Discover → Picture Books

Finding Family in a Far-Away Land, An Adoption Story

By Amanda Wall

Enjoying this book? Help it get discovered by casting your vote!

Must read 🏆

A feel-good and bittersweet story that is a must-read for kids and families blessed by adoption!

Synopsis

Every adoption experience is uniquely different but the yearning to have unconditional family love is universal. Two Indian sisters, Priya and Ari, experience what it's like to be adopted into a multicultural family. Walk alongside these two charming, dynamic girls as they journey through the adoption transition to a new country full of new experiences!

"Finding Family in a Far-Away Land" is a pensive and sometimes comical book that demonstrates how children can experience the same journey quite differently. A glossary of cultural terms is included so that all can learn and enjoy what Ari and Priya cherish about their Indian roots. This story is meant to be a resource to those hoping to learn about one family's adoption experience— and may even help a child process their own adoption story. The intended audience for this book is children ages 4-10.

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.

Reviewed by

I'm a freelance writer, teacher, and an avid reader of picture books, middle grade, YA, sci-fi, and fantasy. When I'm not reading you can find me on my blog, www.bilinguallyyours.com, a place for Spanish teachers and bilingual families.

Synopsis

Every adoption experience is uniquely different but the yearning to have unconditional family love is universal. Two Indian sisters, Priya and Ari, experience what it's like to be adopted into a multicultural family. Walk alongside these two charming, dynamic girls as they journey through the adoption transition to a new country full of new experiences!

"Finding Family in a Far-Away Land" is a pensive and sometimes comical book that demonstrates how children can experience the same journey quite differently. A glossary of cultural terms is included so that all can learn and enjoy what Ari and Priya cherish about their Indian roots. This story is meant to be a resource to those hoping to learn about one family's adoption experience— and may even help a child process their own adoption story. The intended audience for this book is children ages 4-10.

No activity yet

No updates yet.

Come back later to check for updates.

1 Comment

Amanda Wall – Hi Everyone! Thank you for taking a look at my book! My hope is to empower kids in their life’s journey. Priya, my daughter, shares her adoption transition experience so that all may feel every emotion alongside her! I hope you enjoy this book that celebrates family, culture and love. 💗 Amanda
0 likes
almost 4 years ago
About the author

Amanda Wall is am a mother of four with a heart towards adoption. She advocates for adoptees as their voice is often unheard. Amanda wrote Finding Family in a Far-Away Land with her daughters' permission to share our story in hopes of empowering other children and educating families. view profile

Published on March 29, 2021

Published by Bookbaby

1000 words

Genre:Picture Books

Reviewed by