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!)
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Browse Yvette’s recommendations:
Healing Breastfeeding Grief
This gentle and compassionate book explores the emotional impact of difficult or disrupted breastfeeding experiences. Hilary Jacobson offers validation, healing practices, and space for parents to process grief related to unmet breastfeeding goals. Through storytelling, self-reflection, and guided exercises, the book supports emotional recovery and reconnection.
Food-Sensitive Babies
This practical and empathetic guide supports parents whose babies react negatively to foods through breastmilk or formula. Joyce Whiting offers clear information on symptoms, elimination diets, allergy and intolerance testing, and the emotional toll of caring for a food-sensitive baby. Her tone is warm, supportive, and rooted in lived experience.
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.
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.