The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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 Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

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

The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

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

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.

The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

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

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.

Very funny, informative & to the point!, 21 Jan 2008
This is a really good book - written in a very easy way, very funny, and at the same time actually informative. What I also like is that it is a positive book, talking about fatherhood as a fantastic thing, despite the obvious lows that dads can experience on this journey!

The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

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

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.

Very funny, informative & to the point!, 21 Jan 2008
This is a really good book - written in a very easy way, very funny, and at the same time actually informative. What I also like is that it is a positive book, talking about fatherhood as a fantastic thing, despite the obvious lows that dads can experience on this journey!

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

Some men are born fathers, while others have fatherhood thrust upon them. The protagonist of John O'Farrell's The Best a Man Can Get belongs indisputably in the latter category. When his first daughter is born, Michael Adams imagines her as the warden of a prison that will permanently deprive him of his youth and freedom. Terrified by his new responsibilities, he regularly escapes to a bachelor pad across the Thames, pretending to be at work. Another child arrives--and with still another on the way, it is only a matter of time until Michael's wife discovers his double life. At that point, he must make a choice between his family and his hedonistic haven.

By turns hilarious and touching, O'Farrell's book delves deeply into the anxieties of modern parenting. Yet the novel is not without empathy for the 21st-century father. After all, it's easy to imagine the lure of a child-proof hideaway, insulated from sleepless nights and dirty diapers. At the same time, Adams often wonders whether "just being tucked up warm and cosy" is really "the best a man can get". With its charming prose and its truant protagonist, this first novel is sure to win over even the most reluctant parent. --Greg Bensinger

The Bloke's Guide to Pregancy., 25 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my boyfriend soon after finding out we were going to have a baby. He found the book really good and felt he was at least understanding a lot of what was going on and things that could happen. however he stopped reading before the last few chapters because he thought he had loads of time to do that! so as i went into labour he insisted on panic reading the last chapters! at least i saw a difference and reading this book gave him confidence that just being there and sort of knowing what was going on was enough support.

A must-have for fathers-to-be everywhere!, 25 Nov 2008
A very wise man once said that, all things considered, Dads just aren't considered important in this whole preganacy lark. When my wife first fell preganant she scoured Amazon and the local bookshops for guides on preganacy and giving birth and raising children, and was overwhelmed with the selection on offer. I, on the other hand, didn't have the first clue about what to expect in real life, let alone what book(s) to buy - but then quickly realised that there were no books to buy! Yup, that wise man was right, as far as information goes Dads get the nasty end of the stick. Until, that is, Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy".

Why did I want a guide to preganacy? It's not that I'm a particularly "new man", wishing to get involved with every aspect of the whole event, but I did want to learn more about my wife's preganacy if for no other reason than to be prepared when my wife started throwing up / crying all the time / eating us out of house of home (not that she did any of these things, by the way!). A friend of mine who had recently had a baby pointed me in the direction of Jon Smith's "A Bloke's Guide to Preganancy" and I sceptically picked up a copy. And boy, am I glad I did! Jon covers pretty much every aspect of preganacy from concept (as it were) to conclusion, and all points in between. It's written is a funny, easy to read style that allows the reader to dip into the book and read little sections as applicable to a situaltion just as much as being easy to read from cover to cover. The book's not patronising either, telling fathers-to-be what the score is without being overly scientific or "laddish", and is choc-full of facts that even my wife found helpful when she couldn't find what she wanted in her pregancy tomes.

I can't recommend this book highly enough for any man (or indeed woman!) who finds themself on the receiving end of a pregnancy without a clue about what is going to happen next. Think of "A Bloke's Guide to Pregnancy" like being able to chat to a mate down the pub about all the things you want to know about pregnancy but were afraid to ask. Of course, you'll have to provide your own beer, but still it's well worth it!

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

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.

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

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.

Very funny, informative & to the point!, 21 Jan 2008
This is a really good book - written in a very easy way, very funny, and at the same time actually informative. What I also like is that it is a positive book, talking about fatherhood as a fantastic thing, despite the obvious lows that dads can experience on this journey!

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

Witty and Well Observed, 10 Oct 2008
It was one of those chance things. Staying in a converted barn on holiday in Pembrokeshire the owners of the barn had kindly provided some books and DVD's for use by the holidaymakers. I selected The Best A Man Can Get because I also had John O'Farrell's Things Can Only Get Better at home waiting to be read. The story of Michael Adams, a composer of music for adverts, as he tries to be both a caring father and enjoy some time to himself by leading a double life north and south of the Thames is a cracking read. It is a hilariously funny and well observed book that rings so many bells for parents of young children, as well as anyone for whom procrastination is a preferred way of life. As the subject, Michael Adams maintains his charm throughout the book, in spite of his deceit, and you will him and his wife Catherine to be successful in their relationship and their parenting, even when it goes wrong. I ended up rushing to read the book quickly in the hope that my wife would be able to read it as well before we finished our holiday!

Funny, but boring on every other level, 07 Sep 2007
The plot is a man living with three other men in London while pretending to his wife (on the other side of the Thames) that he is secretly always working late. 'Will she find out?' is the premise.

The book is funny with plenty of oneliners and if all you want is a laugh this is a reasonable book to choose because it reads like a sitcom episode of Men Behaving Badly.

For me, who wants to read a 'proper' novel, there are problems:

1. There is more or less zero description of objects, people or emotions. So anyone after a book to transport you to another world via descriptive text or a book that will entangle you in great emotions will be disappointed. The only emotion is humour.

2. Also, not much happens. The premise of living a secret double-life behind his wife's back is about it. There are no scenes of intrigue or elements of a thriller, so anyone after an interesting plot will, again, be bored. I was - when I was reading it I kept thinking, 'Nothing's HAPPENING!' And nothing does! He talks about his wife and his kids and some parties he goes to but that's your lot. No life or death situation, no buildup of suspense etc.

3. The characters are basically the first-person narrator and his wife. The men he lives with you know very little about other than their occupation and the odd obvious traits (lazy, uptight etc). So if you are after a book rich with characterisation this is not it.

4. Everything is set in London. As someone who does not live in London and does not want to, reading a book set there is tedious - hello Nick Hornby! Everyone in the world does NOT live in London. Consider: (1) It's lazy writing to talk about JUST where you live; (2) it's boring for people who don't live in London to read about it.

John O'Farrell used to write for Spitting Image in the 1980s so he is good at the oneliners but it seems everything he writes is STILL like Spitting Image: he focuses on the gag at the expense of novel attributes of plot, character development, setting, description, emotion.

Buy it for a laugh but don't expect anything deeper.
7/10

the best a man can get!!!!!!!!!!!, 28 Jan 2006
great book. should be read by all the "SINGLE" blokes who cant or wont commit!! So reminds me of so many blokes living in London, South London.....

The best I can get in the States, 12 Oct 2005
Kudos to John O'farrell. I write this perhaps, prematurely, (I'm only half way through the book) but judging by his other literary pieces, this one follows suit in the same genre. Living in the United States I do love to 'refresh' my British humour and yes, this book does have me 'laughing out loud'. I am now officially that crazy woman laughing on airplanes but at least I cause intrigue amongst those around me! Thank you Mr O'Farrell for bringing insightment and sanity to my world once again (Albeit temporarily)..you make my (Many) flights something I look forward to...please keep it up. A great read if you don't take it (And yourself) too seriously.

Funny book, well worth a read, 02 Jun 2005
I really enjoyed this book, it drew me in at the start, and kept me laughing throughout. While the ending is arguably weak, and the funnier parts are at the start, the book is about a journey of self-awareness.

Michael Adams is essentially a good father and a loving husband, caught up perhaps in his own selfishness and always aware of the mess his own father made of being there for him. As he tells the story, O'Farrell adds observational, sardonic humour but still manages to produce a tale that should resonate with any father, or anyone who has ever questioned their commitment in any long term relationship.

Well worth a read.