Wild, Weird, and Wonderful Journey From Conception Through Birth and Beyond by Leslie Schrock
This is a more modern approach to the pregnancy journey, written with warmth, humor, and zero judgment. The author shares her own pregnancy experiences along with information for working mothers and budgeting.
Why should you read it: This book provides a firsthand take from the author’s experience and information grounded in evidence-based practice and guidelines. - Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be by Armin A. Brott and Jennifer Ash Rudick
Covering pregnancy month-by-month, it explains what the baby is doing, how it affects your partner and what you need to do to be the best dad. This guide is tailored to help dads feel more confident, informed and involved throughout the pregnancy, offering reassurance and guidance on becoming an active, supportive partner and a prepared dad.
Why should you read it: This book is good for first-time dads and for dads who want to be more involved. - Nurture: A Modern Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, Early Motherhood―and Trusting Yourself and Your Body by Erica Chidi
Nurture provides a well-rounded perspective on pregnancy and encourages mothers to have the confidence and trust in making decisions for their bodies. This book provides remedies, recipes and tips for every month of pregnancy.
Why should you read it: It’s for parents who want a calm, natural approach to pregnancy. - Like a Mother: A Feminist Journey Through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy by Angela Garbes
The author goes into science and cultural expectations of pregnancy and motherhood from a feminist perspective. This book is designed to help the reader make informed decisions on their pregnancy journey.
Why should you read it: A pregnancy memoir that guides parents through pregnancy myths and facts. - Why Did No One Tell Me This?: The Doulas’ (Honest) Guide for Expectant Parents by Natalie Hailes
A relaxed approach, debunking myths and offering down-to-earth, expert advice to help parents feel empowered and prepared for what’s ahead. The author addresses common fears around childbirth, helping readers find their voice and advocate for their needs during and after pregnancy.
Why should you read it: This book is an easy and illustrated guide to pregnancy. - The Birth Partner: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Partners, Doulas, and Other Labor Companions (6th Edition) by Penny Simkin
This guide covers the last trimester, birth and the first few months of newborn care. Partners often feel uncertain during the birth process, but this book provides them with the knowledge and guidance to be the best birth companion possible.
Why should you read it: Perfect for anybody acting as the birth partner, such as a spouse, grandparent or friend. - The Whole 9 Months: A Week-By-Week Pregnancy Nutrition Guide with Recipes for a Healthy Start by Jennifer Lang MD and Dana Angelo White
A comprehensive guide focused on nutrition during pregnancy to make informed decisions on their diet. Includes easy-to-follow recipes and meal planning to keep baby nourished and mom happy all nine months.
Why should you read it: For pregnant foodies who want to eat well and stay healthy.
About the Phoenix Public Library
Phoenix Public Library circulates over 9 million items (both physical and digital) and offers a wide variety of resources across its system of 16 branches, the Burton Barr Central Library and the Bookmobile. Get your library card at phoenixpubliclibrary.org.
The Burton Barr Library is also home to an FTF-funded family resource center—offering free support for parents and caregivers through parenting classes, early childhood programs and essential services like health screenings and family support. Find a family resource center near you to connect with other parents and find parenting guidance and resources to support your child’s development.
