Experts now agree that it is never to early to start reading to your baby.  Many parents read to their babies in the womb.  They develop this practice and continue on after the baby is born.  If you don't feel up to reading to your swelling belly, you can always start at birth.  It is a good idea to have your favorite books on hand before you have your baby.  The days and weeks after giving birth can be hectic and crazy. If you plan ahead and have some of your favorite books on hand, you can read to your baby during your cuddling and feeding times, while you both recover.  Parents that don't begin reading to their children until much later are more likely to experience resistance from their babies.  They are more likely to want to grab the book while you are reading and rip the pages.  If you begin at birth, you can more successfully  teach your child to properly handle books.  You are providing entertainment and a rich language environment for your baby, not to mention creating a love of reading that will last a lifetime.