Someone asked for recommendations on the best books for new fathers in the fatherhood subreddit I follow, and I decided to share three of the top picks from that discussion here with two caveats – no one book has it all, and this post is for new fathers!
You can grab these three books that are worth it on Amazon.
1. “The Expectant Father” by Armin A. Brott and Jennifer Ash
If you’re going to pick just one book about becoming a dad, “The Expectant Father” is the one I recommend.
Get it on Amazon: The Expectant Father.
It’s a comprehensive, month-by-month guide that walks you through what to expect during pregnancy—both emotionally and physically.
This book doesn’t just focus on what’s happening with the baby but also on your role as a father-to-be.
From helping your partner with morning sickness to understanding your own emotions as the due date approaches, this book covers it all. It is filled with actionable advice that you can apply to help you stay engaged and connected with your partner as she navigates pregnancy.
One of the things I appreciate about this book is that it breaks down the information into digestible, easy-to-read chapters. You won’t feel overwhelmed by dense medical jargon. You’ll find a mix of humor and realistic advice, which makes the whole experience of becoming a dad less intimidating.
I highly recommend this one. Its great whether you’re a first-time dad or you’ve been through this before. “The Expectant Father” will prepare you for the journey ahead.
Buy it on Amazon: The Expectant Father.
2. “The First-Time Dad Playbook” by Darius Miles
I think Darius Miles has a no-nonsense view of what being a first-time dad should be. And you’ll see his approach in this book, which is suited for anyone looking for a modern, no-nonsense guide to fatherhood.
Get it on Amazon: The First-Time Dad Playbook.
It is packed with practical advice and real-life anecdotes that will help you navigate the early stages of fatherhood with confidence.
Through this book, Miles offers “game-winning strategies” for bonding with your baby, handling diaper blowouts, and supporting your partner. The book is designed for busy dads, offering quick, actionable tips that you can absorb in just five minutes a day. So if you’re worried about juggling work, dealing with late-night feedings, or just trying to stay awake, you’re covered.
Miles doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges of fatherhood in this book. Instead, he offers practical solutions that will help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed for your responsibilities.
Buy it on Amazon: The First-Time Dad Playbook.
3. “Dude, You’re a Dad!” by John Pfeiffer
Someone said John Pfeiffer wrote this book for his friend who has been panicking because they’re becoming a father.
Get it on Amazon: Dude, You’re a Dad!
Because that’s the only explanation for such a catchy name. So if you’re looking for a humorous, straightforward guide to surviving your baby’s first year, Dude, You’re a Dad! by John Pfeiffer is a solid choice.
This book is designed for dads who want practical advice without the fluff.
Pfeiffer is a father of three and shares his experiences and offers tips on everything from late-night feedings to dealing with unsolicited advice from well-meaning relatives. The tone is casual and relatable, making it an easy read for those who might not typically pick up parenting books.
The book doesn’t delve deeply into emotional aspects but focuses more on the day-to-day realities of fatherhood. You’ll find tips and strategies to help you navigate the challenges of the first year of fatherhood – you’ll understand what I mean when the bills, baby food, baby care, etc, tasks land on your lap.
While it may not be for everyone, if you’re looking for a lighthearted, practical guide to fatherhood, “Dude, You’re a Dad!” is worth considering.
Buy it on Amazon: Dude, You’re a Dad!
Why “The Expectant Father” is Worth It
After your first child, you’ll get the 411 on being such a great dad! You’ll learn about fatherhood along the way – just try and get enough sleep/rest/money before your next child arrives.
Out of all the books mentioned, “The Expectant Father“ stands out as the most comprehensive and well-rounded guide for any father-to-be. It’s not just about the logistics of pregnancy, but it also takes your emotions and role in the process into account. What I love about it is that it tackles everything—from the physical to the emotional—and it does so in a way that feels very real and relatable.
You’re not just getting advice on what your partner is going through; you’re also learning about yourself as you prepare to become a dad. It’s an excellent resource for those who want to fully engage in the process and become more hands-on with their partner during pregnancy.
Becoming a dad isn’t an easy journey, but with the right resources, it can be a fulfilling one. Each of the three books I reviewed has its unique strengths.
