6. How does cross‑cultural adoption shape identity?

[smkelly]

Cross cultural adoption is a common practice in America, but less common in many other countries. Sometimes the adopted child may wonder about the circumstances surrounding their birth, or the culture they might have been raised in, had they not been adopted. In what ways did this book address those issues?

Were you, or someone you know, adopted from another culture? Was it important for that person to learn more about their birth, or connect with the culture of the country they were born into?

[WonderedPages]

This book really captures how layered identity can become in cross-cultural adoption. Gabby grows up with one version of herself, and then has to reconcile that with a completely different truth upon meeting Isabella. That reconciliation impacts Gabby's views of her culture, belonging, and self-worth. As someone who is adopted, Gabby's story hit close to home. There is always a curiosity about where you come from. This book explores that without making it feel simple or neatly resolved.