Anne Lilley Becknell

God Knew a Baby's Journey Home Anne Lilley Becknell

Anne first wrote and illustrated her story 15 years ago. She had adopted two children. She felt that by telling this step-by-step, thought-provoking realistic account, she could reinforce to her much-loved children that God knew what would be best for the baby being adopted. Compassionately and thoughtfully, Anne shared the concerns and worries of the birth mother. She explained the important role of an orphanage for babies awaiting adoption. When the baby boy was chosen for adoption, she described the excitement and preparations of his mommy and daddy. She also added the love and anticipation of family members and friends by showing the nursery full of heartwarming reminders. Anne followed the baby as he was placed with a foster family who were able to nurture him more individually than caregivers at the orphanage could. When the time came for the baby to travel, she explained the foster parents' bittersweet feelings. The baby's long journey led to the excitement of him being placed into his mommy's arms-and then everyone's realization of what God had known all along. Anne's soft pastels show many aspects of each stage of the infant's story. The cares, worries, concerns, and unknowns appear in both the intuitive text and illustrations. This book is inspirational for prospective adoptive families, adopted children, foster families, and others who have loved and anticipated the arrivals of adoptees joining the families of friends and relatives alike. Anne's intricate, heartfelt details will delight young and old readers.