[DET62]

As I posted yesterday, I am getting ready to write a book about an 8 year old Russian orphan who comes to America, and how she adjusts to her new family. I got the idea because I want my son to have a book that explains some things about the transition. When I adopted Alesia I wished there was a book explaining about how to be in a family, and deal with all the changes. [For instance, she had rarely ridden in a car, never been to a grocery store, or been taught any table manners, etc. So many huge changes for her, and she was among people who didn’t speak her language. I have talked to other parents of older adopted kids, and I think there’s a small market for such a book – both to help parents and kids. I’m going to get it translated into Russian, too,obviously. I am thinking of a book on about 4th grade level. I’m going to self-publish it and I want to offer it for sale to other parents, too, if I can work it out so it’s not too expensive to print.

I definitely want some nice color illustrations in there. Do you do that kind of work, or know anyone who might able able to help me out? I couldn't offer much in the way of payment up front. It would be more of a "labor of love" - which I was thinking might be more meaningful to someone with an adopted older child in their family, or even a friend of the family. Any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks!

[jkkclinton]

what about asking for submissions from older adopted russian children. that way you would see the car ride interpreted into their view. i may just draw a car but the russian child who rides in one for the first time may remember how she loved the windows, the radio, the locks, or whatever. just a suggestion.

[mjkkbbr]

I highly recommend that you have the same story written in both languages within the same book. My newly adopted 8 yo has several books with the words in Russian on the left page and English on the right. She loves these books because she can read it in Russian then try to sound out the words in English.

I second the illustrations being submitted by other adopted children. GREAT IDEA! Your compensation can be a free book or at least a huge discount.

[jkkclinton]

Ooooh....I never thought of the compensation. I love the ideas that the ones picked would receive a free book before it goes on sale. I love that idea!!

[christinajp]

I have a 20 year old sister in law that was adopted from Romania. Incidentally, she is very artistically gifted, although she does not always apply herself. She is in the process of getting a degree in Art, and she might be interested. She was adopted when she was 7, so she has dealt with the obstacles you described. PM if you would like me to contact her for you.

[DET62]

I have started writing the book and it's going quickly. I should have a first draft in a week or two!

I plan on designing the page in such a way that the text is in Russian as well as English - maybe Russian on the top, English on the bottom, with the illustration in the middle. Not sure yet.

I definitely want both languages. I may also burn a CD of my friend Kate reading it in Russian, for the younger kids who may not read so well. Kate will do the translations. She's awesome.

Thanks for the feedback!
Dee