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:
Breastfeeding Myths: Challenging Misconceptions and Cultural Beliefs
This accessible, evidence-based book by IBCLC Lucy Ruddle takes aim at some of the most persistent myths and misinformation surrounding breastfeeding. From ideas about supply and sleep to cultural beliefs that undermine confidence, Ruddle debunks common misconceptions with clarity and compassion. Her clinical experience is evident throughout, making it both informative and reassuring.
Breastfeeding and the Fourth Trimester
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.
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.
The Gentle Eating Book
This reassuring and evidence-based guide offers a respectful approach to feeding babies, toddlers, and young children. Sarah Ockwell-Smith addresses common concerns — picky eating, food refusal, family mealtimes, weight worries — with empathy and science, helping parents raise competent, relaxed eaters without bribes, pressure, or power struggles.
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.
Baby-Led Weaning
This influential guide introduces the concept of baby-led weaning — allowing babies to feed themselves solid foods from the start, rather than being spoon-fed purées. Rapley and Murkett explain how babies can safely explore food at their own pace, developing autonomy, coordination, and a healthy relationship with food through responsive, family-based mealtimes.
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.