Books for Birth Family Members

There are embarrassingly few resources for birth family members. Here are some that are recommended by respected professionals as well as books we like.

Third Choice by Leslie Foge, (2003) Publisher: Creative Arts Book Company. The Third Choice takes potential birth mothers through their pregnancies; the birth, the relinquishing process, and the grief and recovery periods afterward.

Your rights and Responsibilities: A guide for expectant parents considering adoption, by Brenda Romanchik, (1999) Publisher: Insight. It is so difficult to know how adoption "works." During this emotional time, it is even more complex. It is so important for birth parents to know their rights and responsibilities. Ms. Romachik spells this out in an easy to understand manner.

The Adoption Reader: Birth Mothers, Adoptive Mothers and Adopted Daughters Tell Their Stories, Edited by Susan Wadia-Ellis, (1995) Publisher; Seal Press The stories in this book are often eloquent and moving, even controversial. The women’s voices are very honest.

Adoption Reunion Survival Guide preparing yourself for the search, reunion and beyond, by Julie Jarrell Bailey & Lynn N. Giddens, MA (2001) Published by New Harbinger Publications. The authors tell of the pitfalls, joys and legal issues when reuniting. Great suggestions on “do’s and don’ts.”