A quarterfinalist for The 2024 BookLife Prize, A Family, Maybe scored 10/10 on this Publishers Weekly-sponsored competition. The Critic’s Report left me deeply humbled. I am sharing it here with the award organizers’ permission.
This book is a profound study on the meaning of family—both biological and found—that will stun readers in its authenticity and emotion. Igoudin’s inclusion of adoption’s legal side adds complexity to an already intricately woven memoir.
Igoudin writes with a delicate touch, relaying even the most painful moments with grace and respect for all involved. The prose brilliantly captures contrasting moods and emotions, wrapping this warm message of family love in a realistic, often-heartbreaking rendering of how adoption impacts not just the children, but their biological family, adoptive family, and the professionals assisting in the process.
Igoudin hits every beat in this lovely narrative, bringing vivid life to his adopted daughters, his partner, and the support team who helped them persevere through a years-long battle to create a stable family.
The complete review is posted on the BookLife website.
Lane Igoudin | Author, Professor, Dad 