"Candid, detailed, thought-provoking, inspiring, 'Finding Mother after Five Decades: A Story of Hope' is especially and unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library collections... Also, very highly recommended are the other three volumes comprising Dr. Henderson's 'Finding Mother' series: Reuniting with Mother: A Story of Tenacity' (9781734186840); 'After the Reunion: A Story of Acceptance' (9781734186857); 'Diary of Emotions: Thoughts and Feelings' (9781734186864)." ~Midwest Book Review
"Grace LaJoy Henderson's Finding Mother Series is a revelation. It is a gift to discover an author who can write so honestly--and with such vulnerability--about the joy and pain of reuniting with a parent after a 49-year separation. Henderson never glosses over the frightening or disappointing parts of her story. But her compassionate, unwavering voice, as she uncovers the long arc of her mother's life, is itself a triumph." ~Whitney Terrell, New York Times Notable Author, Associate Professor of English, University of Missouri-Kansas City
"The author's emotional honesty and the balancing of positive and negative emotions is what makes this series work." ~Phoebe Shanahan, MA in English Literature
"The Finding Mother Series will inspire readers to feel their feelings. It stirs people in similar situations to be at peace, but at the same time seek growth, in the midst of their circumstances." ~Arica Miller, LMSW, School Social Worker
"The Finding Mother Series displays a perfect example of how one triggering event can cause conflicting emotions. Throughout the series, the author experienced hope and despair, excitement and apprehension. Two, totally opposite emotions both at the same time. However, both were completely justified! This range and transition of emotions is what drives the entire series. Secondary students will absolutely benefit from reading this collection of books." ~Jacob Kelow, M.S.Ed., Secondary School Counselor, Kansas City Public Schools
Praise for Finding Mother After five decades: A Story of Hope (Book 1)
"Fast paced, heart wrenching and beautifully conceived, Finding Mother after Five Decades is a book that can give other people the urge they need to keep trying, to never give up, but above all to never lose hope." ~Dimitra Manda, English Teacher
Praise for Reuniting with Mother: A Story of Tenacity (Book 2)
"The book grabbed my attention and held me in suspense as I waited to find out if Grace and her siblings would finally get to fully reconnect with their mother. I did not want to put the book down until I knew for sure." ~Dr. Theresa Torres, Professor of Sociology, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Praise for After the Reunion: A Story of Acceptance (Book 3)
"This book was easy to read. I felt captivated by the transition of events as if I were standing right next to the author. I feel that secondary students will be able to pick this book up and jump right in." ~Jacob Kelow, High School Counselor
Praise for Diary of Emotions: Thoughts and Feelings (Book 4)
"While the entire Finding Mother Series provides a window into dealing with a loved one who suffers from a mental illness, this final book, Diary of Emotions, speaks to the heart of the struggle the author has gone through. Her in-depth, conflicting emotions covered throughout this book offer a raw and real view of the complexities of love and acceptance." ~Leslie Arambula, MA Creative Writing, English Teacher
