As we settle into National Adoption Month, Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) aims to educate . This month honors and uplifts anyone touched by adoption in any way. Whether birth parent, adoptive parent, or adoptee, there is always more to learn. This piece focuses on resources for young adoptees to explore this month.
For adoptees in grades K-3 many books explore feelings and common adoption questions, below are a few options of great book for K-3 adoptees.
1. We Belong Together by Todd Parr.
Parr’s books celebrate families and differences with straightforward text and colorful illustrations. This bright, kid-friendly story shows families forming through love and connection. It presents one perspective on adoption and reminds adoptees that families are made with love. The book is under $20 and available on Amazon.
2. Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born by Jamie Lee Curtis.
Written by the actress and children’s author, it is perfect for young adoptees, as Curtis had adopted two children herself. The story follows a girl who loves hearing the night she was born and adopted. Through questions and retelling, readers see how family stories connect and comfort us. It is a tender celebration of adoption, love, and hearing your story again and again.
3. Born from the Heart by Berta Serrano.
This is another great read for young adoptees. The story follows an adoptive mother whose heart grows while waiting for her baby. It is a quirky and touching love letter to Serrano’s adopted son. The book shows how hearts know when family is complete. Adoptees may feel reassured by how much their parents wanted them.
4. Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds.
It encourages kids to celebrate individuality and differences. While not specifically about adoption, it reminds adoptees to embrace their uniqueness. The story encourages them to be true to themselves and their one-of-a-kind qualities.
5. Yes, I’m Adopted! by Sharlie Zinniger.
This brightly illustrated, easy-to-read book shows how adoption is built on love. Told from a child’s perspective, the rhyming story follows the adoption journey. It is a heartfelt book for anyone whose life has been touched by adoption.
Here is an option for young adoptees in transracial families:
6. I Color Myself Different by Colin Kaepernick.
Written by the athlete and activist, it is based on his own childhood experience. When five-year-old Colin draws his family with a brown crayon, he starts a journey. The story explores self-discovery, pride, and the beauty of being different. It reminds transracial adoptees that they belong, even if they look different.
For adoptees in grade 4 and above, books can explore adoption at a deeper level.
7. The Mulberry Bird by Anne Braff Brodzinsky.
It offers a heartfelt, longer story. Mother Bird cares for her baby when a storm scatters her nest. She cannot protect her baby alone and faces a difficult choice. She must trust another family to provide a safe, strong home. This classic adoption story explores birth parent love and nurturing in a new home. It is a timeless tale of sacrifice, wisdom, and enduring love.
National Adoption Month is a time to honor, celebrate, and learn about adoption. Books can help young adoptees explore feelings, understand family, and embrace their uniqueness. Reading these stories reminds children they are loved, valued, and an important part of their family. Every adoptee’s journey is unique, and every story helps support growth, connection, and belonging.
