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:
Breastfeeding and the Fourth Trimester
Let’s Talk About Your New Baby’s Sleep
In this compassionate and evidence-based book, paediatric nurse and IBCLC Lyndsey Hookway gently unpacks the realities of infant sleep. She challenges myths, reassures parents that frequent waking is normal, and offers practical strategies grounded in responsive care. The book also addresses parental wellbeing, safe sleep environments, and how to tune into your baby’s needs.
Why Your Baby’s Sleep Matters
This compact and informative book offers an evidence-based, gentle perspective on infant sleep. Ockwell-Smith explains why babies sleep the way they do and helps parents understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to respond compassionately.
Village for Mama
Part recipe book, part postpartum care guide, this beautifully presented resource encourages a village-based approach to supporting mothers after birth. It includes simple, warming meals, and encourages families to gather practical help in the form of food and presence. Designed by a postpartum doula and nutritionist, it honours rest, softness, and nourishment — without pushing bounce-back culture or rigid expectations.
The Positive Breastfeeding Book
This evidence-based guide offers clear, accessible answers to the most common questions new parents have about breastfeeding. Dr. Amy Brown breaks down myths, shares up-to-date research, and provides practical support from pregnancy through weaning. The book empowers readers with information while keeping a reassuring, non-judgemental tone.
The Fourth Trimester
This book reframes the postpartum period as a vital rite of passage deserving of deep rest, support, and nourishment. Kimberly Ann Johnson — a doula, bodyworker, and somatic educator — brings together traditional wisdom and modern understanding of nervous system health, trauma, and relationships. It offers compassionate, embodied guidance for navigating physical recovery, emotional shifts, and identity transformation in the early months of mothering.
Nourishing Newborn Mothers
Written by an Australian postpartum doula and Ayurvedic practitioner, this book is a gentle invitation to honour the inner transformation of new motherhood. It weaves together ancient postpartum wisdom, modern insights, and a nourishing food philosophy that supports emotional healing and rest. The focus is not on baby care but on deeply caring for the mother — recognising her needs, emotions, and spiritual growth.
The First Forty Days
Rooted in the Chinese tradition of “zuo yuezi” (sitting the month), this book offers a gentle, respectful approach to postpartum care. It blends storytelling, cultural wisdom, and over 60 nutrient-dense recipes to support a mother's physical and emotional recovery. The tone is reverent and nurturing, focused on warmth, rest, and being cared for by others during this critical transition.