The Joy of Twins and Other Multiple Births: Having, Raising, and Loving Babies Who Arrive in Groups

Whether the result of fertility drugs, an "older mother" (more likely to experience a multiple ovulation), or simply the luck of the draw, multiple babies pose multiple challenges. Journalist Pamela Patrick Novotny's comprehensive exploration of life with twins--or more--provides page after page of myth-busting, educational, and highly supportive information.

Not meant for the expectant parent, this text cuts right to the chase: the babies have been born--it's time to rally. Novotny opens by discussing transitions, likening pregnancy, delivery, and homecoming to a three-ringed circus. With a deft combination of coaching tones and facts galore, she addresses each issue thoroughly and insightfully, and offers excellent suggestions for coming to terms with the many changes. Novotny seems to target her book to the doubtful, those who may feel unusually overwhelmed by the prospect of caring for more than one baby at a time, or those who need help surfacing from the murky pool of postpartum depression. Troubleshooting, planning, finding alternatives--these terms and themes can be found throughout her text, with plenty of positive results. Most helpful are the excellent chapters on mothercare, multiples' developing sense of identity and myths surrounding their genetic influences, and "Feeling the Changes: Fathers and Families." Absolutely packed with valuable suggestions, case studies, facts, and references, this book should rank quite high with parents of multiples. Team it with When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets or Quads for a complete pre- and postnatal library. --Liane Thomas