Book Reviews
Yvette O’Dowd has been a passionate reader since childhood. Her first pregnancy in the early 1980s saw her consuming the local library collection of books about pregnancy, childbirth, child development and child care. Having ignited a life-long interest in these subjects, Yvette went on to work at Merrily Merrily Enterprises [the retail arm of the Nursing Mothers’ Association of Australia (now known as The Australian Breastfeeding Association)] from 1995 - 2000. This included the recommendation and sale of books on breastfeeding and human lactation, parenting and related titles to both parents and health professionals.
From 2008 - 2013, Yvette ran The Breastfeeding Centre In Dandenong, Victoria - the Victorian Branch Office of the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Here she curated and maintained an extensive library of books available to both members and volunteers. When establishing the Southern Natural Parenting Network in 2014, Yvette had a vision of a collection of books available to members and the wider community, establishing a community library on wheels available at meets and events. Yvette’ family are resigned to her extensive personal collection! (Thank goodness for the digital revolution!)
Yvette also has a passion for children’s books - particularly picture books - and her collection expanded as her family has. Books for children about babies are of particular interest. Stay tuned for review soon!
Browse Yvette’s recommendations:
Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children
This is a beautifully written, deeply grounded guide for parents who want to raise emotionally resilient, empathetic children without relying on punitive discipline. Drawing from trauma-informed practice, the latest neuroscience, and decades of experience in emotional support work, Lael Stone and Dr. Marion Rose offer a heartfelt and practical approach to parenting that centres connection, healing, and compassion. The book weaves together real-life stories, tools for emotional regulation, and insights into the parent–child relationship.
Untamed
This bestselling memoir explores the process of unlearning cultural conditioning and embracing one’s true self. Through stories of motherhood, identity, relationships, and personal transformation, Doyle challenges expectations placed on women — especially around being a “good mother” — and invites readers to trust their instincts and inner knowing.