I’m unequivocally on the record as not being a fan of parenting books.  They give me a complex, and really, who needs any more neuroses than they’ve already got?

When I received Amazing Baby in the mail, I thought it would merely be a book of gorgeous photography with a few factoids thrown in for good measure.  But it’s so much more!  This book - and all babies - really are amazing.

The photography IS gorgeous.  Absolutely stunning.  This book could make even a childless menopausal woman’s ovaries ache.  All that clear, smooth baby skin and those bright baby eyes and wide gummy grins - these are some beautiful shots.  Perfect for perusing during the witching hour when you’re convinced your sweet baby has turned into a demon child.

I also love the translucent overlay pages that show bones and internal organs and other anatomical features.  The science geek in me thinks that is totally cool.  It also helps less scientifically-inclined readers visualize the complexity of this tiny little person’s body.  Amazing to think that this tremendously complex being grew INSIDE you from two tiny components.

But what was really unexpected was the tone of the book.  It’s matter-of-fact when discussing anatomical and physiological concepts, and discoveries based on scientific studies.  But it inspires wonderment in the sections on what babies and toddlers can do, and what parents can do to encourage and facilitate development.  It’s not at all preachy or self-righteous or opinionated - it’s “hey, check this out!” or “give this a try!”  Unlike parenting books that advocate the “right” and “wrong” things to do, Amazing Baby is amazing in both its objectivity and its positivity.

I’m watching my third baby approach toddlerhood (sob!), and this book was still a revelation to me.  I’d highly recommend it for all parents, and it would make a stunning shower gift for a first-time mother in particular.  Especially juxtaposed with that pregnancy and parenting tome we all love to hate.

Amazing Baby is published by Firefly Books.  Hear from the author, Desmond Morris, himself in this video, and check out more Amazing Baby reviews on PBN!