Isabel has a loving family―a mother, a father, and two brothers. And when Isabel was younger, she was adopted. One day, she starts noticing little things that make her feel different―her dad makes her sit in the middle seat; her brothers play soccer better than she does; her mom doesn’t buy her favorite peanut butter. As Isabel focuses more and more on her differences, her emotions become too big for her to handle. Will Isabel ever feel like she belongs?
A Part of My Family Forever is the perfect book for foster and adoptive families to discuss the big emotions that come along with adoption and the differences that make each family unique. Written by an adoption counselor, this book will help children learn how to handle their big emotions and to see that they are loved for just who they are.
“A Part of My Family Forever wonderfully captures the emotions and experiences of adopted children. Isabel’s story provides answers to sensitive questions and helps navigate feelings children may be hesitant to express to their parents. After decades of working with adoptive families and adoption professionals, I believe this book is an excellent resource for understanding the complex needs of adoptees and equips parents with the tools necessary to provide the reassurance their children long to hear. I recommend all adoptive families add A Part of My Family Forever to their library to read and re-read for years to come.”
Ryan Hanlon
President and CEO of National Council for Adoption (NCFA)
“A Part of My Family Forever introduces themes and messages that are important for parents to talk about with their adopted children. This is a great resource for parents to use to continue these conversations into adolescence and beyond.”
Carroll Martin, LCSW, LCSW-C
Adoptee and Adoption Competent Therapist/Owner
of Blue Ridge Therapy Services
“Through telling Isabel’s story, Emily Belknap captured feelings I also had growing up as an adoptee. This book offers clarity and encouragement for children who joined their families through adoption and fosters appreciation for those who love them.”
Sarah Gesiriech
Children in Families Advocate
“As an adoption competent therapist, it is so wonderful to read a children’s book that is not afraid to deal with the layered topic of adoption for children. A Part of My Family Forever shows both the beauty and the loss that is inherent in adoption itself. Isabel reflects on thoughts so many adoptees struggle with and often are fearful to express. Watching her mom understand, empathize, and reassure is a guidebook for all parents who form their families through adoption.”
Mari J. Itzkowitz, LCSW
Adoption Competent Therapist
“A Part of My Family Forever catches the reader’s attention with a description of Isabel that makes her real and appealing. It’s important for children who were adopted to know that they aren’t the only ones with these questions. As an adoptive parent, I know that these are valuable conversations to have, and Isabel gives parents a way to tackle these difficult topics in adoption.”
Ginny Snaider, LCSW
Adoptive Parent, Adoption Professional and Therapist
“As an adoptive mom, I understand how important representation is for adopted children (and adults too, for that matter). By exploring Isabel’s inner dialog around her place in her family, we learn about the fears and insecurities many adoptees feel—and how parents can support their children. High praise for Ms. Belknap, who leveraged her deep experience with the adoption community to give us A Part of My Family Forever.”
Darlene Friedman
Author, Star of the Week: A Story of Love, Adoption, and Brownies with Sprinkles