Gliding Through Goodbye

by Edward Di Gangi

A Mother's Love for Her Son and the Pain of Letting Go

Inspired by a sheaf of notes left by his birth-mother before her passing and informed by interviews with birth-mothers of the Baby Scoop era, the author has recreated his mother's diary of the years following her placing him for adoption. Following her as she performed across the United States, South American and Europe, Gliding Through Goodbye interweaves her emotional journey with her physical travels.

370 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 25, 2025

Reviews

[Kirstie Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so lovely. Got the chance to meet Ed and talk about his book even bought his first one right then and there!

[Sherry B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a poignant story told through diary entries, of a young single woman’s thoughts, fears and hopes for the child she gave up for adoption in 1948. Her quiet resolve in honoring him while coming to terms with her loss is evident in her journaling. Her life as a professional ice skater provided fascinating historical details as she traveled the world. Very well written and an easy read.
Bonus: Hearing the stories firsthand. I was fortunate to attend one of Ed Di Gangi’s presentations.
Truly enjoyable.

[Frances Dykstra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Follow up to The Gift Best Given. Pretty repetitious after a while. Even non-fiction needs a narrative arc and a problem to be resolved. This version took too long to get there. The telegraphic writing style seemed confusing too. Still you have to give credit to the author for the research and perseverance to to his story.

[Merrill C · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully rendered epistolary narrative that feels like authentic diary entries, Gliding Through Goodbye traces a birth mother's emotional and physical journey with grace, love, and historical depth. Edward Di Gangi honors her voice with poignant clarity and quiet devotion.