Adoption and fostering: advice, topics and issues Books

Book SynopsisAll children need love, but for troubled children, a loving home is not always enough. Children who have experienced trauma need to be parented in a special way that helps them feel safe and secure, builds attachments and allows them to heal.Playfulness, acceptance, curiosity and empathy (PACE) are four valuable elements of parenting that, combined with love, can help children to feel confident and secure. This book shows why these elements are so important to a child's development, and demonstrates to parents and carers how they can incorporate them into their day-to-day parenting. Real life examples and typical dialogues between parents and children illustrate how this can be done in everyday life, and simple stories highlight the ideas behind each element of PACE.This positive book will help parents and carers understand how parenting with love and PACE is invaluable to a child's development, and will guide them through using this parenting attitude to help their child feel happy, confident and secure.Trade ReviewThe conversational tone between the authors, Kim and Dan, softens the book and makes it very readable... whether you're a parent trying to use this approach, or a therapist looking to increase their clinical skills, reading this book will lead to a better understanding of PACE. -- Youth in MindCreating Loving Attachments is a great guide for parents struggling to address attachment with their children and for families who may be raising foster or adopted children. Almost like looking in a mirror, readers may be able to find elements in their parenting that are on track and others that might need to be tweaked to encourage healthy attachment. This book may work well for families already in therapy with their children so they can get a great understanding of the relationship and attachment building that needs to take place. Easy-to-read, Creating Loving Attachments is a great book for families looking to enhance relationships with their children. -- Adoption TodayThis is a book that permeates with love and compassion for traumatised children. Many Cafcass staff will be familiar with Dan Hughes' work, and Golding has developed this following her experience of his training and integrated it into her own career, which includes developing services for looked after children in Worcestershire. -- CAFCASSCreative Loving Attachments" is a great guide for parents struggling to address attachment with their children and for families who may be raising foster or adopted children. Almost like looking in a mirror, readers may be able to find elements in their parenting that are on track and others that might need to be tweaked to encourage healthy attachment. This book may work well for families already in therapy with their children so they can get a great understanding of the relationship and attachment building that needs to take place. Easy-to-read, "Creating Loving Attachments" is a great book for families looking to enhance relationships with their children. -- Adoption TodayWritten in a deceptively simple and readable way, this book conveys some of the deep truths of close human relationships: above all, the importance of accepting and validating emotions as they are. The examples of parent-child dialogue bring the theory alive and will help many parents to practice parenting in a more effective and mindful way. -- Sue Gerhardt, psychoanalytic psychotherapist and author of Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby's BrainKim Golding and Daniel Hughes have written a jewel of a book. One stellar quality of the writing is the way in which the authors give voice to parents throughout, and also highlight the significance not only of conversations but also attitudes, wording and body postures. In doing so, they carefully show progression into more sensitive, attuned parenting. The authors are compassionate as they address parent's shame and their fears for their children, and they build models that help parents and children achieve resonance, hope, and sharing of their inner worlds. The insight gained by parents and professionals will be invaluable as they read the book. I felt a renewal in my own professional and personal life as I read. Thank you, Dr. Golding and Dr. Hughes for this excellent offering. -- Deborah D. Gray, MSW, MPA, Founder, Nurturing Attachments, and author of Attaching in Adoption and Nurturing AdoptionsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Introduction. 1. Love: The Essential Ingredient. Story: A Mummy Finds Out How to Look After Her Baby. Section 1. Play. 2. The World of Play. 3. Playful Parenting. Story: The Naïve Buccaneer. Section 2. Acceptance. 4. Acceptance of the Inner World of the Other. 5. Parenting with Unconditional Acceptance. Story: Stripes and the Herd of Wild Horses. Section 3. Curiosity. 6. Curiosity: Finding a Different Perspective. 7. Staying Curious Within Parenting. Story: The Boy with All the Knowledge of the World in His Head. Section 4. Empathy. 8. Empathy: Connecting in the Emotional World. 9. Joining your Child with Empathy. Story: The Farmer and the Queen. 10. Brining it all Together and an Additional Ingredient. References. Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisFinally, a parenting book which demystifies the latest thinking on neurobiology, physiology and trauma and explains what the research means for the everyday life of parents of children who hurt.As experts on adoption and fostering who are adoptive parents themselves, Caroline Archer and Christine Gordon explain how this knowledge can help parents to better understand and care for their child. They explain why conventional parenting techniques are often not helpful for the child who has experienced early trauma and explore why therapeutic reparenting is the only way to help repair the unhealthy neurobiological and behavioural patterns which affect the child's development. They do not shy away from how difficult reparenting is, acknowledging how hard it can be to recognise our own fallibility as parents and to change our own parenting patterns. The authors also offer hard-won advice on a range of common parenting flashpoints - from defusing arguments and aggression to negotiating bedtimes and breaks in routine, and making sure that special occasions are remembered for all the right reasons.Reparenting the Child Who Hurts is a humane, no-nonsense survival guide for any parent caring for a child with developmental trauma or attachment difficulties, and will also provide information and insights for social workers, teachers, counsellors and other professionals involved in supporting adoptive and foster families.Trade ReviewThis book provides a useful resource full of relevant information for current adoptive parents and those who may be considering offering a home to a troubled child. -- Young Minds MagazineThis book is full of enthusiasm, written by people passionate and knowledgeable about their subject. The content is excellent, and it is a thoughtful book full of wise and useful advice. -- Youth in MindCaroline Archer and Christine Gordon have clearly researched the most recent literature in neuroscience, trauma, human development, and developmental parenting. [The book features] theoretically sound and well researched information presented in a manner that will be palatable to frustrated and challenged parents.It also provides explicit details of how parents may respond to difficult situations--complete with examples of verbal responses that may be helpful in ameliorating extremely intense situations. -- Extracted from a foreword by Gregory C. Keck, Ph.D., Founder/Director of the Attachment and Bonding Center of Ohio; co-author of Adopting the Hurt Child, Parenting the Hurt Child, and author of Parenting Adopted Adolescents.This exciting new book by the authors of "New Families, Old Scripts" starts from the latest findings on brain development from the field of neuroscience and how this information is central to understanding the principles of "developmentally reparenting" children who have experienced a traumatic start in their early life.The book is both informative, presenting scientific information in an accessible format and instructive, giving countless practical examples and scenarios which can be used by parents and professionals alike.The principles of "developmental reparenting" are spelt out throughout each chapter of the book. Adoptive parents and foster carers are encouraged to look at their own attachment history to make sense of their relationship with their children.Readers are encouraged to "practice" changing their mindset to PARCEL (being playful, accepting, responsive, curious, empathetic and loving) when parenting traumatised children.This book is a great resource for both parents who are parenting vulnerable traumatised children and those professionals who are supporting them. -- Fiona Lettice, adoptive parentThe authors, Caroline Archer and Christine Gordon, are both adoptive parents. The also have years of experience working professionally in adoption services and therapeutic teams... The book is primarily aimed at adoptive parents but would equally be of use to anyone who works with children who have experiences difficult and disrupted early stats to life, such as social workers, teachers and psychologists... The insights provided, which are linked to research, are offered in a way that are positive and reassuring for adoptive families... The appendices and resource section are a veritable gold mine of information... including contact details for organisations that can offer support, practical strategies, hand-outs and a glossary... The text give a comprehensive and insightful view into many of the unique aspect of parenting a child that has experienced trauma and is then place for permanence with an initially unfamiliar family. -- Laura Dunstan, EP * Debate - British Psychological Society *Table of ContentsPart 1. Stepping Forward: Understanding the Foundations. 1. Knitting Your Kid! Patterns of Knitting and Nurturing. 2. Fitting the Pieces Together. Part 2. What Can We Do? 3. Key Concepts. 4. Information: The Need to Know. 5. Laying the Foundations: Co-regulation for Self-regulation. 6. Rocking and Rolling. 7. Seeing Eye to Eye. 8. Object Permanence and Constancy. 9. Talking, Telling, Timing. 10. Loose Connections. 11. The Child Within the Child. 12. Taking, Borrowing and Difficulties with the Truth. 13. Making Changes, Managing Changes. 14. Special Occasions. 15. Holidays. 16. Siblings. 17. Taking Care of Ourselves. 18. Getting Help. Appendices. Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisParenting a child who doesn't know how to be parented is the most difficult job in the world.'Why Can't My Child Behave? provides friendly expert advice on how to respond to difficult behaviours and emotions for parents of children with developmental trauma. Each chapter focusses on the common difficulties faced by carers or parents and features quick, applicable ideas with exercises and illustrations. How do you react to a child's difficult behaviour? How do you deal with your own negative emotions? How do you know when to be empathic? The book looks beyond the traditional punishment/reward strategies and aims to provide an explanation for such questions whilst helping the child in the process.This book will prove to be an invaluable resource for parents, foster carers, social workers and professionals working with children who are adopted or fostered.Trade ReviewAmber Elliott has ... provided us with an approach to parenting children which is likely to benefit all children whether secure or insecure. It is time our ideas about parenting our children were based as much on connecting emotionally with them as managing the behaviours that are so often an expression of this emotional experience. This book will move us in this direction. -- From the Foreword by Kim S. Golding, Clinical Psychologist, UKWhy Can't My Child Behave? by Dr Amber Elliot is an insightful resource designed to empower foster and adoptive families to help children become successful. Behavioral issues are omnipresent among foster children who enter care. Dr Elliot presents effective strategies on how to develop empathy for children struggling to fit into a world that can appear very confusing. The book will help reduce stress and is a must buy! -- Dr. Sue Cornbluth, Psychologist, National Expert in Foster Care/Adoption and Trauma, USAIn her book, Dr Amber Elliott... challenges the usual behavioural approach to parenting strategies that uses reward and punishment techniques. Instead... she has taken the typical types of behaviour often experience by carers and has pulled together a simple series of tools, actions and statements that can help a carer start to respond more effectively to the child.... This book is well set out, simply written and focuses on the carer as the primary agent of change... Dr Elliott has created an accessible resource that supports adoptive and foster parents to develop empathic parenting strategies that work for their child and for their whole family. -- Sally Melbourne, executive director, Core Assets, the children's services group * Children & Young People Now *This book would be very useful for parents who care for a child who has experienced traumatic experiences. -- Youth in MindTable of ContentsForeword by Kim S. Golding. 1. I've Tried Everything! Why Isn't It Working? 2. The Importance Of Carers' Emotions. 3. Attention-Seeking Vs. Attachment-Seeking . 4. The Red Mist. 5. The Girl in a Bubble. 6. The High Energy Child. 7. Wrestling For Control. 8. Lying. 9. Sexualised Behaviour. 10. Difficult Sibling Relationships. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisLife story work is one of the key therapeutic approaches to working with adopted or fostered children. While it sounds simple, there is much more to this work than producing photo albums or memory boxes for children.This accessible book is full of tried and tested activities and creative ideas for professionals, parents and carers who may have little time and few resources, but who need to carry out life story work that works for children. The authors describe the optimum conditions in which to carry out life story work and feature activities to accompany each of the necessary stages: creating a sense of safety, emotional literacy, building resilience, exploring identity, sharing information and looking to the future. This book will be a vital tool for social workers, foster carers, adopters, students and any frontline practitioners involved in working with traumatised children.Trade ReviewThis book is an excellent, practical, way of getting started on the complex but vital task of providing life story work for looked after children...They provide activities that can be used withchildren to help them come to an understanding of why they are in care... Perhaps most valuable is that the authors set life story work in a context, with chapters devoted to helping the child build a sense of safety, emotional literacy, resilience and identity as an integral part of sharing the information about their life with them... This is an excellent book and the exercises described have uses in working with and caring for children beyond the life story work field. -- Foster Care MagazineThe authors have thoughtfully sifted and collated the numerous different activities and methodology that have worked well in practice as a way of encouraging practitioners, foster carers and adoptive parents to begin doing life story work with children. In so doing, they allow those three groups in a child's life - practitioners, foster carers and adoptive parents - to do direct work with children and give them an opportunity to explore their own creative and communication skills. -- Young Minds MagazineThe book is easily readable, written in a heartfelt way by people who a) clearly care deeply about the subject matter and b) have real and robust experience in carrying out Life Story Work themselves... This book is split into bite-size chunks that give real and concrete activities split into what the facilitator will need, how to complete the activity and 'handy hints' about how to develop or shape the work to fit with the developmental stage of the child... It was really useful to have read this book and would recommend it as a useful addition to material for those working in this vital area. -- Clinical Nurse SpecialistIt is an ideal resource for those who undertake direct work with children and provides very imaginative and useful practical exercises to carry out with children in the course of doing life story work with them. The book has a very clear structure...is well referenced and evidence-based and shows comprehensively why life story work is so important to children in care... the exercises... equally applicable to other forms of direct work with children, such as for children's guardians, children's social workers and residential social workers... This book brings together a variety of very stimulating and creative ideas... for those who like to work imaginatively therapeutically and creatively with children. -- Julia Isikwe Hughes, independent social worker and integrative psychotherapist * Seen and Heard *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. 1. Building the Foundations for Life Story Work. 2. Building a Sense of Safety for the Child. 3. Emotional Literacy. 4. Building Resilience and Self-esteem. 5. Identity. 6. Information Sharing and Integration. 7. Looking to the Future. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisI love you, no matter what.'An uplifting true story of an ordinary couple who build an extraordinary family, No Matter What describes how Sally and Rob Donovan embark upon a journey to adopt following a diagnosis of infertility.Sally Donovan brings to life with characteristic wit and honesty the difficulties of living with infertility, their decision to adopt and the bewildering process involved. Finally matched with young siblings Jaymey and Harlee, Sally and Rob's joy turns to shock as they discover disturbing details of their children's past and realise that they must do everything it takes to heal their children.By turns tragic, inspiring and hilarious, Sally and Rob's story offers a rare insight into the world of adoptive parents and just what it takes to bring love to the lives of traumatised children.Trade ReviewThis book should be compulsory reading for potential adoptive parents and for those professionals who touch their lives and pretend to understand what the whole experience is about. Sally Donovan's account touches upon the depth of despair, unbearable strain on a small family unit, incompetent or insensitive professionals, and fairly non-existent support. And yet it is full of optimism and hope for the human spirit. -- Young Minds MagazineFor those who already know the author through her adoption blog the brilliance of this book will come as no surprise... Sally Donovan seems to write as naturally as the rest of us breathe, with an eloquence and honesty that makes "No Matter What" totally absorbing. She has a fantastic story to tell that not only speaks to those who have their own adoption experiencer but to any reader who has an interest in rich, articulate personal stories and wants an insight into the life of a normal adoptive family... Much of what Sally writes will be all too familiar to other adoptive parents by the humanity, intelligence and humor of the writing captures the reality of adoptive family life in a truly enthralling way. -- Adoption TodayAs a post adoption social worker, who has also recently worked in a children in care team, this book struck a chord as to how our role impacts on children and adopters... I cannot recommend this book highly enough - it travels with me in my handbag and I sing its praises to whoever will listen! I urge everyone involved in adoption to read this book and to be inspired. -- Community Care Children's Services blogIf you've ever wondered what it's like to adopt, this book holds the answer: it's hard, sometimes traumatic, and far from "normal family life". It's also special, joyful, and utterly transformative - for parents as much as children. Yes our families are different; this book explains in both a moving and matter-of-fact way why we are proud to be so. -- Baroness Oona King, adoptive motherHonest, refreshing, heart-breaking, thought-provoking and inspiring - this is a valuable insight into adoption and the devastating effects of trauma. -- Lorraine Pascale, television presenter, chef and former model, adoptee and TACT patronThis book is sheer therapy for an adopter and enlightenment for anyone who comes into contact with adoption in any way. A must read for parents, schools and authorities. -- Carrie Grant Vocal Coach/TV Presenter, adoptive mother and BAAF adoption championSally Donovan has written a warm, humorous, hard-hitting and compelling story about her own adoption journey. What she says will resonate with the majority of those who have adopted children from care. Ultimately this is an overwhelmingly positive celebration of the transformation that adoption can bring to society's most damaged and vulnerable children, but it also clearly sets out the realities of parenting children affected by early childhood abuse and neglect. Every adopter will be able to recognise some aspect of their own experiences in Sally's story and I would urge every professional working with adopted children -- including health visitors and teachers, as well as social workers - to read this so they know what understanding and support those parenting adopted children need. -- Hugh Thornbery, Chief Executive, Adoption UKNo Matter What is by a long way the best account ever written of the experience of being an adoptive parent and carer of children traumatised by maltreatment. With heart-wrenching candour, it tells the story of a couple's journey through the pain of childlessness, the adoption process, and the lived experience of caring for Jaymey and Harlee whose early lives were 'almost unbearable to read about'. Sally Donovan evokes brilliantly the commitment, energy, therapeutic skill and humanity required to care for and heal children whose past abuse has left them distressed, feeling unworthy and acting out in often chaotic ways. This remarkable book is not only a major contribution to work on child welfare; such is the sheer power and brilliance of the writing that it triumphs as a work of literature, as art. Utterly compelling and humane, No Matter What is essential reading for all those who care for and about vulnerable children, adoption and fostering and who are open to being inspired by the healing power of love. -- Harry Ferguson, Professor of Social Work, University of NottinghamI found this book almost unbearably moving and, ultimately, uniquely uplifting. I have never before read, in a single book, such a compelling portrait of the horrors of child neglect and its consequences, alongside a portrait of the historical inadequacies of adoption assessment and post adoption support. This is a staggeringly vivid account of a heroic struggle by heroic adopters to heal the deep scars of neglect and abuse. I cannot recommend it warmly enough. -- Sir Martin Narey, Government Advisor on Children's Social Care and Visiting Professor, Durham and Sheffield Hallam UniversitiesEveryone should read this funny and deeply moving account of modern adoption: the highs, the lows, the risks and the rewards. Sally's writing is honest, insightful and beautiful to read.I am, and will remain, totally in awe of Sally and her husband Rob. Their empathy and resilience is sure to inspire anyone who reads this book, particularly those thinking about adopting a child.In the most modest, refreshing and unassuming way, Sally gives a voice to everyone struggling with infertility or learning to parent traumatised children. This book is a triumph in so many ways. -- Camilla Pemberton, Children and Families Editor, Community CareWith great humility Sally shares her journey of courage, hope and persistence in boldly loving her children despite the odds, no matter what...Throughout the book I laughed and cried, experiencing the highs and lows of loving children who have lived the unthinkable. For too long adopters walked this journey very much alone. We must now accompany them on this journey, in our neighbourhoods, communities and cities, and within our education, social care and health services. Together we can make a difference; each life is precious, however fragile and different. No Matter What communicates this truth, and is an important contribution at this time of policy change. -- Louise Michelle Bombèr, Adoption Support Teacher for Brighton and Hove, Attachment Support Teacher Therapist for The Yellow Kite Attachment Support ServiceIn No Matter What Sally has written about her adoption journey in a way which enables us to walk in her shoes and those of her children and which is informative and humbling. Anyone associated with children in the care system in any capacity could only benefit from reading this outstanding book. -- Jane Evans, Trauma Parenting and Behaviour Skills Specialist and TrainerNo Matter What pulls no punches in describing Sally and Rob's moving journey of adopting two siblings and the challenges of parenting them in great detail. It is beautifully written with humour and understanding.We learn from Sally that adopting children who have suffered neglect and abuse, requires not only resilient parents but expert advice, support and understanding from a range of professionals and from family and friends.This book is required reading for professionals such as social workers, health professionals, teachers and early years staff. It is also a must for those who want to adopt and for their families as it provides an honest account of the challenges but also the joys of falling in love with your adopted children. We can all learn so much from Sally and Rob's story. -- Sherry Malik, Director of Children and Adult Services in HounslowIt should be compulsory reading for all contemplating work within adoption, or indeed for any moving towards work with young children and their families, whether in social work or education, where children's behaviour can sometimes seem so hard to understand, by where change can only come about through real compassion, intense resilience and unending patience. -- Helen Bonnick, Practice Educator n East London * Professional Social Work *This book is a first-hand narration by Sally Donovan of her and her husband Rob's journey through infertility and the adoption... It is intensely individual story, but this story speaks to very many wider themes... In this book, we see the need for ongoing support for the family, both formal and informal...this book is not only recommended for adopters, social workers, teachers and health professionals (and I recommend it strongly for those groups), but for everyone. -- Sally Holland, CASCADE Children's Social Care Research and Development Centre * British Journal of Social Work *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Author's Note. Part 1. Revelations: In the Bad House. Chapter 1. Part 2. Keeping Secrets: Hope and Disappointment. Chapter 2. Chapter 3. Part 3. Planning a Future: Flip Charts and Handouts. Chapter 4. Chapter 5. Chapter 6. Part 4. In the Family Way: Early Days. Chapter 7. Chapter 8. Chapter 9. Part 5. Extreme Times: Life and Loss. Chapter 10. Chapter 11. Part 6. Getting Educated: Learning the Hard Way. Chapter 12. Chapter 13. Chapter 14. Part 7. A Time for Healing: No Matter What. Chapter 15. Chapter 16. Chapter 17. Chapter 18.

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Book SynopsisThis is not just another book about adoptive parenting. This is the real stuff: dynamic, messy, baffling adoptive parenting, rooted in domestic life.Award-winning columnist and adoptive parent Sally Donovan offers savvy, compassionate advice on how to be 'good enough' in the face of both day-to-day and more bewildering challenges – how to respond to 'red mist' meltdowns, crippling anxieties about new routines and, most importantly, how to meet the intimidating challenge of being strong enough to protect and nurture your child. Full of affecting and hilarious stories drawn from life in the Donovan household, The Unofficial Guide to Adoptive Parenting offers parents a refreshing counterblast to stuffy parenting manuals -- read it, weep, laugh and learn.Trade ReviewSally Donovan seems to write as naturally as the rest of us breathe. -- Adoption Today magazineIn this new book Sally Donovan communicates powerfully the messy lived experience of daily family life with her two adopted children. In her hopeful, intelligent, moving, witty and psychologically sound reflections adoptive parents will gain a lot of comfort. This book will be an invaluable resource for both parents, extended family and friends and professionals. -- From the foreword by Dr. Vivien Norris, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, DDP Practitioner, Certified Theraplay® Therapist and Trainer, The Family PlaceWhen Sally Donovan asked me to read the draft of her second book I was both delighted and anxious. Delighted because I've come to know Sally - first through Twitter, then personally - and I have a high regard for her ability to tell it how it is, to support others and to write so engagingly. Anxious because I loved her first book , No Matter What, so much. When she told me that her second book was a guide to parenting adopted children I must admit to thinking that this had been done before by so many others and that it wouldn't come close to the power of her first book. I needn't have worried. The Unofficial Guide to Parenting Adopted Children is brilliant; it's Sally at her best and a must-read for all those involved in adopting children from care. Sally takes us through the reality of modern day adoptive parenting in a frank, hard hitting and ultimately uplifting way. She pulls no punches, but what is so good about this book is the hope that it offers. Sally takes us in to her world, and provides the reader in a very matter-of-fact way sound advice from her own experience and research into therapeutic parenting. Any adopter reading this will know that they are not alone, that they can forgive themselves for not being the perfect "elite" parent, and that with love, knowledge, support and determination very damaged young lives can be transformed. Some may worry that this 'warts and all' description of 21st Century adoption will put others off from adopting. I don't. Because Sally shows us that it is so worthwhile; it's probably the most impactful and all-consuming voluntary effort than anyone ever makes in our society. The risk to successful adoptions is the lack of support for adoptive families, not supportive books like this. -- Hugh Thornbery, Chief Executive, Adoption UKSally Donovan gives us a book that is honest, real and down-to-earth. The satisfaction and the pain of parenting traumatized children is here along with many practical suggestions for therapeutic parenting. Writing from the perspective of an adoptive parent of two children this book has the compassion and reassurance that can only come from having been there. Thank you Sally for helping us to understand what it is like; for showing us that therapeutic parenting can work even though the journey is a long one and for the wisdom that says give it a go and if you don't always follow the model that is okay too. -- Dr. Kim S. Golding, Clinical PsychologistEven at this early stage in my own adoption journey...reading this book was a great way of re-reminding myself of some of the things I should be either doing or considering doing. This is a warts and all book, and probably funnier for it (and it is often funny). Probably the best recommendation I can give this book is to say that I will be keeping it close by so that I can get to it when I need it. Not only that but I will also be picking up a couple of extra copies for my family members too, to help with their understanding of the reality of our wonderful situation. -- Scott Vine, www.informationoverlord.co.ukIf we had had this book to refer to many years ago it would have helped us to parent our children more easily. It is not a text book and it is not prescriptive. It is a practical guide, easy to read, full of helpful advice and strategies to try for children where traditional parenting methods fail because our children have not had a traditional childhood experience. It is a must read for all adoptive parents. Read from it, get ideas from it, but above all smile at it and use it to help you smile again with your family. -- From the foreword by Sue and Jim Clifford OBEAward-winning columnist and adoptive parent Sally Donovan offers savvy, compassionate advice on how to be "good enough" in the face of both day-to-day and more bewildering challenges - how to respond to "red mist" meltdowns, crippling anxieties and most importantly, how to meet the intimidating challenge of being strong enough to protect and nurture your child. Full of affecting and hilarious stories drawn from life in the Donovan household, this book offers parents a refreshing counterblast to stuffy parenting manuals - read it, weep, laugh an learn. -- Families NW London MagazineTable of ContentsIntroduction, 1. It's All About Us: Shaping Up to be a Therapeutic Parent, 2. Establishing the Basics, 3. This is Meant to be Fun, 4. Leisure Time, 5. Repetitive Strain, 6. The Hard Stuff, 7. Brothers and Sisters, 8. The Outside World, 9. Life Story Work, 10. Self-care, 11. Practical Techniques

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Book SynopsisFor children who are adopted families can get complicated, and that's very true when it comes to brothers and sisters, or 'siblings'. Today The Adoption Club are exploring the confusing world of siblings. Some children have half-siblings, adopted siblings, step-siblings. Michael has a birth sibling, his sister Angela, who he lives with, but many other children who are adopted are separated from their brother or sisters. The Adoption Club talk about their feelings about their own siblings.Written for counsellors and therapists working with children aged 5-11, as well as adoptive parents, this workbook is designed to help explore sibling relationships. It is one of a set of five interactive therapeutic workbooks featuring The Adoption Club written to address the key emotional and psychological challenges adopted children often experience. Together, they provide an approachable, interactive and playful way to help children to learn about themselves and have fun at the same time.Trade ReviewThe Adoption Club series by Regina M. Kupecky, is a novel concept for helping adopted children share their stories. This therapeutic tool will help adoptees find and use their voices. Thank you, Regina! -- Sherrie Eldridge, author and speaker in the field of adoptionTable of ContentsIntroduction. Story. Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisMeet Chelsea - a young girl who was adopted. Chelsea invites you to learn about adoption from her perspective and introduces us to two friends of hers who were also transracially adopted. Chelsea and her friends help children understand what it means to be adopted, the experiences and challenges that follow the adoption process, and how they can help. Accessible and informative, this illustrated book is an ideal introduction to adoption for children aged 7-11 and is a great tool for encouraging discussions for families, teachers and professionals working with adopted children.Trade ReviewThis useful, accessible book is written from the perspective of a young girl (,...) Chelsea's perspective, it invites the reader to understand adoption from the young person's point of view; what adoption is like, the questions, worries and fears adoptees may have and ways o open up communication about these issues... At the end of the book, there are sections specifically for parents and teachers offering advice about how they can help adopted children, and to inform parents and teachers. -- Youth in MindThe overall tenor of this book is upbeat and I can envisage it being a great help both to adopted children and those with whom they have regular contact - teachers and children - at school. -- Red Reading Hub by Jill BennettI love the honest and clear way this book tells how children come to be adopted. This explanation will be useful for adopted children trying to understand their own story, as well as informing those around them. I can definitely see the benefits of this book being used in schools as well as at home, and I will be recommending it to teachers I know and work with. -- Sarah Hill, adoption blogger and adoptive parentI think many adopted children will appreciate the straight talking on some of the emotional issues they face. -- Sally Bell, adoptive parentCan I tell you about Adoption?' is an illustrated book accessible to children aged seven+ that invites the reader to explore the thoughts and feelings that can surround adoption through the eyes of Chelsea, a young girl who wasadopted... Throughout the book Chelsea acknowledges thoughts and feelings connected to birth parents, foster parents, adopted parents and the adoptee themselves that may never go away. Helpful suggestions of how to ask an adopted child questions are given as well as a valuable insight into ways of empathically understanding how anadopted child may feel... Straight talking on emotional issues and difficult questions runs throughout the book. This makes it a useful tool for opening up discussions for parents, families, teachers and professionals who work with adopted children as well as adopted children themselves. The end of the book provides advice sections for teachers and parents which is followed by a list of helpful reading resources and organisations. -- Play TherapyThe slim publication is likely to prove a useful tool for young adopted children to enable them to raise and discuss issues they may have about their life-story with their adoptive parents and to gain confidence in discussing issues surrounding their adoptive status with their friends. It is also likely to be of value to professionals, including social workers and teachers, working with children who have been adopted, or are about to be adopted.The illustrations included in the book will help engage young readers and help to get the message home about some rather complex issues. -- Dr Darshan Sachdev, Independent Research Consultant * NAPCE Journal: Pastoral Care in Education *Overall, this book is a worthwhile read and it would help to open up discussion within a family who have an adopted child...in summary, this book sets out to help others to understand what it feels like to be adopted and I think it achieves this objective very well. -- Denise O'Neill * Irish Association of Social Workers *Table of Contents1. Introduction. 2. Introducing Chelsea. 3. My Adoption Story. 4. Meet my friends Adilu and Kira. 5. Difficult Questions and Feelings about being Adopted. 6. Good Things about Being Adopted. 7. Notes for Parents. 8. Notes for Teachers.

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Book SynopsisHow do you teach a mother to love her child, when she's still a child herself?Jeanie Doyle nurtures, teaches and cares for young and dysfunctional mums, showing them how to care for their newborn babies, sometimes even taking the mother into foster care before the baby is born.The first in a brand-new series of books by the 'foster super-gran', Wicked Girl is the shocking true story of the very first case Jeanie dealt with: a baby girl who was found abandoned on the steps of a church just before Christmas. While the 14-year-old mother was tracked down, Jeanie took her little daughter into her own care. But while she tried to help the two of them heal and bond, the terrible truth about the baby's father was revealed...A twist on the standard Cathy Glass books, Wicked Girl offers Jeanie's rare perspective of fostering young women alongside their babies. Will mother and daughter be reunited for good, or will the vulnerable young mother make the heartbreaking decision that they are both better off apart?

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Book SynopsisIf you are considering adoption, or are already headed down that path, this book of stories, scriptures, and prayers will inspire and encourage you along the way.Author Hillary Froning opens her heart and shares the story of how she and her husband, Rich Froning, adopted three precious children. Like talking to a close friend, Blessed by Adoption features short essays, Bible verses, and prayers that will move you and comfort you on your path to adoption. The book also features reflections to help you process your thoughts and feelings, as well as writing space for journaling about your adoption journey.Blessed by Adoption includes:30 essays by Hillary Froning about her adoption process, including finding a birth mom, completing home studies, hospital stays, telling friends and family, and all the blessings and challenges along the wayBible verses and prayers to comfort you at every stage of adoptionWriting prompts and lined journaling pages to help you reflect on your adoption journey

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Book SynopsisA 5-year-old boy, Ethan, is brought to Casey in the middle of the night after the sudden death of his young mother after a drug overdose.Estranged from her parents, Ethan's mum had been abused by her ex-partner, and began taking drugs to cope. Ethan is obviously lost and bewildered, and regularly wakes up screaming for his mum in the night. He begins to lash out at other kids at school and his behaviour becomes more volatile. When arrangements are made for Ethan to see his dad in prison, Casey recognises the name and face It turns out she's far more familiar with this case than first imagined.

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Book SynopsisThe experience of adoption, both adopting and being adopted, can stir up deep emotional pain, often related to loss and early trauma. A for Adoption provides insight and support to those families and individuals facing these complex processes and challenges. Trade Review"This highly accessible and very readable book is written for a broad readership – it might be said that it is written for every one of us. It explores the complex and multi-faceted experiences of adoption in a deeply thoughtful and emotionally compelling way. This is an important book on many levels – it will speak to child psychotherapists, professional colleagues, young people and families and it can add powerfully to the conversation with services, commissioners and policy makers." Marie Bradley, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. Extract from ‘The Association of Child Psychotherapists’ book review"Alison Roy is my go-to child and adolescent psychotherapist whenever I have a letter to reply to in my Guardian column which concerns adoption. Her ability, in particular, to put across the possible viewpoint of the child, is especially important and helpful to me; but her empathy and insight into the whole picture is fantastically useful and thought-provoking."Annalisa Barbieri, The Guardian"Adoption is a complex journey for all concerned. Drawing on extensive professional experience, this book is a must read for professionals and families alike."Liz Rugg, Assistant Director of Social Care for East Sussex"Adoption can provide children with the loving family home and future every child deserves. There will be challenges to children and their adoptive families along the way and that’s why it’s so important there is long-term therapeutic support in place to help children and adoptive families flourish."Anne Longfield, Children's Commissioner for England"Adoption is a lifelong intervention in a child’s life with profound lifelong implications. The chapters in Roy’s book sets out the issues that must be thought about, acted on and drive professional practice. It is a ‘must read’."John Simmonds, OBE, Director of Policy, Research and Development at CoramBAAF"This highly accessible and very readable book is written for a broad readership – it might be said that it is written for every one of us. It explores the complex and multi-faceted experiences of adoption in a deeply thoughtful and emotionally compelling way. This is an important book on many levels – it will speak to child psychotherapists, professional colleagues, young people and families and it can add powerfully to the conversation with services, commissioners and policy makers." Marie Bradley, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. Extract from ‘The Association of Child Psychotherapists’ book review"Alison Roy is my go-to child and adolescent psychotherapist whenever I have a letter to reply to in my Guardian column which concerns adoption. Her ability, in particular, to put across the possible viewpoint of the child, is especially important and helpful to me; but her empathy and insight into the whole picture is fantastically useful and thought-provoking."Annalisa Barbieri, The Guardian"Adoption is a complex journey for all concerned. Drawing on extensive professional experience, this book is a must read for professionals and families alike."Liz Rugg, Assistant Director of Social Care for East Sussex"Adoption can provide children with the loving family home and future every child deserves. There will be challenges to children and their adoptive families along the way and that’s why it’s so important there is long-term therapeutic support in place to help children and adoptive families flourish."Anne Longfield, Children's Commissioner for England"Adoption is a lifelong intervention in a child’s life with profound lifelong implications. The chapters in Roy’s book sets out the issues that must be thought about, acted on and drive professional practice. It is a ‘must read’."John Simmonds, OBE, Director of Policy, Research and Development at CoramBAAFTable of Contents1. Adoption Stories: Begin and the beginning 2. Creating a family life from a family life that has been broken (John Simmonds) 3. The force of the blow: Clinical perspectives 4. What’s Love got to do with it? Parents in pain 5. A Different Kind of Normal: the voices of young people 6. The Professional Couple; The Consultant; and the Outside World (Robin Solomon) 7. Establishing a psychoanalytically informed adoption service: The AdCAMHS Model 8. Baby Number 9: Let’s talk about the birth parents 9. Side by Side: The importance of continuity of Care 10. Closing comments

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Book SynopsisA pause. ''Ah, Herr Fergusson. It''s Frau Schwenk.'' Our social worker, I now understood. ''Thank you for getting back to me. I''m calling because we have a little boy, four weeks old, who needs a family.''In 2018, after the introduction of marriage equality in Germany, Ben Fergusson and his German husband Tom became one of the first same-sex married couples to adopt in the country. In Tales from the Fatherland Fergusson reflects on his long journey to fatherhood and the social changes that enabled it. He uses his outsider status as both a gay father and a parent adopting in a foreign country to explore the history and sociology of fatherhood and motherhood around the world, queer parenting and adoption and, ultimately, the meaning of family and love.Tales from the Fatherland makes an impassioned case for the value of diversity in family life, arguing that diverse families are good for all families and that misogyny lies at the heart of maTrade ReviewNecessary and illuminating...he is a fine comic writer * Times Literary Supplment *

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Book SynopsisFrom surrogacy and adoption, to transgender pregnancy and finding child care, parenting as an LGBTQ person is complex. This book is an authoritative, comprehensive, and easy-to-read guide to parenthood and familybuilding for LGBTQ people. The path to becoming a parent is complicated for LGBTQ people. Some LGBTQ people don''t consider parenthood because of stereotypes and barriers, while others are interested in parenthood but unsure about the first steps or overwhelmed by the path to take. Still others are discouraged by the attitudes of their family, community, or religion. This book provides LGBTQ parents and prospective parents with the detailed, evidence-based knowledge they need to navigate the transition to parenthood, and help their children thrive. Dr. Abbie E. Goldberg, psychologist and researcher, uses the results of her LGBTQ Family Building Project to help challenge traditional beliefs that have often been weaponized against LGBTQ peoTable of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments Introduction Chapter 1. Deciding to Become a Parent Chapter 2. Considering and Choosing Adoption Chapter 3. Family Building Options: Considering and Choosing Donor Insemination Chapter 4. Surrogacy and Other Family-Building Routes Chapter 5. Choosing LGBTQ-Friendly Adoption Agencies and Health Service Providers Chapter 6. Transitioning to Parenthood Chapter 7. Parenting in the Early Years Appendix A. The LGBTQ Family Building Project Appendix B. Key Historical Events in U.S. LGBTQ Parenting History References Index About the Author

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Book SynopsisTrauma can have a significant impact on the stability of a child's development and can put additional pressures on the education staff working with them. Showing you how you can best support children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences, this guide is full of practical guidance on how you can adapt your teaching with this group.Covering a range of issues a child may have, such as foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, pathological demand avoidance, attachment difficulties and many more, this book provides the trauma-informed tools you need to care for these children and to give the best possible opportunities from their education. It also addresses the difference children may experience in learning, how they behave, how teachers can ensure home--school cooperation, and how teachers can act in a trauma-informed manner.

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Book SynopsisA Guide to Therapeutic Child Care provides an easy to read explanation of the secrets that lie behind good quality therapeutic child care.It describes relevant theories, the 'invisible' psychological challenges that children will often struggle with and how to develop a nurturing relationship and build trust. Combining advice with practical strategies, the book also provides specific guidance on how to create safe spaces (both physical and relational) and how to aid the development of key social or emotional skills for children which may be lacking as a result of early trauma. Written with input from foster carers, the book is an ideal guide for residential child care workers, foster carers, kinship carers, social workers and new adoptive parents.Trade ReviewThis is a little gem. Honest and engaging, optimistic and realistic, respectful and challenging this accessible and invaluable book thoughtfully explores the everyday experiences and practices that arise in caring for children with traumatic and distressing histories. Adopters, foster carers and practitioners will find the experience of reading it simultaneously intellectually informative and emotionally nurturing. -- Gillian Ruch, Professor of Social Work, University of SussexThis is a really good guide, easy to read and great for dipping in and out of. I particularly liked the 'Pause for Reflection' ideas that help the reader think of examples that they have. Some really good examples of how all children behave at times but particularly children in foster care. I think foster carers will find it a useful tool. -- Kevin Williams, CEO The Fostering NetworkThis book is filled with a wisdom, compassion and warmth that will inspire carers in their relationships with troubled children. It is a treasure trove of insights about how to understand and respond positively to what lies behind challenging behaviour. The authors draw from a deep well of know-how and experience. They write accessibly - and in a way that rings true on every page. Here is a book that genuinely will help carers to change children's lives. -- Robbie Gilligan, Professor of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College DublinThis book provides an excellent resource for introducing foster and residential carers to therapeutic child care. It is thorough and covers all of the central subjects involved in looking after children in 'out of home' care. It would make a very useful tool for supervision and training, where the material could be used as a focus for reflective discussions. Encouraging a reflective approach is the strength of the book. Pause and reflect is a theme throughout, with sections in each chapter focusing on feelings that might arise in the work and practical suggestions on what might be helpful. The authors argue that home and everyday care are the most important things in the child's healing. They have provided carers and those who support them with a great resource in achieving that worthy goal. -- Patrick Tomlinson, Professional and Organization Development SpecialistThe greatest compliment I could give to a book is "Damn, I wish I had written this book myself" and with regard to this book, I would like to say "Damn, I wish I had written this book myself". This book is brilliant, in both the UK and North American sense. It makes the complex clear - it makes theory practical and accessible. It speaks directly to those who work with traumatized young people while, at the same time, it speaks to the world of the practitioner. It focuses not only on the world of the traumatized child but also on the experience of everyone who is a part of the context of the encounter between child and carer. This book is an exceptional resource for students, teams and individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of young people living with trauma experiences. It is full of helpful examples, the 'practice examples' bring the knowledge home to the everyday experiences of carers. It emphasizes the importance of both parties to the healing relationship. It is a wonderful resource for those who work with, teach about, or study the effect of trauma on youth. It is written in clear and accessible language. It is, simply, brilliant and I wish I had written this book. -- Dr. Thom Garfat, Instructor, School of Child and Youth Care, Ryerson UniversityTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. 1. Introduction. 2. The Developing Person. 3. Tuning In and Attunement. 4. Healing and Containing: Relationships as a Source of Recovery. 5. Rhythms, Routines and Rituals. 6. Memory Keepers: The Role of Carers in Keeping Hold of the Child's Story. 7. Food and Its Everyday Use. 8. Touch. 9. Communicating. 10. Working With Pain-Based Behaviour. 11. Bridge to the World. 12. Conclusion. References.

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Book SynopsisThe author’s account of being abandoned by her mother as a young child and her life in homes and institutions will captivate any reader. The mystery of her search for her mother and constant rejections will leave the reader wondering what demons drove her to be so elusive. “Call Me Auntie” was the best her mother could offer but this was just the start of a bizarre sequence of events. After discovering she had a brother and looking for her long lost family in Barbados the author finally came to understand she “may be a princess after all”. Call Me Auntie is a story of survival, resilience and changing attitudes to racism and ethnicity as the author forged a successful career beginning as a Woolworth’s shop girl before joining the police, then moving into social work. Extract: ‘Our new house-parents were Harold and Dora … He was a big guy who always looked angry. She was a little mousy figure but with a steel will underneath … Overnight, the household regime changed. As controlled as our lives might have been in the [previous houseparents’] time, the changes were shocking. Chores had to be performed to much higher standards, and there were new ones … There were new rules, routines, and responsibilities. But this was not all. With the new chores and new rules, our fear set in.'Trade Review‘Anne’s story is a compelling account, not just of her search for her birth mother but of her extraordinary journey from being a child in care, then qualifying as a social worker and finally becoming a magistrate … I read it at a sitting and could not put it down. Her account of life in a children’s home in the 1960s and 1970s deserves to find a place on every social work training course’— Retired Judge Robert Zara; ‘A must-read for anyone who wants to make a difference for children and their lives. Make it compulsory for all social work students’— John Bolton, Visiting Professor, Institute of Public Care, Oxford Brookes University, and a former Director of Social Services.

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Book SynopsisThe children of The Adoption Club have lots of different feelings about adoption.Michael was scared when he first met this adopted family, and was worried his adoptive family might not keep him. Other children talk about feeling happy, sad and angry, and how feeling can make them behave strangely. This workbook gives children a way to sort out feelings, discuss them and feel better.Written for counsellors and therapists working with children aged 5-11, as well as adoptive parents, this workbook is designed to help children to explore their feelings and behavior. It is one of a set of five interactive therapeutic workbooks featuring The Adoption Club written to address the key emotional and psychological challenges adopted children often experience. Together, they provide an approachable, interactive and playful way to help children to learn about themselves and have fun at the same time.Trade ReviewThe Adoption Club series by Regina M. Kupecky is a novel concept for helping adopted children share their stories. This therapeutic tool will help adoptees find and use their voices. Thank you, Regina! -- Sherrie Eldridge, author and speaker in the field of adoptionTable of ContentsIntroduction. Story. Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisA child is coming – whether you approve or not it's time to get with the program!If someone you care about – a family member, co-worker, or close friend – has recently announced that their family will be growing through adoption, you may have questions. After all, unless you have personally experienced adoption, you may know very little about how adoption works and what it means. Are you worried that your loved one may face disappointment? Do you find yourself wondering exactly what your role is going to be in the child's life? Does the term "open adoption" confuse and concern you? Just what are the privacy boundaries for families built by adoption: what is it okay to ask about?Adoption Is a Family Affair! will answer all of these questions and more, offering you information about who can adopt, why people consider adopting, how kids understand adoption as they grow up, and more. This short book is crammed full of the 'need to know' information for friends and families that will help to encourage informed, happy and healthy family relationships.Trade ReviewTired of foolish comments about adoption from your family and friends? If so, Adoption is a Family Affair by Pat Johnston was designed for you. This introduction to the pitfalls, misconceptions, and issues around adoption is intended to be a basic “Adoption 101" for your parents or for anyone else new to the idea of adoption. As prospective adoptive parents immerse themselves in the adoption process, they may not have time or patience to explain their new way of thinking and findings to their parents or friends. Sometimes it just feels too overwhelming to correct all of society's common assumptions and misapprehensions. Pat's emphatic no-nonsense style can be a useful tool toward opening a dialog about these issues which are inherent in adoptive families in our society. Adoption is a Family Affair provides a basic education on the psychological aspects of adoption and the adoption process. … Adoptive parents and prospective adoptive parents who are coping with “adoptism” (that is, the belief that adoption is a second best way to be a family) will find Adoption is a Family Affair a useful resource. -- Adoption Book Review NewsletterDon't you wish that there was an easy way to explain the how's and why's of adoption to your parents and the other members of your family? Adoption Is a Family Affair will make them feel like they've sat down with a close friend to have a coffee klatsch about adoption. This book's conversational tone and wealth of information will turn them into adoption experts! -- Nebraska Children's Home SocietyThis is a great book covering the basics of adoption. It focuses heavily on discounting myths and misconceptions, and presenting clear explanations of often confusing concepts and practices. A wonderful book for those from whom we need support and encouragement. -- Adoption@About.com's Top Five Books About AdoptionAdoption Is A Family Affair! What Relatives And Friends Must Know is specifically written to correct commonly held myths and misconceptions about adoption and adopters. One example is the wide spread myth that people often conceive after adopting because they then “relax” and things just happen naturally. The truth is that only 5% of those who adopt will spontaneously conceive after adopting — the same percentage figure as for those infertile couples who do not adopt! Adoption Is A Family Affair! is very highly recommended reading for prospective adopters, and for their friends and family as well! -- Midwest Book Review/Internet BookWatchThis book is designed for grandparents and family members of people going through the process of adoption. It is a short but very helpful guide. Much of the practical information relates to processes in the US, but also briefly covers processes in the UK and other countries... written by people who have experienced the challenges of supporting their children as they go through the adoption process... Each section has recommended further reading, and this book would make an excellent resource as well as a useful gift for the grandparents to be. -- Youth in MindTable of Contents1. The Announcement. 2. Your Personal, Private Fears. 3. Turning Loss into Gain. 4. How Adoption Works: The Facts vs. Myths. 5. Getting Ready. 6. Home at Last! 7. Parenting in Adoption. 8. Adoption Issues through a Lifetime. 9. Expanding the Family Culture. 10. Special Issues. 11. Adoption and the Rest of the World. 12. How You Can Learn More.

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Book SynopsisIs transracial adoption a positive choice for kids? How can children gain their new families without losing their birth heritage? How can parents best support their children after placement? Inside Transracial Adoption is an authoritative guide to navigating the challenges and issues that parents face in the USA when they adopt a child of a different race and/or from a different culture. Filled with real-life examples and strategies for success, this book explores in depth the realities of raising a child transracially, whether in a multicultural or a predominantly white community. Readers will learn how to help children adopted transracially or transnationally build a strong sense of identity, so that they will feel at home both in their new family and in their racial group or culture of origin. This second edition incorporates the latest research on positive racial identity and multicultural families, and reflects recent developments and trends in adoption.Drawing on research, decades of experience as adoption professionals, and their own personal experience of adopting transracially, Beth Hall and Gail Steinberg offer insights for all transracial adoptive parents - from prospective first-time adopters to experienced veterans - and those who support them.Trade ReviewThis is an excellent book that does not gloss over the very real issues of transracial adoption. The authors work hard to give white parents a real understanding of the very different perspective their children will be growing up with, and how vital it is that they acknowledge the struggles their children will face and become their educated allies in dealing with them... Throughout the book, the needs and best interests of the children are the priority. The authors give many examples to show the perspectives of children of transracial adoption and give parenting strategies that are healthy, positive and loving... I highly recommend "Inside Transracial Adoption" for all families who have adopted or are considering adopting transracially/culturally, as well as for adoption professionals and adoptees. -- Alicia Baker, Mankato Attachment Parenting, ExaminerAs experienced parents who adopted transracially, Beth and Gail have once again provided adoptive parents with information, examples and approaches that are both practical and useful. As respected professionals, they have created a resource and overview of topics that can be used by agencies in preparing parents for transracial/cultural adoptions. -- Joseph Crumbley, LCSWAdoption can have many complex layers, and with interracial adoption there are the added nuances of race, culture and identity. As a Korean adoptee I have lived this experience. As an adoption professional for thirty years, I have witnessed the transformation of priorities for transracially adoptive families. Parents must explore and understand these issues to successfully navigate the challenges and fully embrace the differences that families live with every day. Inside Transracial Adoption is the bible of resources on this subject, written by two experts it has been my pleasure to work with and learn from. This is the book I most often recommend to anyone considering adoption, adoptees and adoption professionals. There is wisdom for everyone who cares about transracial adoption and the children and adults who come together as transracial families. -- Susan Soonkeum Cox, Vice President Policy & External Affairs, Holt International Children's ServicesWhile largely aimed at an American audience, this book explains how to become an ally and advocate for your transracially adopted child/ren. The authors offer invaluable insight into parenting transracially through adoption. They never lose sight of the reality of racism and the need to help transracially adopted children to name, externalise, and depersonalise racism, as well as build links with their community of birth. Central is the idea that we must really listen to our children, validate their feelings and experiences, challenge racism, and equip them with the skills to do so. Inside Transracial Adoption contains a wealth of tips and guidance for adoptive parents and social workers whether in the USA, UK, or elsewhere. -- Dr. Perlita Harris, Goldsmiths, University of London, Editor of The Colours in Me: Writing and poetry by adopted children and young people and In Search of Belonging: Reflections by transracially adopted peopleTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Section 1. Unpacking the Challenges of Transracial Adoption. 1. Our Perspectives on Transracial Adoption. Section 2. Racial Identity. 2. Racial Identity Development. 3. Confronting Racism and Our Own White Privilege. 4. Breaking the Racial Sound Barrier. 5. Seeking Diversity. 6. Handling Outsiders' Questions and Comments. Section 3. Family Matters. 7. Strengthening Family Identity. 8. Transracial Parenting Strategies. 9. Birth Family. 10. Extended Family. 11. Siblings In/By Adoption. 12. Religious Choices and Beliefs. Section 4. Through Development's Lens. 13. Infants. 14. Preschoolers. 15. School-agers. 16. Tween and Teens. 17. Our Children Are Our Children Forever - Even As Adults. Section 5. Specifics in Focus. 18. Building a Foundation. 19. Building Hope and Pride. 20. Cultural Specifics. 21. Adoption Specifics. Section 6. Parting Thoughts. 22. Embracing Our Strengths. Index.

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Book SynopsisAdult adoptee and family therapist Katie Naftzger shares her personal and professional wisdom in this guide to help adoptive parents remain a calm parental influence in the midst of stormy and erratic teen behavior. This guide describes the essential skills you need to help your adopted teen confidently face the challenges of growing up and outlines four key goals for adoptive parents:· To move from rescuing to responding· To set adoption-sensitive limits and ground rules· To have connecting conversations· To help your teen envision their futureParenting in the Eye of the Storm contains invaluable insights for adoptive parents and simple strategies you can use to prepare your adopted teen for the journey ahead and strengthen the family bond in the process. It provides answers, guidance and understanding - working as a road-map through the tempestuous teenage years.Trade ReviewI loved Parenting in the Eye of the Storm. While Katie Naftzger defines her work as 'a guide for adoptive parents in the teen years', I found it to be so very much more. Inside this book I found priceless wisdom and insight into the wounded hearts of adopted teens. The tools Ms Naftzger shares here are like a flashlight and compass for parents to light the way for their struggling adopted teen and bring them home. Well worth the investment of time! -- Nancy L Thomas, author of When Love is Not Enough; a Guide to Parenting Children with Reactive Attachment DisorderNaftzger provides useful day to day insights and practical suggestions for adoptive families with teens. Her book is filled with personal accounts and situations that are both from her personal experience as well as her clinical practice. This combination of lived and professional insight in the adoption world is rare and makes this book a must-have for all adoptive families. -- Iris Chin Ponte Ph.D., President of Ponte and Chau Consulting Inc and Director of The Henry Frost Children's ProgramAfter my adoptive daughter's teen years, I appreciate even more the value of Katie Naftzger's keen insights and sage advice. By sharing adoptee's stories and empathizing, as only a once teen adoptee can, Naftzger ably steers adoptive parents through the choppy waters of adolescence. -- Melissa Ludtke, author of Touching Home in China: in search of missing girlhoods.Wow. Life changing. No nonsense. Filled with fresh ideas My daughter ( adopted internationally) is 14. I'm already using Katie's advice in day to day life. You'll need a hard copy to highlight and leave on your bedstand. -- Beth O’Malley M.Ed adoptee, older adoptive mom and adoption professional.As I read this book, it resonated with me deeply through my professional lenses as Executive Director of ATTACh and in my role as an adoptive mother with four teens. I had so many 'ah-ha' moments as Katie shared her stories and they rang true. How I wish every parent raising a teen could read this insightful and poignant book. -- Mary M. McGowan, Executive Director of The Association for Training on Trauma and Attachment in ChildrenThis book gives a unique insight into the world of adopted teenagers. The authors personal experience and thought provoking anecdotes add significant value to the content, and the practical strategies make this a very useful resource for adoptive parents. -- Jennifer Jones, Inspired Foundations www.inspiredfoundations.co.ukThis is the most insightful book I've read about parenting adopted teens. Naftzger draws from her own experience as an adoptee and a therapist to offer parents practical tools for improving communication with their child, without ever being preachy or prescriptive. Most importantly, she honors the emotions, integrity and intellectual capacity of the adopted teen at every turn, helping parents better understand the complexity of their child's experience. -- Nicole Opper, Director/Producer, Off and Running: An American Coming of Age StoryThis book is Katie at her best ... a clear, gentle voice cutting through emotional chaos to provide needed structure and steps for change. A must-read! -- Stacy Schroeder, Exec Dir/Pres of KAAN: The Korean-American Adoptee Adoptive Family Network (also adoptive parent and sibling)Table of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Layers of loss for adoptees; 2. The learning stance; 3. The unrescue mission; 4. Setting 'adoption-sensitive limits'; 5. Empathy in conversation; 6. Envisioning the future; 7. Privilege, race and cultural norms - making it personal; 8. Mental health and survival for adopted teens; Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a thorough examination and discussion of the evidence on attachment, its influence on development, and attachment disorders.In Part One, the authors outline attachment theory, the influence of sensitive and insensitive caregiving and the applicability of attachment theory across cultures. Part Two presents the various instruments used to assess attachment and caregiving. Part Three outlines the influence of attachment security on the child's functioning. Part Four examines the poorly understood phenomenon of attachment disorder. Presenting the evidence of scientific research, the authors reveal how attachment disorders may be properly conceptualised. Referring to some of the wilder claims made about attachment disorder, they argue for a disciplined, scientific approach that is grounded in both attachment theory and the evidence base. The final part is an overview of evidence-based interventions designed to help individuals form secure attachments.Summarising the existing knowledge base in accessible language, this is a comprehensive reference book for professionals including social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers, lawyers and researchers. Foster and adoptive parents, indeed all parents, and students will also find it of interest.Trade ReviewAttachment theory is currently a hot topic, so it is essential for all psychology enthusiasts and clinicians to have at least some understanding of its theories and applications. However, most texts are complicated to grasp, with intricate theories enmeshed from multiple directions. This book changes that. Here the authors provide an easily digestible introduction to attachment of theory; assessments of attachment and care giving; the impact of attachment security; attachment disorders and treatments. What was of particular interest to me was the chapter on the theories' validity across cultures - a very relevant aspect considering the growing multicultural society of the UK. It draws on the research evidence to unite the more conclusive findings on attachment. This guides the clinician and student toward an understanding of this enlightening approach to explaining, in part, why we are to a large degree a product of our environment. -- The PsychologistIn my opinion, this book will be valuable not only for mental health professionals but also useful for pediatricians and family physicians who want to update their knowledge in attachment and its disorders. -- The J Can Acad Child Adolesc PsychiatryIt should be a standard recommended text on clinical psychology programmes as well as other training programmes for health and social care staff working with families. -- Clinical Psychology ForumOverall, this is a useful and authoritative resource. It achieves a great deal, and will be a most useful purchase for libraries and for those directly concerned with these issues as they affect children and young people. -- British Journal of Social WorkPrior (behavioural and brain sciences, Institute of Child Health, London) and Glaser, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist at Great Ormond Street Hospital for children in London, discuss attachment disorders. They consider theory, the assessment of attachment patterns, and disturbances with an evidence-based approach. Topics of note include parenting, multiple caregivers, the applicability of theory across different cultures, functioning, and interventions and therapeutic approaches. The book is aimed at social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers, lawyers and researchers. Both author and subject indexes are provided. All books in this series are based on the work of FOCUS, a multidisciplinary project at the Royal College of Psychiatrists' Research and Training Unit. -- Book NewsSummarising the existing knowledge base in accessible language, this is a comprehensive reference book for professionals including social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers, lawyers and researchers. Foster and adoptive parents, in deed all parents, and students will also find it of interest. -- Handicap InfoThe FOCUS project of the Royal College of Psychiatrists to promote and disseminate information about evidence-based research and practice underpinning child and adolescent mental health services is driven by, and values good quality scientific endeavour and thinking. -- Young Minds MagazineThe work of John Bowlby's attachment theory continues to develop and grow with this new volume... The authors give a comprehensive insight into the latest research, assessment and significance of attachment theories cross- culturally. -- Community CareThis book is timely. The outline of attachment is clearly presented, the classification system follows well, and understanding how the attachments evolve and the factors involved is helpful. I particularly liked the section on different cultures and what has been explored across differing parenting styles and social groupings - its well worth reading. Anyone planning to undertake a research project or clinical study will find this book extremely helpful when trying to select the best available method. -- British Journal of PsychiatryThis is a text that is packed with research evidence and, therefore, will serve as a useful reference tool. The links to practice are clear, and practitioners will be enabled to work towards a more evidence-based approach in their work with children and their caregivers. -- Practice: Social Work in ActionUnderstanding Attachment and Attachment Disorders is a text applicable to large audiences, and proves a succinct traverse into the field of attachment disorders. -- EABP NewsletterWith the current emphasis on the education of children in public care, and multi-agency approaches to these children, this is a recommended text for the service bookshelf and for local authority educational psychologists with an interest in the area. It is also pertinent for independent educational psychologists involved in assessment of children in public and private Court cases. -- DebateTable of Contents1. Introduction. Part One: Attachment and Caregiving. 2. What is Attachment? 3. The Classifications of Attachment. 4. What are the Factors Influencing Attachment Organisation (and Disorganisation)? 5. Affectional Bonds and Attachment Figures. 6. Is Attachment Theory Valid across Cultures? Part Two: Assessments of Attachment and Caregiving. 7. Introduction. 8. Assessments of Attachment. 9. Assessments of Caregiving. Part Three: Correlates of Attachment Organisation with Functioning. 10. Which Domains of Functioning are Hypothesised to be Correlated with Attachment and What are the Possible Pathways of its Influence? 11. Evidence for Correlations between Attachment Security/Insecurity and the Child's Functioning. Part Four: What is Attachment Disorder? 12. Two Versions of Attachment Disorder. 13. Research on Attachment Disorder. 14. The Nature of Attachment Disorder. Part Five: Attachment Theory-based Interventions (and Some that are Not). 15. Introduction. 16. Evidence-based Interventions: Enhancing Caregiver Sensitivity. 17. Evidence-based Interventions: Change of Caregiver. 18. Interventions with No Evidence Base. 19. Conclusions Regarding Interventions. References. Index. About FOCUS.Child and Adolescent Mental Health SeriesWritten for professionals, and parents, these accessible, evidence-based resources are essential reading for anyone seeking to understand and promote children and young people's mental health. Drawing on the work of FOCUS, a multidisciplinary project based at the Royal College of Psychiatrists' Research and Training Unit, each title in the series brings together practical and policy-level suggestions with up-to-the minute analysis of research.

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Book SynopsisPresents a committed quest to unravel and document the postwar adoption networks that placed more than 3,000 Greek children in the United States, in a movement accelerated by the aftermath of the Greek Civil War and by the new conditions of the global Cold War.Trade Review“Drawing on the fields of memory studies, cultural anthropology, Greek history, and international adoption history, Van Steen explores how Cold War anticommunism in post-World War II Greece drove the foreign adoption of Greek children, mainly to the U.S. . . . The book provides an important corrective lens, including statistics that prove how desirable Greek orphans were to U.S. families in the decades after World War II.”— Rachel Rains Winslow, Westmont College“A revealing window into the politics, culture, and social practices that predominated in postwar Greece. . . the author contributes to the nation's collective memory valuable insights into the impact of the civil war upon its most innocent victims. Combining meticulous scholarship with empathy, this seminal study of the selection of children for foreign adoption during the 1950s and 1960s has earned Gonda Van Steen the lasting gratitude of all students of contemporary Greece.”— From the foreword by John O. Iatrides

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Book SynopsisAdoption is a big step which can change the whole dynamics of the family. It is crucial that parents understand the impact it has when new sibling relationships are forged and an adoptee becomes a part of the family. Welcoming a New Brother or Sister through Adoption is a comprehensive yet accessible guide that describes the adoption process and the impact of adoption on every member of the family, including the adopted child. It prepares families to have realistic expectations and equips them with knowledge to deal with a host of situations that may arise, addressing difficult questions head-on: 'Did we make the right choice by adopting?', 'How is this affecting our 'typical' children?', 'Will our adopted son or daughter heal?' are explored and solutions discussed in detail. All this is accompanied with real life stories and direct quotes from children, which make it a realistic and insightful resource.This book is vital reading for adoptive families and professionals who work with them including social workers, counselors and psychologists.Trade ReviewJames has produced an extremely practical, theoretically based book which will have many parents laughing and sometimes, crying...Whether you are interested in pre-placement issues, post-placement concerns, disruption/dissolution, sexual acting out, blending siblings, or marital stress, Welcoming a New Brother or Sister Through Adoption will have something to offer you...I believe that every adoptive family will be better able to deal with difficulties that their children and family may be experiencing. Adoption agencies should consider making this book mandatory reading as a component of their pre-placement training program, and anyone who works with adoptive families will appreciate the deep insight that Arleta James has shared with us. -- Extracted from the foreword by Gregory C. KeckThis book is written by an adoption professional... The book mainly focuses on integrating traumatised children into families that typically have children already, whether birth, adopted or step. The book covers all aspects of the needs of traumatised children and their behaviour, as well as lots of parenting advice and help. I especially liked the case studies... I found it incredibly informative. -- Side by SideTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. "I'm Getting a Brother or Sister!": Kids Develop Expectations Pre-Adoption. 2. "My New Brother or Sister Experienced Trauma: What Does that Mean?". 3. Pre-Adoption Preparation: "Yes, We Brothers and Sisters Need Information". 4. "I Am a 'Quality' Parent!": Reviewing and Refining Your Parenting Strengths. 5. Finally! My New Brother or Sister is Arriving!. 6. "After He Came, Everything Changed!": Post-Placement Common Challenges. 7. "My Brother or Sister Won't be Living with Us Any More": Disruption, Dissolution, Displacement and Other Leavings. 8. "Help Me Cope, Please": Striking a Balance Post-Adoption. 9. Triggers, Losses and Feelings: Facilitating Your Son's and Daughter's Grief. 10. "You Know Your Birthmother and I Don't": Blending Children with Diverse Birth Histories - an Emerging Common Challenge. 11. "My New Sibling's Behaviors Are So Bizarre!" Learning to Be a Peaceful Family Again. 12. Two of the Toughest Behaviors - Sexual-Acting Out and Aggression: Ensuring a Safe, Secure Home Environment. 13. "We Hardly have Family Game Night Anymore": Restoring Family Fun. 15. "Yes, I Have Experienced Positives!" Brothers, Sisters and Adoptees Speak about the Benefits of Adoption. Appendices. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisFor anyone considering or going through Fostering for Adoption, this book gives you a detailed, personal account of the process which takes you through all the stages and prepares you to cope with the highs and lows. Fostering for Adoption is a relatively recent initiative (Children and Families Act, 2014) in the adoption legal landscape, seeking early permanence for babies and young children where adoption is most likely to be the plan for the child. This is often cited as a route to be in the best interests of the child, enabling secure attachments and stability. However, for adopters it is inherently risky, it is the adopters who take on the risk in this situation, accept the placement on a fostering basis and hope that the final outcome will be adoption. There is currently a knowledge gap on experiences of Fostering for Adoption which this book tackles. Written from an adopters’ perspective of the risks and challenges, as well as the benefits that it brings, it is perfect for those who are considering the process as well as their friends and family. A book on Fostering for Adoption can’t just focus on one story and one outcome so we’ve included case studies which cover the key experiences adopters may face when agreeing to accept a baby on a Foster to Adopt placement such as: Caring for a baby a few days after birth The paperwork, rules and fostering process The uncertainty and risk Meeting with birth parents Contact Looking after a withdrawing baby A termination of placement Written in an engaging and friendly style, this book is perfect reading for anyone looking to adopt a child and for adoption professionals seeking to understand the experience of the adopter more profoundly. Praise for Fostering for Adoption "As someone who has been through a similar journey this book resonated with me. It is honest about the ups and downs and is a great, informative book for anybody thinking of taking this route or who have family or friends that are. I can say that this book will help anyone at the beginning of their journey, to help them through the process and – start the lifetime of learning about how we can support our children." Lisa Faulkner, Author, Meant to be "Alice’s book will be a great companion to anyone considering or starting on the foster to adopt process. It is well-researched and written and doesn’t shy away from the many complexities and the considerations that adults must make in the best interests of children." Sally Donovan, Author of No Matter What, and Editor of Adoption Today "I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I found myself laughing and getting emotional throughout. As someone who has themselves been adopted, but who is also a social worker who has now adopted a child, this book is brilliant from every angle. A must read for anyone considering Fostering for Adoption." Jo, Social Worker, Midlands “This book gives a balanced and honest view of the whole Fostering for Adoption journey. It gets to the emotions and seriousness of decisions being made about children's lives. This is an important read for any potential adopter and will be on our book lists for sure” Angi, Social Worker, Adoption Tees Valley Trade Review"As someone who has been through a similar journey this book resonated with me. It is honest about the ups and downs and is a great, informative book for anybody thinking of taking this route or who have family or friends that are. I can say that this book will help anyone at the beginning of their journey, to help them through the process and – start the lifetime of learning about how we can support our children." -- Lisa Faulkner * Author of Meant to be *"Alice’s book will be a great companion to anyone considering or starting on the foster to adopt process. It is well-researched and written and doesn’t shy away from the many complexities and the considerations that adults must make in the best interests of children." -- Sally Donovan * Author of No Matter What, and Editor of Adoption Today *"I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I found myself laughing and getting emotional throughout. As someone who has themselves been adopted, but who is also a social worker who has now adopted a child, this book is brilliant from every angle. A must read for anyone considering Fostering for Adoption." -- Jo * Social Worker, Midlands, UK *"This book gives a balanced and honest view of the whole Fostering for Adoption journey. It gets to the emotions and seriousness of decisions being made about children's lives. This is an important read for any potential adopter and will be on our book lists for sure." -- Angi * Social Worker, Adoption Tees Valley *Table of ContentsCh 1: Introduction and background to Foster to Adopt Ch 2: Where our story begins: The first training session and Stage 1 Ch 3: Expressing our story: Stage 2, the home assessment and panel Ch 4: Who will join our story? Matching, tracking and the emotional rollercoaster Ch 5: The story continues: Being matched and more waiting Ch 6: Our story gets real: Transition and placement Ch 7: Documenting the detail of our story: The early days of and everyday life of F2A Ch 8: Retelling our story as a family of three: Preparing for panel Ch 9: Formalising our story: Applying for the Adoption Order and everyday life-in-between Ch 10: Our story can continue: Legally part of our family

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Book SynopsisA powerful, intimate memoir of Eritrean-British journalist, Hannah Azieb-Pool, who returns to Eritrea at the age of 30 to meet her family for the first time.What a story. So vivid, honest and moving'' Andrea Levy, author of Small Island''When I stepped off the plane in Asmara, I had no idea what lay ahead, or how those events would change me . . .''In her twenties, Hannah-Azieb Pool is given a letter that unravels everything she knows about her life. She knew she was adopted from an orphanage in Eritrea, and as her adoptive family brought her to the UK, they believed she did not have any surviving relatives.When she discovers the truth in a letter from her brother - that her birth father is alive and her Eritrean family are desperate to meet her - she is faced with a critical choice.Should she go?In this intimate memoir, she takes us with her on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery, as she travels to Eritr

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Book Synopsis'A remarkable book...wise and arresting' Sarah Winman'Exquisite... a deeply insightful memoir which charts our fundamental longings for place and identity, and ultimately our yearnings for love.' Helena KennedySingle, in her mid-forties and having experienced a sudden early menopause, a realisation comes to Peggy quietly, and clearly: she decides to adopt a child. But the preparation is arduous and the scrutiny intense. There are questions about past lives, about capability and expectations.Asking big questions about identity and belonging, as well as about what makes a mother - and a home - this is a beautiful meditation on how the legacies of childhood might be overcome by a mother's determination to love.'Extremely moving...an unusually thoughtful take on becoming a mother, enabled by removing babyhood and biology.' GuardianTrade ReviewExquisite. Beautifully written, The Wild Track is a deeply insightful memoir which charts displacement and our fundamental longings for place and identity and ultimately our yearnings for love. -- Helena KennedyThis memoir is a triumph; an extraordinarily wise and rich analysis of what it means to belong, to a place and to beloved others. Deeply moving, richly allusive, surprising and thought-provoking, The Wild Track deserves to be one of the great successes of 2021. -- Bel MooneyA remarkable book. Wise and arresting in its candour. -- Sarah WinmanEnlightening...The Wild Track is a passionate, heartfelt exploration of a woman who wants to be a mother. I found it utterly compelling. -- Alex WheatleExtremely moving...an unusually thoughtful take on becoming a mother, enabled by removing babyhood and biology. A testament to the joy of finding home and belonging...the precariousness of the care system is painfully felt and it's this that makes Reynolds's book such a necessary contribution to the literature on motherhood. * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisWhat is it like to be adopted, have your identity changed and never feel quite at home in your new family, despite being loved? What is it like to become a social worker and be faced with the challenges and consequences of other adoptions every day? What is it like to hear the moving National Apology for Forced Adoptions by Prime Minister Julia Gillard in 2013 only to be faced a few months later by a new prime minister intent on forgetting all the lessons learnt and championing a deregulated parent-centred market-driven adoption industry? Penny Mackieson takes us on her journey with the unique perspective of both the adopted person and a professional who worked in intercountry adoption for over a decade. She unravels the complexity, debunks the myths, analyses the policies and raises important questions about the ethical and human rights dilemmas in adoption.Adoption Deception: A personal and professional journey is a passionate, heart-wrenching and unflinchingly honest account of one woman’s life as an adopted person and her campaign for change. The author presents a compelling argument for Permanent Care instead of adoption for vulnerable children unable to be raised by their families.Trade Review"Adoption Deception is a deeply personal account of the experience of adoption, and the effect it can have into adulthood. It is a story of how family relationships can be influenced by adoption policies and practices. It challenges us to think about how we respond to the commercialisation of children through adoption and assisted reproductive technologies." -- Professor Marie Connolly, Chair & Head of Social Work, The University of Melbourne."This is a lightning rod of a book, one that will summon thunderclaps of applause and disapproval. I am not saying I agree with the argument the author makes; I am saying I admire the naked personal honesty with which she makes it. Whatever viewpoint you have at the end of this book, I guarantee you this -- you will think, and feel, more deeply about the issue of adoption." -- Martin Flanagan, author & Agejournalist"This is a powerful and passionate book about the personal and political aspects of adoption. While it is overwhelmingly negative about adoption and the author believes the practice is outdated and should cease, she does present strong arguments for her case." Sue Bond, PhD candidate at Central Queensland University, Australian Women's Book Review

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Book SynopsisThe Silicon Tongue is centred on the life of London-born Alice who was brought to New Zealand as a servant in the 1930s. Tricked by the authorities into believing she was an orphan, Alice tells her story into the tape recorder of a mysterious oral historian and discloses family secrets of rape and adoption. She discovers a kinship with a teenage nethead called Pixel and learns that old women can fly in cyberspace along with the young. Meanwhile, Alice’s daughter Joy finds out that when it comes to family stories there is always more than one version of the truth.

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Book SynopsisWriter Elspeth Sandys was born during the Second World War, the result of a brief encounter between two people who would never meet again. The first nine months of her life were spent in the Truby King Karitane Hospital in Dunedin, where she was known by her birth name, Frances Hilton James. This would change with her adoption into the Somerville family. A new birth certificate was issued and Frances James became Elspeth Sandilands Somerville. Tom and Alice Somerville, Elspeth''s new parents, lived with their son John in Dunedin''s Andersons Bay. While Elspeth was happy among the ebullient and welcoming Somerville clan, she had a difficult relationship with her adoptive mother, who was frequently hospitalised with mental health problems. Elspeth''s search for her birth parents did not begin until much later in her adult life. What she discovered after an exhaustive search provided answers that were both disturbing and, ultimately, rewarding. What Lies Beneath is a searing, amusing, and never less than gripping tale of a difficult life, beautifully told.

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Book SynopsisUNIVERSAL STORIES OF LONGING AND BELONGING Our quest for origin and, by extension, identity is universal to the human experience. For the twenty-five contributors to Somebody''s Child, the topic of adoption is not--and perhaps never can be--a neutral issue. With unique courage, each of them discusses their experience of the adoption process. Some share stories of heartbreak; others have discovered joy; some have searched for closure. Somebody''s Child captures the many unforgettable faces and voices of adoption. The third book in a series of anthologies about the twenty-first-century family, Somebody''s Child follows Nobody''s Mother and Nobody''s Father, two essay collections from childless adults on parenthood, family and choices. Together, these three books challenge readers to reexamine traditional definitions of the concept of family.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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