‘My Adoption story’ is the story of the transformative power of adoption. 

It recounts the true story of Shegun & Seyi Olusanya, a successful Nigerian couple living in the UK, who yearned for children, but for many years remained childless. Written partly as a journal of events, it provides an astonishingly honest account of the trials and tribulations the couple faced before one little boy – Joshua, transformed their lives.

The book provides a ‘warts and all’ description of the adoption process with the false starts, frustrations, and complications that are often involved. We experience the heartache of a loving couple, desperate for a child to share that love with. Finally we are given a vivid picture of the value of adoption and the way in which it enriches the lives of all those involved.

It is a must read for anyone considering adoption, but beyond this, it is a wakeup call to the Black community to consider the plight of Black and Mixed Heritage children who are over-represented in the care system. I was left feeling personally challenged and I suspect you will be too.

Ultimately this book is about the power of love, which transformed a seemingly hopeless situation into a triumphant one.

Having known this family for many years, I have long been in awe of their strength of character, rock solid faith, and indefatigable determination. I now find myself humbled by reading the inside story of their struggle and honoured to count them as my friends.

Jonathan Akwue