Top baby name books in 2022

Top 10 baby name books to help you discover the perfect baby name in 2022

If you have a little one on the way, you might start to feel mounting pressure as you debate different baby names. Luckily, there are some great books out there to help you narrow down your options.

Top baby names list

Choosing a name for your baby is no simple feat. Every name has its own history and connotations, so you’ll want to do your research. Before you make a decision, make sure you weigh all your options. You never know, your dream might be out there, and you don’t even know it exists yet!

Here are some of the top recommendations for baby name books in 2022.

Best Overall

The Baby Name Wizard

A Magical Method for Finding the Perfect Name for Your Baby

The Baby Name WizardBuy from Amazon

The Baby Name Wizard is a great option for anyone just starting their baby naming journey. You won’t be disappointed as this isn’t just a typical book of lists. Using a data-driven approach, Laura Wattenberg creates stunning, computer-generated visuals for each baby name. You’ll learn helpful facts about each name as well, such as: popularity, nicknames, variants, pronunciations, and even notable examples.

Why new parents love it

Pretty much any data point you can think of for a name is addressed in this thorough baby name book.

Best Trending

Best Baby Names 2022

Best Baby Names 2022Buy from Amazon

If you’re into following what’s trendy, this book is revised and updated each year to reflect the most current baby naming trends. With advice on how to navigate other people’s opinions, you can always expect content that’s relevant to your own experience. There’s even some helpful tips for coming to an agreement on a baby name with your partner.

Why new parents love it

An inspirational selection of both classic and gender-neutral baby names—and some with a modern twist.

Best Classic

The Penguin Book of Baby Names

The Penguin Book of Baby NamesBuy from Amazon

This known classic has topped best-seller lists for over a decade. David Pickering writes on the decisions that new parents are faced with and guides you to choosing the perfect baby name. Expect a classic A-Z guide with special collections of celebrity names and popular names through the centuries.

Why new parents love it

A great selection of very unique yet practical suggestions.

Most Comprehensive

100,000+ Baby Names

The most helpful, complete, & up-to-date name book

100,000+ Baby NamesBuy from Amazon

If you don’t want to be left guessing, this book covers just about everything you can think of when it comes to inspiration for baby names. Regularly revised and updated, this book even contains lists of names for newer celebrities, fictional characters, and other fun categories. You can also expect suggestions from a huge variety of linguistic and ethnic groups.

Why new parents love it

You won’t feel limited as this book contains names from all over the world.

Best Spiritual

The Name Book

Over 10,000 Names—Their Meanings, Origins, and Spiritual Significance

The Name BookBuy from Amazon

Rather than focusing on popularity, the writers of this baby name book focus on the cultural origin, literal meaning, and spiritual significance of each name. For those who are interested in blessings, there is scripture provided for each baby name—a thoughtful way to give more than just a name to your little one.

Why new parents love it

With a focus on spirituality, this book provides significance and meaning to each suggestion.

Best International

Inspired Baby Names from Around the World

6,000 International Names and the Meaning Behind Them

Inspired Baby Names from Around the WorldBuy from Amazon

If you want a truly diverse selection of names to choose from, you might want to consider a book of international baby names. This book contains a variety of names, from religious scripture like the Bible, Koran, and Buddhist sutras, to world literature like Shakespeare and thinkers like Alice Walker.

Why new parents love it

A vast selection of names with a worldly twist.

Best Irish

Irish Baby Names (Collins Gem)

Irish Baby Names (Collins Gem)Buy from Amazon

Irish baby names are gaining popularity across the globe, so it makes sense to include it in the top ten list. This is one of the best baby name books if you’re interested in picking an Irish baby name. You’ll learn all about the origins and meanings of your favorite names from the emerald isle.

Why new parents love it

Great pocket-sized book that covers the details in a quick and concise manner.

Best Girls

The Best Baby Names for Girls

The Ultimate Resource for Finding the Perfect Girl Name

The Best Baby Names for GirlsBuy from Amazon

Browse a wide selection of girl-centric names and helpful naming tips. You’ll be able to choose from classic, trendy, and creative names that are sure to create a lasting impression.

Why new parents love it

Full of real, valuable suggestions and helpful lists.

Best Unusual

The Alternative Guide to Baby Names

The Alternative Guide to Baby NamesBuy from Amazon

If you’re more attracted to standing out from the crowd, consider this alternative baby name book. Full of unique and quirky suggestions, you’ll be sure to find plenty of baby names you would have never thought of before.

Why new parents love it

Full of hip and edgy suggestions that put you in a fantasy world.

The Bottom Line—How do I choose?

When it comes down to choosing a name, you have to think about what you want to accomplish. Do you want to pick something more well-known and classic? Or something that many people haven’t heard before? Think about your last name too. If you have a long last name, you might want to opt for a shorter first name, and vice versa.

No matter what you choose, your baby name will be unique and special, just like your little one—but this list sure is a great place to start!