Books

An Empty Lap by Jill Smolowe
My thoughts: I could really relate to this story since my husband and I have also went through infertility, although our experiences are vastly different than those of Ms. Smolowe. However, there are some great points in this book that everyone can relate to.

Are Those Kids Yours? American Families with Children Adopted From Other Countries by Cheri Register
My thoughts: Although this book relies primarily on Korean adoptions, it provides a great source of information for anyone who is considering a cross-cultural adoption. It is so thought-provoking, and I think it's a great resource for parents.

Adopting after Infertility by Patricia Irwin Johnson
My thoughts: This books is an absolute must in my opinion, for anyone who is considering adoption after going through infertility. Great information on coping with the losses that are associated with infertility.

Adopt International: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child Abroad by Sweet & Bryan
and
The International Adoption Handbook :
How to Make an Overseas Adoption Work for You by Myra Alperson
My thoughts: These books are provide good basic information on international adoption, but if you've been lurking on the a-parents-china list for as long as I have, you probably know everything that's in these books. But others have read these two books and think they're great.

Children in China by Michael Karhauser
My thoughts: The author spent two years in China, snapping photos of adorable Chinese children--it it was time very well spent in my opinion! This book not only gives me a "baby fix" from looking at the great photos, it also provides a glimpse into the lifestyle in China. I really liked this book, and I know our daughter will enjoy perusing it in the future

Secret Thoughts of an Adoptive Mother by Jana Wolfe
My thoughts: Jana Wolfe has written a very insightful, although very brief, account of what goes on inside the head of a prospective adoptive mother. I have to admit that I could relate to almost everything she said, even though I'm adopting internationally and don't have the same kind of birthmother issues that she has. It was an enjoyable read, but it was really short and didn't really tell me anything I didn't already know. I feel kind of neutral about this book, although others have raved about it. Try it, you might like it.

Wild Swans by Jung Chang
I'm still in the middle of this book, but I've got to admit that I love this book! It is chock-full of Chinese history that's woven together with an incredibly readable fictional style. This is a favorite book of many parents on my apc mailing list. I will admit that I usually don't really care for historical books, but this one has me absolutely mesmerized I simply can't put it down!

I found all of these books at Amazon, my favorite bookstore. If you know of any other good adoption books, please e-mail me!