August 10, 2014

More Adoption Summer Reading

Because there’s still one month of summer left and we love a good summer reading collection, here are some more adoption-focused books to put on your list! At the very least, your kids will be going back to school soon and it’s good to get them into the groove of reading again, right?

The Connected Child is a great read for an adoptive parents who are welcoming children into their homes who have suffered previous abuse or neglect. These children have special needs all of their own and require a different level of parenting and awareness because of their situation. This book specifically focuses on parenting children who’ve arrived from other countries or cultures, from troubled backgrounds, or with special behavioral or emotional needs.

The Secret Life of Bees is a beloved contemporary classic that was actually turned into a film not too long ago. It would be perfect for an older child (middle or high school) or for reading aloud to your children as a sort of summertime book series. After young Lily’s mother is killed, she is taken in by a stand-in mother who happens to be black, introducing her to a whole other part of the South, where they live. Eventually they’re taken in by three beekeeping sisters, who evolve Lily’s world in a very special coming-of-age way. Without speaking overtly of adoption, The Secret Life of Bees opens up some wonderful topics of discussion about family, race and culture—valuable talking points for any family.

Nia Vardalos’ Instant Mom is the perfect beach read. Hilarious, smart and completely on point, the brilliant comedienne/actress shares her story about becoming a mom, which includes everything from surrogacy to foster care to adoption. Relatable and so down to earth, this is a definite must-read.

We love The Brotherhood of Joseph for its poignant point of view and paternal perspective. It’s so refreshing to read about a father’s journey, as it’s definitely not one that is covered as much as the mother’s. Here, Brooks Hansen captures the emotional journey and turmoil endured by he and his wife as they tried to conceive. The subject matter is difficult and all too familiar, but his perspective is refreshing and a much needed voice in the world of adoption story-telling.

There are so many wonderful tales to choose from! What are some of you and your family’s favorite adoption books?