When you're expecting a baby one of the most common phases you'll hear is a variation of "kids don't come with an owners manual". For parents, it's the nice way of saying "good luck with that". Just because there isn't an owners manual doesn't mean you have to wing it when your baby comes home. Reading a few books can better prepare you for parenthood and provide a new perspective on your new role to come.
The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the First Year by Armin A. Brott. A detailed month by month guide to your baby's development and everything you need to know for the first year. As a first time dad, this is a must read even for those with plenty of baby experience.
Cribsheet by Emily Oster. If you're looking for a data driven approach to decision making as a parent, this is the one. Emily Oster has compiled years of data and research into an enjoyable read that will make you wonder why you don't make all decisions with the economist mindset.
Bringing Up Bébé by Pamela Druckerman. Have you ever wondered how different parenting can be in another country? Pamela Druckerman takes you on a parenting journey as an American expat living in France. Throughout the book she explains the ins and outs of French parenting and how the different approach results in self sufficient, responsible children. Although you likely won't fully convert to the French way, it will certainly change your perspective on what parenting can be.