Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Happy customer, 25 Jul 2008
Very, very happy with this book. Spent ages looking at all the different titles then took a chance by ordering this one. Made the right decision. Format is fresh, easy to glance through or read in more detail depending on how much time you have. Plenty of names to choose from, modern, traditional, trendy, a few foreign names but not too many. Ideal for naming baby without having to trawl through crazy names or a multitude of American names. Within ten minutes of reading this i'd found a few good names. Perfect.

Intelligent and entertaining, 18 Apr 2008
There are so, so many rubbish name books out there. This is one of a very few gems (the only other one I'd recommend is the Oxford Dictionary of First Names).

It's full of interesting, and accurate tidbits about the names, which the author sometimes groups together in themes - for example, Alfred and Aubrey might be talked about in the same entry because both have meanings about elves. This doesn't mean the names are hard to find, though, as they are all ordered alphabetically. Just don't be put off if some of them say "See 'X'"; it doesn't mean they've been lumped in with another name, but that they will be discussed with them. This gives the book an almost conversational feel, as if you were listening to someone really well-informed talk about names. The introduction, too, is very interesting and makes it obvious she has done her research (she even provides a bibliography). I really enjoyed reading it and haven't spotted a single factual inaccuracy of the kind that other name books are riddled with. The only strange thing is that there are lots of typos in my edition. It's a shame that such a good book clearly hasn't been proofread to do it justice.

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Happy customer, 25 Jul 2008
Very, very happy with this book. Spent ages looking at all the different titles then took a chance by ordering this one. Made the right decision. Format is fresh, easy to glance through or read in more detail depending on how much time you have. Plenty of names to choose from, modern, traditional, trendy, a few foreign names but not too many. Ideal for naming baby without having to trawl through crazy names or a multitude of American names. Within ten minutes of reading this i'd found a few good names. Perfect.

Intelligent and entertaining, 18 Apr 2008
There are so, so many rubbish name books out there. This is one of a very few gems (the only other one I'd recommend is the Oxford Dictionary of First Names).

It's full of interesting, and accurate tidbits about the names, which the author sometimes groups together in themes - for example, Alfred and Aubrey might be talked about in the same entry because both have meanings about elves. This doesn't mean the names are hard to find, though, as they are all ordered alphabetically. Just don't be put off if some of them say "See 'X'"; it doesn't mean they've been lumped in with another name, but that they will be discussed with them. This gives the book an almost conversational feel, as if you were listening to someone really well-informed talk about names. The introduction, too, is very interesting and makes it obvious she has done her research (she even provides a bibliography). I really enjoyed reading it and haven't spotted a single factual inaccuracy of the kind that other name books are riddled with. The only strange thing is that there are lots of typos in my edition. It's a shame that such a good book clearly hasn't been proofread to do it justice.

BRILLIANT AND FUN, 08 Sep 2008
A great way to get expectant Dads to actually read about childbirth. Very informative as well as laugh out loud funny.

Very funny and very accurate, 26 Apr 2008
A super book. Says a lot of things which are true, and very funny. Recognised myself in some of them.

Captures the first year (Or 21 months to be exact) of you and your baby's life.

"Bang, bang, you're Dad" is one of the best chapter titles for a long while.

Recommended book for all fathers. Also recommended to mothers- it's far funnier than most of the mother advice books...and male humour helps get rid of the worst fusspot instructions that may be bothering you.

Funny and true, 19 Apr 2008
A great read for all fathers-to-be and new dads, conveys all the essential information in a light-hearted way but without brushing over the harder stuff. Thoroughly recommended!

Super book for first time fathers, 09 Apr 2008
For those who are new or about to become new fathers this is an excellent book. Written in a bloke friendly way (I had tried to read a couple of others which were hard going in comparison). Full of humour but with plenty of facts that got me thinking about the right things without filling me with dread or fear. It equipped me to go on and read some of the other books that I had found harder going...
Anyway highly recommended.

Fun but occasionally misleading..., 10 Jan 2008
I read it cover-to-cover in 3 sittings and I laughed out loud repeatedly. I connected with the fears and hopes and feelings of the men whose stories are told and I thought the tone was just about right... but... but... there were 3 or 4 all too brief discussions of medical matters that I thought, however well-meaning, were misleading. I'd tell him too if I could find his email address.

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Happy customer, 25 Jul 2008
Very, very happy with this book. Spent ages looking at all the different titles then took a chance by ordering this one. Made the right decision. Format is fresh, easy to glance through or read in more detail depending on how much time you have. Plenty of names to choose from, modern, traditional, trendy, a few foreign names but not too many. Ideal for naming baby without having to trawl through crazy names or a multitude of American names. Within ten minutes of reading this i'd found a few good names. Perfect.

Intelligent and entertaining, 18 Apr 2008
There are so, so many rubbish name books out there. This is one of a very few gems (the only other one I'd recommend is the Oxford Dictionary of First Names).

It's full of interesting, and accurate tidbits about the names, which the author sometimes groups together in themes - for example, Alfred and Aubrey might be talked about in the same entry because both have meanings about elves. This doesn't mean the names are hard to find, though, as they are all ordered alphabetically. Just don't be put off if some of them say "See 'X'"; it doesn't mean they've been lumped in with another name, but that they will be discussed with them. This gives the book an almost conversational feel, as if you were listening to someone really well-informed talk about names. The introduction, too, is very interesting and makes it obvious she has done her research (she even provides a bibliography). I really enjoyed reading it and haven't spotted a single factual inaccuracy of the kind that other name books are riddled with. The only strange thing is that there are lots of typos in my edition. It's a shame that such a good book clearly hasn't been proofread to do it justice.

BRILLIANT AND FUN, 08 Sep 2008
A great way to get expectant Dads to actually read about childbirth. Very informative as well as laugh out loud funny.

Very funny and very accurate, 26 Apr 2008
A super book. Says a lot of things which are true, and very funny. Recognised myself in some of them.

Captures the first year (Or 21 months to be exact) of you and your baby's life.

"Bang, bang, you're Dad" is one of the best chapter titles for a long while.

Recommended book for all fathers. Also recommended to mothers- it's far funnier than most of the mother advice books...and male humour helps get rid of the worst fusspot instructions that may be bothering you.

Funny and true, 19 Apr 2008
A great read for all fathers-to-be and new dads, conveys all the essential information in a light-hearted way but without brushing over the harder stuff. Thoroughly recommended!

Super book for first time fathers, 09 Apr 2008
For those who are new or about to become new fathers this is an excellent book. Written in a bloke friendly way (I had tried to read a couple of others which were hard going in comparison). Full of humour but with plenty of facts that got me thinking about the right things without filling me with dread or fear. It equipped me to go on and read some of the other books that I had found harder going...
Anyway highly recommended.

Fun but occasionally misleading..., 10 Jan 2008
I read it cover-to-cover in 3 sittings and I laughed out loud repeatedly. I connected with the fears and hopes and feelings of the men whose stories are told and I thought the tone was just about right... but... but... there were 3 or 4 all too brief discussions of medical matters that I thought, however well-meaning, were misleading. I'd tell him too if I could find his email address.

good book, 17 Oct 2008
I was given this after my dad died i read it to my children it helped i have since given it to two sets of children and i think it helped them a little. I think it is a great book

Pond Life, 23 Apr 2008
The pamphlet is well written and illustrated. Good for sharing with a young child. However, it was not very useful to me. The analogy is misleading and obviously based on an 'afterlife'. May appeal to some but not for those looking for a more straightforward, rational approach.

A lovely story, and a very useful analogy., 18 Mar 2007
I'm reading this book to my 4-year old who's asking where Granddad has gone. It's a particularly useful analogy because of the 2 different environments lived in by the water bugs and the dragonfly, which explains why we can't go to see if Granddad is OK and neither can he come back to see us! It is a bit religious, but if you're OK with that, it's a great story.

WATER BUGS AND DROGNFLIES, 10 Sep 2003
This book tells a sweet story of a water bug who leaves his old life behind to become a dragonfly in his new life. I did feel the story would only appeal to under 5-6 year olds as the story was fictional and did not give the reality of death. Beautifully illustrated, a lovely prayer at the end of the book with the option to put the name of the deceased in. This book would make a nice keepsake for a child to remember the loved one that died.

Only helpful to VERY young kids with Christian beliefs., 05 Feb 2002
I found this very religious. The reading level was focused at VERY young children, but it was not appropriate to read the whole book to the child in my case as the Christian leaning of the end of the book was too strong for my liking. It was a bit of a waste of money!

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Happy customer, 25 Jul 2008
Very, very happy with this book. Spent ages looking at all the different titles then took a chance by ordering this one. Made the right decision. Format is fresh, easy to glance through or read in more detail depending on how much time you have. Plenty of names to choose from, modern, traditional, trendy, a few foreign names but not too many. Ideal for naming baby without having to trawl through crazy names or a multitude of American names. Within ten minutes of reading this i'd found a few good names. Perfect.

Intelligent and entertaining, 18 Apr 2008
There are so, so many rubbish name books out there. This is one of a very few gems (the only other one I'd recommend is the Oxford Dictionary of First Names).

It's full of interesting, and accurate tidbits about the names, which the author sometimes groups together in themes - for example, Alfred and Aubrey might be talked about in the same entry because both have meanings about elves. This doesn't mean the names are hard to find, though, as they are all ordered alphabetically. Just don't be put off if some of them say "See 'X'"; it doesn't mean they've been lumped in with another name, but that they will be discussed with them. This gives the book an almost conversational feel, as if you were listening to someone really well-informed talk about names. The introduction, too, is very interesting and makes it obvious she has done her research (she even provides a bibliography). I really enjoyed reading it and haven't spotted a single factual inaccuracy of the kind that other name books are riddled with. The only strange thing is that there are lots of typos in my edition. It's a shame that such a good book clearly hasn't been proofread to do it justice.

BRILLIANT AND FUN, 08 Sep 2008
A great way to get expectant Dads to actually read about childbirth. Very informative as well as laugh out loud funny.

Very funny and very accurate, 26 Apr 2008
A super book. Says a lot of things which are true, and very funny. Recognised myself in some of them.

Captures the first year (Or 21 months to be exact) of you and your baby's life.

"Bang, bang, you're Dad" is one of the best chapter titles for a long while.

Recommended book for all fathers. Also recommended to mothers- it's far funnier than most of the mother advice books...and male humour helps get rid of the worst fusspot instructions that may be bothering you.

Funny and true, 19 Apr 2008
A great read for all fathers-to-be and new dads, conveys all the essential information in a light-hearted way but without brushing over the harder stuff. Thoroughly recommended!

Super book for first time fathers, 09 Apr 2008
For those who are new or about to become new fathers this is an excellent book. Written in a bloke friendly way (I had tried to read a couple of others which were hard going in comparison). Full of humour but with plenty of facts that got me thinking about the right things without filling me with dread or fear. It equipped me to go on and read some of the other books that I had found harder going...
Anyway highly recommended.

Fun but occasionally misleading..., 10 Jan 2008
I read it cover-to-cover in 3 sittings and I laughed out loud repeatedly. I connected with the fears and hopes and feelings of the men whose stories are told and I thought the tone was just about right... but... but... there were 3 or 4 all too brief discussions of medical matters that I thought, however well-meaning, were misleading. I'd tell him too if I could find his email address.

good book, 17 Oct 2008
I was given this after my dad died i read it to my children it helped i have since given it to two sets of children and i think it helped them a little. I think it is a great book

Pond Life, 23 Apr 2008
The pamphlet is well written and illustrated. Good for sharing with a young child. However, it was not very useful to me. The analogy is misleading and obviously based on an 'afterlife'. May appeal to some but not for those looking for a more straightforward, rational approach.

A lovely story, and a very useful analogy., 18 Mar 2007
I'm reading this book to my 4-year old who's asking where Granddad has gone. It's a particularly useful analogy because of the 2 different environments lived in by the water bugs and the dragonfly, which explains why we can't go to see if Granddad is OK and neither can he come back to see us! It is a bit religious, but if you're OK with that, it's a great story.

WATER BUGS AND DROGNFLIES, 10 Sep 2003
This book tells a sweet story of a water bug who leaves his old life behind to become a dragonfly in his new life. I did feel the story would only appeal to under 5-6 year olds as the story was fictional and did not give the reality of death. Beautifully illustrated, a lovely prayer at the end of the book with the option to put the name of the deceased in. This book would make a nice keepsake for a child to remember the loved one that died.

Only helpful to VERY young kids with Christian beliefs., 05 Feb 2002
I found this very religious. The reading level was focused at VERY young children, but it was not appropriate to read the whole book to the child in my case as the Christian leaning of the end of the book was too strong for my liking. It was a bit of a waste of money!

Well written but negative, 29 Mar 2008
This book is a good read and is very funny in parts. I also don't doubt that it is an accurate portrayal of things as they were, presumably somewhat "hyped up" given that he is selling a book.
My main problem is his view of pregnancy and labour was fearful and somewhat cynical. I'd hate men to think they can't do better and that this is the best they can hope to achieve.

An uncomfortable but rewarding read, 03 Nov 2007
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book having read the other reviews, but was attracted by the diary format, which promised to be a bit less contrived than some of the self-styled 'blokes' guides'. Having just finished the book, I'd would certainly recommend it, with some qualifications. This isn't a book which tells you what to do - if you're after a manual, look elsewhere. Rather, it gives you an unvarnished picture of what to expect. It also works because it records how the author feels as the pregnancy progresses, including the alternating senses of excitement and trepidation. Very occasionally, I felt Andrew Cullen was (if you'll excuse the pun) labouring the 'you lose your life' theme for dramatic effect; this is my only reservation with the book. On the other hand, the hospital sequence towards the end of the diary needs no further dramatisation and is pretty harrowing. Overall, thoroughly recommended - just expect to be challenged as much as entertained.

Brilliant. , 10 Oct 2007
In addition to being very funny and well written in a diary format, this book is packed with practical information, useful tips and helps translate much of the medical jargon. Hearing me laugh while reading it, my wife became jealous as she struggled with the textbook style pregnancy books - in the end she read the book as well and really enjoyed it. I've worked my way through a few of these `dad-to-be' styled books - this by far is the very best.

Bold and thoughtful, 19 Aug 2007
Cullen has made a bold and worthwhile contribution withhis honest account of the intricacies of would-be parenthood. In places it is uncomfortbale reading, especially in the way he recounts the 'diverse' experiences he and his partner have in the UK's NHS. Men can find it hard to have their experiences acknowledged as important and this book does that well. As a Dad of two girls it brought a lot back and its greatest value it sees to me is perhaps it's courage and honesty. This man can write, look out for him..

I loved this book..., 04 Jul 2007
...and when I give it back to my husband, who was reading it, I'm sure he will say the same.

I have never laughed out loud or cried out loud with such frequency through one book. The story is so very familiar, but told with such wit that it really is uplifting - so refreshing after months of reading Gina and What to Expect.

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - although perfectly healthy - dropped dead almost two years ago. Whilst much of the book is directed at bereaved parents I found a lot of it extremely helpful - yes, it provoked tears and yes, I did find the slight feeling that Gloria thinks the death of a child is the worst loss rather hard to take. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has suffered a bereavement that they are finding hard to come to terms with - it has definitely helped me at a difficult time.

Still with us, 30 Sep 2008
I'm afraid that I don't agree with the earlier reviewers. I, for one, am not happy to see yet another book from Gloria about her daughter. It appears that this is Gloria's new career, writing books about her dead daughter. I might be less harsh if I knew that all the proceeds of these books was being donated to charity.

An Amazing Book Which I Contributed To......., 22 Sep 2008
I was lucky to get this book before it's official release date after having a letter I wrote to Gloria included in this new book.

Off the back of Gloria Hunniford's first book "Next To You" I sent a letter to Gloria saying how amazing the book was, and how the same feelings she had felt losing her daughter, were very similar to the ones I had felt when I lost my dad 5 years ago when I was only 20. After I sent that letter I thought nothing more of it, until I received a letter back a month ago saying Gloria wanted to include part of that letter in this new book. I was very touched and very proud to have my letter included in the book out of over 12,000 letters Gloria received. My dad always dreamt he would be in a book, and from the inspiring words he gave me when he was battling prostate cancer, I have made it a reality. Look out for the letter from "Liam".

Anyway I read this book very quickly, and found it just as good as the first one. This time though it has many of the letters and stories from the people that took the time to write into Gloria and share their own feelings, and show Gloria that she was not going through something on her own. The book details how Gloria began to continue with her life after losing her daughter. The days when you don't want to continue life, but you have to. Grief is a disease and one that you don't fully get over, but learn to live with and this book shows that. You never stop thinking about the person that you lost, but you begin to live some sort of semi normal life.

Anyone who has lost someone dear to them will find this book a comfort, and show that even when you get the most silly feelings,many others will have felt EXACTLY the same. I hope my words in the book help many others going through grief. A book that will make you cry for certain, but will also help and give you the strength to try and rebuild your life.

Life can throw the worst of the worst at you, but this book shows that even then you can still laugh once again when you never thought you could.



a great read that you wont be able to put down, 21 Sep 2008
as i read the first book 'next to you' i felt i had to read this book and i found it very moving and was a great read. it took me 24 hours to read this book from cover to cover and i recommend it to anybody who has read 'next to you'.

Essential pregnancy book - for men AND women, 01 Oct 2008
Having recently discovered I am pregnant with our first baby, I went looking for some books for information. Most seemed dry, full of scary accounts of all the things that could go wrong, and pictures of the developing baby in the womb.

Yes, yes, I thought, but how is this going to affect US?

Well, The bloke's Guide to Pregnancy answers that very question.

Because my husband reads slowly, I read this before him, and found it to be spot on, funny AND useful. Now my husband is working his way thorugh it, and even a few pages in was saying 'ha ha, this bit's so tue'.

It gives guys an insight into how we women will be behaving and feeling, and gives them some tips on how to cope - much more useful than 'the embryo is now the size of a grain of rice' which may be interesting but isn't actually very useful.

If you only buy one pregnancy book, buy this one.

Fantastic Read, a must for all expectant fathers!, 30 Jul 2008
The Blokes guide books are absolutly fantastic, and a real must for all expectant fathers! The book is written in such a readable non-bulls$%t way, that it cannot fail to make you laugh, cry and think deeply about your forthcoming arrival. Yes it's humours, but it is FULL of useful and CRITICAL info. I read this book prior to attending any anti-natel classes, and found that when we went to the classes, I was actually one of the most knowledgable people in the room (except for the mid-wife!!!) I cannot recommend this book enough, but it, read it, and pass the word on to all your male friends! Lastly good luck with your little one!

Losers Guide More like it, 16 Jul 2008
This book is great if you are an employee, british, and watch too much TV. There is no mention about being your own boss. There is too much indicating that he thinks blokes are fearful of their partners and should try to interpret the situation to prevent being smacked on the head by the woman. Nothing mentioned about blokes also having feelings. I would have to say it must have been written by a woman because it was totally off the mark suggesting that as your partner is pregnant that you will start to see her in the same light as your mother!! oooeee Yuk and sick!
The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy

The Descent of Man, 10 Jun 2008
A missed opportunity. After a promising, empathetic start, Smith swiftly descends into a conspiratorial blokeishness that does no-one any favours.

The early pages may be useful in assisting the newly-"pregnant" man to get over the shock that can accompany a positive test, and to understand there is nothing out of the ordinary about having misgivings. But there is little here that will help a man to build a bond of understanding with his partner about the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

Instead there are sniggering (or sneering) references to female body size, natural birth and the use (or non-use) of drugs in labour. Smith seems more interested in decorating a nursery and getting on with "men's work" than engaging with his partner.

A man seeking a book about pregnancy is, one would suspect, probably thinking beyond those sort of cliches, and will find this "guide" increasingly frustrating the more he reads.


The Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy, 03 Apr 2008
I ordered this book and then read the negative reviews that it had been given..... I disagree with these - the book is tops! Despite being labelled as "simplistic" and "sexist" - it isn't! I have good medical knowledge, but this book contains the right amount of detail for most, but importantly, explains to men why things are the way they are - you don't get this from the medical books!

If you want something to summarise the progress that your partner is going through in terms of behavioural changes then this hits the nail on the head - it is easy reading, light-hearted, informative and amusing. Sure, it doesn not give you all the preparation you need, but it never claims to!

Enjoy.

Happy customer, 25 Jul 2008
Very, very happy with this book. Spent ages looking at all the different titles then took a chance by ordering this one. Made the right decision. Format is fresh, easy to glance through or read in more detail depending on how much time you have. Plenty of names to choose from, modern, traditional, trendy, a few foreign names but not too many. Ideal for naming baby without having to trawl through crazy names or a multitude of American names. Within ten minutes of reading this i'd found a few good names. Perfect.

Intelligent and entertaining, 18 Apr 2008
There are so, so many rubbish name books out there. This is one of a very few gems (the only other one I'd recommend is the Oxford Dictionary of First Names).

It's full of interesting, and accurate tidbits about the names, which the author sometimes groups together in themes - for example, Alfred and Aubrey might be talked about in the same entry because both have meanings about elves. This doesn't mean the names are hard to find, though, as they are all ordered alphabetically. Just don't be put off if some of them say "See 'X'"; it doesn't mean they've been lumped in with another name, but that they will be discussed with them. This gives the book an almost conversational feel, as if you were listening to someone really well-informed talk about names. The introduction, too, is very interesting and makes it obvious she has done her research (she even provides a bibliography). I really enjoyed reading it and haven't spotted a single factual inaccuracy of the kind that other name books are riddled with. The only strange thing is that there are lots of typos in my edition. It's a shame that such a good book clearly hasn't been proofread to do it justice.

BRILLIANT AND FUN, 08 Sep 2008
A great way to get expectant Dads to actually read about childbirth. Very informative as well as laugh out loud funny.

Very funny and very accurate, 26 Apr 2008
A super book. Says a lot of things which are true, and very funny. Recognised myself in some of them.

Captures the first year (Or 21 months to be exact) of you and your baby's life.

"Bang, bang, you're Dad" is one of the best chapter titles for a long while.

Recommended book for all fathers. Also recommended to mothers- it's far funnier than most of the mother advice books...and male humour helps get rid of the worst fusspot instructions that may be bothering you.

Funny and true, 19 Apr 2008
A great read for all fathers-to-be and new dads, conveys all the essential information in a light-hearted way but without brushing over the harder stuff. Thoroughly recommended!

Super book for first time fathers, 09 Apr 2008
For those who are new or about to become new fathers this is an excellent book. Written in a bloke friendly way (I had tried to read a couple of others which were hard going in comparison). Full of humour but with plenty of facts that got me thinking about the right things without filling me with dread or fear. It equipped me to go on and read some of the other books that I had found harder going...
Anyway highly recommended.

Fun but occasionally misleading..., 10 Jan 2008
I read it cover-to-cover in 3 sittings and I laughed out loud repeatedly. I connected with the fears and hopes and feelings of the men whose stories are told and I thought the tone was just about right... but... but... there were 3 or 4 all too brief discussions of medical matters that I thought, however well-meaning, were misleading. I'd tell him too if I could find his email address.

good book, 17 Oct 2008
I was given this after my dad died i read it to my children it helped i have since given it to two sets of children and i think it helped them a little. I think it is a great book

Pond Life, 23 Apr 2008
The pamphlet is well written and illustrated. Good for sharing with a young child. However, it was not very useful to me. The analogy is misleading and obviously based on an 'afterlife'. May appeal to some but not for those looking for a more straightforward, rational approach.

A lovely story, and a very useful analogy., 18 Mar 2007
I'm reading this book to my 4-year old who's asking where Granddad has gone. It's a particularly useful analogy because of the 2 different environments lived in by the water bugs and the dragonfly, which explains why we can't go to see if Granddad is OK and neither can he come back to see us! It is a bit religious, but if you're OK with that, it's a great story.

WATER BUGS AND DROGNFLIES, 10 Sep 2003
This book tells a sweet story of a water bug who leaves his old life behind to become a dragonfly in his new life. I did feel the story would only appeal to under 5-6 year olds as the story was fictional and did not give the reality of death. Beautifully illustrated, a lovely prayer at the end of the book with the option to put the name of the deceased in. This book would make a nice keepsake for a child to remember the loved one that died.

Only helpful to VERY young kids with Christian beliefs., 05 Feb 2002
I found this very religious. The reading level was focused at VERY young children, but it was not appropriate to read the whole book to the child in my case as the Christian leaning of the end of the book was too strong for my liking. It was a bit of a waste of money!

Well written but negative, 29 Mar 2008
This book is a good read and is very funny in parts. I also don't doubt that it is an accurate portrayal of things as they were, presumably somewhat "hyped up" given that he is selling a book.
My main problem is his view of pregnancy and labour was fearful and somewhat cynical. I'd hate men to think they can't do better and that this is the best they can hope to achieve.

An uncomfortable but rewarding read, 03 Nov 2007
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book having read the other reviews, but was attracted by the diary format, which promised to be a bit less contrived than some of the self-styled 'blokes' guides'. Having just finished the book, I'd would certainly recommend it, with some qualifications. This isn't a book which tells you what to do - if you're after a manual, look elsewhere. Rather, it gives you an unvarnished picture of what to expect. It also works because it records how the author feels as the pregnancy progresses, including the alternating senses of excitement and trepidation. Very occasionally, I felt Andrew Cullen was (if you'll excuse the pun) labouring the 'you lose your life' theme for dramatic effect; this is my only reservation with the book. On the other hand, the hospital sequence towards the end of the diary needs no further dramatisation and is pretty harrowing. Overall, thoroughly recommended - just expect to be challenged as much as entertained.

Brilliant. , 10 Oct 2007
In addition to being very funny and well written in a diary format, this book is packed with practical information, useful tips and helps translate much of the medical jargon. Hearing me laugh while reading it, my wife became jealous as she struggled with the textbook style pregnancy books - in the end she read the book as well and really enjoyed it. I've worked my way through a few of these `dad-to-be' styled books - this by far is the very best.

Bold and thoughtful, 19 Aug 2007
Cullen has made a bold and worthwhile contribution withhis honest account of the intricacies of would-be parenthood. In places it is uncomfortbale reading, especially in the way he recounts the 'diverse' experiences he and his partner have in the UK's NHS. Men can find it hard to have their experiences acknowledged as important and this book does that well. As a Dad of two girls it brought a lot back and its greatest value it sees to me is perhaps it's courage and honesty. This man can write, look out for him..

I loved this book..., 04 Jul 2007
...and when I give it back to my husband, who was reading it, I'm sure he will say the same.

I have never laughed out loud or cried out loud with such frequency through one book. The story is so very familiar, but told with such wit that it really is uplifting - so refreshing after months of reading Gina and What to Expect.

Gets better as you read on., 14 Oct 2008
I found Jim White's book rather clichéd and predictable. I began to wonder if it would have made a better read if he'd used even more `poetic license.' For that reason the book is not as good as it could have been but readable all the same.

The book made some good observations, however, about youth football in Britain although, in my experience, the antics of most parents I've encountered are not quite as over-the-top as those in the book!

One final question: why is Doug's name suddenly changed to 'Marty' in Holland? Or did I skip a paragraph when that was explained (which has been known)?

Don't bother watching 'The Cup' read this instead, 26 Aug 2008
On the very same day that I finished this book the BBC started screening a sitcom called 'The Cup'. Although they were both about a childrens football team the differences between the two couldn't be more stark. Whereas the TV show was completely unfunny and unbelievable (I turned it off after 20 minutes) the book is both deeply entertaining but also true to life.

What the writers of the show seem to have forgotten but everybody that is a parent will know, is that when there are kids around there is no need to make up humourous situations because kids are by nature funny. This book reflects this admirably but it also reminds the reader that whilst they may be young, at times kids can be very wise.

I can't help feeling that the BBC should have made a series based on this book instead of the one they chose.




A fantastic read, 20 Jul 2008
I was briefly tempted to give this book only 4 stars because, in order to really, really appreciate where it is coming from, I think you also need to be a football dad and that seems a bit limiting. But, on reflection, that's harsh given that it is probably only football dads who would buy the book anyway.

If you are a football dad, however, you should definitely hit it off with the book and the story. The full range of characters is there: the officious ref ("the prat in black") who can make even the most even-tempered middle class parent lose his cool, the desperate dad, the obnoxious, pushy mum who doesn't mind who she upsets as long as her (presumably) putrid offspring gets more gametime, the dedicated / obsessive chairman, the good players and the not-so-good, the early bloomer who hasn't quite fuflfilled that esrly potential (although in this case "Lee" does seem to have been unfairly struck with injuries).

You'll probably also recognise a lot of the settings: the fight between parents, dog sh*te on the pitch, aggrieved locals etc etc. I was particularly taken with the description of parents "settling in for the long haul" at the start of a tournament day.

It jusy goes to show that what we see at our kids' football is probably universal. Having said that, I don't think I've ever seen any same sex partners watching the footy in my neck of the woods!

It's not just about the football, 08 Mar 2008
I loved this book, the on-going story of a man managing a junior football team is intertwined around his feelings about his son growing up and the effect this has on their relationship. I thought there was a great mix of humour, intersting insights from ex-players and just a tiny hint of melancholy.

Loved it, 25 Jan 2008
I coach under 12s, including my son of course, and found it very reassuring and funny to read so many things I went through.
Excellent message for some coaches and parents who may have lost the plot about why kids play football

Thank you, 10 Oct 2008
My brother was tragically killed 10 weeks ago, when he was only home for 3 days from where he has been working in Austria. He was a passenger in a car when a some timber fell off a van coming in the opposite direction, came through the window and killed him instantly, leaving the driver unhurt.

My Mum had found huge comfort in reading this book by Gloria. It was recommended to her by my sisters health visitor and she has been reading it on and off since the accident. We have struggled to receive any help from bereavement councellers and Mum wanted to be able to know that others feel the way she is feeling. From reading this book, although Caron dies in totally different circumstances, Gloria went through some of the same feelings which Mum is going through now. I want to thank Gloria for publishing such a great book which has been helping Mum throgh the hardest thing she has ever had to deal with in her life.

Its a shame that we have come across this book in such terrible circumstances but praise Gloria for her writing this book after dealing with the grief of losing her own daughter. No one will ever know the pain this involves unless it has happened to them and to all those who think it another money making book, then they are wrong because this has immensly helped my Mum.

some profound and helpful writing, 04 Oct 2008
The obvious focus of the book is on dealing with/coping with the death of a child. My reason for reading it is that my wonderful husband suddenly - alt