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, however the invention of audio and digital formats has limited the physical space required somewhat!
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.
Browse Yvette’s recommendations:
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk
This influential and widely loved classic on communication between adults and children offers practical strategies to foster cooperation, emotional expression, and mutual respect. Based on the authors’ experiences with the Parent Effectiveness Training and their own workshops, the book uses real-life examples, comics, and step-by-step techniques to demonstrate respectful communication without shouting, threats, or bribes.
The Yes Brain Child
This empowering guide explores how to cultivate openness, resilience, and balance in children. Through the lens of brain science, Siegel and Bryson show how to encourage a “Yes Brain” mindset—flexible, curious, and emotionally aware—versus a “No Brain” state of fear and reactivity.
The Gentle Parenting Book
This foundational guide introduces the principles of gentle parenting from birth to age seven. Sarah Ockwell-Smith explains how to build strong connections, set kind boundaries, and meet children's emotional needs with empathy and respect. Covering everything from tantrums to play, it helps parents raise emotionally resilient, confident kids without punishment or control.
No-Drama Discipline
This insightful book reframes discipline as teaching, not punishment. Siegel and Bryson explain how to respond to misbehaviour with empathy and connection while guiding children to make better choices, all backed by neuroscience.
The Whole-Brain Child
This groundbreaking book explains how a child’s brain is wired and how it matures. Using neuroscience made accessible, the authors introduce 12 key strategies to support emotional regulation and healthy brain development in children.
Unconditional Parenting
In Unconditional Parenting, educator and author Alfie Kohn challenges traditional approaches to discipline and behaviour management. He argues that rewards and punishments — including praise — can undermine a child’s intrinsic motivation and sense of self. Instead, he advocates for parenting based on unconditional love, respect, and thoughtful guidance.