Baby Is Coming! by Ann M. Pearson

Few books capture the emotional whirlwind of impending parenthood as vividly as Baby Is Coming! by Ann M. Pearson. Whether you're a first-time parent nervously awaiting your little one or a seasoned pro looking for a comforting read, this book offers warmth, wisdom, and a touch of humor. Pearson’s storytelling is both tender and insightful, making it a standout in the genre of parenting literature.

But what makes Baby Is Coming! truly special? Is it the relatable characters, the engaging narrative, or the way it balances practical advice with emotional depth? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore every facet of Pearson’s work—from its plot and characters to its themes and writing style—so you can decide if it’s the right read for you.

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Baby Is Coming! follows the journey of Sarah and Mark, a couple navigating the final weeks of pregnancy. The story unfolds through Sarah’s perspective as she grapples with excitement, fear, and the overwhelming realization that life is about to change forever.

Without giving away major spoilers, the narrative beautifully captures:

• The emotional highs and lows of pregnancy (from joyful baby kicks to sleepless nights)
• The couple’s evolving relationship as they prepare for parenthood
• Support systems—friends, family, and even strangers who offer unexpected wisdom
• The final countdown to the baby’s arrival, filled with last-minute preparations and poignant reflections

Pearson avoids clichés, instead crafting a story that feels authentic and deeply personal.

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Sarah is the heart of the story—a woman who oscillates between excitement and sheer terror. Pearson does an excellent job portraying her internal struggles:

• Self-doubt: "What if I’m not cut out for this?"
• Love for her unborn child: "Every kick felt like a tiny promise."
• Growth: Watching her shift from fear to quiet confidence is one of the book’s most rewarding arcs.

Mark isn’t just a side character; he’s a fully realized partner who stumbles, learns, and grows alongside Sarah. His journey—from well-meaning but awkward attempts at reassurance to genuine emotional presence—adds depth to the story.

From Sarah’s no-nonsense best friend to her mother, who dispenses both wisdom and outdated advice, the supporting cast enriches the narrative, reminding readers that parenthood is never a solo journey.

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Pearson’s prose is conversational yet polished, making it easy to immerse yourself in Sarah’s world. Key strengths include:

• First-person POV: Creates an intimate connection with Sarah’s thoughts.
• Humor & Heart: The book balances laugh-out-loud moments with tear-jerking reflections.
• Pacing: The slow build-up mirrors the anticipation of waiting for a baby, making the climax deeply satisfying.

One standout technique is Pearson’s use of flashbacks and letters, which add layers to Sarah’s emotional journey.

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While Baby Is Coming! is about impending parenthood, its themes resonate universally:

• Fear of the Unknown: How do you prepare for something you can’t fully understand?
• Love & Sacrifice: What does it mean to put someone else’s needs before your own?
• Identity Shifts: How does becoming a parent change who you are?

Pearson doesn’t shy away from the messy, complicated aspects of these questions, making the book feel refreshingly honest.

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As someone who has experienced the nerves of expecting a child, I found myself nodding along, laughing, and even tearing up at certain passages. Pearson’s ability to capture **the quiet moments—**like Sarah lying awake at night, wondering if she’s ready—made the story deeply relatable.

One scene that stood out:

"I held the tiny onesie in my hands and suddenly, it hit me—this was real. There would be a person wearing this. A person who would call me ‘Mom.’"

Moments like these make Baby Is Coming! more than just a book—it’s an emotional companion.

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Fans of What to Expect When You’re Expecting (Heidi Murkoff) or The Happiest Baby on the Block (Harvey Karp) will appreciate Pearson’s blend of practical advice and emotional storytelling. However, Baby Is Coming! stands out because:

• It’s narrative-driven, not just instructional.
• It focuses on the emotional journey, not just the logistics.
• It’s less prescriptive, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

If you enjoyed Little Fires Everywhere (Celeste Ng) for its exploration of motherhood, you’ll likely connect with this book too.

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✅ Authentic, relatable characters
✅ Balances humor and heartbreak beautifully
✅ Great for expectant parents or anyone who loves family-centric stories

❌ Pacing slows slightly in the middle (though this mirrors the waiting period of pregnancy)
❌ Some secondary characters could be fleshed out more

Overall, the strengths far outweigh any small critiques.

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✔ Expecting parents looking for a comforting, relatable read
✔ Fans of women’s fiction with emotional depth
✔ Book clubs (the themes spark great discussions!)
✔ Anyone who enjoys stories about love, growth, and new beginnings

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A few lines that stayed with me:

"Parenthood isn’t about being ready—it’s about being willing."

"The moment I saw those two pink lines, my heart split open in the best way."

"You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to show up."

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Baby Is Coming! is a heartfelt, beautifully written novel that captures the messy, magical journey of becoming a parent. Ann M. Pearson’s ability to blend humor, emotion, and realism makes this a standout read. Whether you’re looking for reassurance, a good cry, or just a well-told story, this book delivers.

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Discussion Questions for Readers:

• What’s the most surprising emotion you felt while reading this book?
• Which character did you relate to the most?
• How does Pearson’s portrayal of parenthood compare to other books you’ve read?

Have you read Baby Is Coming!? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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