Jean Kelly Widner’s Adoption Paradox is a deeply moving and eye-opening work that educated me on a topic I hadn’t realized I needed to understand. It is forthright, poignant, and compelling—a must-read for anyone touched by the adoption or foster care system. In fact, I would argue this book holds critical relevance for society as a whole.
Widner honors and gives voice to the diverse perspectives of adoptees, birthparents, adoptive parents, foster children, and caregivers with grace and compassion. Throughout, she places the well-being of the child at the center of the conversation.
As an educator, friend, and family member of adoptees, I believe this book equipped me to better understand the human elements of adoption—the paradox of loss and longing, joy and trauma, love and belonging, identity and healing. Although the author does not shy away from the painful realities and systemic challenges that surround adoption and foster care, she also offers a sense of hope—advocating for justice, reform, ethical practices, while providing practical resources for those directly affected by adoption.
This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading. Bravo to the a-uthor!
-Dawn J
