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:
The Positive Birth Book
This book offers a comprehensive guide to pregnancy, childbirth, and the early weeks of parenting, emphasizing informed choices and positive experiences. Milli Hill provides evidence-based information on various aspects of birth, including building a birth plan, understanding rights in the birth room, and exploring options like optimal cord clamping and gentle caesarean. The book also introduces a visual birth plan tool to help parents communicate their preferences effectively.
Rediscovering Birth
In Rediscovering Birth, Sheila Kitzinger calls for a return to birth as a transformative, embodied, and empowering rite of passage. Drawing from global traditions, historical practices, and women’s lived experiences, she critiques the medicalisation of birth and advocates for respectful, woman-centred care that honours autonomy and cultural wisdom.
Why Breastfeeding Grief and Trauma Matter
This deeply compassionate book explores the emotional impact of breastfeeding experiences that don’t go to plan. Dr. Amy Brown gives voice to the grief, guilt, anger, and confusion many parents feel when faced with unexpected challenges, early weaning, or lack of support. Through evidence and empathy, she validates those emotions and outlines a path toward healing.
The Birth Space
Written by a birth doula and mother, this deeply personal and empowering book explores pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period as transformative rites of passage. With stories from diverse voices, it centres the emotional and spiritual experiences of birthing people alongside practical reflections and guidance. It includes space for journaling and self-reflection.
The Big Letdown
In this bold and necessary book, Kimberly Seals Allers investigates how medicine, corporate interests, and even strands of feminism have shaped — and often undermined — breastfeeding in modern culture. Through a blend of investigative journalism, social commentary, and personal insight, she exposes the systems that fail breastfeeding families, particularly women of colour.
Breastfeeding Uncovered
This groundbreaking book explores the cultural, political, and psychological barriers that make breastfeeding harder than it needs to be. Dr. Amy Brown combines research with real-life stories to reveal how societal expectations, lack of support, and misinformation shape the breastfeeding experience. Her approach is compassionate, feminist, and deeply rooted in evidence.
Milk Matters
This extensively researched book explores the profound link between early infant feeding and long-term immune health. Maureen Minchin examines how infant formula, medical interventions, and disrupted microbiomes may contribute to the rise in allergies, autoimmune conditions, and chronic illness. She presents a compelling case for breastfeeding as a critical foundation for lifelong well-being.
Why Breastfeeding Matters
This short, accessible guide covers the biological, emotional, and societal reasons why breastfeeding remains important in the modern world. It dismantles myths and empowers parents with the knowledge to make informed choices.
The Politics of Birth
In this powerful and provocative work, Sheila Kitzinger explores how birth has become a battleground shaped by institutional power, medicalisation, and cultural control. Drawing on decades of advocacy, research, and lived experience, she highlights the importance of informed choice, bodily autonomy, and respectful care — calling for a transformation in the way society treats birthing women.