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Welcome Home
Welcome Home collects a number of adoption-themed fictional short stories, and brings them together in one anthology from a diverse range of celebrated Young Adult authors. The all-star roster includes Edgar-award winner Mindy McGinnis, New York Times bestselling authors C.J. Redwine (The Shadow Queen) and William Ritter (Jackaby), and acclaimed YA authors across all genres, like Adi Alsaid, Lauren Gibaldi, Sangu Mandanna, Karen Akins, and many more.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2017
11 people are currently reading
2066 people want to read
About the author
Eric Smith
21 books894 followersEric Smith is a Young Adult author and literary agent living in Philadelphia.
His next book, Jagged Little Pill: The Novel, a collaboration with Alanis Morissette, Diablo Cody, and Glen Ballard, will be published with Abrams in April 2022. It’s an adaptation of the Grammy and Tony award winning musical.
His latest books include You Can Go Your Own Way (Inkyard Press) and the acclaimed anthology Battle of the Bands (Candlewick), co-edited with award-winning author Lauren Gibaldi. It’s currently being adapted for film by Playground Entertainment.
His novel Don’t Read the Comments was a YALSA 2021 Best Fiction for Young Adults selection. The paperback is out now.
He has short stories and essays in the anthologies Color Outside the Lines by Sangu Mandanna (Soho Teen), Body Talk by Kelly Jensen (Algonquin), Allies by Dana Alison Levy and Shakirah Bourne (DK), All Signs Point to Yes by Candice Montgomery, cara davis-araux, and Adrianne Russell (Inkyard), and Adoptee to Adoptee by Nicole Chung and Shannon Gibney (Harper).
His other books include the IndieBound bestseller The Geek’s Guide to Dating (Quirk), Inked (Bloomsbury), the anthology Welcome Home (Flux), and contemporary fantasy novel The Girl and the Grove (Flux).
His next book, Jagged Little Pill: The Novel, a collaboration with Alanis Morissette, Diablo Cody, and Glen Ballard, will be published with Abrams in April 2022. It’s an adaptation of the Grammy and Tony award winning musical.
His latest books include You Can Go Your Own Way (Inkyard Press) and the acclaimed anthology Battle of the Bands (Candlewick), co-edited with award-winning author Lauren Gibaldi. It’s currently being adapted for film by Playground Entertainment.
His novel Don’t Read the Comments was a YALSA 2021 Best Fiction for Young Adults selection. The paperback is out now.
He has short stories and essays in the anthologies Color Outside the Lines by Sangu Mandanna (Soho Teen), Body Talk by Kelly Jensen (Algonquin), Allies by Dana Alison Levy and Shakirah Bourne (DK), All Signs Point to Yes by Candice Montgomery, cara davis-araux, and Adrianne Russell (Inkyard), and Adoptee to Adoptee by Nicole Chung and Shannon Gibney (Harper).
His other books include the IndieBound bestseller The Geek’s Guide to Dating (Quirk), Inked (Bloomsbury), the anthology Welcome Home (Flux), and contemporary fantasy novel The Girl and the Grove (Flux).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
November 28, 2017
This collection of short stories about adoption is outstanding. With each story written by a different author, your Want to Read list may grow exponentially (mine did.)
August 17, 2017
I liked the idea behind this collection more than I liked the collection. Short stories about adoption, all of them with happy endings? Yes please. But the execution let me down a little, I feel like most of the stories were rushed and ended abruptly. It was more of a glimpse into a story, then a story itself. There’s a lot of interesting glimpses into potentially beautiful stories, making me wish there was at least a little bit more.
What was absolutely enjoyable though was the abundance of different writing styles displayed. Each author brings something different to this anthology, therefore making it special.
I’m really torn between recommending this book or not, it all depends on what you enjoy in a book? If you want plot or character development, I’m sad to say that there isn’t enough material for that part to shine. If you’re a fan of writing styles, this one is the perfect book to enjoy that.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Actual rating: 3.5
What was absolutely enjoyable though was the abundance of different writing styles displayed. Each author brings something different to this anthology, therefore making it special.
I’m really torn between recommending this book or not, it all depends on what you enjoy in a book? If you want plot or character development, I’m sad to say that there isn’t enough material for that part to shine. If you’re a fan of writing styles, this one is the perfect book to enjoy that.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Actual rating: 3.5
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May 7, 2017Super excited to be part of such an important anthology.
October 14, 2020
This is a collection of YA, adoption-themed, fictional short stories, capturing a variety of experiences. Most of the authors have some kind of connection to adoption themselves, which adds to the realism of the stories (even those set in speculative universes.)
I heard about it on the Get Booked Podcast when someone asked for books on adoption that weren't simply instructional. This was a great pick!
I heard about it on the Get Booked Podcast when someone asked for books on adoption that weren't simply instructional. This was a great pick!
August 14, 2017
This was written with the intention of giving adopted kids stories of their own, which is a great idea, and I'm sure if I were adopted this might be easier to connect with. The problem is that all the stories are only around ten pages. Ten pages is just not enough to come up with a coherent plot and character development, no matter the talent of the author.
At some point I decided I didn't want to keep going with this; it was clear that though many were very talented, almost none of the authors were given appropriate pagetime. I'll be coming back to the other stories over time, but before I put this on hold, I did want to check out a few stories by authors I love. I know this means I may have missed a hidden gem or two, and trust me, I don't want to miss those. But I really can't go read and review this many stories right now. I'm sorry.
It seems that the best stories were left for last,
• Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old-Heart by Adi Alsaid: 2 stars. Meant to show the divide between adopted parents and kids, the concept and intent of this story were interesting. Unfortunately, this just felt really fake deep to me, and the romance was instalove 101.
• Strong Enough by Karin Atkins: 3 stars. Adopted superhero kid and very sweet. Unfortunately, it's only around five pages long. Boo.
• The Sign by Erica M. Chapman: 4 stars. Follows a girl who goes to meet her biological father, only to realize he's dying. This was really sad in a good way. Unfortunately, it was also really not long enough.
• Up By A Million by Caela Carter: 4 stars. This one follows a girl whose mother is in prison. It's heartbreaking in just the right way.
• Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore: 3 stars. A suspense story about a girl who loses her adoptive mother. This was fine. I just don't feel like it offered anything new, and the writing seemed slightly melodramatic.
• A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis: 4 stars. Slight magical realism!! Again, too short to have the full impact. But I liked this.
From here, I stopped reading fully and started reading stories exclusively from authors I've had interest in the past. I will come back to the others, don't worry!!
• Upon the Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna: 4 stars. I've never read anything by this author, but her books have always seemed intriguing to me, so I wanted to give this a try. This is a nice and creative story, maybe one of my favorites in the collection. The theme of trying to connect with your former family is well-done.
• Census Man by Mindy McGinnis: 4 stars. This follows a girl in foster care wishing for a family that wants her. McGinnis is a great writer, and this short story is no exception. Again, really too short to have much impact.
• Peace of Paper by Courtney C Stevens: 4.5 stars. This has one of the best sections in the entire book about how orphaned people are perceived. It's really emotionally in-touch. Definitely worth the read. I've never read any of Steven's books, but I'm interested, so we'll see how I do in the future.
• Happy Beginning by Nic Stone: This was the only story I gave 5 stars. Following best friends / girlfriends Jenna and Nyara, who has just run away from home. Ny is black and has been adopted by white parents, but doesn't feel at home with them. There's so much I loved about this. I read Stone's Dear Martin earlier this year and noticed that she's very good at getting emotion out of her readership. This book is told in second person in reverse chronological order, which was a creative choice I loved. And oh man, Jenna and Ny kinda killed me?? The purest, healthiest relationship. I can't believe Nic Stone saved 2017 with this ten-page story. I'll be in back crying.
• The Take-Back by Kate Watson: 4.5 stars. I wasn't actually planning to read this, but the opening grabbed me so I stuck with it. This follows a boy whose newly adopted sister has just been taken back by her mom. It's heartbreaking. And great. Go read it.
• Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright: 4 stars. This is a story about a foster cared girl wishing and getting the wrong results. I liked it. I felt that this ended on a slightly meh note, but I liked it a lot. I'll be reading Wright's debut 27 Hours this fall (it looks so cool!!) so this made me feel even more optimistic.
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At some point I decided I didn't want to keep going with this; it was clear that though many were very talented, almost none of the authors were given appropriate pagetime. I'll be coming back to the other stories over time, but before I put this on hold, I did want to check out a few stories by authors I love. I know this means I may have missed a hidden gem or two, and trust me, I don't want to miss those. But I really can't go read and review this many stories right now. I'm sorry.
It seems that the best stories were left for last,
• Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old-Heart by Adi Alsaid: 2 stars. Meant to show the divide between adopted parents and kids, the concept and intent of this story were interesting. Unfortunately, this just felt really fake deep to me, and the romance was instalove 101.
• Strong Enough by Karin Atkins: 3 stars. Adopted superhero kid and very sweet. Unfortunately, it's only around five pages long. Boo.
• The Sign by Erica M. Chapman: 4 stars. Follows a girl who goes to meet her biological father, only to realize he's dying. This was really sad in a good way. Unfortunately, it was also really not long enough.
• Up By A Million by Caela Carter: 4 stars. This one follows a girl whose mother is in prison. It's heartbreaking in just the right way.
• Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore: 3 stars. A suspense story about a girl who loses her adoptive mother. This was fine. I just don't feel like it offered anything new, and the writing seemed slightly melodramatic.
• A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis: 4 stars. Slight magical realism!! Again, too short to have the full impact. But I liked this.
From here, I stopped reading fully and started reading stories exclusively from authors I've had interest in the past. I will come back to the others, don't worry!!
• Upon the Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna: 4 stars. I've never read anything by this author, but her books have always seemed intriguing to me, so I wanted to give this a try. This is a nice and creative story, maybe one of my favorites in the collection. The theme of trying to connect with your former family is well-done.
• Census Man by Mindy McGinnis: 4 stars. This follows a girl in foster care wishing for a family that wants her. McGinnis is a great writer, and this short story is no exception. Again, really too short to have much impact.
• Peace of Paper by Courtney C Stevens: 4.5 stars. This has one of the best sections in the entire book about how orphaned people are perceived. It's really emotionally in-touch. Definitely worth the read. I've never read any of Steven's books, but I'm interested, so we'll see how I do in the future.
• Happy Beginning by Nic Stone: This was the only story I gave 5 stars. Following best friends / girlfriends Jenna and Nyara, who has just run away from home. Ny is black and has been adopted by white parents, but doesn't feel at home with them. There's so much I loved about this. I read Stone's Dear Martin earlier this year and noticed that she's very good at getting emotion out of her readership. This book is told in second person in reverse chronological order, which was a creative choice I loved. And oh man, Jenna and Ny kinda killed me?? The purest, healthiest relationship. I can't believe Nic Stone saved 2017 with this ten-page story. I'll be in back crying.
• The Take-Back by Kate Watson: 4.5 stars. I wasn't actually planning to read this, but the opening grabbed me so I stuck with it. This follows a boy whose newly adopted sister has just been taken back by her mom. It's heartbreaking. And great. Go read it.
• Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright: 4 stars. This is a story about a foster cared girl wishing and getting the wrong results. I liked it. I felt that this ended on a slightly meh note, but I liked it a lot. I'll be reading Wright's debut 27 Hours this fall (it looks so cool!!) so this made me feel even more optimistic.
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September 20, 2017
This was one of those anthologies I have talked about before where a publishing house (this time it was an agent) gets a couple of high profile authors to contribute stories to a themed anthology and then they fill the rest of the book with unknown, some even previously unpublished, writers. Collections like this are usually less than 50% good, and that would be okay if the publisher only charged $1.99, or even better, 99¢ for the ebook because they are basically promotional samplers. This ebook is $8.60! That's robbery.
The biggest problem I had with this book, besides the duds, was that it was apparent many of the stories were not originally about adoption, and they were made anthology "worthy" by adding something about adoption, or foster care, or making the MC an adoptee and then juggling the story around to make it fit.
A couple of the stories weren't even about adoption at all. I really liked the one by William Ritter, the author of the Jackaby books, but it wasn't about adoption. There was also one that should never have been tweaked to represent adoption because of a negative element, and another that should not have been included because of the negative slant to it.
Another thing was there were too many weak endings. My buddy reader mentioned this, too. I have a feeling many of those were chapters from full novels doctored up to read like a short story. Again, okay if the book is $1.99, not okay if it is almost $9.00.
∵
My favorite was Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens because I loved the realistic Contemporary writing style and it was a solid short story with a beginning, a middle, and an end. It was about how important it is to have family discussion and support when you are making a big life decision. I also really liked Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczotowski. It was about foster care and my aunt fostered children when I was growing up.
Others I liked a lot…
Tunneling Through ~ Shannon Parker
These Broken Stars ~ C.J. Redwine
A Kingdom Bright and Burning ~ Dave Cronnis
Webbed ~ Julie Esbaugh
These two were liked by both of us...
Invited ~ Lauren Morill
Upon the Horizon’s Verge ~ Sangu Mandanna
*Eight good stories out of twenty-eight garnered this anthology two stars from me. My buddy reading partner was kinder with three stars even though she only really liked four of the stories.
I was both sent a physical ARC unsolicited, and approved for an eARC via Netgalley, in return for an honest review.
The biggest problem I had with this book, besides the duds, was that it was apparent many of the stories were not originally about adoption, and they were made anthology "worthy" by adding something about adoption, or foster care, or making the MC an adoptee and then juggling the story around to make it fit.
A couple of the stories weren't even about adoption at all. I really liked the one by William Ritter, the author of the Jackaby books, but it wasn't about adoption. There was also one that should never have been tweaked to represent adoption because of a negative element, and another that should not have been included because of the negative slant to it.
Another thing was there were too many weak endings. My buddy reader mentioned this, too. I have a feeling many of those were chapters from full novels doctored up to read like a short story. Again, okay if the book is $1.99, not okay if it is almost $9.00.
∵
My favorite was Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens because I loved the realistic Contemporary writing style and it was a solid short story with a beginning, a middle, and an end. It was about how important it is to have family discussion and support when you are making a big life decision. I also really liked Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczotowski. It was about foster care and my aunt fostered children when I was growing up.
Others I liked a lot…
Tunneling Through ~ Shannon Parker
These Broken Stars ~ C.J. Redwine
A Kingdom Bright and Burning ~ Dave Cronnis
Webbed ~ Julie Esbaugh
These two were liked by both of us...
Invited ~ Lauren Morill
Upon the Horizon’s Verge ~ Sangu Mandanna
*Eight good stories out of twenty-eight garnered this anthology two stars from me. My buddy reading partner was kinder with three stars even though she only really liked four of the stories.
I was both sent a physical ARC unsolicited, and approved for an eARC via Netgalley, in return for an honest review.
July 25, 2017
A lot of strong, heatwarming stories in this adoption-centered anthology. I'm not a huge anthology person, so I gave it a 3.5 overall. Some stories were awesome, some were okay, didn't hate any of them. This anthology probably has the most authors I have ever seen in one anthology, so the stories were all pretty short, almost like flash fiction. Recommended for people who enjoy short story collections!
Welcome Home
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid - 4 stars
Well written but had instalove and a weird fantastical element that felt out of place at first. However, once I figured out what the author was going for I actually thought it was really sweet.
Strong Enough by Karen Akins - 4 stars
Awww this was extremely cute and well written. I loved the inclusion of superheroes. It's not really about adoption, though...
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman - 3.5 stars
This was about a girl going to meet her birthfather for the first time. The character voice instantly drew me in, but it felt kind of rushed and very quickly jumped into drama. It felt like it could have been a contemporary novel and the pacing felt too rushed for a short story.
Up A Million by Caela Carter - 4 stars
I really liked this one. It tells of a girl visiting her mom in prison and her guilt over doing well without her. The mother-daughter relationship was SO sweet.
Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore - 2 stars
This one was well written and had such a sweet father-adopted daughter relationship. It suddenly took an abrupt and extreme turn for the weird, and ended up being one of my least favorite.
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis - 3 stars
A story about a mute little boy in an orphanage that is told in alternating perspectives, as the little boy sees the world as a kingdom. Not my favorite - I've never been a fan of these sorts of stories where someone thinks they're in another world.
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helen Dunbar - 3.5 stars
I quite liked this one. It focused on adoption more than the others and I liked the way it handled it. Not very memorable, though.
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh - 3.5 stars
About an adopted girl who has webbed toes. A sweet story about a girl coming to terms with her adoption.
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi - 4 stars
About an actress in a Vampire Diaries type show who has to deal with the paparazzi outing her as adopted and her birth mom being sick. I actually really liked the characters and found it pretty cute.
Salvation by Shannon Gibney - 1.5 stars
A family adopts a boy who survived the earthquake in Haiti but there was also a weird subplot and they briefly mention dogfighting but make no effort to suggest that it's a bad thing which rubbed me the wrong way. There was pretty much no resolution either.
27-Days by Jenny Kaczorowski - 4 stars
Follows a girl going to a foster home and connecting with the girl next door. This was incredibly sweet and well written with an emphasis on female friendship.
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung - 3 stars
A fantastical legend about a girl taken to a monster when her mother doesn't want her and becomes a Fae changing, but actually a story about mental illness??? I dunno, kind of confusing and ended super abruptly, though I did really like the writing.
Upon the Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna - 4 stars
About a pregnant teen girl deciding if she should give up her baby for adoption. It was suuuuper sweet and heartwarming and then had a really weird twist (actually a lot of these stories have weird twists which kind of surprises me that so many author decided to take on so much in such a small short stories).
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin - 3 stars
Kind of sci-fi story. It was fine. I liked the bit about dreaming of finding out there was some magical reason you were given up.
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis - 3.5 stars
A historical fiction (I think) story. I quite liked the main character and writing, though it ended very abruptly.
Invited by Lauren Morrill - 4 stars
About a woman going to visit her birth daughter. I loved the themes and writing.
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins - 3.5 stars
Told in interview and photography format. It was pretty good.
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls - 4.5 stars
About an adopted girl who gets a family tree assignment. Awesome writing - snarky first person. She hasn't published any books but I would definitely read one by her!
Tunneling Through by Shannon Parker - 4.5 stars
About an adopted child coming out as transgender. Very well done. Another person who hasn't published a book that I would love to read from! And her bio says she rescues dogs :)
These Broken Stars by CJ Redwine - 3 stars
Lol that's the title of a pretty popular book series... Fine, pretty unremarkable.
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay - 4 stars
Definitely well written and focused on the theme of adoption. Another one that ended abruptly.
Deeply by William Ritter - 3 stars
A very young narrator and cliché bullies. It got suuuuuper weird lol
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott - 4.5 stars
A girl looks for her friend who left and she couldn't get in contact with. I really liked this one in terms of writing and a female friendship.
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel - 4.75?
Probably my favorite—I actually might check out more from this author. This was kind of a thriller but really explored adoption as well. She was able to great distinct characters almost instantly and the story completely sucked me in. I mean, she was able to create tension so quickly!
In Pieces by Eric Smith - 3 stars
Another sci-fi one that failed to grab my attention. Extremely short. I think this subject fits better with contemporary.
Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens - 3.5 stars
I know this is a well-loved author but this is the only thing I've read of hers. Well written and readable, didn't totally grab me.
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone - 4 stars
An emotional, sweet romantic story, I believe the only one with an LGBT romance. Excited to check out more from this author in the future!
The Take-Back by Kate Watson - 4 stars
About a boy coping with the aftermath of his family adopting a baby and the birth mom taking her back. Emotional and well written (can we count how many times I've said well written so far lol).
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright - 4 stars
Another really sweet story featuring a female friendship! I liked the writing and theme of wishes.
Welcome Home
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid - 4 stars
Well written but had instalove and a weird fantastical element that felt out of place at first. However, once I figured out what the author was going for I actually thought it was really sweet.
Strong Enough by Karen Akins - 4 stars
Awww this was extremely cute and well written. I loved the inclusion of superheroes. It's not really about adoption, though...
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman - 3.5 stars
This was about a girl going to meet her birthfather for the first time. The character voice instantly drew me in, but it felt kind of rushed and very quickly jumped into drama. It felt like it could have been a contemporary novel and the pacing felt too rushed for a short story.
Up A Million by Caela Carter - 4 stars
I really liked this one. It tells of a girl visiting her mom in prison and her guilt over doing well without her. The mother-daughter relationship was SO sweet.
Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore - 2 stars
This one was well written and had such a sweet father-adopted daughter relationship. It suddenly took an abrupt and extreme turn for the weird, and ended up being one of my least favorite.
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis - 3 stars
A story about a mute little boy in an orphanage that is told in alternating perspectives, as the little boy sees the world as a kingdom. Not my favorite - I've never been a fan of these sorts of stories where someone thinks they're in another world.
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helen Dunbar - 3.5 stars
I quite liked this one. It focused on adoption more than the others and I liked the way it handled it. Not very memorable, though.
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh - 3.5 stars
About an adopted girl who has webbed toes. A sweet story about a girl coming to terms with her adoption.
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi - 4 stars
About an actress in a Vampire Diaries type show who has to deal with the paparazzi outing her as adopted and her birth mom being sick. I actually really liked the characters and found it pretty cute.
Salvation by Shannon Gibney - 1.5 stars
A family adopts a boy who survived the earthquake in Haiti but there was also a weird subplot and they briefly mention dogfighting but make no effort to suggest that it's a bad thing which rubbed me the wrong way. There was pretty much no resolution either.
27-Days by Jenny Kaczorowski - 4 stars
Follows a girl going to a foster home and connecting with the girl next door. This was incredibly sweet and well written with an emphasis on female friendship.
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung - 3 stars
A fantastical legend about a girl taken to a monster when her mother doesn't want her and becomes a Fae changing, but actually a story about mental illness??? I dunno, kind of confusing and ended super abruptly, though I did really like the writing.
Upon the Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna - 4 stars
About a pregnant teen girl deciding if she should give up her baby for adoption. It was suuuuper sweet and heartwarming and then had a really weird twist (actually a lot of these stories have weird twists which kind of surprises me that so many author decided to take on so much in such a small short stories).
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin - 3 stars
Kind of sci-fi story. It was fine. I liked the bit about dreaming of finding out there was some magical reason you were given up.
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis - 3.5 stars
A historical fiction (I think) story. I quite liked the main character and writing, though it ended very abruptly.
Invited by Lauren Morrill - 4 stars
About a woman going to visit her birth daughter. I loved the themes and writing.
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins - 3.5 stars
Told in interview and photography format. It was pretty good.
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls - 4.5 stars
About an adopted girl who gets a family tree assignment. Awesome writing - snarky first person. She hasn't published any books but I would definitely read one by her!
Tunneling Through by Shannon Parker - 4.5 stars
About an adopted child coming out as transgender. Very well done. Another person who hasn't published a book that I would love to read from! And her bio says she rescues dogs :)
These Broken Stars by CJ Redwine - 3 stars
Lol that's the title of a pretty popular book series... Fine, pretty unremarkable.
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay - 4 stars
Definitely well written and focused on the theme of adoption. Another one that ended abruptly.
Deeply by William Ritter - 3 stars
A very young narrator and cliché bullies. It got suuuuuper weird lol
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott - 4.5 stars
A girl looks for her friend who left and she couldn't get in contact with. I really liked this one in terms of writing and a female friendship.
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel - 4.75?
Probably my favorite—I actually might check out more from this author. This was kind of a thriller but really explored adoption as well. She was able to great distinct characters almost instantly and the story completely sucked me in. I mean, she was able to create tension so quickly!
In Pieces by Eric Smith - 3 stars
Another sci-fi one that failed to grab my attention. Extremely short. I think this subject fits better with contemporary.
Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens - 3.5 stars
I know this is a well-loved author but this is the only thing I've read of hers. Well written and readable, didn't totally grab me.
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone - 4 stars
An emotional, sweet romantic story, I believe the only one with an LGBT romance. Excited to check out more from this author in the future!
The Take-Back by Kate Watson - 4 stars
About a boy coping with the aftermath of his family adopting a baby and the birth mom taking her back. Emotional and well written (can we count how many times I've said well written so far lol).
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright - 4 stars
Another really sweet story featuring a female friendship! I liked the writing and theme of wishes.
August 8, 2017
I am so excited to be a part of this! Can't wait to hold it in my hands.
September 10, 2017
Individual Thoughts On The Stories:
1- Carlos and The Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid. 4/5 stars
This was one of the stories that I remember the most. Maybe it is because it was the first one I read, the first one that introduced me to the anthology, or maybe because the elements of this first short tale surprised me a lot. I don’t want to give anything about this one away, though.
All I’m going to say about Adi Alsaid’s short story was that I really liked it. The narration was soothing and it flowed well, and there were unexpected things about the main character and his family that made this very original and unique for me.
2- Strong Enough by Karen Akins. 3/5 stars
Strong Enough was shorter, even more than all of these stories already are. It was definitely underdeveloped like most of the other titles in this anthology, but it was still an interesting glance at a new setting and main character. I like that, even though some of the stories should have gotten or would have done much better with some expansion, they were still fun to read because they went fast and different in some aspects of their environments and protagonists.
3- The Sign by Erica M. Chapman. 4/5 stars
I loved the sign because of the family dynamics and message this one left. I was a bit confused about the plot and backstory of the main character, which was why I took a whole star off. I didn’t quite understand who her biological parent and sister were and why they had ended up going separate ways as they had.
Again, this could have been better explained if the story had been longer.
4- Up by a Million by Caela Carter. 5/5 stars
This one follows a girl whose mother is in prison, and it was probably one of my favorites. It was unique and heartbreaking. I loved everything about this one except for the fact that I would prefer this much more if it was a full novel. There is still SO MUCH that can be told and that I would be glad to read!
5- Mama’s Eyes by Libby Cudmore. 5/5 stars
This is also fighting for the first place with Up by a Million because it was FANTASTIC. There are a couple of 5 stars throughout this Anthology, and Mama’s Eyes is one of them! It was one of the most thrilling and exciting stories and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly enjoyed this one and I can’t wait for more people to read it.
6- A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis. 3/5 stars
What I liked about this one was the message it conveyed at the end and the WAY the author designed this story to transmit it. Since I was constantly jumping from one new story and setting to another, I sometimes had a hard time understanding the context. At the start of A Kingdom Bright and Burning, I was slightly confused but then the whole idea and structure started making sense to me. It did not blow me away in any sense, and it did not impact me as greatly as it should have because it was such a great idea. It was kind of magical realism and that excited me a lot. Because of its originality, I gave it 3/5 stars.
7- The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar. 4.5/5 stars
8- Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh. 3.5/5 stars
This “mermaid" tale was very beautiful. I liked the main character’s love for the water and the ocean. I enjoyed it, but it was way too short for me to get really invested in it.
9- Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi. 4.5/5 stars
I thought this would be a vampire, paranormal story! It was so good and so fun. This is another one that I had a great time with.
10- Salvation by Shannon Gibney. 4.5/5 stars
11- Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski. 4/5 stars
Some stories are about the lost children trying to find their way. Some of the characters in this anthology are alone at first sight but have an entire family of people that will care for them always. This story is about friendship and it was touching. It needed more development and a couple more pages, still.
12- Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung. 2.5/5 stars
13- Upon the Horizon’s Verge by Sangu Mandanna. 5/5 stars
Another fantastic story that kept me wanting to read! I was at the edge of my seat because the concept was great and everything was executed flawlessly. It touches upon that feeling of wanting to connect and meet your biological family. It amazes me that in 10 pages all of the things this particular story encompasses were transmitted in such an impactful way. I loved this story too and I think that it will be a favorite for other readers.
14- Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin. 4/5 stars
This was the science fiction-type short story that I mentioned before. It was one of the most creative stories of all.
15- Census by Mindy McGinnis. 2.5/5 stars
I love Mindy McGinnis and I decided to request this ARC because she participated in it. Her writing style was great as always, but it was way too short a story for it to impact me in any important way. I did not feel very affected nor touched by this one, unfortunately, and I was a bit disappointed.
16- Invited by Lauren Morrill. 4/5 stars
"Invited" was about a teenage mom that gave her daughter for adoption, but who is welcome to participate in the child’s life. It is another story about connecting to former family, but this time it is more centered on the point of view of the mother.
17- Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins. 3/5 stars
This was about a blogger who observes mother-daughter relationships and takes photographs of them. She does interviews and expresses herself freely in this safe place of hers on the internet.
18- A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls. 3/5 stars
I had fun reading this. I enjoyed the main character’s humor and sarcasm.
“As I sit in biology class studying the paper on my desk in front of me, I can’t help but be darkly amused by the sight of an illustration of a healthy, vibrant tree… printed on a sheet of dead tree."
19- Tunneling Through by Shannon Parker. 4/5 stars
20- These Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine. 2.5/5 stars
This story was set in the past, and it was very short. I honestly didn’t get much from it and it was MEH for me.
21- The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay. 3/5 stars
Jumping from one story to another made it hard sometimes to understand context, as I already said. I had many missteps because I often got confused with the gender of the main character. There was so much diversity in this anthology that it happened to me often, and maybe even if a guy was apparently hitting o another one, I then assumed the main character or the flirter must be gay. Well no, the protagonist of The Snow-Covered Sidewalk was a girl and I laughed out loud when I heard her being called by her name and realized she was female.
It was a fun story.
22- Deeply by William Ritter. 4/5 stars
WEIRD but very funny. And creepy. Monster biological fathers are awesome.
23- Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott. 4/5 stars
This was about a best friend disappearing all of a sudden, and the protagonist is left behind heartbroken and determined to know what happened. I enjoyed it a lot.
24- Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel. 5/5 stars
I NEED A FULL NOVEL about this concept! The characters, the family dynamics, everything that was discussed about adoption and brotherhood was fantastic in this short story. I didn’t want to put the book down while reading it and it was a THRILLING ride. I am astounded by how well developed the history of this family and the plot twists were written, and in such a small amount of pages.
I applaud this author because she made me feel extremely engaged in a short tale consisting of no more than 12 pages. What most of the different stories in this anthology failed to do was expand sufficiently enough on the characters for me to feel attached to them and interested in their whole stories.
The author managed it in this one, and that was why it was one of my favorites!
25- In Pieces by Eric Smith. 4/5 stars
Short and sweet but also effective. This was a futuristic story and very imaginative.
26- Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens. 4/5 stars
WONDERFUL short story by Courtney C.Stevens! Her name sounded familiar to me, but it took a google search for me to find that she is the author of Faking Normal and Dress Codes for Small Towns, a book I am HIGHLY anticipating reading! It was amazing and it made me all the more excited to read her books soon!
27- Happy Beginnings by Nic Stone. 3.5/5 stars
28- The Take Back by Kate Watson. 4/5 stars
This is about a boy whose family has just adopted a baby sister, but who is forced to give her back because the biological mother has decided to keep her. It is absolutely heartbreaking and it made me really sad. But it was great so you should definitely read it. Love oozes out of this story.
29- Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright. 4/5 stars
This is about a foster girl who wishes on other people’s wishes and hopes to be loved by the perfect family. It was cool and enjoyable, but it was not the best story to end this anthology. However, I did realize afterward that the order was chosen because of the authors’ last names, but it was not the greatest story to wrap the book. It felt like a lacking finale.
Top Favorite Stories:
Up by a Million
Mama's Eyes
Upon the Horizon's Verge
Moving the Body
Peace of Paper
Overall Thoughts:
I had the idea that all of these stories would be 100% contemporary and set in the real world, but some here and there had some magical or unusual elements, and some were even science fiction. I loved this happening because I honestly never knew what would come next.
The characters were all very diverse and representation was on point, in my opinion. There were characters from all ethnicities and even a transgender protagonist. The different plots and situations never ceased to surprise me because they were all very diverse and different in their own way.
But one of the problems I had was the recurring “family tree” theme included in many of the stories, despite the fact that it appearing in many adopted children’s minds at some point is understandable. Still, this made me feel that some stories all talked about the same thing when viewing adoption from the kid’s point of view. It irked me to have seen the tree so many times.
Another of my struggles was that all of the stories were SO SHORT! Almost everything needed more development and the reason why I didn’t enjoy or feel connected to most characters as I should have been was that they needed to be expanded further on!
These were 29 short stories had unique plots and ideas, but since they were so many and so small, they didn’t all deliver as efficiently as they were set to. Most didn’t feel as if they were intended to really impact me. They started quick and finished in a flash. This made it extremely hard for me to remember things about the book without checking it constantly.
The titles while writing this post didn’t ring any bells, so I couldn’t remember what they were about. To prevent this, I had made a screenshot of the first page of every short story, but even re-reading it sometimes didn’t work. It proved that their size and lack of punch stopped me from remembering them at all. Some few stood out on my mind without having to go through them again, but they were a reduced amount.
I would still recommend you check out this book if you want some short (really short), diverse and important stories, all unique and creative in different ways. From narration to writing style and characters, each short story did give me something special, and most conveyed messages worth reading about.
Because of the flaws that I found in this anthology, I decided to give it over all 3 stars. Many of the stories in it deserve to have a spotlight and a much higher rating, so that was why I reviewed each individually as well.
A Welcome Home Booksih Playlist can found on the original blog post.
1- Carlos and The Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid. 4/5 stars
This was one of the stories that I remember the most. Maybe it is because it was the first one I read, the first one that introduced me to the anthology, or maybe because the elements of this first short tale surprised me a lot. I don’t want to give anything about this one away, though.
All I’m going to say about Adi Alsaid’s short story was that I really liked it. The narration was soothing and it flowed well, and there were unexpected things about the main character and his family that made this very original and unique for me.
2- Strong Enough by Karen Akins. 3/5 stars
Strong Enough was shorter, even more than all of these stories already are. It was definitely underdeveloped like most of the other titles in this anthology, but it was still an interesting glance at a new setting and main character. I like that, even though some of the stories should have gotten or would have done much better with some expansion, they were still fun to read because they went fast and different in some aspects of their environments and protagonists.
3- The Sign by Erica M. Chapman. 4/5 stars
I loved the sign because of the family dynamics and message this one left. I was a bit confused about the plot and backstory of the main character, which was why I took a whole star off. I didn’t quite understand who her biological parent and sister were and why they had ended up going separate ways as they had.
Again, this could have been better explained if the story had been longer.
4- Up by a Million by Caela Carter. 5/5 stars
This one follows a girl whose mother is in prison, and it was probably one of my favorites. It was unique and heartbreaking. I loved everything about this one except for the fact that I would prefer this much more if it was a full novel. There is still SO MUCH that can be told and that I would be glad to read!
5- Mama’s Eyes by Libby Cudmore. 5/5 stars
This is also fighting for the first place with Up by a Million because it was FANTASTIC. There are a couple of 5 stars throughout this Anthology, and Mama’s Eyes is one of them! It was one of the most thrilling and exciting stories and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly enjoyed this one and I can’t wait for more people to read it.
6- A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis. 3/5 stars
What I liked about this one was the message it conveyed at the end and the WAY the author designed this story to transmit it. Since I was constantly jumping from one new story and setting to another, I sometimes had a hard time understanding the context. At the start of A Kingdom Bright and Burning, I was slightly confused but then the whole idea and structure started making sense to me. It did not blow me away in any sense, and it did not impact me as greatly as it should have because it was such a great idea. It was kind of magical realism and that excited me a lot. Because of its originality, I gave it 3/5 stars.
7- The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar. 4.5/5 stars
8- Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh. 3.5/5 stars
This “mermaid" tale was very beautiful. I liked the main character’s love for the water and the ocean. I enjoyed it, but it was way too short for me to get really invested in it.
9- Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi. 4.5/5 stars
I thought this would be a vampire, paranormal story! It was so good and so fun. This is another one that I had a great time with.
10- Salvation by Shannon Gibney. 4.5/5 stars
11- Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski. 4/5 stars
Some stories are about the lost children trying to find their way. Some of the characters in this anthology are alone at first sight but have an entire family of people that will care for them always. This story is about friendship and it was touching. It needed more development and a couple more pages, still.
12- Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung. 2.5/5 stars
13- Upon the Horizon’s Verge by Sangu Mandanna. 5/5 stars
Another fantastic story that kept me wanting to read! I was at the edge of my seat because the concept was great and everything was executed flawlessly. It touches upon that feeling of wanting to connect and meet your biological family. It amazes me that in 10 pages all of the things this particular story encompasses were transmitted in such an impactful way. I loved this story too and I think that it will be a favorite for other readers.
14- Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin. 4/5 stars
This was the science fiction-type short story that I mentioned before. It was one of the most creative stories of all.
15- Census by Mindy McGinnis. 2.5/5 stars
I love Mindy McGinnis and I decided to request this ARC because she participated in it. Her writing style was great as always, but it was way too short a story for it to impact me in any important way. I did not feel very affected nor touched by this one, unfortunately, and I was a bit disappointed.
16- Invited by Lauren Morrill. 4/5 stars
"Invited" was about a teenage mom that gave her daughter for adoption, but who is welcome to participate in the child’s life. It is another story about connecting to former family, but this time it is more centered on the point of view of the mother.
17- Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins. 3/5 stars
This was about a blogger who observes mother-daughter relationships and takes photographs of them. She does interviews and expresses herself freely in this safe place of hers on the internet.
18- A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls. 3/5 stars
I had fun reading this. I enjoyed the main character’s humor and sarcasm.
“As I sit in biology class studying the paper on my desk in front of me, I can’t help but be darkly amused by the sight of an illustration of a healthy, vibrant tree… printed on a sheet of dead tree."
19- Tunneling Through by Shannon Parker. 4/5 stars
20- These Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine. 2.5/5 stars
This story was set in the past, and it was very short. I honestly didn’t get much from it and it was MEH for me.
21- The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay. 3/5 stars
Jumping from one story to another made it hard sometimes to understand context, as I already said. I had many missteps because I often got confused with the gender of the main character. There was so much diversity in this anthology that it happened to me often, and maybe even if a guy was apparently hitting o another one, I then assumed the main character or the flirter must be gay. Well no, the protagonist of The Snow-Covered Sidewalk was a girl and I laughed out loud when I heard her being called by her name and realized she was female.
It was a fun story.
22- Deeply by William Ritter. 4/5 stars
WEIRD but very funny. And creepy. Monster biological fathers are awesome.
23- Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott. 4/5 stars
This was about a best friend disappearing all of a sudden, and the protagonist is left behind heartbroken and determined to know what happened. I enjoyed it a lot.
24- Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel. 5/5 stars
I NEED A FULL NOVEL about this concept! The characters, the family dynamics, everything that was discussed about adoption and brotherhood was fantastic in this short story. I didn’t want to put the book down while reading it and it was a THRILLING ride. I am astounded by how well developed the history of this family and the plot twists were written, and in such a small amount of pages.
I applaud this author because she made me feel extremely engaged in a short tale consisting of no more than 12 pages. What most of the different stories in this anthology failed to do was expand sufficiently enough on the characters for me to feel attached to them and interested in their whole stories.
The author managed it in this one, and that was why it was one of my favorites!
25- In Pieces by Eric Smith. 4/5 stars
Short and sweet but also effective. This was a futuristic story and very imaginative.
26- Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens. 4/5 stars
WONDERFUL short story by Courtney C.Stevens! Her name sounded familiar to me, but it took a google search for me to find that she is the author of Faking Normal and Dress Codes for Small Towns, a book I am HIGHLY anticipating reading! It was amazing and it made me all the more excited to read her books soon!
27- Happy Beginnings by Nic Stone. 3.5/5 stars
28- The Take Back by Kate Watson. 4/5 stars
This is about a boy whose family has just adopted a baby sister, but who is forced to give her back because the biological mother has decided to keep her. It is absolutely heartbreaking and it made me really sad. But it was great so you should definitely read it. Love oozes out of this story.
29- Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright. 4/5 stars
This is about a foster girl who wishes on other people’s wishes and hopes to be loved by the perfect family. It was cool and enjoyable, but it was not the best story to end this anthology. However, I did realize afterward that the order was chosen because of the authors’ last names, but it was not the greatest story to wrap the book. It felt like a lacking finale.
Top Favorite Stories:
Up by a Million
Mama's Eyes
Upon the Horizon's Verge
Moving the Body
Peace of Paper
Overall Thoughts:
I had the idea that all of these stories would be 100% contemporary and set in the real world, but some here and there had some magical or unusual elements, and some were even science fiction. I loved this happening because I honestly never knew what would come next.
The characters were all very diverse and representation was on point, in my opinion. There were characters from all ethnicities and even a transgender protagonist. The different plots and situations never ceased to surprise me because they were all very diverse and different in their own way.
But one of the problems I had was the recurring “family tree” theme included in many of the stories, despite the fact that it appearing in many adopted children’s minds at some point is understandable. Still, this made me feel that some stories all talked about the same thing when viewing adoption from the kid’s point of view. It irked me to have seen the tree so many times.
Another of my struggles was that all of the stories were SO SHORT! Almost everything needed more development and the reason why I didn’t enjoy or feel connected to most characters as I should have been was that they needed to be expanded further on!
These were 29 short stories had unique plots and ideas, but since they were so many and so small, they didn’t all deliver as efficiently as they were set to. Most didn’t feel as if they were intended to really impact me. They started quick and finished in a flash. This made it extremely hard for me to remember things about the book without checking it constantly.
The titles while writing this post didn’t ring any bells, so I couldn’t remember what they were about. To prevent this, I had made a screenshot of the first page of every short story, but even re-reading it sometimes didn’t work. It proved that their size and lack of punch stopped me from remembering them at all. Some few stood out on my mind without having to go through them again, but they were a reduced amount.
I would still recommend you check out this book if you want some short (really short), diverse and important stories, all unique and creative in different ways. From narration to writing style and characters, each short story did give me something special, and most conveyed messages worth reading about.
Because of the flaws that I found in this anthology, I decided to give it over all 3 stars. Many of the stories in it deserve to have a spotlight and a much higher rating, so that was why I reviewed each individually as well.
A Welcome Home Booksih Playlist can found on the original blog post.
December 14, 2017
3.5 stars
I do have ratings for each individual story which I will add later (if I remember). Overall I enjoyed this anthology. I have no experience with any kind of adoption process but I really hope these stories can help others, who might have been through similar things, feel heard.
Some of the stories are really short and I personally didn't get a lot out of a few but there are definitely some goodies in there.
I do have ratings for each individual story which I will add later (if I remember). Overall I enjoyed this anthology. I have no experience with any kind of adoption process but I really hope these stories can help others, who might have been through similar things, feel heard.
Some of the stories are really short and I personally didn't get a lot out of a few but there are definitely some goodies in there.
April 1, 2017
OhMyHeart...this book should come with a pallet (not a box) of tissues.
My Top 5 (in no particular order)
The Take Back
Peace of Paper
Up By A Million
These Broken Stars
Ink Drips Black
Read it.
My Top 5 (in no particular order)
The Take Back
Peace of Paper
Up By A Million
These Broken Stars
Ink Drips Black
Read it.
October 9, 2017
A mixed bag, but there are some goodies in it.
I received an ecopy of this through netgalley; however all opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this through netgalley; however all opinions are my own.
did-not-finish
September 16, 2017Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid was eh. I think I got what he was going for, but it just didn't click well for me. (2 stars)
Strong Enough by Karen Atkins twisted the topic of adoption through a superhero storyline. So that was interesting, but I wish it'd been longer. I know it's an anthology and these are supposed to be short, but it really didn't feel like, well, enough. Also, if you took out the fact that the MC was adopted by non-supers, it would not be in this collection, so there's that. (3 stars)
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman had more focus on adoption and the complicated feelings that can come from wanting to make contact with your birth parents. I think she did well showing that, but it went in a direction I wasn't expecting, and I don't know how to feel about it. But I was pleasantly surprised with the story on a whole. (3.5 stars)
These stories just aren't doing much for me, so I'm gonna skip around to authors I love/know, or those I want to try, and talk about theirs afterward!
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar was one I wanted to read because I really liked her book, What Remains, but I just didn't feel anything for this story. It was about a boy who wasn't sure if he wanted answers to his questions regarding his birth parents/early life or not. Not much went on in it. (2.5 stars)
Webbed by Julie Esbaugh was interesting. I'm not sure I totally get the ending (I mean, I understood her letting go, but not the castle-under-the-water part, like was it real??? Or just made up??? Confused). I kind of wish it HAD been more fantastical, as I thought that was what the author was setting up for. So this disappointed me, but I did like it. (3 stars)
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi was kind of eh. It was a lot of dialogue over introspection, more telling than showing. I did find it cool that Tally is a star on a vampire TV show, and unique in that her being a celebrity was a big aspect of how her birth mom coming back into her life is handled. And how very messy families and parents can be. But I just didn't really care for this one. (2.5 stars)
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis felt so different from the first few I read, because I think it was historically set? It was about a little girl in an orphanage who was waiting to be adopted, who hadn't had the best life but who still had hope that she'd find people who want her. I liked it; her writing is always enjoyable. And I thought it was neat that it was inspired by Mindy's grandmother's early life. (3 stars)
Invited by Lauren Morrill was very middle for me. I think this could have been better if it'd been longer, because I really wanted more from Corey's character. She gave up Ella for adoption, which is SO HUGE, but you don't really get to see the impact it's had on her. She talks about it a little bit with one of Ella's dads, but that's it. So it being a short story just didn't have that almost necessary aspect? It wasn't bad, though! (3 stars)
In Pieces by Eric Smith was SO. CONFUSING. I feel like I got dropped in the middle of an ongoing series. Like, the main character, Arcas, is going to meet his birth parents? In the future? He's teleporting to them? idk, the sci-fi aspect completely derailed the story for me, and there was too much of it for me to get a sense of who Arcas is and what he's feeling. This would have been better as a longer book. (2 stars)
Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens was really good! I didn't have much doubt given the love I have for her novel, Faking Normal. She just GETS life and teens and I found this so refreshing. This went in a direction I was NOT expecting (and it almost lost me because I wasn't getting the point of the story for so long), but one that I thoroughly loved. And I loved the message that everyone is worthy. (4 stars)
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone was good too! Though a bit bittersweet, I really enjoyed it. It was about Nyara, but told through the POV of Jenna, like she's telling Ny all of this. And I liked that setup. I also really liked how the author tackled the complications of adoption (even when the adoptive parents are so kind and loving), especially with Ny who is black and Mr. and Mrs. J who are white, which makes it harder for her. This makes me even more excited for Nic's debut! (3.5 stars)
So, I read more of the stories than I thought I would. But I'm not interested in reading more, sadly. I think this type of anthology is needed, for sure. Adoption is very underrepresented (and misrepresented) in books. And some of these were REALLY good! But I think there are just too many authors here, and the stories are SO short, that there's not enough time to truly appreciate them all. I love the theme and how diverse the anthology is, but I'm sad that this just didn't work for me overall. :(
Strong Enough by Karen Atkins twisted the topic of adoption through a superhero storyline. So that was interesting, but I wish it'd been longer. I know it's an anthology and these are supposed to be short, but it really didn't feel like, well, enough. Also, if you took out the fact that the MC was adopted by non-supers, it would not be in this collection, so there's that. (3 stars)
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman had more focus on adoption and the complicated feelings that can come from wanting to make contact with your birth parents. I think she did well showing that, but it went in a direction I wasn't expecting, and I don't know how to feel about it. But I was pleasantly surprised with the story on a whole. (3.5 stars)
These stories just aren't doing much for me, so I'm gonna skip around to authors I love/know, or those I want to try, and talk about theirs afterward!
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar was one I wanted to read because I really liked her book, What Remains, but I just didn't feel anything for this story. It was about a boy who wasn't sure if he wanted answers to his questions regarding his birth parents/early life or not. Not much went on in it. (2.5 stars)
Webbed by Julie Esbaugh was interesting. I'm not sure I totally get the ending (I mean, I understood her letting go, but not the castle-under-the-water part, like was it real??? Or just made up??? Confused). I kind of wish it HAD been more fantastical, as I thought that was what the author was setting up for. So this disappointed me, but I did like it. (3 stars)
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi was kind of eh. It was a lot of dialogue over introspection, more telling than showing. I did find it cool that Tally is a star on a vampire TV show, and unique in that her being a celebrity was a big aspect of how her birth mom coming back into her life is handled. And how very messy families and parents can be. But I just didn't really care for this one. (2.5 stars)
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis felt so different from the first few I read, because I think it was historically set? It was about a little girl in an orphanage who was waiting to be adopted, who hadn't had the best life but who still had hope that she'd find people who want her. I liked it; her writing is always enjoyable. And I thought it was neat that it was inspired by Mindy's grandmother's early life. (3 stars)
Invited by Lauren Morrill was very middle for me. I think this could have been better if it'd been longer, because I really wanted more from Corey's character. She gave up Ella for adoption, which is SO HUGE, but you don't really get to see the impact it's had on her. She talks about it a little bit with one of Ella's dads, but that's it. So it being a short story just didn't have that almost necessary aspect? It wasn't bad, though! (3 stars)
In Pieces by Eric Smith was SO. CONFUSING. I feel like I got dropped in the middle of an ongoing series. Like, the main character, Arcas, is going to meet his birth parents? In the future? He's teleporting to them? idk, the sci-fi aspect completely derailed the story for me, and there was too much of it for me to get a sense of who Arcas is and what he's feeling. This would have been better as a longer book. (2 stars)
Peace of Paper by Courtney C. Stevens was really good! I didn't have much doubt given the love I have for her novel, Faking Normal. She just GETS life and teens and I found this so refreshing. This went in a direction I was NOT expecting (and it almost lost me because I wasn't getting the point of the story for so long), but one that I thoroughly loved. And I loved the message that everyone is worthy. (4 stars)
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone was good too! Though a bit bittersweet, I really enjoyed it. It was about Nyara, but told through the POV of Jenna, like she's telling Ny all of this. And I liked that setup. I also really liked how the author tackled the complications of adoption (even when the adoptive parents are so kind and loving), especially with Ny who is black and Mr. and Mrs. J who are white, which makes it harder for her. This makes me even more excited for Nic's debut! (3.5 stars)
So, I read more of the stories than I thought I would. But I'm not interested in reading more, sadly. I think this type of anthology is needed, for sure. Adoption is very underrepresented (and misrepresented) in books. And some of these were REALLY good! But I think there are just too many authors here, and the stories are SO short, that there's not enough time to truly appreciate them all. I love the theme and how diverse the anthology is, but I'm sad that this just didn't work for me overall. :(
May 25, 2017
Gripping my heart and holding it until the final page, I cried, I laughed, and stayed up late reading the many stories in this anthology. Home comes in many sizes and colors, and it’s the characters and the love they share that make the many stories of this anthology real. I have personal experience with adoption. My daughter came to me fresh out of eighth grade from a troubled home. She’s become so much a part of my life that it feels like she’s always been here. The many genres of stories in this anthology touch on various kinds of families brought together by love not blood. It shows us that not all adoptions are the same, not every situation is perfect, but love can bring hope and ease pain. There were moments of joy and laughter mixed in with tears. I connected to so many characters and wanted to read more of their stories. I can’t wait to share this book with my daughter!
May 3, 2020
4.5 stars
E-arc provided by Netgalley.
Like all anthologies this was a mixed bag of ones I loved, some meh ones, and some I truly hated. But I loved more by far than I hated or even felt meh about, and even if that wasn't the case the ones I love were just so good that I still would have given this a high rating. It may just be because I'm adopted (adopted by my father) but so many of these stories actually brought tears to my eyes and just punched me in the heart. I loved that we had stories with multiple adoptees, transracial adoptees, and even one story that featured a birth mother. The only thing I could have asked for was a story with step-parent adoption.
E-arc provided by Netgalley.
Like all anthologies this was a mixed bag of ones I loved, some meh ones, and some I truly hated. But I loved more by far than I hated or even felt meh about, and even if that wasn't the case the ones I love were just so good that I still would have given this a high rating. It may just be because I'm adopted (adopted by my father) but so many of these stories actually brought tears to my eyes and just punched me in the heart. I loved that we had stories with multiple adoptees, transracial adoptees, and even one story that featured a birth mother. The only thing I could have asked for was a story with step-parent adoption.
December 5, 2017
I'm honored and excited to be a part of this short story collection focusing on adoption stories. The book releases September 5, 2017!
December 27, 2022
This is how the dedication of the book started:
I've been struggling to put one of my ideas into words and I couldn't. The following piece said it all:
Overall, I had mixed feelings about this book. I found most of the stories quite superficial and many times cliche (yes, it was a YA book, but still being targeted for YA doesn't mean compromising quality). Yet, some stories were touching, subtle and eye-opening. If you want to get a closer feel of adoption and foster care, these stories could help.
Towards the end of the book, at last, after six years, I could read a part of our family's story written in a story. I admit that I was deeply touched by that. I am bringing a couple of more quotes below:
For those who’ve been found
And for those out alone,
For those still searching
And for those who’ve come home.
I've been struggling to put one of my ideas into words and I couldn't. The following piece said it all:
“Not every adoption has to be some big legal thing. Every time you offer up any part of your life to a child who needs you, you’ve become a part of that child’s life. These ‘small’ adoptions add up to big things. I know they did for me.”
Overall, I had mixed feelings about this book. I found most of the stories quite superficial and many times cliche (yes, it was a YA book, but still being targeted for YA doesn't mean compromising quality). Yet, some stories were touching, subtle and eye-opening. If you want to get a closer feel of adoption and foster care, these stories could help.
Towards the end of the book, at last, after six years, I could read a part of our family's story written in a story. I admit that I was deeply touched by that. I am bringing a couple of more quotes below:
Too many minutes of silence roll by. We only have half an hour each week, my mom and me. We don’t get enough minutes to be silent for this many of them.
And yes, I’d survived. But is that all my life would ever mean? Surviving? I didn’t want to survive my life. I wanted to live it.
The Kellers’ generosity had boundaries. Known boundaries. They loved helping, but they didn’t necessarily love me. Didn’t hate me either.
One day, when I had my courage up, I asked him, “Why?” And you know what he said? He said, “Some kids aren’t born to you. Some kids just arrive.”
August 9, 2017
This is really special anthology. All of the contributors's lives have been touched by adoption in some way, and I feel that their experiences certainly came through in the stories they've created, and Eric Smith has done a tremendous job putting them all together. I'm a huge fan of anthologies, and this is one that I have really been looking forward to for a while now.
There is just about every kind of story you could imagine about adoption in this collection from the beautiful and heartwarming to the terrifying. I was expecting a really contemporary heavy anthology but was pleasantly surprised to find so many different genres represented from speculative to scifi, fantasy to thriller. This one really does have a little bit of everything.
With 30 stories, most of them are pretty short. There were a few that I would have liked to have seen be just a bit longer, because the endings felt a little abrupt, but for the most part the story lengths did feel appropriate.
There are around 30 different stories in this collection, and while I preferred some over others, overall, there are some really incredible stories with some really strong writing. My favorite stories were probably the ones by Adi Alsaid, Julie Eshbaugh, William Ritter, Mindy McGinnis, Stephanie Scott, and Kate Watson.
This anthology is a great place to start for fans of YA fiction who are wanting to read some really well-written short stories. I truly believe that it is so important for the literary community to keep short stories alive and relevant, and I think Eric Smith is certainly doing his part with this wonderful anthology.
There is just about every kind of story you could imagine about adoption in this collection from the beautiful and heartwarming to the terrifying. I was expecting a really contemporary heavy anthology but was pleasantly surprised to find so many different genres represented from speculative to scifi, fantasy to thriller. This one really does have a little bit of everything.
With 30 stories, most of them are pretty short. There were a few that I would have liked to have seen be just a bit longer, because the endings felt a little abrupt, but for the most part the story lengths did feel appropriate.
There are around 30 different stories in this collection, and while I preferred some over others, overall, there are some really incredible stories with some really strong writing. My favorite stories were probably the ones by Adi Alsaid, Julie Eshbaugh, William Ritter, Mindy McGinnis, Stephanie Scott, and Kate Watson.
This anthology is a great place to start for fans of YA fiction who are wanting to read some really well-written short stories. I truly believe that it is so important for the literary community to keep short stories alive and relevant, and I think Eric Smith is certainly doing his part with this wonderful anthology.
May 25, 2017
This is a case of "It's not you, it's me", because I need to stop reading anthologies. I just don't like them.
I liked the theme of adoption here, and think this book will do so much, and I did like some of the stories...but I also disliked some.
I would recommend this book, and think it contains some great stories and messages, but naturally all of them just weren't for me, and I'm disappointed that I didn't like it more.
I liked the theme of adoption here, and think this book will do so much, and I did like some of the stories...but I also disliked some.
I would recommend this book, and think it contains some great stories and messages, but naturally all of them just weren't for me, and I'm disappointed that I didn't like it more.
December 30, 2018
There were 29 stories, and while three fell flat for me, and four were mediocre, the majority were pleasant reads. There were some that contained humour, some more serious than others, some pleasantly deviating from the contemporary genre, and was mainly quite the joy to read. However, I found it a bit sad that I found some mistakes in the book, such as words being misspelled. All in all, the diverse range in the way these stories have gone in was great and kept the theme of love and adoption intriguing.
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old-Heart by Adi Alsaid
Rating 2.
I don’t really get it but I appreciate how adoption doesn’t always have to be the main thing.
Strong Enough by Karen Akins
Rating 4.
A great short story of an adopted Super who is trying to pass a test from the Enhanced Abilities Council.
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman
Rating 4.
Meeting her birth-father, just to find out he’s sick. Although a bit rushed, I liked her thoughts that we got to see.
“Being a part of a family isn’t about blood, it’s about love. Love isn’t created with genetics—it’s made with time spent together, small moments you will always remember, hard times that make you stronger, and so much joy you can hardly believe it’s real.” pg 29
Up by a Million by Caela Carter
Rating 5.
This was such a real and emotional story, even though it was short. Absolutely amazing.
Mama’s Eyes by Libby Cudmore
Rating 5.
Oh my goodness, this was eerie since the beginning and you couldn’t help but continue to read. For a short story, this took a turn I didn’t really expect, and it was so interesting.
“Where we come from is as much a part of our journey as where we’re going…even if sometimes the answer we find about our past is difficult.” Page 57
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis
Rating 4.
This took quite some time (~1/2 of the story) to figure out what “Inside”/“Outside” meant; it was utterly confusing. However, once I understood Ezekiel and his situation, I saw the beauty in the way this story was written.
“For some, love takes a long time to hear.” pg 62
“ ‘Why do humans assume that isolation means safety?’
...
‘If I’m alone, I won’t be hurt.’
‘Then why do you hurt when you are alone?’ ” pg 65
“Even for people who’ve had one, ‘home’ takes a lot of time to parse out. Putting roots to the concept, physical and emotional, is never easy and rarely as obvious and simple as just a structure with four walls. Adoption attacks the complexity and baggage of what ‘home’ means with pure love, in all its forms: ornery, unconditional, hard, easy, and chosen. Adoption invites all involved to love and be loved, to fight to be a home outside of ourselves, whether or not we know what that means.” pg 69
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar
Rating 4.
A little bit slow, but overall a good story. What I found the most interesting was “June 22 was our ‘gotcha day.’ At least that’s what my parents called it in honour of the day they ‘got me.’ ” (pg 80) because I’m adopted, and that’s the exact term we made and celebrate.
“…families are created by the affection in your heart and not by the DNA in your blood. Love is love is love, and you are blessed by its gift, regardless of by which means it finds you.” pg 85
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh
Rating 3.
This wasn’t amazing, but it wasn’t bad; it was just, kind of…there. I get the webbed feet, the story the main character believes in about her birth mother being a mermaid princess, and how she let’s that go, but I couldn’t connect with it.
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi
Rating 5.
This is written like a full-length novel and I would love if it actually was one.
“It’s one of those evenings where talking isn’t required; the sound of the wind blowing in through the windows is enough.” pg 98
Salvation by Shannon Gibney
Rating 3.5.
The ending was surprising; not in a good way, but a shocking way by how realistic that situation could have so easily happened. The story divided into parts confused me, but made sense only until the very end. Sadly, that’s what mostly put me off; I wasn’t getting it.
“You will have a new life and a new family on the other side, and you will make something of yourself” pg 121
Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski
Rating 4.
I was a bit distracted, but still a good story.
“I’m not entirely sure how this friend thing is supposed to work.” pg 134
“For a moment, a brief, shining moment, I had a friend. And that moment gives me strength. That moment gives me hope. With all its jagged edges and beautiful pain.
Hope hurts, but I’d rather hurt than be hopeless.
And maybe that’s the point.” pg 138
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung
Rating 2.
At the beginning, I immediately related it to China and its circumstances, their ways, which I found interesting because I went threw that. Except this was very different. I know everyone’s experience is different, but I didn’t really like this story, solely based on my extremely biased opinions (it was a bit weird) and my experience.
Upon the Horizon’s Verge by Sangu Mandanna
Rating 5.
This was absolutely beautiful and true. It can be weird and hard for both the parent and the child in different ways. I liked how we got to see the to-be-birth-mother imagining her child and having a look at what she thought, as well as the thoughts she channeled through the perspective of her imaginary kid. This story was done very well.
“I mean, my family annoys me sometimes, and they don’t always get me, and I really, really wish my dad would stop trying to convince me to become an architect like him, but you know what? They love me; I know they do. There’s not one drop of blood shared between them and me and they love me anyway.” pg 151
“There’s no question it will break my heart when I give her up. There’s no question it will break hers every time she wonders why we weren’t right for each other. But that’s okay because you can soar with a heart that’s been broken and mended so many times you’ve lost count.” pg 157
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin
Rating 4.75.
This was very intriguing and a nice change in pace/genre to most of the other stories. It was captivating and although I don’t fully understand the end, the story in its entirety was a work of art.
“I didn’t want to survive my life. I wanted to live it.” pg 161
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis
Rating 3.
I’ve read a book by this author before and it was good, but this was a bit disappointing; it’s wasn’t bad, but I expecting more.
Invited by Lauren Morrill
Rating 4.5.
This was quick to read and a nice, refreshing story from the perspective of a birth-mother who didn’t give up the baby for their life to be better, but for their own too. Sometimes people don’t want babies to hold them back from post secondary schooling, so they give them up, but they occasionally they still see the kid.
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins
Rating 4.5.
I liked how this included modern technology. There were image descriptions of the photos she took, audio descriptions and the other writing was in the view of her blog. It was a cool approach.
“I was always raised to speak my mind and I’m not stopping now.” pg 196
“In a world of lies, I need to tell my truth at all times.” pg 197
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls
Rating 4.5.
I remember the times in school when we were asked to talk about our family, our background, culture, etc, and make a family tree. It’s always a little weird, but I am not ashamed; it’s just seems like more work to explain ;)
“Genetics May link two people together, and that link will always exist, but that link is made of fishing line, not bark and wood, … Genetics are not the definition of a strong family, that’s why trees as a metaphor don’t work—because it’s love that’s the true bonding material between a group of people. Love, and love alone. And love is work. But it’s the best kind of work there is.” pg 211
“Metaphors can only go so far. And the reason they’re used so often is because it’s tempting to try to find meaning in the complexities of life by comparing them to what’s around us. But that can be dangerous. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and we cannot define them with such cookie-cutter terms.” pg 212
“Our family is stronger than anything in this world. And it’s all because of love—we sure have a lot of that going around.” pg 212
Tunneling through by Shannon M. Parker
Rating 5.
I like the mentioning of masks and how we tend to hide behind a lot of them, but sometimes we take some off and become vulnerable. I especially loved how our main character identifies as a boy but is in a girl’s body, and is scared that the mother will reject him because he isn’t a girl, the person she adopted. When he tells her and her reaction is that she doesn’t mind, it was his heart that won her over, that was beautiful.
“It’s the easiest thing in the world to be nice,” pg 221
Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine
Rating 4.
Like always, this author uses very unique, interesting, beautiful names. This was paced a bit slow, but was overall a good story. I especially loved their love for books, specifically when the new parent says:
“I’ve collected hundreds of books. So many books, I decided to turn my dining room into a library.” pg 231
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay
Rating 4.
I liked the style of writing; it made it a bit creepy when intended, and sympathetic later on. Like Emily, sometimes you get annoyed being known as the adopted kid because you’re Asian with white parents; the reality is, this fact is always a part of you.
“Isn’t that all any of us are looking for—someone who understands us in a way nobody else can?” pg 242
“I wonder if he knows any of his biological relatives and, if so, if that makes him feel any less alone. It’s not that I’m not loved by the people who are actually in my life, but it’s just—it’s hard to explain. Even to myself.” pg 244
“Every single child, without question, needs and deserves unconditional love.” pg 245
Deeply by William Ritter
Rating 4.5.
Humorous at some points and serious at others. Even though it’s not the best feeling, I’m glad we see that there are people who bully someone because of their situation, such as being adopted, having an absence of 1+ parent(s), etc.
“Within the darkness, within the monsters, in the blackness of their hearts, there was light. There is always light, even in the deepest dark.” pg 252
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott
Rating 5.
The story was so enticing, not allowing me to even think of putting the book down. The memory disrupted the story a bit, but ultimately added nicely to it. I liked the fresh point of view from a best friend who later found out that her friend had to get adopted because of illegal circumstances.
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel
Rating 5.
This was captivating since the start, with nothing seemingly to do with this book’s theme, but became very intense at the end. I liked how Jonah mentioned the questions kids asked, especially when he corrects them saying “real mom” with “birth mom”. Those two terms are different and I love how the author easily addressed that because that mistake always got on my nerves. I hate Tim; he’s an ignorant little wasp, but I appreciate the author’s realism of the manipulative, toxic friendship he has with Evan, even though he gets on my nerves and I will always be mad at him. It shows how there are some prejudices against those who are adopted. Overall, I think this was like a full novel condensed into a short story, done very well as a thriller.
“…family is everything, and blood has nothing to do with it.” pg 279
In Pieces by Eric Smith
Rating 4.
Interesting approach. Set around 2187, Arcas tries to use trans-teleportation to be transported to meet his birth-family. It was short, and I thought it could use a little bit more story. It mostly seemed like a rushed introduction to a full-fledged novel, leaving a longing for much more.
“…everyone tackles the emotional rollercoaster of adoption differently. And it’s important to tell stories like these.
It’s my hope that these stories will help.” pg 294
Peace of Paper by Courtney Stevens
Rating 3.5.
I couldn’t really connect to the story, and the highlight was the heartwarming ending, but overall I wasn’t very interested in the story.
“As a society, we value people who keep their ruckus on the inside and polish their outside like church pews.” pg 296
“Anger was only a waterwheel, recycling the same old feelings that went nowhere.” pg 302
“Some kids aren’t born to you. Some kids just arrive.” pg 307
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone
Rating 4.5.
I liked the employment of “you”, because it really gets the readers to be put into Ny’s shoes but seeing what Jenna is thinking, hearing and saying. However, going back in time makes the story a bit more confusing and harder to follow. Thank goodness there was only four divisions, which made the end easier to read, but I forgot a lot of the beginning. Still, I love the lgbtq+ representation in this book, no matter if it doesn’t explicitly say it; it still warms my heart.
The Take Back by Kate Watson
Rating 5.
Another great story, shedding light on situations when the birth mother takes back her decision for the adoption of her baby, which has its reasoning, as well as its effects on the family that was so hopeful and looking forward to having another family member. I liked that the author included dad-jokes, and in the writing, you can feel the anger, the pain being conveyed.
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristan’s Wright
Rating 2.
I like how easily diversity was written into this story. Sadly, I didn’t fully comprehend the story and wishes being seen or not, and I couldn’t really connect to anyone. This was sort of dull and I wish the book didn’t end on this note.
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old-Heart by Adi Alsaid
Rating 2.
I don’t really get it but I appreciate how adoption doesn’t always have to be the main thing.
Strong Enough by Karen Akins
Rating 4.
A great short story of an adopted Super who is trying to pass a test from the Enhanced Abilities Council.
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman
Rating 4.
Meeting her birth-father, just to find out he’s sick. Although a bit rushed, I liked her thoughts that we got to see.
“Being a part of a family isn’t about blood, it’s about love. Love isn’t created with genetics—it’s made with time spent together, small moments you will always remember, hard times that make you stronger, and so much joy you can hardly believe it’s real.” pg 29
Up by a Million by Caela Carter
Rating 5.
This was such a real and emotional story, even though it was short. Absolutely amazing.
Mama’s Eyes by Libby Cudmore
Rating 5.
Oh my goodness, this was eerie since the beginning and you couldn’t help but continue to read. For a short story, this took a turn I didn’t really expect, and it was so interesting.
“Where we come from is as much a part of our journey as where we’re going…even if sometimes the answer we find about our past is difficult.” Page 57
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis
Rating 4.
This took quite some time (~1/2 of the story) to figure out what “Inside”/“Outside” meant; it was utterly confusing. However, once I understood Ezekiel and his situation, I saw the beauty in the way this story was written.
“For some, love takes a long time to hear.” pg 62
“ ‘Why do humans assume that isolation means safety?’
...
‘If I’m alone, I won’t be hurt.’
‘Then why do you hurt when you are alone?’ ” pg 65
“Even for people who’ve had one, ‘home’ takes a lot of time to parse out. Putting roots to the concept, physical and emotional, is never easy and rarely as obvious and simple as just a structure with four walls. Adoption attacks the complexity and baggage of what ‘home’ means with pure love, in all its forms: ornery, unconditional, hard, easy, and chosen. Adoption invites all involved to love and be loved, to fight to be a home outside of ourselves, whether or not we know what that means.” pg 69
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar
Rating 4.
A little bit slow, but overall a good story. What I found the most interesting was “June 22 was our ‘gotcha day.’ At least that’s what my parents called it in honour of the day they ‘got me.’ ” (pg 80) because I’m adopted, and that’s the exact term we made and celebrate.
“…families are created by the affection in your heart and not by the DNA in your blood. Love is love is love, and you are blessed by its gift, regardless of by which means it finds you.” pg 85
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh
Rating 3.
This wasn’t amazing, but it wasn’t bad; it was just, kind of…there. I get the webbed feet, the story the main character believes in about her birth mother being a mermaid princess, and how she let’s that go, but I couldn’t connect with it.
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi
Rating 5.
This is written like a full-length novel and I would love if it actually was one.
“It’s one of those evenings where talking isn’t required; the sound of the wind blowing in through the windows is enough.” pg 98
Salvation by Shannon Gibney
Rating 3.5.
The ending was surprising; not in a good way, but a shocking way by how realistic that situation could have so easily happened. The story divided into parts confused me, but made sense only until the very end. Sadly, that’s what mostly put me off; I wasn’t getting it.
“You will have a new life and a new family on the other side, and you will make something of yourself” pg 121
Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski
Rating 4.
I was a bit distracted, but still a good story.
“I’m not entirely sure how this friend thing is supposed to work.” pg 134
“For a moment, a brief, shining moment, I had a friend. And that moment gives me strength. That moment gives me hope. With all its jagged edges and beautiful pain.
Hope hurts, but I’d rather hurt than be hopeless.
And maybe that’s the point.” pg 138
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung
Rating 2.
At the beginning, I immediately related it to China and its circumstances, their ways, which I found interesting because I went threw that. Except this was very different. I know everyone’s experience is different, but I didn’t really like this story, solely based on my extremely biased opinions (it was a bit weird) and my experience.
Upon the Horizon’s Verge by Sangu Mandanna
Rating 5.
This was absolutely beautiful and true. It can be weird and hard for both the parent and the child in different ways. I liked how we got to see the to-be-birth-mother imagining her child and having a look at what she thought, as well as the thoughts she channeled through the perspective of her imaginary kid. This story was done very well.
“I mean, my family annoys me sometimes, and they don’t always get me, and I really, really wish my dad would stop trying to convince me to become an architect like him, but you know what? They love me; I know they do. There’s not one drop of blood shared between them and me and they love me anyway.” pg 151
“There’s no question it will break my heart when I give her up. There’s no question it will break hers every time she wonders why we weren’t right for each other. But that’s okay because you can soar with a heart that’s been broken and mended so many times you’ve lost count.” pg 157
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin
Rating 4.75.
This was very intriguing and a nice change in pace/genre to most of the other stories. It was captivating and although I don’t fully understand the end, the story in its entirety was a work of art.
“I didn’t want to survive my life. I wanted to live it.” pg 161
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis
Rating 3.
I’ve read a book by this author before and it was good, but this was a bit disappointing; it’s wasn’t bad, but I expecting more.
Invited by Lauren Morrill
Rating 4.5.
This was quick to read and a nice, refreshing story from the perspective of a birth-mother who didn’t give up the baby for their life to be better, but for their own too. Sometimes people don’t want babies to hold them back from post secondary schooling, so they give them up, but they occasionally they still see the kid.
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins
Rating 4.5.
I liked how this included modern technology. There were image descriptions of the photos she took, audio descriptions and the other writing was in the view of her blog. It was a cool approach.
“I was always raised to speak my mind and I’m not stopping now.” pg 196
“In a world of lies, I need to tell my truth at all times.” pg 197
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalls
Rating 4.5.
I remember the times in school when we were asked to talk about our family, our background, culture, etc, and make a family tree. It’s always a little weird, but I am not ashamed; it’s just seems like more work to explain ;)
“Genetics May link two people together, and that link will always exist, but that link is made of fishing line, not bark and wood, … Genetics are not the definition of a strong family, that’s why trees as a metaphor don’t work—because it’s love that’s the true bonding material between a group of people. Love, and love alone. And love is work. But it’s the best kind of work there is.” pg 211
“Metaphors can only go so far. And the reason they’re used so often is because it’s tempting to try to find meaning in the complexities of life by comparing them to what’s around us. But that can be dangerous. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and we cannot define them with such cookie-cutter terms.” pg 212
“Our family is stronger than anything in this world. And it’s all because of love—we sure have a lot of that going around.” pg 212
Tunneling through by Shannon M. Parker
Rating 5.
I like the mentioning of masks and how we tend to hide behind a lot of them, but sometimes we take some off and become vulnerable. I especially loved how our main character identifies as a boy but is in a girl’s body, and is scared that the mother will reject him because he isn’t a girl, the person she adopted. When he tells her and her reaction is that she doesn’t mind, it was his heart that won her over, that was beautiful.
“It’s the easiest thing in the world to be nice,” pg 221
Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine
Rating 4.
Like always, this author uses very unique, interesting, beautiful names. This was paced a bit slow, but was overall a good story. I especially loved their love for books, specifically when the new parent says:
“I’ve collected hundreds of books. So many books, I decided to turn my dining room into a library.” pg 231
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay
Rating 4.
I liked the style of writing; it made it a bit creepy when intended, and sympathetic later on. Like Emily, sometimes you get annoyed being known as the adopted kid because you’re Asian with white parents; the reality is, this fact is always a part of you.
“Isn’t that all any of us are looking for—someone who understands us in a way nobody else can?” pg 242
“I wonder if he knows any of his biological relatives and, if so, if that makes him feel any less alone. It’s not that I’m not loved by the people who are actually in my life, but it’s just—it’s hard to explain. Even to myself.” pg 244
“Every single child, without question, needs and deserves unconditional love.” pg 245
Deeply by William Ritter
Rating 4.5.
Humorous at some points and serious at others. Even though it’s not the best feeling, I’m glad we see that there are people who bully someone because of their situation, such as being adopted, having an absence of 1+ parent(s), etc.
“Within the darkness, within the monsters, in the blackness of their hearts, there was light. There is always light, even in the deepest dark.” pg 252
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott
Rating 5.
The story was so enticing, not allowing me to even think of putting the book down. The memory disrupted the story a bit, but ultimately added nicely to it. I liked the fresh point of view from a best friend who later found out that her friend had to get adopted because of illegal circumstances.
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel
Rating 5.
This was captivating since the start, with nothing seemingly to do with this book’s theme, but became very intense at the end. I liked how Jonah mentioned the questions kids asked, especially when he corrects them saying “real mom” with “birth mom”. Those two terms are different and I love how the author easily addressed that because that mistake always got on my nerves. I hate Tim; he’s an ignorant little wasp, but I appreciate the author’s realism of the manipulative, toxic friendship he has with Evan, even though he gets on my nerves and I will always be mad at him. It shows how there are some prejudices against those who are adopted. Overall, I think this was like a full novel condensed into a short story, done very well as a thriller.
“…family is everything, and blood has nothing to do with it.” pg 279
In Pieces by Eric Smith
Rating 4.
Interesting approach. Set around 2187, Arcas tries to use trans-teleportation to be transported to meet his birth-family. It was short, and I thought it could use a little bit more story. It mostly seemed like a rushed introduction to a full-fledged novel, leaving a longing for much more.
“…everyone tackles the emotional rollercoaster of adoption differently. And it’s important to tell stories like these.
It’s my hope that these stories will help.” pg 294
Peace of Paper by Courtney Stevens
Rating 3.5.
I couldn’t really connect to the story, and the highlight was the heartwarming ending, but overall I wasn’t very interested in the story.
“As a society, we value people who keep their ruckus on the inside and polish their outside like church pews.” pg 296
“Anger was only a waterwheel, recycling the same old feelings that went nowhere.” pg 302
“Some kids aren’t born to you. Some kids just arrive.” pg 307
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone
Rating 4.5.
I liked the employment of “you”, because it really gets the readers to be put into Ny’s shoes but seeing what Jenna is thinking, hearing and saying. However, going back in time makes the story a bit more confusing and harder to follow. Thank goodness there was only four divisions, which made the end easier to read, but I forgot a lot of the beginning. Still, I love the lgbtq+ representation in this book, no matter if it doesn’t explicitly say it; it still warms my heart.
The Take Back by Kate Watson
Rating 5.
Another great story, shedding light on situations when the birth mother takes back her decision for the adoption of her baby, which has its reasoning, as well as its effects on the family that was so hopeful and looking forward to having another family member. I liked that the author included dad-jokes, and in the writing, you can feel the anger, the pain being conveyed.
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristan’s Wright
Rating 2.
I like how easily diversity was written into this story. Sadly, I didn’t fully comprehend the story and wishes being seen or not, and I couldn’t really connect to anyone. This was sort of dull and I wish the book didn’t end on this note.
August 19, 2017
Anthologies can be difficult, but boy does this one get it right. I didn't connect with every single story, but the majority made me wish they were excerpts from longer books, which I'd call a success. Lots of perspectives on adoption that readers might not anticipate, in the best way.
May 17, 2017
With nearly thirty short stories to be found within this novel, there is an assortment of different settings and storytelling techniques for a reader to choose from and enjoy. This collection of stories is at times heartbreaking while, at others, it’s like a balm to soothe your wounded heart.
Check out the full review on my blog!
Check out the full review on my blog!
February 21, 2024
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
I was really excited to read this anthology because of my personal connection to adoption: my youngest is adopted. In general, the stories were very short, which made them a bit harder to connect to. Still, some of these were gems.
A few of my favorites were “Up by a Million,” “Happy Beginning,” “The Take Back,” “Jar of Broken Wishes,” and “Upon the Horizon’s Verge.” That last one was my favorite and has stuck with me the longest—it had a really interesting twist and a bit of magical realism.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via ALA Annual ’17 in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
I was really excited to read this anthology because of my personal connection to adoption: my youngest is adopted. In general, the stories were very short, which made them a bit harder to connect to. Still, some of these were gems.
A few of my favorites were “Up by a Million,” “Happy Beginning,” “The Take Back,” “Jar of Broken Wishes,” and “Upon the Horizon’s Verge.” That last one was my favorite and has stuck with me the longest—it had a really interesting twist and a bit of magical realism.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via ALA Annual ’17 in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Want to read
December 20, 2017I am so here for this!
January 14, 2018
I enjoyed every story in Welcome Home. I rated each story separately. 3-4 meant that I liked the story and how it was presented. 4 1/2-5 meant that I really wanted more to the stories. Something connected to me a bit more in those ones. Overall, I gave the book 4 stars.
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid 4 stars
Strong Enough by Karen Akins 4 stars
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman 4 stars
Up by a Million by Caela Carter 5 stars This one stood out a bit more than some of the others. An 18 year old visits her mom in jail because her foster mom wants to adopt her.
Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore 5 stars I should have expted Libby's story to be a bit freaky after reading The Big Rewind a couple years ago. This was definitely a darker story which made it stand out.
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis 3 1/2 stars
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar 3 1/2 stars
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh 4 1/2 stars
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi 4 stars
Salvation by Shannon Gibney 4 stars
Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski 4 1/2 stars
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung 3 1/2 stars
Upon The Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna 5 stars This one was about a girl who was giving up her daughter. She knew it would be hard, but also had faith she was doing the right thing. Especially when she met a girl who seemed familar to her.
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin 4 stars
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis 3 1/2 stars
Invited by Lauren Morrill 4 1/2 stars
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins 4 stars
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalis 4 stars
Tunneling Through by Shannon M. Parker 4 stars
Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine 4 stars
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay 4 stars
Deeply by William Ritter 4 stars
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott 4 stars
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel 5 stars This was another darker story that stood out to me. Mom needs help moving body and asked her oldest (adopted) son.
In Pieces by Eric Smith 4 stars
Peace of Paper by Courtney Stevens 5 stars This one stood out because the boy was 19 and was able to find a real family.
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone 4 stars
The Take Back by Kate Watson 5 stars Kate's writing stood out to me. It made me feel a bit more than many of the other stories. This one has a teen boy who is upset about his parents not being able to adopt a baby girl after the birth mom backed out.
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright 3 1/2 stars
Being about adoption and the foster system, readers should expect some trigger issues and a lot of emotions. Please be aware before picking this one up. Each story was written well and there were sad moments, terrifying moments, and also some happy moments.
Thank you to Eric Smith for sending me a copy of Welcome Home for review.
Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart by Adi Alsaid 4 stars
Strong Enough by Karen Akins 4 stars
The Sign by Erica M. Chapman 4 stars
Up by a Million by Caela Carter 5 stars This one stood out a bit more than some of the others. An 18 year old visits her mom in jail because her foster mom wants to adopt her.
Mama's Eyes by Libby Cudmore 5 stars I should have expted Libby's story to be a bit freaky after reading The Big Rewind a couple years ago. This was definitely a darker story which made it stand out.
A Kingdom Bright and Burning by Dave Connis 3 1/2 stars
The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains by Helene Dunbar 3 1/2 stars
Webbed by Julie Eshbaugh 4 1/2 stars
Life: Starring Tallulah Grey by Lauren Gibaldi 4 stars
Salvation by Shannon Gibney 4 stars
Twenty-Seven Days by Jenny Kaczorowski 4 1/2 stars
Ink Drips Black by Julie Leung 3 1/2 stars
Upon The Horizon's Verge by Sangu Mandanna 5 stars This one was about a girl who was giving up her daughter. She knew it would be hard, but also had faith she was doing the right thing. Especially when she met a girl who seemed familar to her.
Lullaby by Matthew Quinn Martin 4 stars
Census Man by Mindy McGinnis 3 1/2 stars
Invited by Lauren Morrill 4 1/2 stars
Empty Lens by Tameka Mullins 4 stars
A Lesson in Biology by Sammy Nickalis 4 stars
Tunneling Through by Shannon M. Parker 4 stars
Broken Stars by C.J. Redwine 4 stars
The Snow-Covered Sidewalk by Randy Ribay 4 stars
Deeply by William Ritter 4 stars
Meant to be Broken by Stephanie Scott 4 stars
Moving the Body by Natasha Sinel 5 stars This was another darker story that stood out to me. Mom needs help moving body and asked her oldest (adopted) son.
In Pieces by Eric Smith 4 stars
Peace of Paper by Courtney Stevens 5 stars This one stood out because the boy was 19 and was able to find a real family.
Happy Beginning by Nic Stone 4 stars
The Take Back by Kate Watson 5 stars Kate's writing stood out to me. It made me feel a bit more than many of the other stories. This one has a teen boy who is upset about his parents not being able to adopt a baby girl after the birth mom backed out.
Jar of Broken Wishes by Tristina Wright 3 1/2 stars
Being about adoption and the foster system, readers should expect some trigger issues and a lot of emotions. Please be aware before picking this one up. Each story was written well and there were sad moments, terrifying moments, and also some happy moments.
Thank you to Eric Smith for sending me a copy of Welcome Home for review.
September 14, 2017
WELCOME HOME is a collection of stories about adoption from a number of perspectives, from teens who are meeting their birth parents for the first time to ones choosing whether or not to have their own children up for adoption. There is a wide variety of authors from C.J. Redwine to Eric Smith (also the editor of the collection to Sangu Mandanna.
Anthologies are some of the hardest books to review, particularly in this case. The voices, genres, and perspectives range across the board, bound by the common theme of adoption. There is certainly a gap in the field from varying adoption perspectives, and WELCOME HOME provides a great opportunity for readers to find themselves represented. While I think the different genres included (contemporary, fantasy, scifi, etc.) are fascinating, sometimes the switch in genre between stories is jarring.
My favorite stories are C.J. Redwine’s, which features a mother and newly adopted daughter bonding with both awkwardness and kindness; Julie Eshbaugh’s, which brings up visible genetic attributes (webbed feet), something that can be a constant reminder of biological parents; and Eric Smith’s story of weighing risk and consequences. Caela Carter’s also features a strong voice and intriguing snapshot.
Without a doubt, those who read WELCOME HOME will find themselves eager for more from many of the writers and more stories of adoption and the many nuances within blood and chosen families.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
Anthologies are some of the hardest books to review, particularly in this case. The voices, genres, and perspectives range across the board, bound by the common theme of adoption. There is certainly a gap in the field from varying adoption perspectives, and WELCOME HOME provides a great opportunity for readers to find themselves represented. While I think the different genres included (contemporary, fantasy, scifi, etc.) are fascinating, sometimes the switch in genre between stories is jarring.
My favorite stories are C.J. Redwine’s, which features a mother and newly adopted daughter bonding with both awkwardness and kindness; Julie Eshbaugh’s, which brings up visible genetic attributes (webbed feet), something that can be a constant reminder of biological parents; and Eric Smith’s story of weighing risk and consequences. Caela Carter’s also features a strong voice and intriguing snapshot.
Without a doubt, those who read WELCOME HOME will find themselves eager for more from many of the writers and more stories of adoption and the many nuances within blood and chosen families.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
December 1, 2018
Read this review and more on my blog.The Book Return Blog
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (via Netgalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (via Netgalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have mixed feelings about anthologies. Anthologies are a great way to be introduced to new authors. However, in every anthology there are always few stories that just aren't really my jam. I do love adoption stories so I thought I would give this one a shot.
I loved almost all the stories in 'Welcome Home'. A lot of the stories ended on a cliff hanger. I'm not sure if this is an intentional theme or if the authors meant to leave us waiting for follow-up stories. Either way this left me wanting more from most of the authors.
This is a great anthology for anyone who has been touched by adoption.
1.Carlos and the Fifteen-Year-Old Heart-Definitely unique but a little too silly for me (2 1/2 Stars)
2.Strong Enough-Super Hero story (3 Stars)
3.The Sign-Cute LGBT (4 Stars)
4.Up by a Million-One of my favorites about a mother in prison (5 Stars)
5.Mama's Eyes-Seemed like a TV movie script and a little over the top (2 Stars)
6.A Kingdom Bright and Burning-Really nice story fantasy/reality story (4 1/2 Stars)
7.The Inexplicable Weight of Mountains-Simple story about finding birth parents (3 Stars)
8.Webbed-Magical and Sweet (4 1/2 Stars)
9.Life:Starring Tallulah Grey-Ok story about a movie star teenager (2 1/2 Stars)
10.Salvation-A look at the underbelly of adoption (3 1/2 Stars)
11.Twenty-Seven Days-A Look at Friendship and Adoption (4 Stars)
12.Ink Drips Black-A fable type story (2 1/2 Stars)
13.Upon the Horizon's Verge-Wonderful Story-Magical and lovely and one of my favorites-I plan to read more from this author (5 Stars)
14.Lullaby-My least favorite story-a sci-fi that only touches on adoption (1 1/2 Stars)
15.Census Man-Love this one-historical fiction-also one of my favorites (5 Stars)
16.Invited-Also,loved this one-a look at different POV of adoption (5 Stars)
17.Empty Lens-Nice story about an girl with an blog but not very memorable (3 Stars)
18.A Lesson in Biology-Ok predictable story about making a family tree (3 Stars)
19.Tunneling Through-A LGBT point of view (3 1/2 Stars)
20.These Broken Stars-Usually not a big fantasy person but this one is simple and lovely and I loved it (5 Stars)
21.The Snow Covered Sidewalk-Cute story about relating to other people (4 Stars)
22.Deeply-Fantascy and not really my thing but I loved the ducky (2 1/2 Stars)
23.Meant to be Broken-Great story. Looks at how adoption affects a range of people. (4 1/2 Stars)
24.Moving the Body-Totally different and unexpected and disturbing (4 Stars)
25.In Pieces-Also a sci-fi and very Star Trekish (2 1/2 Stars)
26.Peace of Paper-A look at adult adoption (4 1/2 Stars)
27.Happy Beginnings-A look at a teenage adoptee issues effecting others (2 1/2 Stars)
28.The Take Back-A look at the emotions surrounding adoptions (4 1/2 Stars)
29.Jar of Broken Wings-Cute story about the magic of childhood (3 Stars)This review was originally posted on The Book return...
February 6, 2018
(Disclaimer: I received this free book from the editor. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Welcome Home features stories that blur the magical with the ordinary with the thread of adoption connecting them all. There's mermaids, moments stuck in 1985, and superheroes. The collection features short stories of various lengths, and I do mean short. They pack a punch in few words. There is hope and heartbreak within one story. All in all this was an emotional read for me about the difficult relationships we have with our parents, the struggle we have with 'the search', our mythical origin stories, and the ways we can feel alone.
Welcome Home features stories that blur the magical with the ordinary with the thread of adoption connecting them all. There's mermaids, moments stuck in 1985, and superheroes. The collection features short stories of various lengths, and I do mean short. They pack a punch in few words. There is hope and heartbreak within one story. All in all this was an emotional read for me about the difficult relationships we have with our parents, the struggle we have with 'the search', our mythical origin stories, and the ways we can feel alone.
Want to read
February 18, 2018I am getting really frustrated with Goodreads ... please understand that it isn't the author ... i won a kindle copy of this book through Goodreads and didn't get it ... I am not sure what is going on ...but I apparently have won 3 books from different authors and not gotten any of them??! Not sure what is going on with Goodreads or Amazon ... just not sure? I think it needs to be known ... not sure what we the reader can do? so frustrating. : (
September 14, 2017
I read about half of the novellas. Some were good, some weren't so good but the main problem I had with this was that all the novella's were by different authors. Yes, they all centred around adoption but one was set in the real world and one was set in space!
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