I have mixed feelings about this book. There are a lot of emotions packed into this family’s story of adoption, neurodivergence, and spirituality. There are aspects of the narrative that I feel concerned about and aspects that I find admirable and thought-provoking.

My concerns are rooted in the amount of personal information and details the author shares about her daughters. As a professional in the child welfare sector, I am cognizant of how important agency over one’s own story and experiences is. TINDERBOX details a lot of the author’s personal story . . . and the stories of each of her three children. I am hopeful that the author discussed the narrative and details with her children before sharing. I have a feeling that, given her quest for awareness throughout her journey, she absolutely did so.

I was surprised at how deeply the author shared her spirituality and faith; I wasn’t expecting it, but I found that those details were some of my favorite parts. I also admired how deeply committed the author and her husband were to finding the right help and support for each of their children–how often they shared their “no matter what” commitment to their children. I appreciate the moments of vulnerability and “brokenness” that she included, as well. Far too often, families touched by adoption, foster care, and kinship care feel like they are the only ones feeling a certain way. I respect the courage that Lynn Alsup demonstrates throughout her story.

My thanks to NetGalley for the complimentary copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest opinions.