media consumption

Are Those Kids Yours?

by Cheri Register

Since we made the decision to adopt a child from China, we've only met with positive responses from people when we raise the topic. We aren't naive to the fact, though, that some reactions are likely to be negative or on some level just plain insensitive. The title of this book derives from one of the more typical questions we are likely to face.

Although somewhat out-of-date in the details of international adoption, this book should be required reading for anyone planning on going that route. It is written by an adoptive mother and is filled with personal stories from interviews with other adoptive parents and children. There are tons of quotes taken word-for-word from these family members and the effect is that of a broad tapestry depicting the broad range of stories and experiences of these families.

This book is unflinching in confronting some of the challenges facing internationally adoptive families but lays out the challenges in an easily-digested framework. At no time are you overwhelmed by information as the the stories are told in a matter-of-fact style, which, while sobering, is also encouraging. You come away from the book feeling as though you are part of a larger community, one that has already demonstrated success in the face of a wide range of challenges.

Other Entries for "On the Nightstand"