Saving Adam

by L. Smith

My name is Adam. I was trained to keep silent and still. As children around me played games, –I watched. As they studied and learned, –I colored pictures. I never knew my parents. I was told I had siblings, but I doubt they knew I existed. The Government became my parent as I bounced among foster homes. I figured this was a normal life. I was kept busy coloring pictures with crayons.

My physical needs were met but my soul ached for nourishment. At some point the normalcy I was born with began to ebb. My future was denied. I was figuratively chained and locked away from the world just as though I had been banished to a dungeon. The “retarded” label was placed upon me until I found the key to that dungeon, –or more accurately, the key found me.

63 pages, Paperback

First published March 22, 2001

Reviews

[Janell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring! At 12 years old, Adam has been in numerous foster homes. Labeled unteachable and unmanageable, he is to be sent to a mental institution where he will remain the rest of his life. While the State is making those arrangements, a family is asked to keep him just for the weekend. Convinced the assessments of his abilities are incorrect, the mother becomes determined to make him a part of their family.

This true story will bring tears to your eyes as you think about what might have been if this young man had not come into this home. The title of this book is definitely applicable. As part of this loving family (10 children - 5 natural and 5 adopted), he learns to read and write, eventually becoming an Eagle scout, graduating from high school and serving a mission for the LDS Church.

Years ago, one of Adam's sisters lived in our neighborhood and I heard both her and her father speak about this book. Recently acquiring my own copy, I reread this story and was reminded of the many miracles that happen even today. This book is very simply written, is a fast read (60 pages) and will be worth every moment of your time.

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband and I are getting licensed to start foster care so it was really nice to read this book. This is a short read but written very nicely, it got strait to the point and said exactly what needed to be said without being dry or boring. I really hoped the foster care system has changed since this poor boy was a child, from what I have learned so far it seems to have made a lot of progress but is still far from perfect for the kids who are in foster care. This is a VERY interesting well written book, I think everyone could benefit from reading this story.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I read it for a RS enrichment night a few years back...it is a true story about a mother who pretty much rescues a young boy from abuse and neglect he suffered in the foster care system. It is an amazing story that will make you cry! For our activity her husband and daughter came and read the book to us (it's not a long read). Another book that opened my eyes to the blessings I've been given.

[Ange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and excellent. It takes about 45 minutes to read. It is about a woman who adopts a boy no one else will take and love. And how they both changed each other's lives.

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story. Loved it like everyone else. Feel bad that anyone should be treated like he was.

[Fran · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was more of a short story. A great read!

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick 20 minute read and very touching! I loved this book. It is very inspirational. Grab a tissue.

[Marian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring. This story deserves to be told. I just wish there was more of it to read.

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

Poorly written. Two stars only because it yanks a bit at the heartstrings.