Becoming Dads

This book is quite simply a gem. It retells the journey Fernández and his partner Mike took as they embarked on becoming adoptive parents. However, its message and learning is relevant to any couple or individual going through the experience.

Every step of the process is listed in engaging detail. The diary approach provides a sense of the timescale involved, which can be invaluable to prospective adopters who need to understand each stage of the process.

This format also enables readers to dip in and out when they have time. Although, having said that, once picked up it is difficult to put down.

At the beginning of the book, Fernández raises questions about their suitability to adoption, how they might fare and how they will cope with the dramatic lifestyle change – concerns any couple can relate to.
The fact they are adopting as a same-sex couple provides an interesting additional layer of considerations and anxieties most other adopters never experience.

As there are few resources available specifically for gay adopters, this book will undoubtedly be essential reading.

In short, Becoming Dads is an effortless and educational must read for adopters regardless of their sexuality, and for social workers/family finders everywhere.

David Thompson, adopter of three boys and member of New Family Social

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