Once again, we turned to the Adoptive Families community to compile our Fifth Annual Best Adoption Books List. Hundreds of you recommended your favorite adoption memoirs on Adoptive Families Circle. These favorites reached the top of the list.

No Biking in the House Without a Helmet, by Melissa Fay Greene

Sarah Crichton Books; 2012

“The months following the addition of a new child to your family have always been an emotional blur for me. We’re fortunate that such a talented writer chose to build her family through adoption, because she is able to capture those times of adjustment flawlessly.” —maggie g.

The Waiting Child, by Cindy Champnella

St. Martin’s Griffin; 2004

“Champnella’s writing style is so breezy, and the story so gripping, that you won’t want to put this book down. It’s been at least three years since I last read it, yet snippets still pop into my mind from time to time. To me, that is a sign of a good book.” —YokoMama

The Kid, by Dan Savage

Plume; 2000

“Reading The Kid was the first time in the infertility/adoption process when I felt it was OK to laugh out loud. Adoption is filled with joy, but the process isn’t funny. Savage’s book really helped us.” —Farmerjoan

Mamalita, by Jessica O’Dwyer

Seal Press; 2010

“By the end of this Guatemala adoption memoir, you’ll feel like you are the author’s best friend and a part of the fight for her daughter!” —kellysummers

In Their Own Voices, edited by Rita J. Simon and Rhonda M. Roorda

Columbia University Press; 2000

“A voice that isn’t often heard — the adult transracial adoptee — is given a platform in this book. These powerful, honest accounts can teach parents and professionals what really matters.” —Kevin8967