This is a short summary of books that I think will help anyone who is considering adopting internationally.  If you are interested in one of these books, just click on the picture of the book cover for more information or to purchase the book through Amazon.com.  If you are an adoptive parent and have any other book suggestions, please send me an e-mail.  I would be happy to share your suggestions here.

How to Adopt Internationally

This book is a great resource for anyone considering international adoption. ( I wish I would have read it before I adopted my son). It gives step by step details of the adoption process.  It includes many sample forms of paperwork that is required as well as a lot of practical information on what to expect.  It also gives, helpful, in depth information about countries where children are available.  If you are unsure on what country you want to adopt from, this is a good unbiased book. There are also great tips on how to pick an adoption agency, sample referrals from various countries, legal proceedings and travel.

The Russian Adoption Handbook

This is a must have book for anyone considering or in process of adopting from Russia or Eastern Europe.  This book was written by a father of two adoptive children from Russia.  This is the most popular of all books of adoptive parents who adopted from Eastern Europe. This book was one of only three books (due to luggage restrictions) that I traveled with when I went to Russia.  It is very detailed and accurate.  The description of my son’s region was right on target. (Also, a little hint, be sure to get the latest version of this book - I made the error of getting the older version-the newer version is even better.  You’ll be sure to get the latest version through Amazon.com by clicking on the book).

The Chinese Adoption Handbook

This book was written by the same author who wrote the Russian Adoption Handbook.  It has the same in depth, detail style as his first book. This is a great book for anyone considering or in process of adopting from China.

Adopting a Toddler

This is a great book for anyone who is considering or in process of adopting a toddler. It gives great tips on traveling with a toddler as well as how to prepare your home for a toddler -- which can be a bit more challenging as we found out!