The Interracial Adoption Option: Creating a Family Across Race

We both finally took a deep breath and walked to the front door . . . The story of our family began many years before this moment . . . And it is a story that we want to share in the hope that will encourage others to adopt one of the thousands of children of different races who are waiting for families' The Interracial Adoption Option draws on the lives and experiences of a couple adopting two children from a different race. Starting from their decision to adopt their first child interracially and then describing the complex situations arising from their child's racial background, the authors' experiences and their expertise in the subject of race and ethnicity will not only guide prospective parents through the adoption experience but also provide practical advice. They consider where to live, how to choose a doctor and how to take care of your child's hair and skin. They also tackle common issues and dilemmas, answering questions such as, Does race matter? Why is a healthy racial identity important? and What do I do if I suspect my child is being treated unfairly because of his/her race? An accessible introduction to the complex world of interracial adoption, this book will be the perfect starting point for parents of transracially adopted children and those who are considering adopting transracially.

Marlene G. Fine is a Professor of Communications at Simmons College in Boston. She is also a facilitator for the YW Boston City-wide Dialogues on Race and Ethnicity. Marlene is a parent of two adopted African American sons and lives in Massachusetts, USA.

Fern L. Johnson is a Professor of English and a member of the Communication and Culture faculty at Clark University in Worcester. Fern is a parent of two adopted African American sons and lives in Massachusetts, USA.