Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood: Firsthand Advice, Tips, and Stories from Lesbian and Gay Couples

Eric Rosswood. New Horizons, $15.95 trade paper (256p) ISBN 978-0-88282-514-4

With marriage equality now legal throughout the country, a substantial rise in the number of families headed by LGBTQ parents may be expected. Activist and stay-at-home dad Rosswood focuses his book on five options that same-sex couples can consider for growing their families. Short descriptions of each are accompanied by inspiring personal narratives from parents who candidly share their experiences with readers. The five paths described here are open adoption; foster parenting; surrogacy; assisted reproduction, in which one person in a same-sex relationship carries the child to term; and intentional co-parenting, which involves people in platonic relationships. Rosswood succinctly outlines the series of sometimes difficult steps demanded by each choice, and the first-person stories illustrate the emotional commitment necessary, as well as the accompanying interviews, evaluations, costs, and legal requirements. Appendices include a short checklist of legal considerations and some questions to ask of yourself. This supportive and helpful volume is full of warmth, encouragement, and advice, and it’s a good place for prospective parents to start. (Apr.)