In "What We Wished For: An Adoption Story," Lisa Crawford Watson, a twin herself, shares her deeply personal journey of adopting twin sisters from foster care. Convinced she was prepared for motherhood, Lisa's initial joy quickly transforms into a relentless battle against unforeseen obstacles. The adoption process proves far more challenging than anticipated, as she navigates legal hurdles and the immense physical and emotional demands of raising premature infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome. This poignant memoir explores the complexities of adoption, the unwavering strength required to overcome adversity, and the profound questions of whether the sacrifices made ultimately outweigh the rewards of building a family. It's a story of love, perseverance, and the unexpected realities of fulfilling a life-altering wish.
Review What We Wished For
"What We Wished For" is more than just an adoption story; it's a raw, visceral exploration of love, loss, and the unpredictable nature of family. Lisa Crawford Watson's memoir had me hooked from the very first page. Her writing is both compelling and deeply personal, pulling you into the whirlwind of emotions she experienced as she navigated the complexities of adopting twin girls with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The sheer honesty and vulnerability she displays are breathtaking. She doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of raising children with significant challenges, painting a picture that is both heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful.
The book isn't a fairy tale. Far from it. Watson doesn't sugarcoat the difficulties she faced – the constant struggles, the escalating behavioral issues, the agonizing doubts that gnawed at her as she questioned whether she was doing more harm than good. She lays bare the intense emotional toll of parenting children whose trauma manifests in unpredictable and often destructive ways. The descriptions of her twins' behaviors are at times difficult to read, and this is precisely what makes the book so powerful. It shines a light on the unseen struggles faced by many adoptive parents, shattering the idealized image often presented in popular culture. It’s a stark reminder that adoption isn't always a happily-ever-after story.
What resonates most deeply is Watson's unwavering love for her daughters. Despite the monumental challenges, her commitment to them remains steadfast, even when it pushes her to the brink. The reader witnesses her grappling with difficult choices, torn between her desire to provide a loving home and the need to protect her own well-being. The decision to ultimately let her daughters go, while gut-wrenching, is portrayed with a heartbreaking honesty that underscores her profound love and her courageous acceptance of the limitations of what she could offer.
The narrative isn't always linear; some reviewers have noted the occasional jump in timelines or repetition. However, these minor imperfections don't detract from the overall impact of the story. The emotional arc is so powerful that minor structural issues fade into the background. The book's strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of a mother's journey, a journey filled with both immense joy and profound sorrow.
"What We Wished For" is a testament to the enduring power of love, even in the face of unimaginable adversity. It's a must-read for anyone interested in adoption, parenting, or simply the complexities of human relationships. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, prompting reflection on the meaning of family, the limits of parental power, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It's a brave and beautiful story, told with honesty and grace.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.68 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 304
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Double Entendre Ink
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