Finding Family in a Far-Away Land: An Adoption Story, written and illustrated by Amanda Wall, is a feel-good adoption story about real-life sisters Priya and Ari who are adopted by the Wall family.
The story is written from the older sister, Priya’s perspective as the two begin their journey in a hut in a small village in India. They are soon placed in an orphanage and eventually brought to their new home with their adopted family. Priya and Ari take the changes in stride as they learn a new language, try different foods, and meet their new parents and siblings. What seems ordinary to us—like having a dog or eating macaroni—is a bold, new challenge for the sweet, brave sisters.
This book fills an important niche in the marketplace for families and children touched and blessed by adoption. I can’t highlight how valuable this book is to help empower anyone who has been adopted or is considering it—especially those involved in international adoption.
The author skillfully treads a fine line by honoring her daughters’ Indian culture while also shedding light on the negative aspects of their former lives that made adoption a necessity.
The main focus and message of the book come from Priya and Ari’s willingness to try new things and their new family’s inclusivity of the girls’ heritage. The family never tries to belittle, ignore, or erase the sisters’ past.
Priya and Ari are the stars of the show as they navigate their new home. Readers will smile as they learn dinner table etiquette (washing your hands in your water cup is a no-no!), make friends, and learn a whole new way of life. Their adventures are kid-friendly and incredibly relatable.
Overall, this is an important story to tell that many families and children will benefit from. I do think the book needs one final round of copyediting, but even with the few typos and mistakes found, it’s still a standout adoption story.
I recommend Finding Family in a Far-Away Land: An Adoption Story for any and all kids and families touched by adoption.
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