Regina Radomski

Emotionally powerful and a great resource for any Parent considering adoption

“From Half to Whole” by Regina Randomski and Barbara Jeane Keane is a journey of a family fighting the wounds of the needless suffering of in vitro fertilisation to the challenges faced in the adoption of two Polish Kids.

Let me begin by a quotation from the book that captures the anguish of such parents beautifully:

“Why do some women achieve pregnancy and others do not? Because there are children who enter this world, or are about to, who need a parent. And there are parents out there who want desperately to love a child.”

The book is a useful guide to any parent who is thinking of adoption. It addresses all their concerns, from the fear of what they are getting into to the behavioural problems that they have to face while bringing up their adopted children. It encourages parents to seek help from others: friends, family, school teachers et al. The issues of parenting are such that there can be no universal answer or one correct method prescribed for any situation. The most important feature of this book, therefore, is that it gives strength and courage to parents to overcome any obstacles in their own unique way.

At a literary level, the book was well narrated and styled. The book held my attention and I was able to finish this book in a single day. Regina’s story telling is powerful. I had both tears of sadness and joy when I read Adrian’s perspective (one of Regina’s adopted sons) and had a glimpse of his world. Later on, as his writings become more mature, I could see a boy scarred by his past slowly transforming into a fine young gentleman.

The book was very engaging. There were some happy moments in the book especially when David calls Regina “Momma” for the first time. There were low points in the relationship between the parents and the adopted children so much so that at times it felt like that there was no hope. Yet you will find a ray of hope at the end of this book.

There were some humorous moments too. One, where the husband is taught to give injections to his wife, which he does after practising just one shot on an orange before heading straight for his wife! I am not so sure whether the Author meant it to be funny but I found it so even if it was a little bordering on the darker side. The second instance was where Regina tells Adrian that it is alright to scream and vent himself out in the Jacuzzi provided he doesn’t sound like he is being murdered!

The book finishes with 8 practical steps that parents can take to overcome the challenges of adoption.

Concluding, I highly recommend this book to any parent who is considering adoption. You will not be bogged down with too many do’s and don’ts, something which I have heard is very common in books addressing the issue of adoption.

On the other hand, if you decide to invest in this book, you will get to read a fascinating account of a determined mother willing to do anything to help her adopted children grow into normal, healthy and happy human beings.
… (mais)