“A” Is for Adopted. Eileen Tucker Cosby. Illustrated by Norma S. Strange. 2000. 56p. (gr ps). DIR Group, Inc. Far beyond just reinforcing a child’s learning of their ABCs, a newly-published children’s alphabet book is spreading the word about the rewarding and wonderful option of adoption. Written by Eileen Tucker Cosby, a Phoenix-area adoptive mother, and titled A is for Adopted, the book expresses the joys of adoption. Ideal for adopted children, birth parents, adoptive parents and all families, the book covers concepts and emotions from “adoption” to “zest,” with each letter accompanied by colorful and appropriate illustration and rhyming verse. The illlustrations were created by Norma Strange, also a Phoenix-area resident. Strange was drawn to this project because her mother was adopted and she has a deep compassion and commitment toward adoption. Reading between the lines however, people will find another message in the book, according to Cosby. The message, and the author’s mantra, is—adoption is the option. “The book shows adopted children how deeply they are loved. Birth parents who want their child to have the best can read the book and truly understand just how much their baby will be loved. It will reassure them that placing their child for adoption is an act of love,” Cosby said. As author, Cosby has first-hand experience with her book’s subject. After more than eight years of physically, financially and emotionally challenged infertility treatments proved unsuccessful, she and her husband, David, turned to adoption. The couple became the proud parents of a baby boy, who Cosby says was conceived from the couples hearts. By choosing the option of adoption both biological and adoptive parents are making our world a better place,” Cosby said.

A is for Adoption. Karen Koenig. Illustrated by Julie Houghton. 2007. 48p. (gr ps-3). Xlibris Corporation. The words in A is for Adoption reflect 19 years of adoptive parent experience. This book explains adoption language with compassion and beauty using child friendly imagery. The rich illustrations bring sparkle and life to the words. This adoption book is meant to be a shared experience between parent and child. It will satisfy the natural curiosity the young child has about being adopted, and it will nurture and enrich the dialog of adoptive families. It is the hope of the author that the family will internalize the words and illustrations for a lifetime of meaning and memories. The language and illustrations will take on new meaning as the child and family grow in their understanding of what it means to be an adoptive family. The ABC format and vivid illustrations create a colorful, meaningful and sensitive explanation of adoption. It is a book every adoptive family will want in their library.

A is for Angels. Linda Masterson. Illustrated by Samuel J Butcher. 2003. 18p. (gr ps-3). Random House Children’s Books. Young readers can learn their ABCs with adorable little angels in this Precious Moments padded board book with foil-edged pages! Samuel J. Butcher’s delightful drawings are complemented by the simple rhyming text!

A Was an Apple Pie. Etienne Delessert. Illustrated by the author. 2005. 32p. (gr ps-3). Creative Editions. In the 1660s, English schoolchildren first met an apple pie called A. In simple, educational verse, they also met 26 other alphabetical characters who all wanted a piece of A! B bit it, J jumped for it, N nodded at it, and T took it! Creative Editions is pleased to re-introduce this classic nursery rhyme to a new generation. With lighthearted illustrations by Etienne Delessert that are sure to captivate young learners, A Was an Apple Pie is an endless slice of reading fun! Educating young children while keeping them fully engaged can be a challenge. But teachers and parents alike will find that this lively picture book will do just that. In typical Delessert fashion, the book’s illustrations refuse to settle for the ordinary. Playful creatures wear shirts bearing each respective letter of the alphabet, and their delightfully rendered shenanigans in trying to keep the piece of apple pie to themselves give the story a fun narrative arc. Each spread features a pleasing combination of color, characters, and movement that will enchant readers of all ages. With almost 100 children’s books to his credit, artist and author Etienne Delessert has established a reputation as one of the fathers of modern children’s picture books. Through such books as Dance!, I Hate to Read!, The Seven Dwarfs, and Who Killed Cock Robin?, he has won gold medals from the Society of Illustrators and twice garnered the prestigious Graphics Prize from the Bologna Children’s Book Fair.

A to Z Book, The. Glenn Gauthier. Illustrated by the Author. 2006. 32p. (gr ps to 3). Book Publishers Network. The A to Z Book, written by award-winning artist Glenn Gauthier, gives teachers and parents a fresh way to teach children their ABCs. For each letter, Gauthier has written a rhyme that couples a peculiar pairing with a comical drawing: a Dragon sitting forlornly in the dustpan, a Martian landing on a marshmallow, a Vacuum gobbling up vitamins. Colorful and imaginative illustrations add to the fun. The result is a giggle-inducing romp through the alphabet that adults and children will enjoy over and over again. About the Author: Glenn Gauthier is an award-winning graphic designer and illustrator. This is his debut as a children’s book writer. Glenn lives in Seattle, WA.

ABC: A Family Alphabet Book. Bobbie Combs. Illustrated by Desiree Keane & Brian Kappa. 2001. 32p. Two Lives Publishers. It’s family fun from A to Z in this alphabet book that shows kids and their parents laughing, playing and enjoying family life. All of the brilliant watercolors depict families headed by gays and lesbians. “C is for cookies. Both of my dads know how to make great chocolate chip cookies.” “L is for lunch. We always pack a picnic lunch when my moms take me to the beach.”

ABC: A Miss Spider Concept Book. David Kirk. 2006. 16p. Grosset & Dunlap. Learn your ABCs with Miss Spider! Each page has lift-the-flaps where children can learn about letters with a “buggy” twist. With the gang from the Cozy Hole, learning your ABCs was never this much fun!

Adopted: The Ultimate Teen Guide. Suzanne Buckingham Slade. 2007. 246p. (It Happened To Me). Scarecrow Press. The search for one’s self during the challenging teen years can be even more difficult for the adopted teen. Many adopted teens harbor unanswered questions that may result in emotions such as fear, anger, and low self-esteem. These feelings may be compounded by the isolation some adopted teens feel because most friends and family members cannot fully relate to their insecurities, fears, and frustration. Adopted: The Ultimate Teen Guide enables young adults to explore their feelings as they read the personal experiences of others. Through these stories, adopted teens will gain powerful insights from other teens who share their same struggles and concerns. They also learn how teens have resolved some of their adoption issues. In the “Teens Ask” sections of the book various adopted teens ask questions on topics such as why birth parents place children for adoption, how to “fit in” with an adoptive family, how to find birth parents, preparing to meet birth parents, current adoption laws and rights of adopted teens, special issues relating to international and transracial adoptions, and the problems some teens face when they are adopted at an older age. Experienced adoption professionals, such as Hollee McGinnis (Policy & Operations Director for the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute), Judy Stigger (Director of International Adoptions at The Cradle), Kathleen Morrison (member of the board of trustees of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys), and others share their expertise and provide practical strategies for teens as they answer these important questions in the book. Replete with stories, pictures, and artwork by adopted teens, this up-to-date book is an invaluable resource for adopted teens and their families. About the Author: Suzanne Buckingham Slade is the author of more than 50 books for children and young adults. She lives outside Chicago with her husband of 20 years, Mike, and her two children, Christina and Patrick. Ms. Slade is an adoptive mother and has a passion for encouraging adopted children and their families. She has also written articles on the topic of adoption for magazines.

Adopted & Wondering: Drawing Out Feelings. Marge Eaton Heegaard. 2007. 40p. Fairview Press. This art therapy book helps children cope with the emotional impact of adoption. Children can use this book’s interactive exercises to realize that their birth parents were good people who loved them but were unable to give them a good home; understand that they were placed, rather than abandoned; and develop a strong sense of personal identity. The interactive drawing exercises help children explain in pictures what they are unable to say in words.

Adopted by Indians: A True Story. Thomas Jefferson Mayfield. Malcolm Margolin, ed. Illustrated by Rick Jones & Hilair Chism. 1997. 192p. (gr 4-6). Heyday Books. After his mother died in 1850, young Thomas Mayfield lived with the Choinumne Indians in California, spending almost all of his time between 8 and 18 with them while his father ran livestock in the valley. Mayfield tells of a carefree and happy existence growing up at the rancheria, describing the traditional ways of the tribe before the encroachment of the white settlers and people in search of gold. Although the folksy tone of the narrative may be lost on middle readers, the first-person descriptions of fishing and hunting, clothing, food, and everyday life are genial and appealing. The black-and-white drawings scattered through the book are at their best when they show wildlife, housing styles, and details of preparing food. Edited by Margolin, this account was adapted for children from Mayfield’s book Indian Summer: Traditional Life among the Choinumne Indians of California’s San Joaquin Valley. Glossary appended. — Karen Hutt. Copyright © 1998, American Library Association. All rights reserved

Adopted Means Special. Deborah Christy. Some ideas and silhouette by Carla Stanley. Illustrated by Allie Andres-Cunningham. 2006. 28p. Trafford Publishing. Jennifer was adopted at two days old. She was always told in loving ways (from the time she was 6 months old), how happy we were that we adopted her and that she was our little girl. As she grew and began to ask about being adopted more seriously, we explained it in ways we thought she could comprehend for her age. As a result, she has never been afraid to tell anyone she was adopted. From the Author: I have been writing since 1993, beginning with technical documentation and software manuals. I originally wrote this story for my daughter, so I could read it to her. Friends who read it, thought it was good enough to publish, so I had the illustrations done and created the book. And now, I share it with you.

Adopted One, The: An Open Family Book for Parents & Children Together. Sara B Stein. Illustrated by Erika Stone. 1979. (gr k-6). Walker & Co. Includes dual text, one for the adult reader, one for the child, explaining some of the conflicting feelings of an adopted child.

Adopted Teens Only: A Survival Guide to Adolescence. Danea Gorbett. 2004. 100p. (YA). iUniverse, Inc. Adopted teenagers will discover what feelings and thoughts are common to the adoptive experience, what adoptive parents feel, what birth parents feel, what emotional issues are connected with search and reunion, how to talk to parents about adoption questions and how being adopted with help them in becoming an adult.

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Adoption. Tracey Vasil Biscontini, ed. 2009. 176p. (Issues on Trial). (gr 7 up). Greenhaven Press. Contentious issues such as the death penalty, civil liberties, and reproductive rights touch on people’s deeply held beliefs. Greenhaven Press’s Issues on Trial series captures the passion and depth of those debates, examining how the courts have helped to shape each issue through their rulings. Each volume focuses on a specific issue and includes primary sources like the text of court rulings and dissenting opinions, as well as secondary sources such as analyses and views of the rulings. Offering both historical and contemporary material, each Issues on Trial volume offers a wealth of information on issues currently confronting society. Table of Contents: Chapter 1: Protecting the Parental Rights of Unmarried Fathers; Case Overview: Stanley v. Illinois (1972); Chapter 2: Defining the Rights of Fathers of Illegitimate Children in Adoption Cases; Case Overview: Caban v. Mohammed (1979); Chapter 3: Putative Fathers Must Register to Protect Their Right to Contest Adoptions; Case Overview: Lehr v. Robertson (1983); Chapter 4: Denying Same-Sex Couples the Right to Adopt; Case Overview: Lofton, et al. v. Kathleen A. Kearney (2004).

Adoption. Stephen Currie. 1996. (gr 5-9). Lucent Books. Currie addresses several controversial aspects of the subject: fathers’ rights, interracial adoption, international adoption, adoption by other than married couples, children growing up in foster homes, and searches by birth parents and adult adoptees. Some issues are given a balanced treatment; some are not. The chapter on search and open records is particularly bad. The book paraphrases a statement made by political columnist Mona Charen: “When records were opened in Australia and Great Britain, the number of adoptions dropped considerably.” Adoption rates did decrease, but they also decreased in countries that did not open records. The author incorrectly states, “Today, the most an adult adoptee can seek is something called ‘nonidentifying’ information about his or her biological parents.” States such as Kansas and Alaska have already opened records to adoptees. “Organizations to Contact” lists the American Adoption Congress as a group that “has a particular interest in helping adult adoptees search for biological families. The organization advocates search registries and new laws.” The second statement is true; the first is not. Black-and-white photographs of varying quality are included. Karen Liptak’s Adoption Controversies (Watts, 1993) provides a more informed, less sensational look at the topic. — Nancy Schimmel, formerly at San Mateo County Library, CA

Adoption. Gerri Glotzbach. 1990. 64p. (gr 7 up). Rourke Corp. Looks at adoption through the. experience of both adopted. children and adoptive parents.

Adoption. Noel Merino, ed. 2008. 112p. (Introducing Issues With Opposing Viewpoints Series). (gr 7-10). Greenhaven Press. Introducing Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints is inspired by the highly acclaimed Opposing Viewpoints series. Like its parent Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints explores a specific issue by placing opinions from a wide range of sources in a unique pro/con format. Each anthology features 14-16 carefully edited, accessible articles that clearly express various perspectives on the topic at hand. Useful charts, graphs, and cartoons illustrate each article, while attractive color photos enliven the text. Engaging fact boxes further provide the reader with at-a-glance information. Thought-provoking questions that focus on vocabulary and reading comprehension enhance each viewpoint and help prepare students for the verbal sections of the SAT test. Furthermore, every title is supplemented with annotated bibliographies and information for further research Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints titles are a wealth of information in a bright, engaging package; this disarming combination helps students grasp the controversies of our increasingly complex world.

Adoption. Jillian Powell. 1999. 32p. (Talking About Series). (gr k-4). Raintree (UK). Sensitively written and honestly presented, the “Taling About” series of books is a reader“s guide to surviving tough times. Difficult topics are handled candidly, but always with a child“s best interest at heart. Each title introduces a pressing social issue, addresses a child“s concerns, and offers possible steps for resolution. Notes for parents and teachers suggest ways to approach the topic and exercises to elicit further discussion. This volume aeeks to help young readers understand why a child is given up for adoption and how adoption might impact a child“s feelings. Examples of adoptions with happy endings are included.

Adoption. Allen Verbrugge, ed. 2005. 155p. (Contemporary Issues Series). (gr 8-up). Greenhaven Press. Utilizing articles reprinted from newspaprs and magazines, Adoption explores various models of adoptions, attitudes toward adoption, and factors in the adoption process. Can a birth mother give up her child out of love? Can adoptive parents love these children in the same way they love biological offspring? What happens in the family dynamics when an adopted child searches for and finds his/her birth parents? Adoption also examines current issues such as open adoptions, interracial adoptions, adoptions by gays and lesbians, and others. Notable attention is given to international adoption, adoptees who have sought out or reunited with birth parents, and the personal stories of each member of the adoption triad.

Adoption: Good Answers to Tough Questions. Joy Berry. Illustrated by Bartholomew. 2001. (Good Answers to Tough Questions). Goldstar Publishing.

Adoption: Opposing Viewpoints. Roman Espejo. 2002. 206p. (gr 4-7). Greenhaven Press. Contemporary debate surrounding adoption involves issues of family preservation, identity, and children“s needs. L. Anne Babb, Leslie Doty Hollingsworth, and other adoption experts and advocates respond to the following questions: Should Adoption Be Encouraged? Whose Rights Should Be Protected in the Adoption Process? Are Some Adoptions More Problematic Than Others? Should Adoption Policies Be Changed?

Adoption: Opposing Viewpoints. Andrew Harnack, ed. 1995. 306p. (gr 7-12). Greenhaven Press. Should the practice of adoption be abolished or does it produce a positive benefit for families and society? Are transcultural and transracial adoptions a form of racial genocide or are they solutions to a difficult problem? What about a birth parent’s right to privacy versus an adoptee’s right to freedom of information? Adoption: Opposing Viewpoints is a collection of articles that addresses the many controversies about the subject. By providing access to many opinions, it encourages the reader to make a more informed decision about the issues.

Adoption: Opposing Viewpoints. Mary E Williams. 2006. 226p. (gr 9-12). Greenhaven Press. “Opposing viewpoints” on various aspects of each of the subjects addressed by each Chapter are presented. CONTENTS: Chapter 1: Should Adoption Be Encouraged? (benefits vs. harm; adoption vs. abortion; and single motherhood vs. surrendering); Chapter 2: Whose Rights Should Be Protected in the Adoption Process? (the individual rights of birth mothers, birth fathers, adoptive parents and adoptive children are debated); Chapter 3: What Types of Adoption Should Be Encouraged? (transracial vs. same-race adoptions; benefits and harms of international adoption; gay adoption; and “adoption” of embryos); Chapter 4: Which Adoption Policies Should Be Supported? (open adoptions; sealed vs. closed records; and adoption and foster care vs. family preservation).

Adoption?: Thank God For That Option. Ana Monnar. 2003. 36p. (gr ps-3). Xlibris Corporation. Adoption? Thank God for That Option is a children’s story. The foreword is appropriate for adults. The characters are very real and the story is non-fiction. It has humor, repetition and rhyme, plus ends with a poem titled, The Gift. The book is fully illustrated with color and black and white photographs. It shows how adoptive children are no different from biological children when it comes to love and to care for. They grow, eat, sleep, breathe and play sports. They have good days and bad, just like everybody else. Most important of all, they are loved in good times and bad.

Adoption: The Facts, Feelings & Issues of a Double Heritage. Jeanne DuPrau. Jane Steltenpohl, ed. 1981. rev ed, 1990. 128p. (gr 7 up). PLB/Messner. This modest-sized, clearly written revision of a 1981 title is excellent in presenting the concerns of adopted people who—however diverse their individual stories—have in common a double heritage from which they derive their identities. At the heart of the adoption stories are complicated emotions and crucial themes; DuPrau is evenhanded and sensitive in presenting these issues and in acknowledging that contemporary adoptees come from many races and nations. A third of the book is devoted to the dilemmas that invariably occur when adopted people want to meet their birth parents or in cases of open adoption, in which the birth mother knows the adoptive family and keeps some contact with her child. Included is a brief list of sources for pregnancy and adoption counseling, locating maternity homes, and contacting adoptee search organizations. The brief bibliography includes no recently published titles, and the incomplete citation of research discussed in the book is regrettable. In spite of these flaws, this is a fine book for young-adult collections. — Anna Biagioni Hart, Sherwood Regional Library, Alexandria, VA

Adoption & Foster Care. Kathlyn Gay. 128p. (gr 6 up). 1990. Enslow Pubs. This book explains the differences between adoption and foster care, using interviews and anecdotes to reveal the feelings of caregivers and the children for whom they care, in an effort to help young people understand the many sides to adoption and foster care. [Illustrated w/many b/w photographs]

Adoption Experiences, The: Stories & Commentaries. Steven L Nickman. 1985. 192p. (gr 7 up). Messner. Presents various aspects of adoption including interracial adoption, searching for birth parents, and giving up a child for adoption. Also discusses the feelings of the participants, the provisions of the law, possible problems and their solutions, and ways in which adopted people are different or alike from those that are not adopted.

Adoption Literature for Children & Young Adults: An Annotated Bibliography. Susan G Miles. 1991. 232p. Greenwood Press. This annotated bibliography provides an extensive list of literature on adoption issues for youth. Complementing Lois Ruskai Melina’s work, Adoption: An Annotated Bibliography and Guide, which lists mostly books for adults, this volume is arranged by age level and includes newer and broader-based titles. Lengthy annotations reveal each book’s strengths and weaknesses. Books address topics like age of arrival, sibling adoptions, single-parent and foster-parent adoption, step families, transracial and inter-country adoption, minority families, special needs, surrogacy, and other adoption-related situations. To compile the bibliography, the editor consulted standard selection aids, adoption agencies, databases, and interested professionals. Both in-print and out-of-print items are included. The 500 titles are arranged in four major sections: “Preschool and Primary Readers,” “Intermediate Readers,” “Junior High Readers,” and “High School Readers.” Titles seem appropriate to the levels, although librarians should consult bordering sections to incorporate those titles that appeal to a wider readership. Entries vary from five to twenty lines and include full bibliographic citations. Content is summarized, and critical comments about applicability and bias make the annotations most useful. Appendix A lists significant adult titles, usually professional, to guide librarians. Appendix B provides names and addresses of adoption-related organizations. Three indexes follow: author and illustrator, title, and subject. Some cross-references are provided. With its wide coverage, critical comments, and varied access points, this bibliography should be useful in most youth-related libraries. — Reference Books Bulletin
About the Author Susan G. Miles, Reference Librarian and Associate Professor at Central Michigan University, is a parent of eight adopted children.

Adoption Option, The: A Solution for an Unplanned Pregnancy. Sarah Bolme. 2007. 120p. (YA). CREST Publications. While adopting a child has become applauded in our society, placing a child for adoption is still misunderstood. Since many people don’t understand adoption, they only consider abortion or single parenting when faced with an unplanned pregnancy. The Adoption Option shows you why adoption is an acceptable solution for an unplanned pregnancy and walks you through the choices and steps all birth parents experience when choosing adoption for their baby.

Adoption Stories for Young Children. Randall B. Hicks. Photographs by William H Rockey. 1999. 48p. (gr ps-3). Wordslinger. Ryan, a five-year-old boy, knows a lot about adoption. He knows that his babysitter, Tammy, is pregnant, but isn’t ready to be a mommy. He also knows that Tammy has chosen his neighbors to be the baby’s mommy and daddy. He has lots of friends who are adopted. Even his friend’s teacher is adopted! Adoption Stories for Young Children is a great way for younger children to learn about adoption.

Adoptions Today: Questions & Controversies. Ann E Weiss. 2001. 144p. (YA). Twenty First Century Books. In Adoptions Today, Ann E. Weiss explores the issues and controversies surrounding adoption and presents a history of the subject from ancient times to the modern day. The result is a clear, unbiased picture of adoption, past and present. Among the questions the author raises: Why did public attitudes toward adoption change so dramatically in the early twentieth century? What were the reasons for the secrecy that shrouded most adoptions until only a few years ago? Why are interracial and international adoption rates growing so rapidly? What are the implications of such adoptions for parents and children? How does the adoption process work? Adoption laws and practices in the recent past, though well intentioned, were often flawed. Changes have been made, but some issues continue to trouble adoption professionals and legislators alike. For example, most adult adoptees can obtain nonidentifying information about their birth parents. Should they also be able to obtain facts that could lead to their identifying and locating those parents? Which is more important: an adoptee’s right to information or a parent’s right to privacy? Should single men and women be allowed to adopt? Should homosexuals? Is it possible to raise a child of another race, religion, or nationality to feel secure—and proud—of his or her particular heritage? What resources are available to help interracial and international adoptive families resolve any problems that do arise? What can be done to stop such unethical practices as baby selling? Can today’s adoption practices be improved? How might adoption change as we move into a new century? In Adoptions Today, Ann E. Weiss forthrightly discusses these and other questions. Through the words and stories of actual adoptees, both children and adults, she examines the many facets of adoption’s legal and ethical issues and controversies. This book will be of interest to those involved in adoption personally, through their local communities, or as members of the larger world community.

Adoptive Parents. Rae Simons. 2009. 64p. (gr 4-7). (The Changing Face of Modern Families). Masoncrest Publishers . Some couples can’t have children, for a variety of reasons. Too many children don’t have families of their own to love and care for them. When these couples reach out to adopt, they gain the children they were longing for, and they also find a whole set of issues and complications, some of them unique to their situation. Raising any child has challenges, and raising an adopted child has some extra ones. What about birth families? Are they going to be a part of the child’s life? What do you tell the child about his birth and adoption? The families in this book have all had their own struggles and complications they’ve had to deal with, but they’ve had many joys as well and learned a lot through their experiences.

All About Adoption: How Families Are Made & How Kids Feel About It. Marc A Nemiroff & Jane Annunziata. Illustrated by Carol Koeller. 2003. 48p. American Psychological Association. Using simple language, describes the stages of the adoption process and discusses complex feelings commonly felt by adopted children.

All About Adoption: How to Deal with the Questions of Your Past. Ann Lanchon. Illustrated by Monicke Czarnecki. 2006. 112p. (gr 6-9). Amulet Books. Being an adolescent is jam-packed with challenges—friendships, love, peer pressure, dating, and family issues—but when you’re adopted, your family issues might seem a bit more complicated. Using personal testimonials and a hip, reassuring advice-style, All About Adoption helps kids understand the questions and concerns they might have about their birth history. Also discussed are issues that may arise when an adopted child wants to learn more or unite with their birth family. All teens and pre-teens are dealing with the trials of acceptance, growing up, fitting in, and communicating with their parents, and All About Adoption reassures adopted kids that they are not alone. About the Author: Tucker Shaw is a former writer for Alloy.com and author of the “Ask Tucker” column. In addition he has written other helpful books for young adults.

All Babies: A Coloring Book. Maureen Connelly. Janet Sieff, ed.Illustrated by Loretta Veichio. 16p. (gr ps-3). 1993. Centering Corp.

All Kinds of Families. Norma Simon. Caroline Rubin, ed. Illustrated by Joe Lasker. 1976. (gr k-3). Albert Whitman & Co. Children define “family” on the basis of their own personal experiences. All Kinds of Families describes many different types of families: two-parent, adoptive, single-parent, sibling groups, divorced, grandparents, childless, and many others. It shows that families may be different sizes or different ages. As is stated in this book, A family is always part of you ... a family is a special part of your life.

All Kinds of Children. Norma Simon. Illustrated by Diane Paterson. 1999. 32p. Shen’s Books. With bright, colorful illustrations, this book is great for any young child beginning to differentiate him- or herself from others in order to form a self-identity. Using simple prose, the author tells how kids from very different backgrounds can share the same needs, desires and hopes. All kinds of children need love, like to run, have families and have dreams. With tenderness, the book shows children how, though we’re all different, we have a great deal in common. A companion volume to Ms. Simon’s All Kinds of Families.

Ana Dodson

Ana Dodson: Advocate for Peruvian Orphanages. Rachel Lynette. 2007. (Young Heroes). (gr 4-7). KidHaven Press. Each book in the “Young Heroes” series focuses on the life story of an individual who has distinguished himself or herself as an activist or has persevered through hardship and are examples of personal courage and ingenuity. Ana Dodson, 14, is a young lady who set up her own non-profit to help orphaned children from her homeland. She was born in Peru and was adopted by an American family; her birth mother died when she was three. Her new family took her on a trip back to Peru when she was 11 years old, because they wanted her to embrace her heritage. Ana and her mother, accompanied by other families who had adopted children from Peru, visited many orphanages on their trip. Nerves, excitement, and curiosity were the concoction of feelings running through Ana’s mind. In preparation for her trip to the orphanages she began gathering Spanish books and teddy bears to bring for the children. Read more...

Angels of Love: Special Guide for Understanding & Celebrating Diversity and Adoption for All Families. Lynda Arnold. Illustrated by Ellen M Monahan & Rosemont School of the Holy Child Staff. 1998. 38p. (gr k-1). Dream Pub. A well-intentioned book about interracial adoption that falls flat. When “mommy couldn’t have a baby that would grow inside her...Instead of being sad or mad about it, mommy and daddy prayed to the angels to help them find a baby they could adopt and care for.” Most adoptive parents who can’t give birth are sad about it. Adopted children needn’t be told this, but saying “...instead of being sad or mad...” strongly implies that being sad or mad is not okay. Birth parents, however, are allowed their “sadness.” Any difficulties a child may be experiencing due to adoption are also dismissed in the text when the narrator states, “So you see, it doesn’t matter how Ashley and I became part of a family.” The colorful crayon illustrations by children lack consistency and every character’s skin color varies widely from page to page, leading to total confusion. — Nancy Schimmel, formerly at San Mateo County Library, CA

Are Adoption Policies Fair?. Amanda Hiber, ed. 2008. 112p. (At Issue Series). (gr 7 up). Greenhaven Press. The At Issue series includes a wide range of opinions on a single controversial subject. Each volume includes primary and secondary sources from a variety of perspectives--eyewitnesses, scientific journals, government officials and many others. Extensive bibliographies and annotated lists of relevant organizations to contact offer a gateway to future research. Table of Contents: Introduction; Open Adoption Policies Are Fair by Lorraine Dusky; Open Adoption Is Only Fair with the Consent of All Parties by Thomas C. Atwood; Photolists of Children Awaiting Adoption Raise Ethical Concerns by Sarah Gerstenzang and Madelyn Freundlich; Intraracial Adoptions Should Be Prioritized over Transracial Adoptions by North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC); Transracial Adoptions Should Not Be Discouraged by Katharine Quarmby; Gays and Lesbians Should Be Allowed to Adopt by American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); Gays and Lesbians Should Not Be Allowed to Adopt by Gary Glenn; Father Registries Are Fair by Mardie Caldwell; Father Registries Are Not Fair by Jane Spies and Murray Davis; Single People Should Be Given the Same Opportunity as Couples to Adopt by Amanda J. Crawford; China’s New Adoption Restrictions Are Not Fair by Beth Nonte Russell; The U.S. Government Should Strengthen Regulations on International Adoptions by Cindy Freidmutter; The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children Should Be Reformed by Liz Oppenheim; Organizations to Contact; Bibliography; Index.

Becky’s Special Family. Kathleen O Sly. Illustrated by Leland D Sly & Robert F Urfer. 1985. 44p. Alter Parent.

Being Adopted. Stephanie Herbert. 1991. 24p. (gr ps-3). CWLA. Adopted at six weeks old, Stephanie uses her own words and pictures to describe the love she has for her family.

Being Adopted. Maxine Rosenberg. Illustrated by George Ancona. 1984. 48p. (gr 1-4). Lothrop.HarBrace.

Between Two Worlds: A Story About Pearl Buck. Barbara Mitchell. Illustrated by Karen Ritz. 1988. 64p. (gr 3-6). Carolrhoda Books. A biography of the woman who was awarded both the Pulitzer and Nobel prizes for literature.

Black Market Adoption & the Sale of Children. Elaine Landau. 1990. 128p. (gr 4-7). Watts. Examines the problems of illegal adoption and surrogate motherhood and the tragedies which often result from them. Offers solutions to the ethical and legal dilemmas caused by this form of commerce.

Blending of Foster & Adopted Children into the Family, The. Heather Lehr Wagner. Illustrated by Marvin Rosen. 2002. 64p. (gr 4-7). Chelsea House Publications. Family dynamics are difficult enough, but can be all the more challenging for foster and adopted children. This title looks to guide children through the many challenges of being adopted or in a foster home. Young readers will get a straightforward discussion of these issues.

Clara Hale: Mother to Those Who Needed One. Bob Italia. 1993. 32p. Abdo Publishing Co. Presents the life of the New York woman whose love of children led her to establish a foster care program to help babies born addicted to drugs.

Clashing Views on Controversial Issues in Family & Personal Relationships. Gloria W Bird. 1995. (Taking Sides). Brown & Benchmark Publishers. Description of the current (7th) edition (2007): Taking Sides: Clashing Views in Family & Personal Relationships presents current controversial issues in a debate-style format designed to stimulate student interest and develop critical thinking skills. Each issue is thoughtfully framed with an issue summary, an issue introduction, and a postscript. An instructor’s manual with testing material is available for each volume. Using Taking Sidesin the Classroom is also an excellent instructor resource with practical suggestions on incorporating this effective approach in the classroom. Each Taking Sides reader features an annotated listing of selected World Wide Web sites and is supported by our student website: www.mhcls.com/online.

Complete Lifebook Workbook, The. Jim Mooney, MSW. 1996. 82p. This book contains hundreds of sections of text and “fill in the blanks” that cover any adoption and/or foster care situation. After your child fills the appropriate ones in, he or she can cut and paste them on to the blank pages to create a totally personalized book. The spaces around the text can even be decorated with drawings and pictures. The Complete Lifebook Workbook provides the perfect medium for a child to record memories, hopes, thoughts, and dreams.

Coping With Being Adopted. Shari Cohen. Ruth Rosen, ed. 132p. (gr 7 up). 1988. Rosen Group. Discusses feelings and questions associated with being adopted, taking into account both birth parents and adoptive parents and dealing with the beginning, the end, and everything in between.

Dangerous Legacy: The Babies of Drug-Taking Parents. Ben Sonder. 1994. 112p. (YA). Watts. In the late 1980s, a social worker noticed similarities in the symptoms exhibited by many newborns—they would cry continuously, were inconsolable, and would jump at the slightest noise. What was the cause? Just a few years ago, researchers discovered that these children had been born to women who had used crack during their pregnancies. Dangerous Legacy examines the consequences of maternal substance abuse, including not only crack, but also alcohol, cocaine, opiates, tobacco and marijuana.

Dave Thomas: Honesty Pays. Barbara Kramer. 2005. 48p. (Awesome Values in Famous Lives). (gr 4-7). Enslow Elementary. From Booklist: The series has a rather unfortunate name (Awesome Values in Famous Lives), but this biography of Wendy“s Restaurants founder, Dave Thomas, does a good job not only introducing Thomas but also explaining how he used his wealth and celebrity to make the world a better place. Thomas“s experiences as a child profoundly affected his adult life. Adopted at birth, he never knew about his origins until he was much older. It was this experience that made him an adoption advocate in later life. After his mother died, he and his father ate most of their meals in restaurants, which led him into careers in the food service industry. The book doesn“t beat readers over the head with its message about good values, letting it come across more subtly thanks to the way Kramer shapes the text. The bright, shiny format features good-size print, and the many interesting, color photographs give the book pick-me-up appeal. A time line, chapter notes, a brief glossary, and an introduction to further source material rounds out the presentation. — Ilene Cooper; © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Dave Thomas: Overcoming Adversity. Nancy Peacock. Introduction by James Scott Brady. 2000. 104p. (gr 5-7). Chelsea House Publishing. A biography of the man who founded Wendy’s, one of the nation’s largest restaurant chains.

Day They Gave Babies Away, The. Dale Eunson. Illustrated by Fritz Kredel. 1947. 39p. (gr 3-6). Farrar, Straus & Co. The true story of 12-year-old Robbie Eunson (the author’s father), who, following the deaths of his mother, Mamie, from typhoid on Christmas Eve in 1868, and his father three months before from diphtheria, at the request of his dying mother, found homes for all of his five younger siblings with families around town whom he had carefully selected. (Originally published in Cosmopolitan’s 1946 Christmas issue; basis for the 1958 movie, All Mine to Give). About the Author: Dale Eunson has been a magazine editor, has written for radio and television, and has published two other books: Up on the Rim, an historical narrative of old Mantanna, and Phillip’s Chair, a novel. He lives in Santa Barbara, CA. [Cover of 1990 Reissue Edition shown at left].

Dear Diary, I’m Pregnant: Teenagers Talk About Their Pregnancy. Annrenee Englander. 1997. 160p. (YA). Annick Press. Englander interviewed around 40 young women who became pregnant in their teens, featuring ten of them in this informative, disquieting book. Each teen, after much deliberation, chose one of three alternatives for dealing with her pregnancy: abortion, adoption, or motherhood. The results are never wholly happy; the tacit point is that teenage pregnancy is never without complications, most of them serious. Although Englander, nonjudgmental in presentation, supplies several disclaimers to persuade readers that the girls’ stories in the book do not comprise the entire range of situations, the tales are somewhat depressing. Mostly drifting into pregnancy, the young women only half-heartedly accept responsibility for their actions, and the young men only hover on the periphery. Although the interviews were edited into readable form, few of the teenagers are articulate and interesting enough to sustain the several-page, first-person narrations. The two most helpful sections are the introduction, which discusses the myths about teen pregnancy, and the afterword—“You are pregnant—now what?”—which gives the book its value, containing more solid information and real help for readers than all the tales of woe that precede it. — From Kirkus Reviews. Copyright © 1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Don’t Tell Me About Goldilocks!. Eva May. Illustrated by Nan McNab. 1976. 24p. Lowden Publishing Co. (Australia). Describes adoption as it really is and it offers a down-to-earth guide to parents in answering their children’s questions.

Dream Come True, A. Jessica Rose, Nicole Dankert & Sarah Dankert. 2001. 44p. Adorable Adoptees. Written by three young adults who were adopted, this book is a place to save special thoughts, pictures, information about your child’s adoption, traditional baby book memories, and much more. The many colorful, cheerful pages invite you and your child to share happy hours together as you look at the pictures, documents, and information you have collected. Also included are pages that are appropriate for international and open adoptions. A Dream Come True is a special memory book for adoptive families. About the Authors: Jessica Rose was adopted in 1980 as an infant in the United States. She was an avid athlete participating in both softball and hockey and was a superb student as well. Jessica graduated from high school in 1999 and currently attends Iowa State University. She is studying chemistry and plans to become a teacher. The Roses also adopted Jessica’s younger sister. Adoption has been a tremendous blessing to their family. Nicole and Sarah Dankert were born February 1, 1980, in Seoul, Korea. Separated at birth, they were reunited at the age of 5 and lived with various extended family members including grandparents, aunts and uncles. Eventually they were legally abandoned at a Seoul orphanage. In February of 1987 the girls flew to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Dankert family was an instant success. The seven-year-old girls quickly acclimated to their new surroundings, learning English while attending school. Nicole and Sarah say that their adoption was an adventure,and they want to save and savor every memory of this heart-warming experience. The girls graduated from high school in 1999 as co-valedictorians, outstanding tennis and golf athletes and accomplished musicians. Nicole attends Vassar College and Sarah attends Barnard College. The girls think that adoption is something to celebrate. “Without adoption, our lives would not be complete.”

Everything You Need to Know about Being Adopted. Laura Kaminker. 1998. 64p. (gr 7 up). Rosen Group. In this brief but well-researched overview, Kaminker gives legal facts about adoption and brings up many of the problems adolescent adoptees face: fear that their natural curiosity about their birth parents may hurt their adoptive parents’ feelings, jealousy of non-adopted siblings, thoughtless remarks from friends and strangers, etc. Two topics get lost in the brevity; birth fathers and adoption after infancy are barely mentioned. The author’s suggestions are sensible; for instance, a support group is strongly advised for teenagers contemplating the difficult process of searching for birth families. Good resources, both organizations and books, are listed. Full-page photographs, most in black and white, show teens and families of various races. Karen Gravelle and Susan Fischer’s Where Are My Birth Parents? (Walker, 1993) provides deeper coverage of many topics, but Kaminker’s book is inviting and may have more appeal to reluctant readers. — Nancy Schimmel, formerly at San Mateo County Library, CA

Face in the Mirror, The: Teenagers Talk About Adoption. Marion Crook. 1987. 116p. NC Press, Ltd (Canada). A frank discussionof the issues surrounding an adoption, and in particular what everyone involved should know when adopted teens want to discover their past. Currently available as The Face in the Mirror: Teens and Adoption (pictured), published in 2000 by Arsenal Pulp Press Ltd.

Families. Susan Kuklin. 2006. 40p. (gr k-4). Hyperion. In frank, funny, touching, and often surprising interviews, children from fourteen different families talk about how they identify themselves as a family. The range of families profiled in this engaging book reflects the kaleidoscopic diversity of families in America today: there are mixed-race families and immigrant families; families of gay and lesbian couples and very religious families; families with only children, many children, adopted children, and children with special needs. This book is a celebration of all families, and provides young readers with windows into other lives, as well as mirrors in which they can see their own family relationships reflected.

Families: A Celebration of Diversity, Commitment & Love. Aylette Jenness. 1990. 48p. (gr 4-7). Houghton Mifflin. From School Library Journal: Jenness has taken what began as a photographic exhibition at the Children’s Museum in Boston and molded the separate parts into a cohesive unit that celebrates the family in all its diversity. Seventeen multiethnic young people describe their families, including their strengths and weaknesses. The “traditional” family appears fleetingly, more an exception than the norm. The variety of family units represented are: adoptive, extended (multigenerational, including those created through a teen pregnancy), bilingual, gay and lesbian, communal (social and spiritual), foster, joint custody, single parent, handicapped parent, and stepfamily. Individual and familial black-and-white photos accompany each single-page textual family portrait; they are relayed with candid sensitivity that will elicit thoughtful and emotional responses from readers and will encourage comparisons to their own family units. A diverse bibliography offers titles ranging from poetry to fiction and nonfictional representations of families. An accessible, attractive work with broad appeal that will provide good fodder for discussion and serve as a genesis for similar class projects. — Celia A. Huffman, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Cleveland; © 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Families Change: A Book for Children Experiencing Termination of Parental Rights. Julie Nelson. Illustrated by Mary Gallagher. 2006. 32p. (Kids Are Important Series). (gr ps-4). Free Spirit Publishing. All families change over time. Sometimes a baby is born, or a grown-up gets married. And sometimes a child gets a new foster parent or a new adopted mom or dad. Children need to know that when this happens, it’s not their fault. They need to understand that they can remember and value their birth family and love their new family, too. Straightforward words and full-color illustrations offer hope and support for children facing or experiencing change. Includes resources and information for birth parents, foster parents, social workers, counselors, and teachers.

Family, The: Opposing Viewpoints. Auriana Ojeda, ed. 2003. 224p. (Opposing Viewpoints Series). (YA). Greenhaven Press. Contents: Adoption should be encouraged by Elizabeth Bartholet; Adoption should be abolished by Evelyn Burns Robinson; Adoption is an alternative to abortion and single parenting by Marvin Olasky; Adoption is not an alternative to abortion by Katha Pollitt; The rights of birth mothers must be protected by Heather Lowe; The rights of birth fathers must be protected by Jeanne Warren Lindsay; The rights of adoptive parents must be protected by Madelyn Freundlich and Lisa Peterson; The rights of the child must be protected by L. Anne Babb; Transracial adoptions should be encouraged by Kirsten Wonder Albrecht; Same-race adoptions should be encouraged by Leslie Doty Hollingsworth; Gay and lesbian couples should have the right to adopt by Jill M. Crawford; Gay and lesbian parenting may not be beneficial by Lynn D. Wardle; Adoption with clear familial boundaries is best by Mary Beth Seader and William L. Pierce; An open adoption policy is best by James L. Gritter; Adoption records should remain sealed by Ira Carnahan; Adoption records should be opened by Denise K. Castellucci; Policies should emphasize family preservation by National Coalition for Child Protection Reform; Policies should not emphasize family preservation by Amanda Spake; The internet should be used to recruit adoptive families by Children’s Bureau; Internet adoption remains a gray area by Frances Grandy Taylor.

Family, The: Opposing Viewpoints. Mary E Williams & Karin L Swisher, Editors. 1997. 224p. (YA). Greenhaven Press. From School Library Journal: Some experts believe that some of today’s social trends have negative effects on the family, while others argue that such fears are exaggerated. This title provides articles and essays from a variety of previously printed sources to look at both sides of the debate. The selections examine the state of the family, how divorce-law reforms and work-related policies have affected it, adoption policies, and how public policy and values impact upon it. Each chapter begins with a preface that summarizes the topic and the opposing viewpoints. Following are articles that present different sides of each issue written by experts in the field and/or people who have experienced the situation under discussion. A supplementary periodical bibliography is appended to each section. The selections are well chosen, clearly written, and thought-provoking. Appendixes include questions for further discussion, a listing of organizations to contact, a bibliography of related books, and a comprehensive index. A welcome resource for reports, debate preparation, and general interest. — Dana McDougald, Cedar Shoals High School, Athens, GA; Copyright 1997 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Family Book, The. Todd Parr. Illustrated by the author. 2003. 32p. (gr ps-1). Megan Tingley. There are so many different types of families, and The Family Book celebrates them all in a funny, silly, and reassuring way. Parr includes adopted families, step-families, one-parent families, and families with two parents of the same sex, as well as the traditional nuclear family. His quirky humor and bright, childlike illustrations will make children feel good about their families. Parents and teachers can use this book to encourage children to talk about their families and the different kinds of families that exist.

Filling In the Blanks: A Guided Look at Growing Up Adopted. Susan Gabel. 160p. (gr 5-10). 1988. Perspectives Press. Many teenagers have questions and concerns about adoption that they may be reluctant to express. This lifebook/workbook is a framework for older children and adolescents to help them learn about being adopted. Filling in the Blanks is divided into four sections: My Birth Family, My Adoption Process, My Adoptive Family, and Myself. Each section contains text, definitions, fill-in-the-blanks, and places for pictures.

Flight of the Stork, The. Anne C Bernstein. 1978. 175p. (gr ps-6). Delacorte. Page after page of enlightening interviews take us deep into the minds of children 3-12 years old. This understanding of child development will help adults communicate better with children about the origin of families as well as the origin of babies. The revised edition (Perspectives Press, 1994) includes chapters on adoption and assisted reproductive technologies.

For When I’m Famous: A Teen Foster/Adoption Lifebook. Beth O’Malley. 2002. 31p. Adoption-Works. A wonderful workbook that allows teens to express their goals and dreams while learning more about their own life. There are lots of pages that challenge the teen’s viewpoint on their past, present and future. For When I’m Famous is a great filling in the blanks workbook for both foster and adopted children.

Foster Care (The Changing Family). Nancy Millichap Davies. 1994. (YA). Franklin Watts. There are myriad reasons why a child is in foster care. In many cases, by providing a temporary foster home until the family can be reunited, the experience is positive for the child. In other cases, the experience of foster care can cause psychological damage to a child that will never be undone. Not surprisingly, the complex foster care system is a controversial subject. This informative book considers the various aspects of foster care: the reasons that children enter care; conditions in foster homes; the foster parents; the caseworkers; the laws governing foster care; and the controversies.

Fostering & Adoption. Sarah Levete. 2005. 32p. (Let’s Talk About It). (gr 5 up). Franklin Watts. This book is aimed mostly at children who are fostered or adopted when they are older. There is mention of babies, but as the theme of the book is how one feels about being fostered or adopted and the changes this makes to one’s life, the basic idea is that this has happened recently and the child is still coming to terms with it. Worries such as fitting in with a new family, concerns about the birth family, difficult times such as birthdays are all talked about in gentle, reassuring terms. The emphasis is on adjustment. There are some suggestions on how to help the process, a list of further books to read, an index, and addresses and web sites for further information.

Gay & Lesbian Families. Kate Burns. 2004. 110p. (At Issue Series). (YA). Thomson Gale. From School Library Journal: This timely book attempts to present a fair and balanced view of whether this segment of our population is entitled to equal treatment and representation in society. However, the pro side appears to rely more heavily on articles from organizations and newspaper columnists, while the con side includes three selections written by scholars in their field. While scholarly articles may be somewhat dense for students, some effort should have been made to balance this type of information on both sides. In addition, 4 of the 14 pieces are just on gay marriage. Since there is a separate series title already devoted to that topic, it’s unfortunate that this book doesn’t offer more material on family issues. A list of organizations is included. —Betty S. Evans, Southwest Missouri State University, Springfield; © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Gifts to Each Other. Andrea Stephens. Illustrated by Jessica Flores. 2008. 362p. (gr ps-3). AuthorHouse. What happens in the household when a family with three children adopts another child into their home? Gifts To Each Other is the tender and true story of one family’s tale before they adopted and the changes that occurred after, with the “gift” referring to the family members themselves. Not only does it honor the adopted child, but it is also a tribute to those who are already in the family. Preschool and early elementary-school-age children will enjoy discovering the reasons why this family was so eager to adopt. The beautiful watercolor pictures come full circle to complete the story, captivating both youngsters and adults alike. Gifts To Each Other is an excellent introduction to the concept of adoption, for both adoptive and traditional families. With a Christian emphasis, Gifts To Each Other encourages the belief that God cares and wants to be involved in our lives. About the Author: Andrea Stephens and her husband, Kendell, live in northern Indiana. They are the parents of four children: two who attend Greenville College, and two still living at home. The Stephens family enjoys music, snow skiing, and the beauty of nature. Andrea loves being involved in the lives and activities of her family, as well as volunteering in her church and community. In her spare time she enjoys teaching piano lessons, participating in group Bible studies, decorating, and most of all, sewing Quilts.Gifts To Each Other is Andrea’s first book and a small part of the story her family has experienced.

Great Answers to Difficult Questions About Adoption: What Children Need to Know. Fanny Cohen Herlem. 2008. 112p. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Why was I abandoned? Why did my parents adopt me? What if I want to meet my biological parents? Children who find out they are adopted have many questions that are difficult for a parent to answer. This book explores children’s thoughts and feelings and provides parents with guidance on how to respond to difficult questions. The author covers all the common questions that children ask and provides sensitive, candid answers in a way that children will be able to understand and relate to. Each chapter is devoted to a particular issue, such as why a child is adopted, who chose the child’s first name and what happens when the child grows up. The book recognizes the emotions and reactions of everyone in the family and includes separate conclusions for parents and children. This handy guide offers useful advice for parents and will also be of interest to counsellors and other professionals working with children. About the Author: Fanny Cohen Herlem is a child psychiatrist and medical director of the adoption service, Doctors of the World . She has been helping children and their parents in her practice for the past 25 years.

Growing Up Adopted: An Inside Look. Maxine Rosenberg. (gr 4-7). 1989. Bradbury Press.

Heart Knows Something Different, The: Teenage Voices from the Foster Care System: Youth Communication. Al Desetta, ed. 1996. 232p. Persea Bks. There are more than 450,000 children living in foster care. The editor of this book has assembled over 40 personal narratives by young writers, aged 15 to 20, which provide an “insider’s” account of growing up in the system. These essays describe the authors’ lives in foster care, taking the reader into a world largely hidden from public view.
( Hardcover or Paperback)

Help! My Family’s Messed Up. Emily Parke Chase. 2008. 128p. (YA). Kregel Publications. Help! My Family’s Messed Up is a compassionate guide for those living in a troubled household or recovering from broken homes, abuse, or other traumas in their families. Drawing from true, contemporary stories of those who have survived a family torn in two as well as biblical examples of dysfunctional families and how God helped them overcome adversity, Help! My Family’s Messed Up explores the dynamics of a family at odds with itself and shows that with God there is hope for healing. Topics include: divorce, adoption, abuse, addiction, death. About the Author: Emily Parke Chase and her husband, Gene, have directed an ex-gay ministry in conjunction with Exodus International for more than twenty years. Emily speaks to thousands of teens every year at schools and conferences on the topic of relationships. She is the author of Why Say No When My Hormones Say Go?, What Do I Say to a Friend Who’s Gay?, and You, Me and WHO?.

How Alyssa & Arianna Became a Family: Our Adoption Story. Alyssa Danzig. Illustrated by Arianna Danzig. 2008. 40p. (gr ps-3). AuthorHouse. It is with pleasure that we share our adoption story. Over the years, before and after Arianna was born, I had the chance to speak with many families, both pre and post adoption.One of the concerns I heard often was how to explain adoption to their children. Not having a "story" myself, I listened to some fairly intricate and complicated explanations. When Ari was born, I had the opportunity to meet the woman who gave birth to her, Claudia. It was at that time our adoption story truly came alive. I realize there are many ways to talk to children about adoption. The conversations we have with our children are very personal and special. Our story, I share, because I believe it shows adoption from a different point of view. How many adoptive families have looked into the eyes of their children and thought "This was meant to be". Our story representsthese strong feelings. It is told from a simple, happy and positive perspective. I hope you enjoy. — Alyssa Danzig About the Authors: Formerly of Manhattan, Alyssa Danzig now makes her home in Fairfield County, CT. A mortgage banker by day, Alyssa and her daughter Arianna (who at press time, is about to enter the 4th grade) have collaborated to write and illustrate their first book.

How Babies & Families Are Made (There Is More Than One Way!). Patricia Schaffer. Illustrated by Suzanne Corbett. 1988. 52p. (gr k-6). Tabor Sarah Books. Finally a book that includes many of the ways that children are conceived and families are formed. In this book the “facts of life” are given in a gentle and complete manner. Parents are free to explain things in their own words as they use the text and illustrations as reference. In the drawings all children will be able to find a family like their own. About the Author: Patricia Schaffer is both a biological and adoptive parent. Having found no book on human reproduction that was relevant to her family, she wrote How Babies and Families are Made for all families. Currently she works in a second grade class near her home in Northern California.

How It Feels to Be Adopted. Jill Krementz. (gr 4-9). 1982. 128p. Knopf. In interviews with 19 adopted children, boys and girls, ages 8-16 from various social backgrounds talk about their experiences and feelings concerning adoption.