I bought this book on the back of 'What To Expect When You Are Expecting' and having borrowed this one from the library first. Both books are excellent, however I pre-ordered the 2008 edition, having read the 2004.

Why not 5 stars? Another review comments on the anglicising of the US law and support references, which is certainly the case in the 2004 edition What to Expect the First Year (What to Expect) but the 2008 edition is the American edition What to Expect the First Year and all the references are to the US system, some of which are completely different to UK, eg in the US the hospital files for your baby's birth certificate, here you register baby yourself. (A fairly obvious difference which is made very clear in hospital if you weren't already aware, but what else may be less obvious?)

This is not the book's fault, it's just not clear in the listing, so I mention it here. On the whole, the general advice is just as relevant wherever you are.

This is not a bad book, it is very comprehensive and well written, so it is fun to read and contains useful information. It seems intended to be read through more than as a reference book.
However, in my opinion it is a bit too much. The information overloads the reader and then it is difficcult to remember the key things a new mom has to have in mind.It would suit you if you have a control freak side and want to know absolutelly everything about -1 yr old babies. It won't suit you if you are an aprehensive person.

This is the best book I bought for advice on raising my newborn son (and I bought a lot!). It contains honest, straightforward, non-judgemental ideas and advice. I found it really interesting, reassuring and sensible. It counters the 'ideal' (and seemingly theoretical) advice in many books with practical responses I could identify with. Strongly recommended.

I received the first in the series from a very dear friend when I was pregnant (what to expect when expecting). Because I got so much out of it, I bought this one soon after my baby arrived. Great source of advice. Just one thing though: Don't wait until after your baby's arrival. Buy it when 6months pregnant as you will need some of the advice right from the 1st day. Not to miss.

This book is a must for all parents. It has so much information packed into it. It has answered nearly every question I've had on bringing up my child so far! Its very easy to dip in and out of, and you can see easily what to expect in future months!