Roadmap to Holland (and a giveaway!)

When I found out Jennifer Graf Groneberg's book Road Map to Holland - How I Found My Way Through My Son's First Two Years with Down Syndrome was on the Mother Talk Blog Tour I jumped at the opportunity to read and review her book. I've enjoyed reading Jennifer's blog and her stories on Mamazine and Literary Mama. If her words in those short stories could move me, I could only imagine how moved I would be by her book - and she didn't let me down!

For those who don't know Jennifer, she is mom to Carter, and twins Avery and Bennett. Her writing takes us through the twins' premature birth, NICU stay, and Avery's Down syndrome diagnosis in such vivid detail and emotion that you feel like you are right there with her along for the journey.

She explores her thoughts and feelings with such candor - dealing with your child's diagnosis - especially one you weren't expecting - is never easy. Jennifer shows how she worked through her family's new dynamics, trying to figure out what this meant for her and them, one day at a time.

Jennifer writes with such passion and honesty. She doesn't hold back or try to sugar coat her feelings and emotions. Reading her story brought me back to receiving Kayla's diagnosis and it made me realize how far I've come as well. I could identify with so much of what she wrote. I read the chapter when Avery had an evaluation for services and had to chuckle. I remember some of Kayla's evaluations and the questions "does she do this or that?" and I would think to myself - I didn't know she was supposed to be doing this or that or we would have been working on it. If I could just get a list of the questions for the next eval I'll know what to work on!

I think just about any parent dealing with a diagnosis for their child could identify with Jennifer's story, and that's what new parents need. A book just like this. A book that will be honest with the ups and downs, that will show other parents they aren't alone. A book that will make you say "I feel like that too!" A book that will make you realize the sadness and fear of the unknown won't last forever and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

This is an amazingly powerful story of love, hope, and motherhood. Anyone would enjoy this book -whether you're dealing with a diagnosis (Down syndrome, or otherwise) or not. It's a story that will touch you, and one you won't soon forget.

Thank you Jennifer for sharing your story and your heart. You'll touch more people than you'll realize.

I've seen this picture before and always thought what a striking picture it was. Jennifer's smile radiates pure joy. Then I read the back story and loved the picture even more. What a beautiful moment captured forever.


So are you intrigued enough to want to read the book yet? Well guess what?! I'm giving away a copy, and Jennifer has graciously donated 3 more books for me to give away! All you have to do is leave a comment (and make sure I have a way to contact you) and next Mon I'll announce the 4 lucky winners!