what parents are saying
If every anxious mother could write a book, this would be it. Good information on many of the topics surrounding pregnancy to help ease your mind a bit. (Oct 26, 2017)
Alicia F.
as seen on weelists
what parents are saying
-
- Kathryn B.
Aldie, Virginia
I enjoyed this book and I lend it out to friends all the time. Mar 31, 2024
- Meagan H.
Houston, Texas
Wade through all the misinformation to see what the newest data actually says! Also, great for helping expectant moms relax a little. Nov 28, 2023
- Kristen A.
Trinity, Florida
SO much easier to read that others I've tried, and has been a go to point of reference Oct 18, 2023
- Vanesa M.
Palm Springs , Florida
I liked this book’s tone. There is a focus on statistics and research. I felt like it did a good job to not moralize motherhood and pregnancy. No cutesy language, either. Very much appreciated. Jun 11, 2023
- Amy W.
Commerce Township, Michigan
I absolutely love having data to back up my decisions and Emily Oster provides this in Expecting Better. She provides the data needed for you to make important decisions about your pregnancy. May 25, 2023
- Nelly G.
Normal, Illinois
Love that this is backed up by easy-to-understand data to help make the best decision for yourself. I've learned so much and am so grateful for this book. Jan 22, 2023
- Daniela J.
San Jose, California
Very informative and concise. I enjoyed this book Apr 14, 2021
- Maridee L.
Avon Lake, Ohio
The only book you should read. The only one. No more mom guilt. Just facts, odds and empowerment. Dec 23, 2020
- Benita B.
Reno, Nevada
When I found out I was pregnant, this was one of the first books I purchased. I love how all the advice the author gives is backed by studies-it really helped me make some key decisions! Oct 08, 2020
- Michelle C.
Hartsdale, New York
This book is great for analytical information about what to to/not do, eat or not eat during your pregnancy. Made me feel better about eating sushi, caffeine intake and if alcohol is ok or not. Apr 07, 2020
- Katie V.
Missoula, Montana
I LOVED this book! The research Emily did provided the perfect amount of knowledge and peace of mind so I could make educated decisions in regards to the health of myself and my baby. Nov 20, 2019
- Leigh B.
Greensboro, North Carolina
Should be required reading for all prospective parents. Oster presents the data behind advice so you can make your own decisions about what's right for you and your baby. I also recommend Cribsheet. Sep 11, 2019
- Jen L.
New Orleans, Louisiana
As a high anxiety, engineer mom, having all this data helped me feel much better about making choices for my pregnancy. Sep 05, 2019
- Amanda N.
Tyngsboro , New York
I found this book extremely helpful. It is based on extensive research by a woman who was going through it herself. I learned so much and it helped me feel confident in my decision making. Aug 23, 2019
- Erin N.
Hampstead, North Carolina
Great book challenging current pregnancy norms backed by research Aug 04, 2019
- Jessie T.
Boston , Massachusetts
This is the only pregnancy book that matters. Forget conventional wisdom. Emily gives you vetted science based facts so you can drink your coffee without guilt, and make every decision with confidence Jun 19, 2019
- Ann M.
Tacoma, Washington
I loved this book! It's funny and definitely helped me make some more educated decisions during my pregnancy. Jan 04, 2019
- Briar B.
Stow, Massachusetts
This book had some good debunking of some old wives' tales come from that were backed by science. This is a good read. Dec 15, 2018
- Alex T.
BROOKLYN, New York
This book has been my "pregnancy bible" - it has all the info I need, and nothing more. I love the data driven approach, simple reference sheets, and easy to read tone. My husband loved it too! Nov 08, 2018
- Jamie G.
United States of America
Once again found myself recommending this book this week, five years after I first read it. If numbers and stats comfort you, this is the pregnancy book for you. Hooray, science! Aug 17, 2018
- Ruth W.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
An economist's assessment of how women's actions affect their babies prior to birth. Not all will agree with her conclusions, but good food for thought when deciding things like whether to eat sushi! Mar 11, 2018
- Adrienne L.
San Ramon, California
If you want evidence-based information, this book is for you. It definitely helped ease my mind about pregnancy. Jan 20, 2018
- Secretly Expecting
United States of America
great book for de-mysitifying all the scary "no's" that you hear about what to do and eat while pregnant Nov 28, 2017
- Samara T.
San Francisco, California
Practical guide on getting pregnant and pregnancy using real life data and not antidotal information. Oct 19, 2017
- Jessica V.
Atlanta, Georgia
I really like the author’s approach to each topic. So much of what you read in pregnancy attempts to scare you and this presents real data behind the discussion of each topic. Oct 11, 2017
- Secretly Expecting
Brooklyn, New York
This book made me feel both much more informed and much more relaxed about what I could, should and couldn't do during pregnancy. A must read! Sep 09, 2017
- Courtney E.
Denver, Colorado
Love the science-backed advice this book gives (spoiler: most of the old wives tales are BS). I literally gift this book to everyone I know who is expecting. Aug 28, 2017
- Elana G.
Brooklyn, New York
Gives you the research behind traditional advice. I did drink some wine while pregnant. Jun 09, 2017
- Megan F.
Kemptville, Canada
Nice science based info. It helps give you reasons why you might want to (or not want to) follow conventional pregnancy rules. Apr 20, 2017
- Sammy P.
Chicago, Illinois
Give you all the information you need to make the right pregnancy decisions for you and your family. She provides hard facts in a digestible way, and lets you interpret it what it means for you. Dec 02, 2016
- Lisa S.
98208, Washington
I LOVED having a book that finds the numbers and studies so I didn't have to, I'm very much like the author in wanting to know figures, not just "Well for some people it's like this." Very informative Oct 05, 2016
- Lacy B.
Denver, Colorado
I really like the long term studies they highlight in this book. Checked it out from my local library, and I recommend it to all my pregnant friends. Jul 22, 2016
- Liz A.
Norwalk, Connecticut
Data and current info all about modern pregnancy. I love and trust this book, so different than all the other old/traditional books out there. Nov 28, 2015
- Becky W.
Salt Lake City, Utah
This book has become my bible. She lays out all the data about conventional pregnancy "facts" - some of which are not straightforward - & allows us to make decisions for ourselves. Highly recommend. Nov 11, 2015
- Margaret D.
West Lebanon, New Hampshire
Made the "rules" of pregnancy bearable and understandable. Aug 19, 2015
- Sophie C.
WEST LEEDERVILLE, Australia
Finally! A book that removes the hysteria from listeria and puts the logic back into pregnancy Jun 11, 2015
- Rachel A.
United States of America
Oster's approach to pregnancy through the lens of economics/data analysis is insightful and valuable to read. Apr 01, 2015
- Midori B.
Los Angeles, California
I work in science publishing, so natch I'd be drawn to this. This was such a REASONABLE approach to everything, I found it to be a great resource, especially regarding prenatal testing. Feb 17, 2015
- Stephanie W.
United States of America
Rather than the traditional, prescriptive pregnancy advice, Oster gives you the facts and lets you decide. Very liberating in the world of hysterical pregnancy "don'ts" and "nevers." Oct 28, 2014
- Alexandra .
United States of America
This was the only pregnancy book I read. An economist examines conventional pregnancy wisdom to assess the risks, then leaves the final choices up to you. Very informative and helpful. Oct 05, 2014
- Laura B.
United States of America
Love understanding why the "rules" are in place and how to best navigate them. My favorite pregnancy book Sep 25, 2014
See More Reviews
(including your friends’ reviews!)
Featured Parents' Reviews-
- mona l.
durham, North Carolina
I don't agree with everything in the book, but I like all the data points she brings up and studies she bases her conclusions on. would recommend. Apr 12, 2020
- Kristen S.
Madison, Tennessee
Way better than other expecting books. Provides facts to help you draw your own conclusion Aug 30, 2018
- Keren W.
brooklyn, New York
My doctor recommended this book to me. It helps you make informed decisions and educates you so you can back them up when your mother in law is giving you side eye! Aug 29, 2018
- Alicia F.
United States of America
If every anxious mother could write a book, this would be it. Good information on many of the topics surrounding pregnancy to help ease your mind a bit. Oct 26, 2017
- Rana G.
Louisville, United States
Great read, it provided so much useful contextual information. May 11, 2017
- Laura M.
Plainfield, New Jersey
I love how honest this book is! And, best of all, it treats you like an adult who is capable of making her own, informed, decisions regarding what is best for you & your pregnancy. Must Read! Feb 16, 2017
- Christina H.
Denver, Colorado
Very interesting in understanding why the baby and medical industry pushes women towards certain ways that are not necessarily the best, but have been accepted without question. Jan 19, 2016
- Allyson D.
United States of America
Finally... a pragmatic book about pregnancy. The does a deep dive into the research behind the "rules" of pregnancy, assessing how valid the studies are. (Spoiler: you CAN eat sushi!) Nov 29, 2013
- Caitlin M.
Waterloo, Canada
For people craving pregnancy data. This is an easy to understand review of the up to date evidence around pregnancy so you can make well informed decisions. Sep 30, 2013
More Parents' Reviews-
- Kathryn B.
Aldie, Virginia
I enjoyed this book and I lend it out to friends all the time. Mar 31, 2024
- Meagan H.
Houston, Texas
Wade through all the misinformation to see what the newest data actually says! Also, great for helping expectant moms relax a little. Nov 28, 2023
- Kristen A.
Trinity, Florida
SO much easier to read that others I've tried, and has been a go to point of reference Oct 18, 2023
- Vanesa M.
Palm Springs , Florida
I liked this book’s tone. There is a focus on statistics and research. I felt like it did a good job to not moralize motherhood and pregnancy. No cutesy language, either. Very much appreciated. Jun 11, 2023
- Amy W.
Commerce Township, Michigan
I absolutely love having data to back up my decisions and Emily Oster provides this in Expecting Better. She provides the data needed for you to make important decisions about your pregnancy. May 25, 2023
- Nelly G.
Normal, Illinois
Love that this is backed up by easy-to-understand data to help make the best decision for yourself. I've learned so much and am so grateful for this book. Jan 22, 2023
- Daniela J.
San Jose, California
Very informative and concise. I enjoyed this book Apr 14, 2021
- Maridee L.
Avon Lake, Ohio
The only book you should read. The only one. No more mom guilt. Just facts, odds and empowerment. Dec 23, 2020
- Benita B.
Reno, Nevada
When I found out I was pregnant, this was one of the first books I purchased. I love how all the advice the author gives is backed by studies-it really helped me make some key decisions! Oct 08, 2020
- Michelle C.
Hartsdale, New York
This book is great for analytical information about what to to/not do, eat or not eat during your pregnancy. Made me feel better about eating sushi, caffeine intake and if alcohol is ok or not. Apr 07, 2020
- Katie V.
Missoula, Montana
I LOVED this book! The research Emily did provided the perfect amount of knowledge and peace of mind so I could make educated decisions in regards to the health of myself and my baby. Nov 20, 2019
- Leigh B.
Greensboro, North Carolina
Should be required reading for all prospective parents. Oster presents the data behind advice so you can make your own decisions about what's right for you and your baby. I also recommend Cribsheet. Sep 11, 2019
- Jen L.
New Orleans, Louisiana
As a high anxiety, engineer mom, having all this data helped me feel much better about making choices for my pregnancy. Sep 05, 2019
- Amanda N.
Tyngsboro , New York
I found this book extremely helpful. It is based on extensive research by a woman who was going through it herself. I learned so much and it helped me feel confident in my decision making. Aug 23, 2019
- Erin N.
Hampstead, North Carolina
Great book challenging current pregnancy norms backed by research Aug 04, 2019
- Jessie T.
Boston , Massachusetts
This is the only pregnancy book that matters. Forget conventional wisdom. Emily gives you vetted science based facts so you can drink your coffee without guilt, and make every decision with confidence Jun 19, 2019
- Ann M.
Tacoma, Washington
I loved this book! It's funny and definitely helped me make some more educated decisions during my pregnancy. Jan 04, 2019
- Briar B.
Stow, Massachusetts
This book had some good debunking of some old wives' tales come from that were backed by science. This is a good read. Dec 15, 2018
- Alex T.
BROOKLYN, New York
This book has been my "pregnancy bible" - it has all the info I need, and nothing more. I love the data driven approach, simple reference sheets, and easy to read tone. My husband loved it too! Nov 08, 2018
- Jamie G.
United States of America
Once again found myself recommending this book this week, five years after I first read it. If numbers and stats comfort you, this is the pregnancy book for you. Hooray, science! Aug 17, 2018
- Ruth W.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
An economist's assessment of how women's actions affect their babies prior to birth. Not all will agree with her conclusions, but good food for thought when deciding things like whether to eat sushi! Mar 11, 2018
- Adrienne L.
San Ramon, California
If you want evidence-based information, this book is for you. It definitely helped ease my mind about pregnancy. Jan 20, 2018
- Secretly Expecting
United States of America
great book for de-mysitifying all the scary "no's" that you hear about what to do and eat while pregnant Nov 28, 2017
- Samara T.
San Francisco, California
Practical guide on getting pregnant and pregnancy using real life data and not antidotal information. Oct 19, 2017
- Jessica V.
Atlanta, Georgia
I really like the author’s approach to each topic. So much of what you read in pregnancy attempts to scare you and this presents real data behind the discussion of each topic. Oct 11, 2017
- Secretly Expecting
Brooklyn, New York
This book made me feel both much more informed and much more relaxed about what I could, should and couldn't do during pregnancy. A must read! Sep 09, 2017
- Courtney E.
Denver, Colorado
Love the science-backed advice this book gives (spoiler: most of the old wives tales are BS). I literally gift this book to everyone I know who is expecting. Aug 28, 2017
- Elana G.
Brooklyn, New York
Gives you the research behind traditional advice. I did drink some wine while pregnant. Jun 09, 2017
- Megan F.
Kemptville, Canada
Nice science based info. It helps give you reasons why you might want to (or not want to) follow conventional pregnancy rules. Apr 20, 2017
- Sammy P.
Chicago, Illinois
Give you all the information you need to make the right pregnancy decisions for you and your family. She provides hard facts in a digestible way, and lets you interpret it what it means for you. Dec 02, 2016
- Lisa S.
98208, Washington
I LOVED having a book that finds the numbers and studies so I didn't have to, I'm very much like the author in wanting to know figures, not just "Well for some people it's like this." Very informative Oct 05, 2016
- Lacy B.
Denver, Colorado
I really like the long term studies they highlight in this book. Checked it out from my local library, and I recommend it to all my pregnant friends. Jul 22, 2016
- Liz A.
Norwalk, Connecticut
Data and current info all about modern pregnancy. I love and trust this book, so different than all the other old/traditional books out there. Nov 28, 2015
- Becky W.
Salt Lake City, Utah
This book has become my bible. She lays out all the data about conventional pregnancy "facts" - some of which are not straightforward - & allows us to make decisions for ourselves. Highly recommend. Nov 11, 2015
- Margaret D.
West Lebanon, New Hampshire
Made the "rules" of pregnancy bearable and understandable. Aug 19, 2015
- Sophie C.
WEST LEEDERVILLE, Australia
Finally! A book that removes the hysteria from listeria and puts the logic back into pregnancy Jun 11, 2015
- Rachel A.
United States of America
Oster's approach to pregnancy through the lens of economics/data analysis is insightful and valuable to read. Apr 01, 2015
- Midori B.
Los Angeles, California
I work in science publishing, so natch I'd be drawn to this. This was such a REASONABLE approach to everything, I found it to be a great resource, especially regarding prenatal testing. Feb 17, 2015
- Stephanie W.
United States of America
Rather than the traditional, prescriptive pregnancy advice, Oster gives you the facts and lets you decide. Very liberating in the world of hysterical pregnancy "don'ts" and "nevers." Oct 28, 2014
- Alexandra .
United States of America
This was the only pregnancy book I read. An economist examines conventional pregnancy wisdom to assess the risks, then leaves the final choices up to you. Very informative and helpful. Oct 05, 2014
- Laura B.
United States of America
Love understanding why the "rules" are in place and how to best navigate them. My favorite pregnancy book Sep 25, 2014
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