Outstanding

by | Jun 12, 2025 | What readers are saying

This is an amazing book. I’m not adopted and didn’t really know much about the process. But after reading Adoption Paradox, I was a little ashamed that I didn’t know and didn’t understand how much adoptees and adopters go through. This book is fully impressive because it describes the history of adoptions, changing cultural attitudes toward adoption and the challenges one faces when considering adoption. What’s most fascinating is the author’s interview with adoptees and adopters demonstrating how they respond to their different situations. I highly recommend this book even if you have no connection to the adoption community because this is important to our society as a whole.

-Becky Kingman-Gros

 Persuasive, Thorough Look at Adoption and How and Why We Can and Must Do Better – 5 Stars

by | May 26, 2025 | What readers are saying

Adoption Paradox: Putting Adoption in Perspective by Jean Kelly Widner is well-researched, thorough and well-documented. Even while she is addressing some of the systemic failures and missteps regarding the way adoption occurs in the USA, her book serves as an invitation for both why and how we can do better by families and adopted persons. Readers will find much to digest. They will find themselves both learning as well as unlearning.
As they begin to recognize the “Adoption Paradox” they will begin to appreciate the deep dualities in adoption and will move beyond the myth of adoption is a totally benign choice. Instead, they will understand the urgency to help preserve families and reduce the number of adoptions so that adoption will be a last resort not the first solution for helping struggling families.

—Gayle H. Swift, author, “Reimagining Adoption: what Adoptees Seek from Families and Faith”

An eye opening look at adoption from all angles! – 5 Stars

by | May 24, 2025 | What readers are saying

I learned so much! I pre-ordered a copy of the book from the author’s website and received it via mail. I have not been part of the adoption community, and was very unaware of the turmoil, emotions, legality, and all the ramifications that the adoption process has on everyone involved. This book is so eye-opening. The interviews give voice to so many, and the author does an incredible job relating their stories, and the stories of all involved with grace, respect and good solid data.

-Angie Hight