The Greatest Books of All Time on Pregnancy

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 467 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 1. Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin

    The book revolves around a young couple, Rosemary and Guy Woodhouse, who move into an old New York City apartment building with a sinister reputation. Eager to start a family, Rosemary becomes pregnant under mysterious circumstances. As she becomes increasingly isolated and ill, she discovers that her husband and their eccentric neighbors have malevolent plans for her unborn child, which are tied to a diabolical pact with supernatural forces. Her paranoia and fear escalate as she uncovers the truth about a conspiracy that involves the birth of the Antichrist, leading to a chilling realization about the fate of her baby.

    The 642nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward

    Set in a poor rural community in Mississippi, this novel follows the story of a pregnant teenage girl named Esch and her three brothers as they navigate their lives in the days leading up to Hurricane Katrina. Their mother is dead and their father is a neglectful alcoholic, leaving the siblings to fend for themselves. The book explores themes of poverty, racism, and survival, showcasing the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 1186th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. January by Sara Gallardo

    The novel follows the journey of a young, pregnant indigenous woman named Nefer who embarks on a solitary trek across the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of rural Argentina. As she navigates the physical and emotional challenges of her journey, Nefer reflects on her past, grapples with her identity, and confronts the societal and personal forces that have shaped her life. Through her introspective and resilient character, the story explores themes of survival, self-discovery, and the intersection of personal and cultural identity in a world marked by isolation and adversity.

    The 2940th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Winter’s Child by Dea Trier Morch

    A Novel of Love and Birth

    "Winter's Child" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of motherhood and the emotional tapestry of family life. Set against the backdrop of a cold and unforgiving winter, the novel follows the journey of a group of women, each grappling with the joys and challenges of raising children. As they navigate their relationships, both with their offspring and with each other, the narrative delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds that connect generations. With a sensitive portrayal of the female experience, the book offers a touching reflection on the intricacies of parenthood and the resilience required to nurture life in the face of adversity.

    The 4340th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Plainsong by Kent Haruf

    This novel is set in the small town of Holt, Colorado, and explores the intertwining lives of its residents. The narrative focuses on a high school teacher raising two sons after his wife leaves him, a pair of bachelor brothers who have lived together on their family farm for decades, and a pregnant teenager kicked out of her home. The characters' lives intersect in unexpected ways, offering a poignant exploration of community, resilience, and the human capacity for connection and kindness.

    The 5178th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin

    The novel is a poignant exploration of love and racial injustice, set in 1970s Harlem. It follows the story of a young African-American couple, Tish and Fonny, whose dreams for a future together are shattered when Fonny is falsely accused of rape. As Fonny languishes in jail, Tish, pregnant with their child, and her family fight tirelessly to prove his innocence. Through a narrative that weaves past and present, the book delves into the couple's deep bond, the systemic oppression they face, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of a deeply flawed justice system.

    The 4921st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Our Bodies, Ourselves by Unknown

    A Book by and for Women

    This book is a comprehensive guide to women's health and sexuality, covering a wide range of topics from puberty to menopause. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and provides practical information on topics such as reproductive health, sexual orientation, body image, mental health, and domestic violence. The book is designed to empower women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, and it encourages them to take control of their own bodies. It also includes personal stories and experiences from diverse women, reflecting a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

    The 6249th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Birth House by Ami McKay

    Set in the early 20th century in a small Nova Scotia village, the story follows Dora Rare, the first daughter in five generations of Rares. Under the mentorship of the local midwife, Miss Babineau, Dora learns the art of midwifery, becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for the women in her community. As modern medicine and societal changes threaten traditional practices, Dora faces challenges that test her resolve and beliefs. Through her journey, themes of female solidarity, resilience, and the clash between tradition and progress are explored, painting a vivid picture of a woman's fight for autonomy and the preservation of cultural heritage.

    The 6641st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The L Shaped Room by Lynne Reid Banks

    This novel explores the life of a young, unmarried woman who finds herself pregnant and is subsequently disowned by her father. In search of a new beginning, she moves into a dingy L-shaped room in a boarding house in London. The narrative delves into her struggles and the relationships she forms with the other residents of the house, who are considered misfits by society. Through her journey, the book addresses themes of prejudice, love, and the resilience of the human spirit, as she confronts societal norms and expectations in the 1950s.

    The 7222nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. A Kind Of Loving by Stan Barstow

    This novel explores the life of Vic Brown, a young draughtsman in a small English town, who finds himself trapped in a loveless marriage after his girlfriend, Ingrid, becomes pregnant. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, the story delves into Vic's struggles with societal expectations, his responsibilities as a husband and father, and his yearning for a different kind of life. Through Vic's journey, the narrative presents a poignant examination of love, ambition, and the search for personal fulfillment amidst the constraints of working-class life.

    The 7222nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. A Midwife's Story by Penny Armstrong, Sheryl Feldman

    Life, Love, and Birth in an Amish Community

    The book is a heartfelt memoir that chronicles the experiences of a midwife working in the Amish community of rural Pennsylvania. It provides an intimate look at the traditions, challenges, and joys of Amish childbirth and family life, juxtaposed with the midwife's own journey of personal and professional growth. Through a series of vivid stories and reflections, the narrative delves into the midwife's evolving relationship with the Amish people she serves, highlighting the cultural contrasts and shared humanity that define her practice. The book celebrates the power of natural childbirth and the strength of women, while also exploring broader themes of community, respect, and the art of listening.

    The 7257th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Fifth Child by Doris May Lessing

    The novel explores the turbulent life of a conventional British family whose idealistic vision of domestic bliss is shattered by the birth of their fifth child. This child is vastly different from his siblings—violent, antisocial, and seemingly unmanageable. His presence brings about a profound transformation in the family dynamics, leading to isolation, fear, and the disintegration of family bonds. The story delves into themes of societal norms, the nature versus nurture debate, and the limits of parental love, as the family grapples with the challenges posed by a child who defies all expectations and the impact he has on everyone around him.

    The 7486th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Millstone by Margaret Drabble

    This novel explores the life of a young, single, and intellectual woman living in London during the 1960s, who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant after a one-night stand. As she decides to keep the baby, she faces the challenges of motherhood alone, in an era when single parenthood was stigmatized. The narrative delves into her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformation of her values and lifestyle. Through her experiences, the book offers a poignant commentary on societal expectations, the complexities of personal freedom, and the profound impact of motherhood on a woman's identity.

    The 7501st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Barrayar by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In this science fiction novel, a woman finds herself navigating the complex political landscape of a recently rediscovered planet with a feudal society. As the wife of the Regent, she must protect her unborn child from various threats, including a deadly political coup. With her quick wit and strategic mind, she allies with a network of loyalists to safeguard the future of the planet's monarchy and ensure the safety of her family. The story is a rich tapestry of intrigue, honor, and the challenges of adapting to a new world while facing the machinations of power-hungry adversaries.

    The 7912th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Angie, I Says by Avra Wing

    "Angie, I Says" is a coming-of-age novel that tells the story of a young, spirited woman named Angie who finds herself pregnant and at a crossroads in life. Living in New York and working as a waitress, she grapples with the complexities of her Italian-American family, the uncertainty of her relationship with her unreliable boyfriend, and the challenges of impending motherhood. As she navigates the trials of her personal life, Angie's sharp wit and resilience shine through, painting a portrait of a character determined to forge her own path and find her own sense of identity amidst the chaos of her circumstances.

    The 7997th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Bloodchild by Octavia E. Butler

    And Other Stories

    "Bloodchild" is a provocative science fiction tale that explores complex themes of symbiosis, love, and power dynamics through the lens of an interdependent relationship between humans and an alien species known as the Tlic. The story is set on a distant planet where humans live as a preserved minority, and the Tlic, who are large insect-like creatures, require human hosts to incubate their young. The narrative follows a young human boy who is chosen to carry the offspring of a Tlic female, leading to a harrowing and intimate bond that challenges his understanding of autonomy, sacrifice, and connection. The novella delves into the intricate and often unsettling negotiations of personal agency and survival in a world where two very different beings are inextricably linked.

    The 9349th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion

    In this engaging sequel, the protagonist, a brilliant but socially awkward geneticist, faces the challenges of impending fatherhood. After marrying Rosie, the couple relocates to New York City, where he struggles to adapt to his new life and the unexpected news that they're expecting a baby. Determined to be the perfect father, he approaches parenthood with the same meticulous research and planning that he applies to his scientific work, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming misadventures. As he attempts to navigate the complexities of marriage and family life, he learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and what it truly means to be a parent.

    The 10454th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Darwin's Radio by Greg Bear

    In the science fiction novel, a groundbreaking discovery of ancient human remains leads to the uncovering of a new, heretofore unseen stage of human evolution. Scientists grapple with the implications of a dormant virus that has suddenly awakened within human DNA, causing rapid, radical, and uncontrolled genetic mutations. As the virus spreads, society is thrown into chaos, with fear and uncertainty about the future of humanity. The protagonists, a molecular biologist and a paleontologist, race against time to understand the virus, known as "Darwin's Radio," and its potential to either doom or elevate the human race. Their journey is fraught with personal and professional challenges as they confront the possibility that evolution might be a much more active and immediate force than anyone had ever imagined.

    The 10504th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Felicia's Journey by William Trevor

    "Felicia's Journey" is a psychological thriller about a young, pregnant Irish girl who travels to England in search of her boyfriend, only to be taken in by a middle-aged man with a dark past. As the story unfolds, the man's sinister intentions become increasingly apparent, creating a suspenseful tale of manipulation and deception. The novel explores themes of loneliness, innocence, and the capacity for evil, offering a chilling exploration of human nature.

    The 10888th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. State Of Wonder by Ann Patchett

    In this novel, a pharmaceutical researcher named Marina Singh embarks on a journey deep into the Amazon rainforest to uncover the fate of her colleague, who died under mysterious circumstances while investigating a potentially groundbreaking drug. As Marina navigates the dense jungle and encounters the enigmatic Dr. Annick Swenson, who is leading the research, she confronts ethical dilemmas, cultural clashes, and her own personal demons. The story explores themes of scientific discovery, the clash between modernity and indigenous cultures, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the lush and perilous backdrop of the Amazon.

    The 11753rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson

    "Red at the Bone" is a multi-generational novel that explores the lasting impact of past decisions on the present and future. The story begins at a 16-year-old girl's coming-of-age ceremony in Brooklyn and then delves into the past, revealing the complex histories of her parents and grandparents. The narrative is a powerful exploration of identity, ambition, love, and the ways in which history and personal circumstances can shape a family's life.

    The 12377th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Puffball by Fay Weldon

    "Puffball" is a novel that delves into the complexities of rural life, fertility, and the supernatural. It follows a young woman who moves with her husband from the bustling city to an isolated countryside cottage, seeking a simpler life and the opportunity to start a family. However, their idyllic retreat quickly becomes a hotbed of strange occurrences, local gossip, and eerie traditions. As the protagonist struggles with her own fertility, she becomes enmeshed in the peculiar dynamics of her new community, where ancient beliefs and modern realities collide, leading her to question the nature of power, relationships, and the deep-seated desire for motherhood.

    The 14049th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Snapper by Roddy Doyle

    The book is a humorous and poignant exploration of working-class Dublin life through the story of a young woman who becomes pregnant after a drunken night out. The narrative unfolds as she and her large, boisterous family come to terms with the impending arrival of the baby, referred to affectionately as "the snapper." The novel delves into themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the strength of community bonds as the protagonist navigates her pregnancy with resilience and the support of her endearingly flawed family. The story is celebrated for its authentic dialogue, rich characterization, and the warmth and wit with which it addresses serious issues.

    The 14049th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

    In this final installment of a popular supernatural romance series, the story reaches its climax as the protagonist, now a newlywed, faces unforeseen challenges that threaten her life and that of her unborn child. Her transformation into a vampire brings about new powers and dangers, while the impending threat of a vampire council looms over her family. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of immortal life, culminating in a tense showdown that tests the bonds of family and love. Through it all, the narrative delves into the protagonist's personal growth and her unwavering determination to protect her loved ones at all costs.

    The 14049th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki

    "This One Summer" is a graphic novel that delves into the complexities of adolescence through the eyes of Rose, a young girl who spends every summer at a lakeside beach house in Awago Beach. This particular summer, Rose is caught between the innocence of childhood and the murky waters of adulthood as she navigates her evolving relationship with her friend Windy, her parents' tense relationship, and the local teenage drama. The story beautifully captures the nuances of growing up, the struggles of family dynamics, and the bittersweetness of change, all set against a backdrop of summertime nostalgia.

    The 14049th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download