cover image The Real Deal Guide to Pregnancy

The Real Deal Guide to Pregnancy

Erika Lenkert, . . DK, $19.95 (256pp) ISBN 978-0-7566-3386-8

Unsatisfied with the pregnancy books out there, Lenkert (The Last Minute Party Girl ) decided to write her own. Light, humorous and accessible, Lenkert's guide offers facts on important topics like nutrition, exercise and doctor's appointments, and also includes her own thoughts and experiences concerning everything from maternity fashion, coping with moodiness, and her relationship with her husband during her pregnancy. Lenkert's writing style—along with her Cheat Sheets on essential vitamins needed in each trimester and lists of healthy snacks for pregnancy hunger pains—make this guide fun and accessible. Quotes from more than 100 pregnant women and moms, whom Lenkert calls the Mommy Menagerie appear throughout the book and shed light on pregnancy cravings, sleep and nausea to name a few. Lenkert utilizes her fashion savvy by including her favorite Web sites for baby clothing, furniture and gear, and also includes helpful and practical lists of what to bring to the hospital with you and newborn essentials for when you arrive home. (Mar.)