I agree with Dr Plasma and many others. I am in fact a pediatrician! A few points:
When something seems wrong and illogical - it probably is.
When something absolutely doesn't work for you - don't do it.
If something feels fine but is not recommended (e.g. heart rate over 140 while exercising) it is probably fine.
Every human body runs a little different. Same with every human mind. Being "sensible" will get you a long long way to being right.
What to expect when you're expecting- factually accurate but it definitely takes an approach that is unnecessarily nerve wracking. Too uptight.
Happy Child Healthy sleep - The newest edition is horrible. Horrible. His ideas are absolutely correct, but his editor should be shot.
How to solve your child's sleep problems by Ferber - good to read in advance. The first few chapters are for kids without problems. Prevention is the key!
The AAP (american academy of pediatrics) has books "your child the first year" and "your child birth to 5 years". Pretty good. Available in Borders etc.

I agree strongly that sleep is critical. Good nutrition (but not overboard with the 'must be organic spirulina'...) and a loving and accepting home is the key. Proper discipline too. By that I mean no hitting the child, being the parent not the child's buddy, sticking to your guns (no means no), showering her/him with unconditional love, modelling proper behavior. The best book there is "how to talk so your child will listen and listen so your child will talk" Again, read it now and then when you need it when he is a few years older. When you have two get "siblings without rivalry". These are the absolute best behavior books I know.
You are on the right track reading stuff in aadvance. Don't wait till there's a problem, be ready for all life throws at you.

Parenthood is the very worst and very best job you'll ever have.
Good Luck