Expecting and raising a baby can be a long and sometimes stressful affair ('sometimes' being an understatement). It can be quite overwhelming for you if you’re doing it for the first time and don't know the best way to swaddle a newborn and even tougher if you’ve to juggle more than one baby.

That’s why self-help books are awesome. They help you work around the many nuances like teaching you the best way to bottle feed a baby and the glaring challenges you need to overcome as a mom and that’s all part of the fun. Here are 5 awesome self-help books for you -

1. How to Grow a Baby (and Push it Out)’ by Clemmie Hooper -

Clemmier Hooper is a mum to four girls and runs a successful blog on parenting too. Her book is broken down handily into chapters that correspond with trimesters and appointments and also covers topics like what to eat and wear during pregnancy.

The colorful photos and illustrations speak their own story and the writing is warm and inviting; almost like a friend.

2. The Freelance Mum by Annie Ridout -

Whether you’re self-employed, freelancing or looking to launch your own little business post delivery, this book has all the answers. It talks all about balancing childcare and your career and Annie Ridout gives you everything you need to know.

This book details all of the stuff you need to know about building your own little brand and also organizing the finances into nine chapters.

3. Your Baby, Your Birth: Hypnobirthing Skills for Every Birth’ by Hollie de Cruz -

This book is endorsed by Giovanna Fletcher and Fearne Cotton amongst others. It’s the perfect no-nonsense guide to hypnobirthing, by coach Hollie de Cruz.

The concept can seem a little daunting to some, it primarily talks about arming yourself with the tools you need - from breathing techniques, positive affirmations and visualizations so you can calmly approach labour.

4. Happy Mum, Happy Baby: My Adventures into Motherhood’ by Giovanna Fletcher -

A Sunday Times number one bestseller, actress and presenter Giovanna Fletcher’s book is a popular and easily relatable one. In the book, she provides a candid and fun insight into her experiences of having a family.

From a no-fear labour to working with newborns, this book is perfect for anyone who loves humor. You can also listen to her podcast with the same name.

5. The Unmumsy Mum A-Z: An Inexpert Guide to Parenting’ by The Unmumsy Mum -

Sarah Turner, aka the Unmumsy Mum has a massive following on social media and that’s mainly because of her funny, heartwarming and frank takes on motherhood. In this book, she gives a lot of entertaining anecdotes on parenting that’s presented in alphabetized chapters that provide information advice and laughter relief whenever you need it.

So go out there and check out these awesome books on motherhood. Easy to read, super entertaining and informative at the same time, it’s just what you need along with a good baby carry nest sleeping bag to step into the new role with ease.