The Breastfeeding Sourcebook

Rating:
Summary: One Stop to Learn it All
Review: As a first-time mom, I wanted one book that covered all the issues regarding breastfeeding, and this one does it perfectly. Written by a doctor, it's well organized and comprehensive (without being boring). Just skip the chapters that don't apply to you. Topics covered include: ALL of the emotional and health issues, for the baby and for you; the biology of the breast (yes, there is such a thing); weaning the baby; laws governing the workplace; general information about the different types of breast pumps; equipment you do and don't need; and a list of resources for more information. I highly recommend this book to anybody contemplating breastfeeding.

Rating:
Summary: Useful, but not the best book on nursing
Review: I have used this book for three months, since the birth of my daughter, and it does have useful information. But the tone is quite strident, and there are better books available. My favorite is The Nursing Mother's Companion, by Kathleen Huggins.

Rating:
Summary: Read this book before your baby is born!
Review: I read this entire book while on pregnancy-related bed rest, and I know it directly contributed to my success in breastfeeding my son.

There is an ENTIRE chapter devoted to the first week of breastfeeding, an explanation of why so many new mothers find the natural art of breastfeeding so difficult and information on maintaining a good supply of milk.

The information on expressing and storing of milk is excellent. I work full-time and my eight month old has only had breastmilk (no formula supplements). Based on advice in the book, I built a nice supply of frozen milk before returning to work. I also opted for a more expensive pump -- which has saved me the cost of formula and allowed me to provide my baby with the best food available.