As a pregnant mother, I was most thrilled the day I learned I was expecting. Nothing could compare to the feeling of housing my unborn child in my belly day in and day out. I longed to feel its movements and listen to its heartbeat. Visits to the doctor for scans were always joyful because I saw my baby in 3D and heard their heartbeat. I know firsthand the strong desire to bond with your unborn baby, having experienced this on many occasions.

You have probably heard that babies can hear us in the womb, and they recognize and are soothed by our sounds and movements. This is why many mothers desire to begin the routine of reading to their babies as early as possible. Reading aloud is a wonderful way to increase the bond and establish a routine that your baby will come to know, expect, and love.

This is why I recommend these books among the variety of options out there. I have read these books, and here are my experiences reading them and why I recommend you start with them. Feel free to include as many more in your library as possible.

“The Wonderful Things You Will Be” by Emily Winfield Martin

This charming picture book celebrates the potential and individuality of every child. With its lyrical text and beautiful illustrations, “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” is a perfect story to read aloud, filled with love and hopes for the future.

What others are saying:

• “This is such a cute book with a great message! I got one for each of my friends who are having a baby!”
• “This book has darling, eye-catching illustrations, and such a precious story. Diversity included. This is a book I give as a baby shower or newborn gift to both boys and girls.”
• “It’s a really cute book, love how it says things in a way kids will enjoy.”
• “This is the sweetest little book, with a gentle story and beautiful illustrations. We are having guests leave a message for the baby inside the front and back covers. It’s the kind of book that could quickly become a favorite to read and re-read for years.”

Message: This tale utilizes how a parent speaks to their little one. It begins with the parent envisioning who their little one will grow into. This book reassures the love between a parent and child and adds a beautiful element of excitement about all the possible ways the child can become their person. It encourages adventure, individuality, and creativity.

Story Flow: When reading out loud, it’s always fun to have a story with an easy-to-follow rhythm. Each page includes a little amount of text, while the fascinating pictures help tell the story and the written word.

It Doesn’t Get Old: Unlike some books that can become tedious with repeated readings, “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” is enjoyable for both parents and children every time. Each reading can feel like a new adventure.

“The Wonderful Things You Will Be” has become my go-to baby shower gift. The last mom-to-be I gifted it to admit to crying the first time she read the story. Perhaps it was just the pregnancy hormones, but I dare say that she really enjoyed all those beautiful illustrations portrayed in the book.

“It’s Me Mommy: Baby Books for Pregnancy – Bond with Child in the Womb” by Mark Brown

This book is specifically designed for mothers to read to their unborn babies. It features soothing stories and messages that help create a sense of connection and anticipation for both mother and baby.

Excerpt: “Mommy’s love for you is unending, Even though we have yet to meet. Mommy never knew she could love someone, So total and so complete.” — Pages 8 & 9

Reviews by Others:

• “I am SO impressed and in love with this series!!! The writing and illustrations are incredible.”
• “This is a MUST-have! I bought the whole three-book series! Super sweet sentiment for any expecting ‘mommy’ to bond with her baby.”
• “I cannot believe how sweet these books are. What a beautiful and unique book.”

“I Can’t Wait To Meet You (Tummy Love Prenatal Books)” by Dr. Gary Benfield

Dr. Gary Benfield’s book is tailored for reading to your baby in the womb. The engaging and heartfelt narrative expresses a parent’s excitement and love, helping to strengthen the bond even before birth.

Reviews by Others:

• “Gave as a gift in a bump box for 3rd trimester.”
• “I gave them to my daughter and son-in-law, who are expecting their first baby.”

“I Love Reading to You: Reading to Baby in Womb” by Lucas Wurtz and Nikhila Anil

This book offers a collection of stories designed for expectant mothers to read aloud. The gentle and rhythmic text creates a calming atmosphere and fosters early bonding with your baby.

Reviews by Others:

• “This was a very nice read to read to my unborn baby as I love reading and want my baby to love it as well.”
• “Good book to read in the womb. Great book to start baby’s library with.”
• “What a sweet little rhyming story of all of the things a dad dreams about while reading to his son who is still in the womb.”

“365 Bedtime Stories and Rhymes: Short Bedtime Stories, Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales Collections for Children” by Cottage Door Press

This collection is a treasure trove of stories and rhymes, providing a different tale for every day of the year. The variety of short stories and nursery rhymes is perfect for daily reading sessions, helping to establish a comforting routine and introducing your baby to a variety of sounds and rhythms.

Reviews by Others:

• “I love this book so much. It has a lot of stories and rhymes. This book has it all.”
• “Colorful, and the length of each story is just right for bedtime. This was a present for a new mama. So important to read to your children every day!”
• “This was a gift for a baby shower. It’s a beautiful book with a comprehensive assortment of children’s stories, nursery rhymes, and fairy tales. The mothers-to-be were very pleased.”

Bonus: “God Gave Us You” by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Part of the “God Gave Us” series, this touching book explains the special place a child holds in their parents’ hearts. The gentle and loving story is perfect for reading to your unborn baby, reinforcing feelings of warmth and security.

Reviews by Others:

• “This book, to me, is so worth the buy”
• “Lovely pictures, answers questions, mild religion.”
• “This book is an absolute gem! It’s not just a story; it feels like a beautiful reflection of my daughter’s birth story, which makes it incredibly special to me.”