Dana Linden, Emma Paroli & Mia Doron, M.D.

One out of every eight babies in the U.S. is born prematurely – a 30 percent increase over rates in 1981 – but in the majority of these cases the mothers have no known risk of giving birth early, so it’s impossible for them to prepare for the challenges and emotions they will experience in the neonatal unit.

“Preemies,” written by two mothers (with the help of a physician who specializes in neonatology) who met in the hospital when their babies were born just a bit too early, gives new parents a crash course in premature newborns in the form of a comprehensive guidebook. The authors fulfill the overwhelming need for information with remarkable clarity in this informative book, offering straightforward answers to a long list of questions any worried parent might have.

“Preemies” covers a plethora of issues in four main sections (Before Birth, In the Hospital, A Life Together and Other Considerations) including risk factors, possible problems in the newborn’s first days, taking the baby home, possible long-term prognoses and more. While medical information is presented in detail, the authors maintain a personal, reassuring tone throughout the book, explaining that, although their organs and body functions are not fully developed, most premature babies are generally healthy. The information is presented in question-and-answer format, which makes it simple to navigate the book and find exactly what you’re looking for. It also serves as a useful tool for communicating with medical staff at the hospital, which can be a daunting task for new parents who have questions but aren’t sure how to ask them. In addition, the resource guide and glossary are especially helpful.

So if you’re a parent of a premature baby and you’re looking for an authoritative, practical, and encouraging reference tool, “Preemies” is the book that will both meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Pick up a copy here.