Adoption memoir recommended by Oprah

A birthmother’s memoir, Without a Map, has received two honors: It’s been placed on Oprah’s list, "Memoirs We Love: 10 Addictive True Stories." It also made the New York Times Best Seller List.

Author Meredith Hall, a writing teacher at the University of New Hampshire, says she wrote Without a Map as if she were talking one on one with a “kind old crone.” An article on Fosters.com tells more about her writing experience, and if the poetic insight she offers in describing her writing is any indication of what the book holds, we’re in for a treat.

The story details her journey through her pregnancy at age 16, the shame and secrecy that was put upon her, and her son’s relinquishment. It covers her travels, subsequent children, and later, the reunion with her first son.

I love it that this book is getting such a positive response! I have a tremendous respect for Meredith Hall for moving beyond the secrecy that surrounded her relinquishment, for recognizing that she has a valid and compelling story, and for having the courage to write about it – and not leave that writing stuffed away in a drawer somewhere.

Our stories are valid. They are rich. And when there’s an element of secrecy or shame to them, it takes a heap of courage and faith to put them out there into the world. I’m grateful for Meredith Hall and all of the other writers out there who are letting the stories win out over their fear or discomfort.

Have you read this book? How similar is her story to yours?

Photo courtesy of www.meredithhall.org