Here's a list of some excellent books, to help your life as a parent that little bit easier!
THE BASICS
"Birth to Five" - A free and extremely useful book about the basics from your local Health Education Authority.
"From Birth to Five Years" Mary D. Sheridan - A more "academic" book that charts a baby's development through the early years.
"Complete baby and Child Care" Dr. Miriam Stoppard - Our bible of child care that covers everything from cradle cap to febrile convulsions.
"Babies! A Parent's Guide to Enjoying Baby's First Year" Dr. C. Green
THE SECRET OF HAPPY CHILDREN
"The Secret of Happy Children" Steve Biddulph -does exactly what it says on the tin.
"Toddler Taming" Dr. Christopher Green - an inspirational book for many parents.
"The Soothing Art of Baby Massage" Roma Turner & Susie Nanayakkara - A book that shows you how to massage your tiny baby to soothe him/her and promote calmness. We used this, and it had a really placating effect on our little girl, as well as providing us with quality "skin on skin" time with her (which is supposed to increase the bond between parent and child).
"Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems" Dr. Richard Ferber - within a week, it changed our life! And we've been having quality nights' sleep ever since then...
EATING
"Small Helpings" Annabel Karmel - Brilliant recipe book for making meals for baby and toddlers. Tastier and cheaper than bought-jars every day (just make a load and freeze some!)
"Organic Baby & Toddler Cookbook" Lizzie Vann - As above, but with an emphasis on organic and (to some extent) fair trade produce.