Interested in learning more about different aspects of fostering? Here are a couple books and podcast recommendations made by some of our 4KIDS families for those looking to widen their understanding!
Books
For Fiction Lovers:
“Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate
This heart-wrenching historical novel set in 1939 is based on true accounts of many placed in the Tennessee Children’s home run by the infamous Georgia Tann, who kidnapped and sold thousands of poor children to wealthy families across the U.S. While a difficult read, it is a reminder of the vulnerability and innocence of children that we as a society must come together to protect and never exploit.
Moving Biography:
“Walk to Beautiful” by Jimmy Wayne
At 13 years old, American country singer-songwriter Jimmy Wayne was abandoned by his mother at a bus station. In this New York Times Best Seller, Wayne sheds light on his experiences as a homeless youth, his various foster homes, and an elderly couple that changed the trajectory of his life.
Educational Read:
“Reframing Foster Care” by Jason Johnson
This is a must-read for both soon-to-be foster parents and seasoned families. Jason Johnson, pastor, church planter, and foster parent, shares insight on filtering your fostering journey through the lens of the Gospel. Jason Johnson also has great content available through his blog here.
For Kids:
“It’s Okay to Wonder” by Rhonda Wagner
A wonderful book written by a faith-based author for elementary school-aged children who have questions about fostering and how it will impact their family.
Podcasts
“The Forgotten Podcast” with Jami Kaeb of The Forgotten Initiative
From therapists, to adoption experts, former foster youth, and seasoned foster parents, this podcast features an array of guest speakers and topics that “meet you right where you are on your foster care journey.”
“The Real Mom Podcast” with Jamie Finn from Foster the Family
Apple Podcasts writes, “A Podcast for Biological, Adoptive, & Foster Moms. No experts. No topics. Just real talk from real moms about real life.”