ROADS TO FAMILY

A rich and resourceful guide to how families are made.

The book opens with a reassuring introduction reminding readers that human reproduction takes many different forms, and each one is valid. This sets the tone for the remaining chapters: “Baby-Making Basics,” “Insemination,” “In Vitro Fertilization,” “Beyond Assisted Reproduction,” “Donor-Conceived Perspectives,” and “Family Is What You Make It.” The book features real-life stories to make the content more accessible, but even explanations that involve complex topics such as DNA or the details of IVF are written in clear language that is easy to understand. One of the strongest chapters is the one that explores nature versus nurture through the lens of people conceived through donor sperm or eggs. It highlights the examples of four people in their mid-20s, each of whom grew up in a different family but who share the same anonymous sperm donor. It describes, among other things, their parents’ decisions and characteristics they each share with their donor and the families that raised them. The same chapter clearly differentiates sex and gender and describes the regulation of the donor industry in the U.S. The book is nuanced, bringing to the forefront the validity of all families along with answers to the questions young people might have about themselves and others. The attractive color diagrams and simple but engaging illustrations elevate and enhance the text.

A strong and accessible resource for both school reports and elective reading.