Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite

Emese C. Parker's aim in writing To Carry Wonder is so that women can have open conversations with their obstetricians, make more informed choices, and have a better understanding of their conditions to be more proactive in their care. This comprehensive guide documents Parker's feelings during her pregnancy, outlines facts about the baby's development each week, considers changes to the body as hormones and expansion cause understandable and strange alterations, and discusses items to consider at each stage of the baby's development. With useful tips, from managing nausea to reasonable exercise and nourishment to labor support, Parker informs women about what they can expect as they carry their baby and deliver him or her. The author also reviews birth plans and life with a newborn during postpartum recovery. In the back appendices, Parker provides a general timeline for pregnancy with tests obstetricians may order at appointments, pregnancy tips, resources, and affirmations.

Emese C. Parker forms a genuine, judgment-free relationship with her readers as she explains her pregnancy journey alongside weekly developmental facts and body changes. One of the best parts about the book's layout is you may pick up the book at any part of your pregnancy and skip to the areas you need, whether you just received a positive pregnancy test or you are nearing delivery. You may check it weekly as your body changes and your baby grows, referring to the additional helpful information in the appendices. Parker, who is a mother of three and a nurse practitioner, has helped pregnant and postpartum women over the years, so she delivers accurate and relevant information you can trust. As the mother of seven children, I appreciated the little-known facts Parker put into her conversational memoir and discussions, as well as the awe-inspiring and uplifting moments she shared. To Carry Wonder is a great companion for anyone who is pregnant or thinking about pregnancy.