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:
Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering
This book offers a comprehensive guide to natural childbirth and early parenting, blending scientific research with personal experience. Dr. Sarah Buckley, a family physician and mother of four, advocates for minimizing medical interventions during birth and emphasizes the importance of a calm, supportive environment. She explores topics such as undisturbed birth, the hormonal processes involved in labor, and the benefits of practices like co-sleeping and extended breastfeeding. The book is divided into two parts: "Gentle Birth," focusing on pregnancy and childbirth, and "Gentle Mothering," which addresses early parenting choices.
A Loving Weaning
This gentle guide supports families through the emotional and practical journey of weaning — whenever and however it happens. Winema Wilson Lanoue offers a compassionate, respectful approach that honours the parent-child bond, encourages responsive timing, and provides affirming stories from a wide range of weaning experiences.
To Three and Beyond
This thoughtful and affirming collection brings together real-life stories from families who breastfeed into toddlerhood and the early childhood years. Janell E. Robisch curates a diverse range of experiences, reflecting the joys, challenges, humour, and deep connection that come with long-term breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Older Children
This groundbreaking and often provocative book documents the realities of breastfeeding beyond babyhood — into the preschool and school-aged years. Drawing on in-depth interviews, cultural research, and personal experience, Ann Sinnott explores the physical, emotional, and societal aspects of nursing older children, while challenging deeply ingrained Western taboos.
Tandem Nursing – Hilary Flower
This comprehensive and reassuring book explores the experience of breastfeeding during pregnancy and tandem nursing after a new baby is born. Hilary Flower combines research, expert input, and dozens of personal stories to offer both practical guidance and emotional support to parents navigating this unique stage of the breastfeeding journey.