For those of you who are looking for a simple, straightforward, but loving story about adoption, this is it. This is the story of Samantha, Sam for short, and how she came to live with her family. The thing I like most about this book is that it begins with an explanation of how Sam grew in another lady’s tummy, and was born.
Many adopted children have the idea that they were not born, because they were adopted instead. It is important for adoptive parents to help their children understand that first they were born, and because their birth mother could not take care of them, then they were adopted.
What also comes through loud and clear is the love and joy that Sam’s mom and dad felt when they saw their little girl for the first time, brought her home and watched her grow up. This is a very reassuring story for any adopted child.
One other thing I like about this book is that it emphasizes that every child adopted has a different adoption story. It ends with a question, asking the reader if they know what their adoption story is.
This is a wonderful springboard for recounting your child’s own adoption story and what a special event it was in your family. For ages 4-8 years.
FYI: Joanna Cole has written another book, How You Were Born, which you might find helpful as well. It is natural for children to be curious about where they came from, especially when you explain about birth mothers/fathers. The book uses photos, illustrations and clear, straightforward text to answer a child’s questions. Cole is also the author of the Magic School Bus series and many other outstanding nonfiction books for children.