Prior to her book’s release, a religious group had taken objection to its title, accusing the authors of hurting religious sentiments but I don’t think it could have a title more suitable than Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Pregnancy Bible: The ultimate manual for moms-to-be (Juggernaut). It is just that—a go-to for pregnant women, vetted and approved by the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, with several expert voices including those of Rujuta Diwekar, Dr Sonali Gupta and Dr Prabha Chandra of NIMHANS. Co-authored by Aditi Shah Bhimjyani, it lists every conceivable aspect of pregnancy including trimester-wise tests and care, nutrition, fitness, self-care, breastfeeding, vaccines, postpartum depression and even an ultimate baby shopping list that has everything from the perfect nursing bra to onesies and cot mobiles.

Frank as always, Khan speaks of both her pregnancies—often drawing comparisons—and of how the pandemic impacted her mental health during the second one. The headstrong actor tells us how she tried to balance her work commitments, pregnancy and motherhood, with support from family, friends and domestic help. Even though Khan made pregnancy look glamorous, she admits that she did not feel glamorous, what with all the weight gain, belching, cravings and pregnancy spots. With that, she breaks the wall between her and the reader, sharing everything they need to know about pregnancy, labour, C-sections and postpartum, just how a good friend would. We especially liked how she admits to her shortcomings and doles out advice, mother to mother:  “it’s about you and your comfort; do what is easy, do what works. When a mother is confident and comfortable, the baby senses it too.” It’s a mantra this writer has lived by during both her deliveries.