Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #5797 in Books
• Published on: 2006-11-09
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 282 pages

Publishing News, August 2006
"Readable, honest and, by turns, amusing, moving and terrifying in
all the right places."

Synopsis
When his partner Kate discovered she was pregnant, Andrew Cullen decided to write the kind of book that he wanted to read but couldn't find anywhere, one that was truthful about the man's experience. His pregnancy diary, candidly recording the significant little details as well as the dramatic moments, is an ideal companion for anyone thinking about becoming a father...or a mother. "Pregnancy" is a story that embraces all genres: it is a romance, a comedy, a thriller, a suspense tale, a travel book about the most amazing journey of your life. This unique chronicle is an honest, witty, touching account about what a man really thinks about becoming a dad.

About the Author
Andrew Cullen is a playwright. His play 'Self Catering (A Short
History of the World)' was made into a Channel 4 film and he was awarded a
Thames Television Award for his play 'Pig's Ear'. As well as plays and
films, he has written short stories and journalism. 'From Here To
Paternity' is his first non-fiction book.

Customer Reviews

Well written but negative
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
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.
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.