Many families want to adopt, but do not have the large amount of money it takes to complete a private domestic or international adoption. Some quickly give up the idea of adopting and are left feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and discouraged. Those who choose to proceed often take out large loans or borrow from family and friends which adds to the financial pressure on the family. Author Julie Gumm shares proven strategies from her own experience as well as from others that include applying for grants, creative budgeting, and fundraising that prospective adoptive parents can use to prepare for and avoid those high costs associated with adoption.

An-Ya and Her Diary: Reader & Parent Guide is a ground breaking collaborative work and the first of its kind to be published under the An-Ya Project. Inside you will find the wisdom and artistry of professional adoptees who discuss all aspects of the novel An-Ya and Her Diary. Included are lessons on how to lead an adoption discussion, how a parent can use the novel to emotionally guide their child through the book, as well as writers who eloquently express their own complex journeys as adoptees. Readers will also find: the 'Reflections' of young adoptees and their siblings and an in-depth interview with the author of An-Ya and Her Diary conducted by members of the CAL One World Chinese Adoptee Program. Contributors Include: Stephanie Kripa Cooper-Lewter, Ph.D., L.M.S.W. Lee Herrick Amanda H.L. Transue-Woolston, BSW Jennifer Bao Yu "Precious Jade" Jue-Steuck Susan Branco Alvarado, MA Ed, LPC Matthew Salesses

Our Furry Son is a short story about Lio, a little kitten lost in the city, who is taken to an animal shelter, where there are only two alternatives: adoption or death. Just when he was losing hope, he is adopted by a woman and her husband who become his saving angels. The kitten has a special charisma, and some mysterious behaviors. He shows his gratitude by a profound love, so much so, that his parents cannot help but feel moved. They share emotions and experiences that make them a real family. The parents learn to understand his language and how to take care of him. Lio becomes the child that they never had and are grateful to life for this wonderful gift.

Gentle, imaginative Hetty feels at home with her kindly parents but struggles to find her place in a new school. She takes refuge in her secret forest hideaway. When an accident forces her to rely on others, will Hetty find what it takes to grow up and fit in? And is a mysterious stranger watching over her?

This book was inspired by a fellow teacher, Kate, and her husband, John, as they went through this process to adopt their son, Ethan. During our lunchtime, we discussed when and how to tell a child that they are adopted, and this book seemed to be a gentle and natural way of telling the story of one family on their special quest. The book also shows how one little life can complete a family. I wish everyone on the path toward adoption or living as an adopted child love, strength, and compassion toward everyone concerned.

Based on dozens of intensive interviews with parents, clinical psychologists, teachers, therapists, and more, Alina's Story shows the journey of Alina, a little girl adopted from Russia. After living in an orphanage during her early life, Alina is confused and scared by the outside world. There are so many people, so much noise . . . Her new family loves her, but Alina finds it hard to trust them. What if they hurt her? Or go away and leave her alone? It is hard for Alina to talk about her feelings, so when she is upset or worried, she throws big tantrums that scare her family. Luckily, her mama and papa won't give up on helping Alina. They take her to nice doctors and finally a special school so that Alina can learn new skills. Slowly, Alina begins to trust other people and gets better at expressing her feelings and solving problems. For the first time in her life, she realizes she is truly safe and loved . . . and she loves her new family in return. This book is part of the ORP Library series of disabilities books.