Birthmothers : Women Who Have Relinquished Babies for Adoption Tell Their Stories

Rating:
Summary: From An Adoptee Who Has Found Her Family . . .
Review: While this book can offer some insight into moms who lost children to adoption in the past, it is very sad that the title is so demeaning to moms. Even though my mom and I were separated for over 34 years, she is my one and only MOTHER; there is no need to attach the derogatory label "birth" to her. All TRUE and NATURAL MOMS give birth and pass along genes to their children. One reviewer here talks about her adoptee's mother in terms of "our birthmother," a demaning title indeed that makes it seem as though the true mother is merely a breeder for the adopters. I know that the title isn't everything for a book, but in this case, it is most important and sets the tone. If more mothers who have lost their children would realize and identify themselves as MOTHERS instead of breeders, there would be far fewer adoptions. Let's hope that happens soon, but it won't be due to this book.

It also breaks my heart to hear that a mother who has abandoned her daughter through a legal adoption is so critical of this book because it sheds light on the harm that adoption does. My guess is that this reviewer, as the mothers in the book eventually did, will wake up to the reality of what she did to her child. It will, of course, be too late.

I do admire this book's willingness to try and show the harm that adoption does. Let's hope that the author's future versions are more respectful of natural families.