Essay compilations don't always interest me, because with each new chapter, you have to adjust to a completely new story. This particular compilation, however, was really enjoyable. I don't know if it's because I just went through the whole pregnancy/baby thing, but I found these stories at times making me laugh and also tear up with genuine emotion. There is a huge range of reading here, but none was overly sappy. ( )

A collection of beautifully written stories of parenthood - mostly motherhood, though two fathers take part. The stories get to the emotion of what those first moments and years of parenting is like, whether one becomes a parent through a traditional pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption. The stories are honest about the challenges and unexpected emotions as well as the joys and depths of love. A wonderful read for any new parent. ( )

oh, baby is a fine collection of essays written by a rich array of mothers & fathers as they explore the emotional, logistical and biological complications of the journey to parenthood. as the editor's note instructs us, in the overwhelming first months & years, "you need more than advice. you need stories, stories from people who have been there, who have survived it, who are forever changed, as you are."

these stories describe the gleeful abandon of falling in love with a newborn, the black depths of post-partum depression, the harrowing stress a colicky baby creates; an unwanted pregnancy, unachieved pregnancy; pregnancy by surrogate, by adoption; even a stint in a third world jail. we hear from gay men, lesbian women, very young parents, families living on the edge. their voices are heart-cracking, hilarious, unique & universal.

two very small quibbles: while the opening essay is splendidly written & thought-out, i worry that it might be too esoteric as an introduction to this plain-spoken anthology. & given the evident effort to represent such a glorious diversity amongst the authors, i wish to

hear from an invisible, inaudible segment of moms--those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. ( )

I received this book as an early review copy.

This is an enjoyable book and I found myself quickly reading story after story. The range and diversity of stories makes for each one to be refreshing. I will be passing this book on to others! ( )

This is a very enjoyable, interesting book about the many different ways families can be formed. :) In fact, it was such a page-turner that my mother in law came to visit and she also read the book in 2 days!
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys hearing true stories about babies, childbirth, adoption, surrogacy, etc. ( )