Are you gearing up for your babymoon and realizing you'll probably have a lot more downtime and relaxation than usual? With the typical high-energy activities on hold, there's nothing quite like getting lost in a book in a beautiful and comfortable place. If you're reading this, you're likely wondering, "What book should I take on my babymoon?"
When you're pregnant, your mind and emotions can feel like they're on a rollercoaster. Hormonal changes, particularly increases in progesterone and estrogen, significantly impact your mood. You might find yourself swinging from joy to tears in a matter of minutes, which is entirely normal during pregnancy (American Pregnancy Association) (Tommy's). This emotional turbulence can make finding the right book even more essential, as the right read can help soothe, distract, or uplift you, depending on what you need at the moment.
Maybe you're curious about what books other expecting moms have loved when they needed a good cry, something to distract from all the changes happening in their body, or just a reason to laugh out loud. Whatever you're feeling, we've got you covered. We've gathered recommendations from the sisterhood of pregnant and formerly pregnant ladies to bring you a list of books that are perfect for your babymoon. So, sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect literary escape for this special time.
Good for When Mama Wants to Learn
Pregnancy & Parenting
Perhaps this is your first baby, and reality is setting in that you have absolutely no clue what is going on with your body or what you're going to do with this little eating, sleeping, crying machine upon arrival. You’ve got this! Educating yourself can make a world of difference, and there are a million options to help soon-to-be moms master the art of pregnancy and momming. So, why not channel some of that emotional energy into something productive? Enter: the ultimate list of pregnancy and parenting books.
by William Sears and Martha Sears
Feeling a bit clueless about what comes next? This guide covers everything from baby’s first bath to dealing with toddler tantrums, because let’s face it, babies don’t come with an instruction manual—until now.
by John Medina
Ever wondered what’s going on inside that tiny head? This book dives into baby brain development with practical tips for nurturing a smart, happy child. Spoiler: It involves more than just Baby Einstein videos.
by Pamela Druckerman
Curious about how French parents manage to raise such well-behaved kids? This delightful read combines cultural insights with practical parenting advice. Warning: You might start saying “voilà” a lot.
by Milli Hill
If the thought of childbirth has you feeling anxious, this empowering guide provides a positive outlook and practical tips to help you feel more confident and prepared. Think of it as your pep talk before the big game.
by Michaeleen Doucleff
Tired of endless parenting advice from well-meaning friends? Explore parenting techniques from different cultures and find what truly resonates with you. Plus, it’s always fun to tell people you’re using hunter-gatherer methods.
by Angela Garbes
A candid exploration of the physical, emotional, and social aspects of motherhood that challenges conventional wisdom and offers new perspectives. Perfect for when you need to feel understood rather than just advised.
by Simone Davies and Junnifa Uzodike
Discover how to apply Montessori principles from birth, encouraging your baby’s natural curiosity and independence. Because every parent’s dream is a baby who can entertain themselves for five minutes, right?
by Karen Le Billon
If your idea of a balanced diet involves more than mac and cheese, this book offers tips on how to raise a non-picky eater. Imagine a toddler who eats vegetables willingly—sounds like a fairytale, but it’s possible!
by La Leche League International
A classic guide that offers comprehensive information on breastfeeding, from latching techniques to managing common challenges. It’s like having a lactation consultant on speed dial.
by Emily Oster
An economist’s data-driven approach to parenting, providing evidence-based answers to many of the questions new parents face. Because sometimes you just need to know the odds before making a bet.
by Marc Weissbluth
This book offers a science-based guide to establishing healthy sleep patterns for your child, ensuring better rest for the whole family. Sleep: the ultimate luxury for new parents.
by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
Understanding how a child’s brain develops can help parents raise calmer, happier, and more resilient children. Think of it as a roadmap for the toddler tantrum minefield.
by Louis Borgenicht and Joe Borgenicht
A humorous yet practical guide that approaches baby care with a technical twist, making it a fun and informative read. Because who doesn’t love a good laugh while learning about diaper blowouts?
by Harvey Karp
Dr. Karp's methods for soothing a fussy baby are both simple and effective, making this book a must-read for new parents. Consider it your secret weapon for those 3 a.m. wake-up calls.
by Emily Oster
This book takes a data-driven approach to pregnancy, debunking myths and providing clear, evidence-based advice. Emily Oster's witty and informative style makes it an engaging read.
by Leslie Schrock
A modern, no-nonsense guide to pregnancy that covers everything from conception to postpartum recovery with a focus on real-world advice and personal stories. Perfect for the mom who likes to keep it real.
Nourish your baby bump with more than just cheese puffs and ice cream—this book is your roadmap to a prenatal feast.
Good for When Mama Wants to Escape to Another Time
Historical Fiction & Emotional Journeys
Pregnancy can be an all encompassing experience, filled with physical changes, fluctuating hormones, and the anticipation of your little one’s arrival. Sometimes, you need a break from all the planning and preparation—a chance to escape the worries and immerse yourself in a different world. Books that transport you to another time or place can provide that perfect mental getaway, offering both relaxation and a bit of adventure without leaving your cozy babymoon spot. These selections offer a perfect mix of historical intrigue and emotional depth, making them ideal companions for your babymoon vacation. Here are the top picks for this category:
by Barbara Kingsolver
Follow the Price family as they embark on a missionary trip to the Congo in 1959. Through the eyes of the four Price daughters and their mother, you’ll experience the cultural clashes, personal struggles, and political upheaval that define their journey. This richly layered novel delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the impact of Western colonialism, making it an engrossing read that transports you to another time and place. Perfect for when you want to get lost in a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story.
by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Travel back in time to the golden age of Hollywood with the enigmatic and glamorous Evelyn Hugo. As she recounts her life story to a young journalist, you’ll uncover the secrets behind her seven marriages and the true love of her life. This novel is a captivating blend of old Hollywood charm, scandal, and heartfelt emotion. It’s a perfect read for those quiet babymoon moments when you want to indulge in a tale of love, loss, and the sacrifices made for fame and fortune.
by Sue Monk Kidd
Set in 1964 South Carolina, this poignant novel follows Lily Owens, a young girl who escapes her troubled life and abusive father by fleeing to a small town with her caretaker, Rosaleen. They find refuge with the Boatwright sisters, three African American beekeepers who teach Lily about life, love, and the secrets of her mother’s past. This heartwarming story of female empowerment, forgiveness, and the search for belonging is perfect for when you need a comforting and uplifting read.
Good for When Mama Wants to Laugh
Humorous and Lighthearted Reads:
Laughter is a great way to relieve stress and boost your mood, and during pregnancy, a good laugh can be especially therapeutic. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter decreases stress hormones like cortisol, improves your immune system, and boosts your mood by releasing endorphins (Mayo Clinic) (ShunChild). When the days feel long and your body feels foreign, a little humor can go a long way in lifting your spirits. Here are some humorous reads that will tickle your funny bone and brighten your babymoon.
by Jenny McCarthy
Jenny McCarthy takes a candid and comedic look at the first year of motherhood. From bodily changes to sleep deprivation, McCarthy’s hilarious anecdotes will have you laughing out loud and feeling less alone in your pregnancy journey.
"Dear Future Mama: A TMI Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, and Motherhood from Your Bestie" by Meghan Trainor
Pop star Meghan Trainor shares her personal and often humorous experiences with pregnancy and early motherhood. This book is like having a chat with a close friend who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is, making it a relatable and entertaining read.
by Maria Semple
This witty and whimsical novel follows the life of Bernadette Fox, an eccentric mother who disappears, leaving her teenage daughter to piece together what happened. The quirky characters and laugh-out-loud moments make this a delightful read that’s perfect for escaping into a world of humor and mystery.
by Simon Rich
A collection of comedic short stories, "New Teeth" explores the absurdities of modern life with a sharp wit. Simon Rich’s clever humor and imaginative storytelling make this book a great choice for quick, laugh-inducing reads between naps.
by Adam Mansbach**
A bedtime story for parents who live in the real world, this hilarious book perfectly captures the frustrations of trying to get a stubborn child to sleep. Adam Mansbach’s irreverent humor is both cathartic and incredibly funny, making it a must-read for any soon-to-be parent.
Good for When Mama Wants the Feels
Heartfelt Tales & Tear Jerkers
Pregnancy is an emotional journey, filled with moments of joy, anticipation, and sometimes, a need for a good cry. Connecting on an emotional level through a heartfelt tale can be incredibly therapeutic, helping you to release pent-up emotions and feel a sense of solidarity with the characters in the story. Whether it's the bittersweet beauty of life’s struggles or the profound connections between characters, these tear-jerkers are perfect for when you need a deep emotional release. Here are the top picks for this category:
by James Herriot
Step into the charming world of a rural English veterinarian. James Herriot’s memoirs are filled with heartwarming and often poignant stories about his experiences with animals and their owners. The combination of Herriot’s gentle humor and the touching moments he shares with his patients makes this book a comforting yet emotional read, perfect for those quiet babymoon afternoons.
by Shelby Van Pelt
This unique novel intertwines the lives of Tova Sullivan, a woman working the night shift at an aquarium, and Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus with a knack for solving mysteries. As Tova grapples with the loss of her son, Marcellus helps uncover secrets that have been long buried. This beautifully crafted story is both heartwarming and deeply moving, making it a wonderful choice for when you need to connect with something larger than life.
by Kristin Hannah
Set during World War II, "The Nightingale" tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who fight to survive and resist the German occupation of France in their own ways. This powerful novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Kristin Hannah’s masterful storytelling will pull at your heartstrings and immerse you in the sisters’ emotional journey, making it an unforgettable read.
by Garth Stein
Told from the perspective of Enzo, a dog who believes he will be reincarnated as a human, this novel delves into the life of his owner, Denny Swift, a race car driver. Enzo’s observations on life, love, and racing are both humorous and touching. This heartwarming and tear-jerking story is perfect for those moments when you need a reminder of the profound connections we share with our pets and loved ones.
by Lily Brooks-Dalton
In a near-future Florida ravaged by climate change, Wanda is born during a hurricane and grows up in a world increasingly shaped by environmental disaster. This novel is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking exploration of survival, resilience, and the human spirit. It’s perfect for when you want to reflect on the larger issues facing our world through a deeply personal lens.
by V.E. Schwab
Addie LaRue makes a desperate deal to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Spanning centuries and continents, Addie’s journey is one of loneliness, resilience, and an unyielding desire to leave a mark on the world. This beautifully written novel is both a sweeping historical adventure and a deeply emotional tale, making it a perfect choice for when you need to escape into a poignant and unforgettable story.
by Tara Westover
A triumphant memoir about the transformative power of education and the tough climb from rural isolation to intellectual emancipation.
Good for When Mama Wants to Relax
Lighthearted Vacation Reads
Pregnancy can be both exciting and exhausting, and your babymoon is the perfect prescription to unwind and recharge. Getting lost in a great book is a wonderful way to achieve that. Whether you're lounging by the pool or cuddled up in a cozy spot, these chill vacation reads offer the ideal escape. With their lighthearted and heartwarming stories, they'll help you relax, make you smile, and truly enjoy your special getaway. Here are the top picks for this category:
by Emily Henry
Follow the story of Poppy and Alex, two best friends who couldn't be more different. For over a decade, they’ve taken an annual summer vacation together. But after a falling out, they haven’t spoken in years. In a bid to mend their friendship, Poppy convinces Alex to take one last trip together. This charming and witty novel is filled with humor, romance, and the kind of heartfelt moments that will make you smile. It’s the perfect light read for when you want to relax and escape into a delightful story about love, friendship, and second chances.
by TJ Klune
Step into a whimsical and heartwarming world with Linus Baker, a by-the-book caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Linus is unexpectedly assigned to a classified mission: evaluate an orphanage on a distant island, home to some of the most dangerous and magical children. As Linus gets to know the children and their charming caretaker, Arthur Parnassus, he discovers that the true danger may be the world’s perception of these unique kids. This feel-good novel is a beautiful blend of fantasy, humor, and heart, making it an ideal read for your babymoon relaxation.
by Becky Chambers
In this thought-provoking and soothing novella, meet Dex, a tea monk who is seeking purpose and a break from their routine. Dex's journey leads them to the wilderness where they encounter Mosscap, a robot sent to check on humanity's progress. As they travel together, they explore profound questions about life, purpose, and what it means to be human. Becky Chambers' writing is gentle and reflective, making this a perfect book for those quiet moments when you want to unwind and ponder life’s big questions.
Final Thoughts:
Your babymoon is a precious time to relax, recharge, and savor the quiet moments before your little one arrives. Whether you want to learn more about pregnancy and parenting, escape to another world with a gripping historical novel, laugh out loud with humorous reads, or unwind with lighthearted vacation stories, the right book can enhance your experience and make your getaway even more special.
From the heartwarming tales of "People We Meet on Vacation" and "The House in the Cerulean Sea" to the emotional journeys found in "The Nightingale" and "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue," there's a perfect book for every mood and moment on your babymoon. Let these stories be your companions as you embark on this beautiful journey into motherhood.
So, pack your favorite reads, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in these wonderful stories. Happy reading and enjoy your babymoon!
To get a complete list of all our babymoon book recommendations and more information on each book check out our library here:
Just a heads up: the links to these fantastic books are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Think of it as a tiny thank you for recommending such great reads! Happy reading!
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