This is How We Became a Family: An Adoption Story

If you adopted your child through domestic adoption, and the birth mother was a young unwed mother- then this is the story for you. It gives a brief overview of both sides of the story- very good for opening the field for questions from your child. The only part that I did not like was how it said how the parents "cired, cried, cried" because they could not give birth to their own child, and the birth mother "cried, cried, cried" because of her situation. This does not take away from the rest of the story however.

Every journey undertaken by adoptive parents pre- and post-adoption is unique and interesting to read about, and this book is no exception. All adoptive parents can relate to the highs and lows the author and his wife experienced until the happy day arrived and the family was formed. The paintings are lovely, especially that of his daughter on the swing. I am happy for the Willis's and for all adoptive parents who have a similarly happy ending to their journey.Gisela Gasper Fitzgerald, author of ADOPTION: An Open, Semi-Open or Closed Practice?

This is a book based on real life experiences. The author is an adoptive parent himself who recounts for the reader the emotions of an unwed mother and a childless couple, both before and after adoption takes place. It is a realistic look at the highs and lows of those involved in the process, the love at the center of giving and receiving the newborn, and the happy ending for all. Charmingly painted by the author from personal photographs, this is a wonderful book for children and adults alike, one of particular value to those adopting or considering adopting. A must read!

What a wonderful book! Every attorney who handles private adoption should give this book to new parents. Any obstetrician's office where a child is making important decisions about her own life and that of a baby she is carrying would do well to make this resource available. My husband and I are giving a copy to all of our family members who have adopted. We have also checked to be sure that the local crisis pregnancy center has a copy. The book can be used on so many levels. In addition to those listed on the fly-leaf, I think it could be very useful in helping the young friends of adopted children understand one way that families can be made. Dr. Willis' artwork is also very expressive, and supports his words in such a way that enables the story to be told in an easy-to-understand manner. His characters' faces and body language do as much to show their sadness and joy as any of the written text. The painting of his daughter on her swing makes a great concluding statement that assures Dr. Willis' readers that indeed this family will live "as happily ever after as 'ever after' ever really is."