Hill, a pediatrician and a father, has presented his amiable take on fatherhood, which has consistently offered a winning combination of humor and fact, in various segments on National Public Radio. This highly entertaining and informative book presents Hill at his best, but its wide range—from before birth to the toddler years—makes this volume for fathers an essential addition to such parenting books as What to Expect When You Are Expecting. Based on his observation that "many people still have low expectations for fathers' general competence," Hill seeks to educate fathers on a range of issues to prove that "[d]ads, as it turns out, are good for a lot, and our positive effect spans the life" of their children. Hill writes enthusiastically yet straightforwardly about the nuts and bolts of parenting: basic facts about sleep, colic, and vomiting; excellent advice on "dad's role in breastfeeding"; and what to know about vaccines and illnesses. But early on in the book, Hill tackles an issue that most looks at fatherhood leave until the end to discuss: how a new dad must "try to find time to nurture your relationship with your partner." Hill's excellent advice on this subject alone puts this work at the top of the heap of essential parenting books. (July)
