The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth;  Henci Goer. 

This is a must read for any pregnant woman.  Completly honest information that most parents rarely see.  This book should be read before an initial appointmet with your future doctor or midwife so you can ask appropriate questions regarding their practice style.

The Home Birth Advantage; Mayer Eisenstein MD

A wonderful book about home birth, as well as a great section on cesarean section prevnetion, and wonderful advantages to birth at home.  Also includes history of the home birth movement in Chicago as well as the beginnings of La Leche League here in Chicago.  There are very heart warming stroies of personal home births throught the book, including those in Dr. Eisenstein's family.  Dr. Eisenstein is the founder of Homefirst Health Services providing home birth as well as care for the whole family.   I liked them so much, I went to work for them!  Website: www.homefirst.com

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth; Ina May Gaskin CPM

This book changed my view of birth forever.  My view changed from labor and delivery being managed to the labor process being supported.  The powerful mind/body connection is explored as well as very effective methods to avoid interventions and labor normally.  Positive stories of natural births, helpful to read after you have heard someone's birth horror story for the tenth time. 

Birthing From Within; Pam England CNM, MA and Rob Horowitz PhD

A remarkable preparation for childbirth, the goal is not only to fill your head with information, but to truly prepare for childbirth in your heart, soul, and mind.  The pregnant woman needs insight about what labor and birth will be like from her perspective, and preparation to be in labor and give birth as a mother, not as a trained para-professional.  After reading this book, I signed up for mentor training right away.  Website: www.birthingfromwithin.com