An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break. —Ancient Chinese proverb
The Asian legend of the red thread is a perfect way to frame National Adoption Month, celebrated throughout November. It's lovely to think that adoptive family members are destined to be together, even if the road toward finding one another is filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Whether you're a curious kid with lots of questions, a tween exploring your adoptive past or a caring adult who's opened your home to a child, you may be wondering how to talk with someone you love about adoption. Why not check out one of these great titles to help you get the conversation started?
Picture Books
I'm Adopted!: Full-color photographs and clear text combine in a thoughtful, honest approach to adoption. Celebrating children and families from many cultural backgrounds, this title invites questions and conversation on the topic.
My Mei Mei: Antonia couldn't be more thrilled—her parents are returning to China to adopt a Mei Mei, or younger sister, for her! Based on the author's own experiences and told from Antonia's perspective, this unique story captures the charm and challenges of bonding with a new sibling.
We Belong Together: "There are lots of different ways to make a family. It just takes love." Parr's brightly-hued line drawings perfectly complement all the child centered reasons why adoptive and non-traditional families belong together.
Beginning Readers
Adoptive Families: Three brief subsections explain who makes up an adoptive family and how members spend time with one another.
Max y la fiesta de adopción (Max and the Adoption Day Party): Max's friend José is having a fiesta (party) to celebrate his Día de Adopción (Adoption Day). Max knows there'll be cake, ice cream and gifts. What special present can he bring for José? Available in both Spanish and English.
Chapter Books
Heaven: What happens when 14-year-old Marley discovers that the only parents she's ever known aren't really her biological mother and father? Coretta Scott King Author winner Angela Johnson crafts Marley's story into a sensitive look at the true meaning of home, family and identity.
Kimchi and Calamari: Adopted from Korea, 14-year-old Joseph has lots of questions for his parents when he's assigned a school project on ancestry. Told with both humor and depth, Joseph's struggle to reconcile his Korean heritage with his Italian upbringing will ring true for any reader from a multicultural family.
Let the red thread of destiny be your guide, and remember: No matter what comes your way, you're tethered forever to the family members and friends who love and care for you. It's just meant to be.
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