Introducing “Belonging Matters: Conversations on Adoption, Family, and Kinship” by Julie Ryan McGue
“Belonging Matters” is a book that addresses adoption and its impact on identity, family, and kinship. It encourages readers to contemplate the significance of belonging in shaping personal experiences and relationships. The book supports the adoption community while engaging those outside it in meaningful conversations about acceptance and inclusion. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of belonging in enriching our lives and driving us toward fulfillment.
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- In the process of writing this book, did you experience any personal growth or transformation in your understanding of adoption and family dynamics?
I was a reluctant adoption searcher. Had it not been for a breast biopsy when I was 48, I might have left my closed adoption secrets well enough alone. But I felt I had an obligation to my four children to provide medical history. A decade ago, I had no idea that a breast biopsy would be the catalyst for personal growth. Not only did it lead to the discovery of valuable personal information, but it also led to a serious writing practice. Writing my story morphed into speaking out about the injustices of the closed adoption system. I have become a fierce advocate for open adoption records. No one should have to go through life without knowing from whom and where they come from, why they were placed for adoption, and what their family background consists of. “Right to Know” should trump “Right to Privacy” when it concerns sense of self and family health.
- Are there any key takeaways or messages you hope readers will glean from “Belonging Matters”?
Adoption is complicated. Each side of the adoption triad has a unique perspective. Those outside the adoption constellation may have their opinions and viewpoints about how an adoptee, adoptive parent, or birth parent should behave or feel, but they cannot know. It is only by listening to hear, by asking thoughtful questions, by trying to put oneself into another’s position that true understanding, empathy, is possible. And when empathy occurs, change is possible. Systemic societal change, change within individual mindsets, and change that transforms relationships.
- What’s next for you as an author? Are there any upcoming projects or themes you’re excited to explore in your future writing endeavors?
My third book, Twice the Family, A Memoir of Love, Loss and Sisterhood will release in February 2025. This is a second memoir, a prequel to my adoption search memoir, Twice a Daughter. In it, I delve into coming-of-age stories that focus on family, discovery of self, and love and loss. I continue to write my monthly column for my local paper and bi-monthly blogs at www.juliemcgueauthor.com. Life continues to provide material, so I doubt I’ll stop writing any time soon
Click here for part 1!