Tuhin A Sinha’s Daddy, the birth of a Father is all about parenting and a practical guide book for the modern day dad who too lends a helping hand in the upbringing of a child. The author who is credited with inventing the genre of political thrillers in contemporary Indian writing, has moved away from his usual genre to pen this work.
This is a very well-written book on new-generation fathers who share responsibilities and enable and empower their working wives. One of its kind in this genre, the author not only describes his own experiences but has also come out with details of how to look after a new-born baby, how to manage life with the entry of a new member in your married life, how to take the help of elders, your friends and colleagues. Celebrating the emotions that come with being a new father, the author has turned this book into an interesting read with many quotes, anecdotes, stories and practical tips.
A few decades ago, looking after the baby was always the mother’s job, but now as gender dynamics are changing the world over, the role of the father, who was always in the background as a provider, has also gone for a toss. And as one can see, parenting is a key area where this change is most perceptible and visible. With many mothers working and bogged down by late-night shifts especially those who work in the software and BPO industry, modern dads today have changed for the better. They have no inhibitions in changing their baby’s diapers, preparing the milk bottle, tending their infants during sickness, spending sleepless nights catering to their new-borns or simply watching the baby. Nowadays, fathers often tend to be more patient and indulgent with the baby and show equal concern in the day-to-day upbringing of their children.
The first-of-its-kind book released in recent times, Tuhin Sinha provides a rare parenting insight from a father’s viewpoint and looks at the many issues, concerns and joys that every new father goes through. Sinha combines a personal narrative describing his own experiences of looking after his new-born baby Tanish along with stories from many new fathers. He has also provided expert opinions from leading medical practitioners who talk about illnesses, precautions, preventive measures and many other things. At the end of every chapter, the author has added a note on things one should do and remember.
The book brings together ideas on involved fatherhood and explores the changing dynamic between couples after the arrival of the baby. In more ways than one, the author celebrates the spirit of new-age fatherhood, the profound emotions that a father undergoes and also demonstrates how you can find and make time to be a hands-on father despite your professional commitments.
This book is a must read for all new fathers and mothers too.