Chasing Charleigh: An Adoption Story Filled With Hope and Love
Becky Cortesi-Caruso, Amanda Harrison
Paperback
(Marcinson Press, Oct. 9, 2019)
"Chasing Charleigh" helps young adoptees understand adoption, and gently tells a story that includes birth families in a positive, loving family. Told through the eyes of an inquisitive little girl, Charleigh, who asks her adoptive mother about many issues surrounding adoption, including the differences between closed and open adoption, biological and adoptive siblings, interracial adoption, and looking "different" from her adoptive family. The book is sensitively written, with beautiful illustrations, and is designed to guide parents and young adoptees into having comfortable discussions about questions or issues children may have regarding their own family circumstances. Reviews:“Chasing Charleigh” lovingly describes interracial open adoption through the eyes of a child. The inquisitive Charleigh asks many questions, and her mother answers them in an honest and caring way that she can understand. This heartwarming story supports the acceptance of diverse families and the love that can be shared through adoption. - Dr. Gineen O’Neil, Executive Director, Southwest Cook County Cooperative Association for Special EducationA well-written, insightful story around adoption, which is explained throughout the story. Certainly a must-read, tug-at-your-heartstrings book! - Cindy Darling, Director of Technology, Marquardt School DistrictThis story is a sweet, honest, and heartfelt look into open adoption. It truly celebrates the power of unconditional love. - Sharon Ahmann, Angel AdoptionIn an ever-changing world of diversity, this beautiful story about unconditional love, acceptance, and inclusion reminds us all how ultimate love has no boundaries. Cortesi-Caruso opens the door to the what if to bridge two cultures together into one seamless story which brings hope for a new tomorrow. - Dr. Kara Coglianese, School District SuperintendentWhat an honest, genuine portrayal of the beauty of adoption. As a school social worker and a prospective adoptive mother myself, this book gave me hope in my journey. Charleigh’s journey shows the gift this little girl is to the world and to both of her families and should be shared and celebrated! - Stasia Bijak, Licensed Clinical, Social Worker