Name Your Baby

My mother used this book over thirty years ago to name my sisters and myself -- and we still have the dog-eared/broken spined original, complete with circled, what-were-you-thinking, thank-God-you-didn't-call-me-that names. (Makes for a great keepsake.) I often use baby name books in my line of work and have at least five, but this one is by far the best: great definitions and "foreign" variations of common names put it above the rest, plus a surprisingly informative astrology section. I had to deduct a star, though, because even the latest addition neglects proper pronunciations, which is disappointing.Another good one: try The New Age Baby Name Book by Sue Browder if still in print; over 3000 African, Hindu, Arabic, Native American and Occult/mythological names. Enjoy, and happy naming!

I study baby names, and I own this book. Honestly, my main motivation in buying was the fact that root words for the names are included, and this is extremely rare in baby name books. It's also fairly diverse compared to the Brittany and Cody 20-name-book mainstream garbage available in most stores. It also gives you foreign versions of a name. For example, Elizabeth in Irish is Eilis (EYE lish) [unfortunately, pronunciations are not included in the book-- something I find VERY important, especially if the parent is choosing an exotic name they've never even heard or spoken before! All name books should contain pronunciations.].

Unlike most baby name books that focus on style over substance, this book excels at accurate meanings (even when they aren't PC) and research. The pronunciation guides, meanings, variations, language/country of origin, etc. are all spot-on and thorough. I've permanently loaned several copies of this book to expectant friends and have never regretted it - nor, I'm sure, have Frey, Penelope, Cecily, Jael and Nerissa all of whom have it to thank for their names! A classic for parents, authors and nomenclature enthusiasts.

So many names, so much information, so much fun! I practically had it memorized by the time my first was born. The horoscope section gives you a peek into your bundle of joy's personality, their traits, their preferences,...even potential career tracks! The list of names is plentiful, complete with meanings, origins, and alternate spellings. I have since misplaced my copy. Not to worry, I knew exactly what I wanted and no substitutes are acceptable. Whether you're a mom or a mom-to-be or shopping for either one, this is the only name book to buy.

Names, like clothing, go out of style and date. This is one of the older Baby Name books out there that I've found. It contains classic names with classic spellings. Well researched, not misleading in any way, and a joy to use as a reference tool. In fact I searched for 2 years to try to replace it before it was reprinted. Never loan out your books.