Also goodBooks for parentsLate pregnancy to ~6 months
Dr Pamela Douglas (UQP) The Discontented Little Baby Book (2nd edition)
An Australian GP's gentle, research-based approach to crying, feeding and sleep in the early months.
MamaLoop mums pickWe researched this — not used by usNot sponsored
If your baby cries a lot and nothing seems to work, this book by an Australian GP and lactation consultant looks at feeding, sleep and your own wellbeing together, rather than as separate problems to fix. It argues against rigid schedules, explains why some quick fixes can backfire, and spends real time on parents' anxiety and low mood. The 2021 edition is fully updated. Reviewers who share its philosophy love it. Caution: it teaches one approach — the author's own Possums / Neuroprotective Developmental Care programme — and is critical of sleep training, so it suits parents who want a responsive approach. It is not a substitute for a check-up if your baby seems unwell.
Researched, not used by us · Not sponsored
Pros
- Australian author: GP, IBCLC and researcher
- Looks at feeding, sleep and parent wellbeing together
- Updated 2021
- Kind, non-judgemental tone
Cons
- Teaches one programme (Possums / NDC)
- Critical of sleep training, which not every family will agree with
- Most useful in the first months
Who it suits
- Parents of unsettled babies who prefer a responsive approach
Who should look elsewhere
- Families who have chosen a structured sleep-training method
Price
$20–30
Typically $27–$35 at our last check (8 Nov 2026). Prices change — check the retailer.
Specs
| Author | Dr Pamela Douglas |
|---|---|
| Publisher | University of Queensland Press |
| Edition | 2nd, fully updated (2021) |
| Isbn | 9780702265457 |
| Pages | 272 |
| Format | paperback |
| Who its for | Parents of crying or unsettled babies in the early months |
| Caution | Pushes one method — the author's Possums / NDC approach. |
What to look for
- ISBN 9780702265457 (2021 edition)
Where to buy in Australia
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Other books for parents picks
Also goodBirth to 12 months
Robin Barker (Pan Macmillan) Baby Love (6th edition)
The Australian first-year reference, by a nurse and midwife — practical and calm, but last revised in 2013.
Also goodBirth to preschool
Emily Oster (Profile Books) Cribsheet
An economist walks through the research behind big baby decisions — calming for data-minded parents.
Sources
Last checked 8 Nov 2026 · Report a problem with this pick