Pact says: Pat speaks clearly and directly to and for the infertile who choose to adopt.
Pact says: Highly recommended for the home library of every parent of an adopted child. A great book to help parents consciously address the school community.
Pact says: A wonderful tool, easy to read and the suggestions are on target making this a perfect gift for extended family. Quantity
Pact says: A Pulitzer nominated journalist, Pertman argues against adoption for profit and highlights positive adoption impacts on society. Quantity
Pact says: A very well-written novel that does a unusually good job of depicting the depth and power of friendship between tweens moving toward the teen years. The foster/adoption aspect of D’s story is a bonus..
Pact says: A very sweet book that affirms the differences between us while underscoring the significance of families. Ideal for classroom use or to curl up in a big chair and read with that child who needs to be reminded that his or her family is very special. Quantity
Pact Says: A lovely and affirming book for preschoolers.
Pact says: This is the best book we have found to help children view coloration from a scientific point of view rather than a judgmental one. We feel it should be in every child's library. A Pact bestseller.
Pact says: An inspiring favorite that should be in every child’s library!
Pact says: Very relevant, particularly to Asian adoptees, who often feel caught between worlds.
Pact says: This book acknowledges racism for Asian youth and gives adopted Asians a context for seeing their own struggles toward identity in a larger context —opening the door to commonalities with non-adopted kids.
Pact says: This story deals brilliantly with issues of inclusion.
Pact says: This is a well-written novel with a strong main character that depicts the complex emotional experience of someone adopted in middle childhood.
Pact says: This is the best book we have found to give an overview of the Asian American experience.
Pact says: A great resource for parents, although the tone is occasionally prescriptive.
Pact says: Bountiful, color-rich images make for a useful tool to talk about slavery and the underground railroad of allies who worked to help free the slaves.
Pact says: Holding the reader captive from start to finish, BABY is sure to inspire discussion about family building through adoption and foster families.
Pact says: What is great about this book is that the story unfolds just as it would for a child, sometimes uncertain, trying to figure out not only the words but also the body language of the adults around him. This makes for a great conversation starter about how Rosa Parks and others reacted and stood up to segregation and racism.
Pact says: by a welcome voice that is too often under represented in the world of adoption. Quantity
Pact says: This book explores many issues that are relevant to adopted children - particularly those adopted transracially. The book's themes of bridging several families, connecting different cultures, and forging a personal identity gives transracially adopted kids much to think about.
Pact says: Thought-provoking, challenging and enriching, a great resource for every new and not-so-new parent's shelf.
Pact says: Excellent. Blending research, theory, practicality and sensitivity, the authors normalize developmental stages and understanding of children and adults who have been adopted.
Comments from the field: "This was a useful tool for increasing our awareness of our experience as a transracial couple and family and for opening areas of exploration for us as a couple, as parents and prospective adoptive parents. For example, completing the survey helped us to recognize some important differences in our individual responses and contributions to parenting, given that one of us is Caucasian and the other Hispanic. Until now, we had focused on our simlar interests and shared bilinguality, but we had missed that for one of us transracial issues have been central to learning to be a parent, while for the other these issues have not arisen at all. Thanks for helping us dig deeper." Susan McKenna & Rafael Coto
Bulk pricing is available at the rate of $5.00 for 11-100, $3.50 for more than 100. Please email us for more information. Quantity
Pact says: Directed to clinicians, this book is very useful to parents as well - offering insight into what adopted teens are feeling. Excellent resource!
Pact says: These essays offer a thoughtful, candid look at the intersection between parental feelings and expectations and an adopted child’s emotional needs, whether they were adopted internationally or domestically.
Pact says: This book is fabulous; clear-eyed, thoughtful and moving. It is not about adoption but is about the experience of a white parent of Black children. Jane Lazarre is a terrific writer..
Pact says: Written in a reassuring tone with a jazzy beat, this book captures an important rite of passage forboys and celebrates African American identity.
Pact says: Great reading for anyone interested in the birth parent experience.
Pact says: Jean is a great writer and this is a good overview of what to expect and how to handle both the emotional and logistical steps that are often involved.
Pact says: A heartfelt memoir with a spiritual viewpoint.
Pact says: This poetry about biracial identity has been a favorite for over thirty years.
Pact says: Bravo to Ms. Morris. This book should be a reference in every school, every library and every family who cares about the well-being of Black children and families in America.
Pact says: We love this book because it gives parents and children the chance to think about how kids feel safe and comfortable based on where they have been before rather than parents' own expections for what a child would want.
Whether you are an adoptive parent with a young child, or are waiting to be matched with a young child—even if you have no intention of breastfeeding—her chapters on attaching and promoting connection offer critical insights and are definitely worth reading.
Pact says: This is a well-written book that deals with the issue of race and family conflict sensitively and intelligently. A very good book for older elementary-aged children..
Pact says: This book reads very true to upper- middle class teens who may be afraid to stir the emotional pot of search but in fact struggle to feel whole without information. A really good read.
Pact says: The range of skin tones illustrated by the realistic images encourages children to respect diversity within their race and affirms the beauty of all brown skin, be it light tan or deep mahogany. .
Pact says: Arletta is a great writer and this is a good overview of what to expect and how to handle both the emotional and logistical steps that are often involved.
Pact says: Despite an unfortunate title that appears to trivialize race, this really is a helpful book with an upbeat, but realistic tone.
Pact says: A great book that explores a child's sense of need for family and the whole notion of search and reunion.
Pact says: We consider Beverly Daniel Tatum to be one of the truth-tellers about our current state of race relations and issues.
Pact says: This is a well written book about the struggle for racial identity that multiracial youth face, particularly highlighting the differences between growing up with a strong African American influence versus living in a predominantly white environment.
Pact says: A book that can offer a way to open the conversation with young children about a difficult experience.
Pact says: For every child who struggles when other kids make fun of them. Inspirational and funny.
Pact says: Appealing simple rhyming texts, all the babies are different races. Fun for parents and children alike.
Pact says: A tasty approach to differences in skin color.
Pact says: A sweet book with colorful illustrations that speaks to how younger siblings look up to older ones.
Pact says: These selections reinforce the bicultural experience of Latinos in general and give adopted Latinos insight into the cultural normalcy of their own experiences.
Pact says: well-crafted and compelling historical novel for older teens..
Pact says: She writes eloquently about the importance to her of searching and finding that connection, of seeing herself reflected in biological family members and of finally being able to imagine what her life would have been like had her circumstances been different. This last is a question that she had struggled with throughout her life in Barcelona.
Pact says: Dave The Potter, is a beautifully written book about an enslaved African man who was a talented potter. The book paints a lovely picture of Dave's artwork and how his pieces were crafted, but it seems to gloss over the fact that it was a brutal system that stole people’s freedom, families, and lives. As part of a collection this book is a great addition, as a stand-alone book to explain slavery this book is not enough.
Pact says: Every adopted child should have this book because it’s the only one that turns the tables and identifies the parents as “different “and the child as just a regular kid. Don’t miss this book. (Also available in Spanish, El Papa de David, for $5.95)
Pact says: Lester has done an admirable job of portraying the simmering anger and aching sadness that the slaves must have felt. Altogether this novel does a superb job of showing the inhumanity of slavery. It begs to be read aloud.
Pact says: Affectionate and personal, it creates a mood that conveys comfort and reassurance.
Pact says: Recommended by the Child Welfare League of America and Pact. Quantity
Pacts Says: Spanish words are scattered among the English text, providing a wonderful way to introduce the language and culture of Mexico to young children. A nice book for adoptees who are thinking about what life might have been in their country of birth vs what it is like in their American home.
Pact says: A fun way to celebrate Latino culture as you and your children enjoy singing and learning the songs together.
Pact says: Dyson is controversial and provocative, offering real insight into the state of race in America.
Pact says: A Pact bestseller. Books that articulate the challenges of growing up adoption can be a real springboard to conversation and break through any sense of "being the only one" your adopted child may have. The illustrations are realistic and wonderfully detailed, using warm, clear colors and depicting simple scenes.
Pact says: This direct and clear book offers a positive and realistic approach toward preparing African American children to become positive, productive and self-respecting.
Pact says: Books that are creative and validating are important to children who live a “different” experience every day.
Pact says: Alperson's approach provides a wonderful jump start to the thinking of anyone considering transracial adoption.
Pact says: A very accessible book, but the focus is limited to parents of two different races raising a child of mixed racial heritage.
Pact says:A beautiful book; a story with heart and imagination.
Pact says: This book doesn't give a lot of hints for resolving problems, but in the hands of a good therapist and/or creative parent it offers reassurance about having conflicted feelings.
Pact says: There are many wonderful themes in the book and Ryan’s lyrical prose is a pleasure to read.
Pact says: Langston Hughes represents the essence of the African American experience and this book of his amazing poems will give pride and inspiration to many. Also great to have on hand for school assignments!
Pact says: A laugh-out-loud, cry-because-you-care kind of read. Really worthwhile.
Pact says: This book is a must read for LGBT parents. he refreshingly acknowledges the challenges as well as the joys faced by kids and gives their parents and others who work with them some invaluable information.
Pact says: Reading this is like listening to a wise friend; she links her personal experience with vast knowledge, creating that elusive “ah ha” experience.
Pact says: The central idea of acceptance, understanding and confidence is the unstated message of every page. Good job!
Pact says: The vast majority of adopting parents don’t want to steal anyone’s child, but their desperate desire to become parents can lead them to place unreasonable levels of trust in anyone who might help them in that quest—turning them into obvious targets for “helpers” who are corrupt and unscrupulous. .
Pact says: This book explores adoption and race in a way that will satisfy many teenagers who are thinking about these issues themselves and of course Alvarez is a really good writer.
Pact says: An opportunity for teens to concretely think about what it means to be a parent that includes real honesty about the struggles not just the glamour and appeal.
Pact says: An extremely useful book that underlines the importance of explicitly teaching about race and tolerance. Although the book is academic in tone, the content makes this a worthwhile read.
Pact says: Our favorite book about how children understand sex and family creation (including adoption).
Pact says: This is a worthwhile vehicle to encourage the normal discussion of children’s experience of being adopted.
Pact says: This is a great read that explores the intersection of race and class as well as the challenges and assumptions from both the white and black communities about how education, speech and her looks place her within the racialized continuum of her identity as a member of the African Diaspora.
Pact says: A moving collection that dismantles adoption myths by showing adoption in all its complexity.
Pact says: Great support and information for African American hair care and styles for girls and women (although the information can be applied to boys as well!)
Pact says: This outstanding work offers food for thought for all readers, but in particular for those interested in transracial families or multiethnic identity.
Pact says: Celebrating African American beauty and diversity is always important.
Pact says: This is a great series and a wonderful read, especially for kids facing learning challenges.
Pact Says: This series is filled with laugh-out-lout reads that highlights the challenges of kids facing learning disabilities and ADHD, reminding us with humor and clever storytelling that for all the struggles there can be positives to having a “different kind of brain” as well. Really useful for kids who struggle with learning challenges and the diverse friend group portrayed in the books is a great bonus!
This series is filled with laugh-out-lout reads that highlights the challenges of kids facing learning disabilities and ADHD, reminding us with humor and clever storytelling that for all the struggles there can be positives to having a “different kind of brain” as well. Really useful for kids who struggle with learning challenges and the diverse friend group portrayed in the books is a great bonus!
Pact says: This book offers parents support in understanding and addressing issues, rather than didactic parenting prescriptions. The information will be a welcome relief to any parent who is facing a child's seemingly intractable behavior problems.
Pact says: A wonderful introduction to African American history for younger children that is engaging and very readable..
Pact says: In adoptive families, being able to express and deal with difficult emotions is extremely important, for both parents and kids. The book’s guide for how to empathize with your kids and how to talk with them about hard feelings like fear, sadness and anger is a tremendously helpful tool. Be aware that the book’s chapter titled “The Father’s Crucial Role” is dated and weak.
Pact says: It is time for white people to acknowledge that they are at the heart of the race problems in America—this book is a call to action.
Pact says: A compelling book that expresses some of the fears and uncertainty adopted kids can feel at this age with a positive resolution for all.
Pact says: the story depicts the evolution of a self-possessed child into a determined and fearless young man. A good way to help parents talk with their children about slavery and other losses (like adoption) that have to be overcome.
Pact says: An accessible collection of poetry for children mostly by African American artists. Some poems touch deeply on the subject of race while others are just fun to read..
Pact says: A nice book with a Latino flavor!
Pact says: This classic is still the best book we’ve found explaining a variety of children’s perspectives of how it feels to be adopted. The inclusion of photographs brings a greater sense of immediacy and realism to the text and helps children to identify with others who share their experiences.
Pact says: Adopted children shouldn’t have to wait until they are eighteen to have their questions answered. Contact allows children to receive answers directly.
Pact says: This book has great practical suggestions and models conversations and scenarios for practice.
Pact says: A great way to acknowledge the full richness of all Latino peoples and their various racial and ethnic heritages.
Pact says: A fascinating story told in 1st person about the twins' life experiences having been adopted into separate families and then reuniting more than 30 years later. Themes include the problems of sealed adoption records, the potential for unethical practices by adoption agencies, and adoptees' unique perspective of the world.
Pact says: This book is highly relevant to adoptive families of teens and pre-teens because it focuses on one of the core issues of adoption: identity.
Pact says: It is a fun book with a good message that has proven to be appealing to younger children that features an African American girl who loves herself “no matter how she is feeling or what others might say.”.
Pact says: Reminds African American girls not to succumb to white ideas of beauty for themselves. Quantity
Pact says: This book acknowledges the baby’s first mother and time in an orphanage in an important and respectful way.
Pact says: This book can be particularly comforting to adopted children trying to make sense of their personal journey in a spiritual context. Non-deonominational, written by a Jewish Rabbi with an eye to interfaith sensitivity.
Pact says: This book should be in the library of every transracial adoptive family. Rhonda’s personal experience as an African American woman raised by white parents makes this volume compassionate and real.
Pact says: This book offers insights from experienced parents who discuss their experience and their children’s from the long view of having completed the task of raising their children. Another important contribution to the literature on transracial adoption.
Pact Says: This volume is the capstone in a landmark trilogy. There is no other work like it. It is historic, important, and provocative, with many findings that will be the primary source for scholars, as well as anyone interested in this complex subject.
Unlike other parenting books on the topic written by psychologists and doctors, this one is written by a registered nurse who includes her personal experience alongside her professional experience, making it more useful to the busy lay person who may not have the patience or inclination to wade through clinical jargon. Part one focuses on understanding why parents yell and we think is the most interesting to me, while part two offers strategies to reduce yelling.
Pact says: Renner writes, “Calming your own state of mind is at the core of communicating with your children with love and respect.” All in all, this is a very good and helpful book that offers a nice view of mindfulness as it relates to discipline and family life.
Pact says: Nice reminders for readers about the importance of telling their children that they are beautiful and smart as they spend time together combing and styling.
Pact says: The central idea of acceptance, understanding and confidence is the unstated message of every page, but the book is not sappy or sugar coated. Good job! Funny and upbeat, this bright book delivers through a series of one-liners kids will relate to.
Pact says: This is an informative, well crafted guide that addresses kids’ concerns about their changing bodies and how they function. Best of all, it includes multicultural models and promotes an acceptance of difference beyond the norm, including wheelchair-bound people, aged people, Gay and Lesbian people, skinny people, fat people, people of all races — in short, a great diversity, and all treated with respect. Both physiological and psychological aspects of the issues are covered. Though topics of sexuality and sexual development are difficult for some, this book provides a positive foundation for discussion. This honest, trustworthy and highly entertaining book about sexuality and growing up is notable for its nonjudgmental section on homosexuality and for including same-sex couples throughout its illustrations. Truly excellent, on all counts.
Pact says: This upbeat and caring book is the perfect beginning for talking with children because it answers the many questions most children have about babies, bodies, love, sex, reproduction, and family.
Pact says: This book is not intended for children.
Pact says: An exploratory novel told from the point of view of the white boy, this is a direct and simple story about race-based assumptions.
Pact says: We always appreciate books that remind us that people can come in all kinds of packages and validate the history of Jews of color.
Pact says: Her parents have lived and worked in China and are also able to manage in Mandarin without an interpreter. The families’ language ability allowed them to interact on their own during this first visit to the “Social Welfare Institution” where Ying Ying spent her first weeks of life. Ying Ying was able to get to know the children and caregivers and really observe what orphanage life was like.
Pact says: Kurcinka’s book gives a practical and often humorous account of how to achieve family harmony. Kurcinka doesn’t promise miracle cures, but offers creative techniques for using power struggles as pathways to family connection.
Pact says: A practical and colorful book, essential for parents of African American daughters.
Pact says: A beautifully written and engaging story about learning trust and becoming part of a family that has great appeal..
Pact says: The book gives parents and children real encouragement as they solidify their mutual attachment, which leads to children behaving better and parents feeling confident. Really helpful, especially for families with challenging children.
Pact says: This is a classic and every generation seems to love it.
Pact says: Gives parents a way to talk about a topic that they are sometimes fearful to tackle. Every family should have this book.
Pact says: Frita and her family are a wonderful model of a strong African American family, Gabriel and his family learn what it means to be white allies against racism in a backdrop of the 1976 South including members of the Ku Klux Klan. A great book to introduce the need to speak out and band together against racism.
Pact says: Because there has been a disconnection in the life of every adopted child, even if adopted at birth, it is very helpful to have recorded information about children’s personal history. And remember, it is never too late to create a lifebook with your child and this book has great suggestions for conversations and activities that will promote further discussion and insight for children.
Pact says: Overall, this book is an incredible resource for any parent, and can be cherry-picked as needed by Pact families. Definitely recommended. Quantity
Pact says: Enjoy this celebration of African American food traditions.
Pact says: The adoption triad has a lot to learn from this book, particularly those involved in international adoption.
Pact Says: This ground-breaking book has been described by many adult adoptees as the perfect description of some of their own unspoken feelings about being adopted and the sense of self they desire to integrate from not only their adoptive family but also their birth family.
Pact says: This book does an authentic job of capturing the responses adopted kids have to the family tree assignment.
Pact says: One of the strongest aspects of Lucky Girl is the way Hopgood captures the complexity of reunion. As their relationships develop beyond first impressions, she learns some of the secrets and painful events that have shaped her birth family and the lives of her siblings. This inevitable evolution takes her readers on a rollercoaster ride of joy and sorrow, disillusionment and acceptance.
Pact says: There is no other book that offers a compilation of first hand stories of families living with open adoption. It is especially useful for those considering open adoption as it demystifies and offers a realistic model for what is best for kids. Kudos!
Pact says: This is an imaginative and reassuring story presenting a model for terrific parenting.
Pact says: A beautiful and inspiring book. Kadir Nelson did the book’s illustrations – these are a mix of paint and collage – and they are as powerful and beautiful as the rest of his work..
Pact says: Practical and fun, Rose Rock shares her no-nonsense approach to parenting.
Pact says: Marian Wright Edelman is a powerful role model. Beautifully written and highly recommended.
Pact says: Very sweet, perhaps somewhat idyllic but this book definitely explores the importance of their birth parents to children this age.
Pact says: Prasad begins each piece with a biographical sketch of the writer and concludes each with a commentary, which makes for an absorbing and thought-provoking collection.
Pact says: The game of “look” (a must-do ritual for reinforcing attachment and truly seeing one another) is enfolded in the story.
Pact says: A multi-faceted novel about how we are defined both by our choices and by the way others see us.
Pact says: A heartwarming imagination-tickler that all kids should experience.
Pact says: A great validation that a mother is who takes care of you, and a family can be found, not just born.
Pact says: This re-illustrated version of a beloved classic offers a reassuring answer to every adopted child’s question, “Why is there adoption and why was I adopted?”
Pact says: Parents and educators who are concerned about the education of children of color can learn a great deal from Delpit’s knowledgeable, passionate and thoughtful analysis.
Pact says: When shy Maria Isabel finally finds a way to tell the truth about her feelings she acknowledges that she isn’t comfortable trying to be someone else with a different name. The story speaks to experience of anyone who has felt insecure when authority figures seem to want to change their identity - the parallel to adoption is obvious.
Pact says: Inspire a child with beautiful depictions in word and photo of what it means to be part of the African diaspora!
Pact says: A wonderful contribution to the field that gives insight to adults and validation to girls as they journey towards womanhood.
Pact says: Nappy Hair celebrates the glory of Black beauty. While children of Black heritage may delight to see this story, it is equally important for children of all backgrounds to see positive reflections of children of African American heritage.
Pact says: Most provocatively reveals how both the move toward colorblindness and affirmative action blur our vision of injustice.
Pact says: There is an adoption theme: at the end, a vision of Lanesha’s birth mother appears to help her survive a crisis after having died in childbirth.
Pact says: Where the book deals specifically with adoption-related issues, Greene hits the right notes.
Pact says: We recommend it for parents who want to practice therapeutic parenting strategies as well.
Pact says: A beautiful contribution. In this moving and intimate look at multiracial family life, the compelling photograph of each family is accompanied by revealing text culled from interviews with the family members—children as well as adults—who describe in their own voices the joys and challenges of life in a multiracial family.
Pact says: We can all be inspired by America’s first Black president to see ourselves in the many positive traditions and heroes that are part of our collective heritage.
Pact says: A great validation that a family can be found, not just born. Available in paperback or as a board book.
Pact says: A book to cuddle with.
Pact says: With memorable characters (all three girls have strong voices) and vubrabt story, this is a book well worth reading.
Pact says: For a person who is new to the experiences of transracial adoption, this book is certainly worthy.
Pact says: Alvarez underscores both the value and complexity of the ritual in the Latino community.
Pact says: We love the inherent message of completeness, helping children from the beginning feel great about BOTH their family legacies. Written by an adoptee, there is no question that the book's validating message will help children feel comfortable in their skin as they process the facts of their adoption. And it has some humor as a bonus!
Pact says: An important reference manual for many issues of open adoption.
Pact says: Experts on their own experience, the writers of Outsiders Within offer an illuminating and provocative glimpse in to the world of transracial adoption that will make many of us uncomfortable but validates the lives of those children currently placed for adoption across racial and cultural lines. A must read!
Pact says: The message is reassuring, the illustrations are delightful and the text is happy.
Pact says: This book is a powerful tool for all adoptive families, at any stage of pre or post-adoption. Illustrates a family ritual and how it promotes deep and enduring attachments for a child as he grows.
Pact says: Beth Hall, Pact’s Director, her children and several other Pact teens contributed to this volume.
Pact says: Highly relevant to adoptive families, because it guides parents through creating the necessary foundations for a loving and secure relationship with their children.
Pact says: A really helpful guide for parents of challenging children.
Pact says: What is wonderful about this book is that it is written from a twelve-year-old’s voice giving kids and parents alike a window into how a kid who has been through several placements and group homes views the world and the actions of the adults who are SUPPOSED to be caring for him. Really insightful.
Pact says: Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this book. Now.
Pact says: An excellent of stories rooted in the African American experience.
Without a doubt, we can learn more about adoption from listening to adult adoptees than from anyone else. This book gives all of us a welcome chance to deepen our understanding of our families and of ourselves.
Pact says: Addressing sibling rivalry, this book has stood the test of time and is both charming and reassuring.
Pact says: A valuable resource for young adoptees and those who love them.
Pact says: A hopeful story that will give all adopted and foster children a vehicle to explore their feelings whether they were placed at older ages or as infants.
Pact says: We love this book and it is written by an adoptee, giving it real authenticity. Quantity
Pact says: A loving book that just happens to have all African American characters. Also available in a board book $7.99.
Pact says: There is much to like about the book, particularly its intersectional approach to this long-neglected subject. Quantity
Pact says: Singles and gays be prepared, there is a long section on the importance of marriage to children. But access to the Latino perspective and approach to family and children counterbalance this challenge.
Pact says: The engaging writing clearly presents practical skills for parenting. Highly recommended to parents of adopted children, many of whom act out their feelings about their core experiences by having difficulty with transitions, testing authority, fighting bedtime, and other challenging behaviors.
Pact says: While there are many must-reads in books about adoption, we think Holly offers insights no adoptive parent can do without. Highly recommended.
Pact says: Jackie had wonderful adoptive parents who did everything to support their daughter's identity, racially and in adoption - this book underscores the reality that adoption is truly a lifelong issue. Susan Ito says, "Red Dust Road is the best adoption memoir I have ever read!"
In her unique, generous, and affecting voice, nineteen-year-old Katie Hill shares her personal journey of undergoing gender reassignment.
Pact says: Ultimately, the novel celebrates the resilience of both teens and adults, the bonds formed in healing, and the journeys traveled the physically and emotionally by Ronnie as she seeks to find her place.
Pact says: A beautifully written and illustrated book for children that emphasizes the role of the whole community in Parks’ victory over injustice..
Pact says: This is a great book about a little girl whose family has figured out how to live two heritages -- the one of their parents and grandparents, and the other in the US. There's a glossary and pronunciation guide for the Cantonese words and phrases sprinkled throughout the book. It is geared towards the younger end of the 3rd to 5th grade group.
Pact says: Great books for American kids of Chinese descent, and for anyone else who wants to read about a little girl whose family has figured out how to live two heritages -- the one of their parents and grandparents, and the one here in the US.
Pact says: An inspiring story of one child’s courage in the face of adversity and the tremendous outpouring of support she received.
Pact says: We hope this book makes it into every adoptive and birth family home as well as becoming a staple for agency personnel to use with their prospective clients. Buy a copy for your own children and your adopted children's birth siblings. Even if your child doesn't know his or her birth family, this story delivers a terrifically positive message. Four stars.
Pact says: This book or poems expresses a range of emotions that will be familiar to all teens, and especially to those who have been adopted and are secretly wondering if their questions are "normal."
Pact says: Presents some of the core issues of being adopted from a Korean perspective. Collections from the voices of adoptees are always helpful to opening a wider discussion of adoption for both parents and children.
Pact says: This book encourages parents to take a look at the messages we may inadvertently be sending our children with our words and actions. A book many parents will want to read keep by their bedside table..
Pact says: The first in a triplicate of books that explores life for a middle school-aged girl in a non-Western culture that asks her to choose between family loyalties and personal dreams.
Pact says: Pictures of the real faces of African American children demonstrate in a visual way the true diversity of "black" people, allowing young children to understand that blackness derives not from the color but from the culture of a people.
Pact says: Funny and clever, A thoughtful novel about the impact of skin tone in how African American’s see themselves and their beauty.
Pact says: This is an affirming addition to the collection of books dealing with self-esteem and multiculturalism.
Pact says: We commend Williams for dealing with difficult issues in Slant. We hope that more "tween" novels will take on transracial adoption, racism, and belonging.
Pact says: A wonderful evocation of a moment in a Black family's life. A Pact bestseller.
Pact says: A beautiful book, filled with compelling words and pictures that inspire. This is a great book to have on your shelf for this age range as they look for information for class projects and inspirational historical figures of color they can admire and study.
Pact says: This book gives a compelling explanation of the why and reason open adoption is the "best" form of adoption we have today.
Pact Says: An excellent book that looks at peer pressure and stereotypes of Asian American kids. Yee is a talented writer who has given us a very engaging, fun book with good messages about the power of persistence and believing in one’s self..
Pact says: Star of the Week serves as an excellent springboard for discussion about taking adoption to school.
Pact says: These very simple communication techniques are presented through a confusing metaphor, as the author labels the techniques using habits of particular birds—thus, assertive self expression is taught as “The Way of the Blue Jay.” Nonetheless, it does a good job of letting parents know what will be helpful to kids.
Pact Says: Eric Blau has captured a special human story in each of his photographs, and the individual stories speak an emotional truth about how adoption affects people’s lives. Highly recommended. A Pact bestseller.
Pact says: Fast paced and entertaining, with unique, multicultural characters and positive messages about friendship, honesty, materialism, and forgiveness as well as the challenges of life for girls, these books are fun to read and give a positive message to girls of color in particular.
Pact says: Offers clear direction on how to listen rather than tell. The point is to understand what children are thinking rather than to hand them a politically correct doctrine of adoption thinking. We wish there was more discussion of birth parent stories.
Pact say: A great example to demonstrate how white allies can support people of color.
Pact says: A good book although we are sorry no mention is made of birth parents.
Pact says: This book is a very hands-on practical approach to understanding children’s temperament and how it influences their behavior, giving parents really helpful tools for understanding and responding to what often feels like challenging behavior.
Pact says: The novel describes not only how these traditions are celebrated, but also their role in tying together the Mexican American family and community. Sofia's struggle with how to hold onto the values of her heritage and family while becoming her own person is sure to resonate with teens exploring identity.
Pact Says: The author’s premise is that real parenthood—regardless of genetic connection—is based not on biology, but rather on an individual’s voluntary commitment to parent. This book is a true validation of families of every type, and an unexpected breath of fresh air.
Pact says: Finally! An intelligent guide for women in the process of placing a child for adoption.
Pact says: Ada’s story takes her to America, but she remembers her “China mother” and her homeland with love and affection.
Pact says: This clear and practical video show you how to do hair, "hands-on." Highly recommended. VHS Quantity
Pact says: Hopkins-Best’s discussion of the factors that make adopting a toddler different from adopting either infants or older children with special needs is well grounded and a good read.
A Transracial Curriculum Guide for professionals working with pre- and post-adoptive families includes sections for use with Below The Surface, a self-assessment for families considering adoption across racial and cultural lines. The videotapes "Visible Differences" and "Struggle for Identity" are described for usage in the curriculum although the videotapes themselves are not included with the Trainer's Guide. This kit offers step-by-step outlines and instructions for planning workshops using Pact materials and two instructional videotapes exploring transracial adoption issues. The trainer's guide includes advice on how to use the materials, how to establish topic priorities and suggested exercises for pre- and post- placement families. Instructions include goals, trainer preparation, agendas and handouts. Modules for 12 individual workshops as well as all-day sessions are described. Pre-Adopt Series and Post-Adopt Series Planners as well as Full-Day and Half-Day Workshop Planners are suggested.
Comments from the field: “For two decades, Pact has offered outstanding services to children of color in need of adoption…. Pact has consistently demonstrated its ability to develop and provide the highest quality of services to effectively meet the needs of these special children and their families." Winna Davis, San Francisco Mayor's Office of Children, Youth and Their Families Quantity
Pact says: This is a challenging read. Dorow brings her sociologist’s sensibility to this academic text. She insists that we look at the whole truth, including who benefits and who is served when adoptions happen.
Pact says: Joe Crumbley is one of the adoption world’s clearest thinkers about transracial placements. Informed by his expertise as a clinician and his experience as a Black American, he has created an important book for anyone interested in the identity development of adopted children of color.
Pact says: This is an accessible and stimulating read, useful for anyone interested in racial identity issues.
Pact says: This is a unique and perceptive treatment of the core issues of adoption from a child's view and gives a clear voice to feelings not easily articulated.
Pact Says: A great example of how to talk about race for younger children who will look up to these older children as mentors.
Pact says: Highly recommended.
Pact says: The entire package encourages endless browsing, flipping, and double-dipping. Great reading and resources for all readers.
Pact says: An exceptionally clear statement of the effects of racism on women and children in crisis. Highly recommended.
Pact says: This great read gets straight to the heart of how children find resolution to the loss of connections.
Pact says: Because Sophie is adopted, this book feeds into the secret wonderings of every adoptee.
Pact says: This book is ESSENTIAL reading for any family adopting from China.
Pact says: Being familiar with "isms" is strengthening for all kids. This award winning account of racism in the south has plenty of spice and no sugarcoating. It grabs the reader and won't let go.
Pact says: Another good addition to your hair care library.
Pact says: The incredible artwork along with the stories makes this book a valuable collectors’ item for every family library.
Pact says: We love this book! It is simple, refined and beautiful, it succeeds in transforming the sadness of separation into a healing experience, inspiring readers to find their own meanings. Every adopted person deserves a copy of this book.
Pact says: A great book to explore the history of overcoming slavery and the civil rights movement and learn the songs that were integral to the movements.
Pact says: Nice to have a story that has a male adopted teen as the main character.
Pact says: This collection of authentic writing conveys the emotional impact of being of mixed race in a time of identity politics. The more you read, the better you can see both the common issues they share and the unique human qualities of each writer.
Pact says: Part manual, part trusted friend, this book takes a straight forward approach to sexual development for boys. This down to earth, practical and positive book provides comprehensive information in a friendly and supportive way and will provide a broad overview inclusive of both father and son’s questions and experiences. Extremely useful!
Pact says: Supportive book for any child who has ever lost her temper - or might ever lose her temper.
Pact says: Vivid colors underscore a vibrant and essential message.
Pact says: This book fulfills a unique purpose and will be important for children who have moved and lost more than one family.
Pact says: These titles add welcome diversity to board-book collections.
Pact says: A fascinating and clearly presented map of steps toward integration of racial identity, this book affirms the need to understand the process and to talk about it. Highly recommended.
Pact says: This reassuring story about a black family answers big-sibling universal questions.
Pact says: A must-read written in a kid friendly cartoon like style, filled with practical advice, this book is an ideal conversation starter for parents and children to develop strategies about handling adoption questions. This book is without a doubt the best book available to help kids work through ways to respond to friends and strangers questions.
Pact says: The books strongest function is in providing an overall picture and a wealth of information about the possible issues and their root causes, as well as pointing out red flags, both in a child’s behavior and in the dynamics of potential adoptive families.
Pact says: Very important reading for Asian American girls and everyone who loves them!
Pact says: A fascinating and clearly presented discussion of the Asian American experience.
Pact says: Bradley draws a vivid picture of what the teen is going through, and gives parents the tools to be effective parents.
Pact says: So bountiful it feels as if it's spilling off the pages, energetic illustrations create mirrors to see ourselves in and windows to see others. Friendship across differences is supported.
Pact says: The poetry is fresh and gives the reader insight into what todayâ019s youths have to say, and itâ019s refreshing that the words came straight from them. Teens will recognize themselves in the words.
History told from the viewpoints of slaves, workers, immigrants, women, and Native Americans with color images, a glossary, and primary sources. Begins with a look at Christopher Columbus' arrival through the eyes of the Arawak Indians and leads the reader through the strikes and rebellions of the industrial age.
Pact says: While the title is not catchy the information is an important counterpoint to the information too often presented in school textbooks, particularly for people of color.
Pact says: A winner.
Pact says: Great books about a group of four boys who just happen to be African American, good friends and prone to adventures and mystery. Great reads that will especially inspire young boys. These books are fun but also teach history and pride rooted in the African American community.