They may be OB-GYNs, specialists in high-risk pregnancies, and the authors of several other books on the subject (including 2008's The Pregnancy Bible), but Drs. Eddleman and Stone fall short of the mark with their new guide to the miracle of life and babyhood. That said, the book does have its strong points—there's plenty of information on diet during pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum exercise, and baby/toddler care, and emergency first aid guides are easily accessed. But there's simply too much to fit into too small a space. The authors tout their tome as being interactive, but shopping checklists and an Advent-style weekly pregnancy calendar are not enough to substantiate their claim, and the text alternates awkwardly between the 3rd- and 1st-person while important or alternative information (such as discussions of doulas or at-home births) is glossed over or ignored. Images of serene and made-up women in the midst of labor belie the reality of the struggle, and photos of "The Ideal Stroller," complete with visible logo, smack of product placement. Moms-to-be might find Eddleman and Stone's guide suitable as introductory material, but those looking for a complete reference will want to look elsewhere. Photos & illus. (Sept.)
