A Family of Choice: A Gay Man's Story of International Adoption [Hardcover]

Paul Hampsch (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 21, 2009

Having been partners for many years, Paul Hampsch and his life partner, Domenic, made the decision together to adopt. But finding an adoption agency that would even consider allowing a single gay man and his partner to adopt was quite a challenge. With the support of friends and family, Paul was surrounded by blessings and felt sure he would eventually be able to adopt.

As time passed, Paul navigated a range of challenges, some of which tested his level of resolve in one way or another, but he was finally able to adopt and return to America with his children. His story is enclosed in these pages, and he tells his readers, ''The bittersweet joy of parenting continues to make my soul complete...Each bend in the road leads to a new horizon.''

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Paul Hampsch lives in Arizona with his two sons, Paul Jr. and Andrew. He currently volunteers at a local hospital emergency room, plays guitar, and loves to cook. Mr. Hampsch has also published trade manuals and training materials and is also the author of Marketing Is Relationship Building (1985).

Product Details

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co. Inc. (July 21, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1434904318
• ISBN-13: 978-1434904317
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,411,755 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A father who was meant to be, December 1, 2009

By 

Emily Cohen - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Family of Choice: A Gay Man's Story of International Adoption (Hardcover)

A heartfelt, powerful, and honest portrayal of the trials and rewards of Paul's story of adoption. You feel for him as a person longing to be a father and rejoice with him when his dream of a family comes true. This is a book that proves that a person's sexuality, religion, or even gender should not be judged but rather their personality, determination, and ability to love their future children. As someone who knows Paul personally, I have seen his love for his two sons and the brilliant and radiant family that they have become. Paul is truly an amazing writer and an amazing father. I'm extraordinarily proud to say that I know Paul and to be a part of his life. He is someone who I can look up to, take advice from, and know that he will support his family and friends unconditionally. This book is Paul's story but it is important for everyone to read and understand what he has to say.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Unconditional Love, September 14, 2009

By 

Vickie Frogley - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Family of Choice: A Gay Man's Story of International Adoption (Hardcover)

When Paul asked me to read his book, I was truly honored and touched. I had no idea what to expect from the first page of this book, to the very last page and couldn't put it down. Although Paul tells his story as a gay man, this story is really about his quest to be a parent, and the amazing support he received from friends and family, despite the obstacles. My favorite part was when he walked into the Ukraine orphanage and little Paul and Andrew literally chose big Paul. If anyone ever has the opportunity to meet Paul and see his interaction with the boys, you can see firsthand the dedication and unconditional love they have toward each other.

For me, this book is not about Paul's sexuality, but Paul's commitment to being the best parent he can be to little Paul and Andrew. As anyone who is a parent knows, parenthood is the hardest and most gratifying journey of all, with no beginning and no ending. They are lucky to have found each other, and the boys are lucky to have a father that wouldn't give up.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An international adoption page turner., August 15, 2009

By 

JDL - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Family of Choice: A Gay Man's Story of International Adoption (Hardcover)

A first hand account of a very special international life adventure in search of Paul and Dom's family. Engaging, a world away, the writer places the reader in the roller coaster of emotion which is foreign adoption. One single minded person does accomplish his goal with the help of a respected dedicated team, moving seemingly immovable objects in Ukraine, a new developing democracy. Seems the former soviet officials have simply changed the name plates on the door of the government adoption offices and remained in place with new titles but hard old tactics. The kindness and caring of Ukraine people comes through clearly. The cultural bridges crossed throughout provided entertaining reading. Nice result!