Guest Author - Karen Ledbetter

Through written journal and tape-recorded accounts during their journey to Kazakhstan to bring home their infant son, Aibek (pronounced EYE-beck), the Quirks share the joys and frustrations during this life-altering experience and convey the message that international adoption is not for the faint of heart.

I knew from the beginning that this was one book that would be hard to put down! The adventure begins when the couple is stuck in a plane on a snowy Helsinki runway. Of course, the plane eventually makes it to Moscow, where the Quirks discover that their adoption agency escort was not waiting for them. After wandering through the airport, they find a Marriott desk, where an escort is hired to drive them to their hotel. The adventure continues as the couple explores an unfamiliar culture, shares cramped living space with their host family, overcomes various obstacles, falls in love with their gorgeous baby boy during orphanage visits, addresses cultural and differing child-rearing philosophies with the orphanage staff, and experiences every new parent’s joys and fears. Would they do something to offend their host country and not be allowed to bring their baby home?

Not only did I learn much about international adoption, particularly in Kazakhstan, but also learned much about the people and culture of this small country. I learned that most adoptive parents, no matter where they adopt from, experience the same fears, joys, and concerns. I love reading and hearing about true adoption adventures, and “Hello, Aibek!” is definitely one of my favorites. I recommend this book for anyone whose life is touched by adoption, especially those considering international adoption.

“Hello, Aibek!” is published through First Books Library and is available online at www.1stbooks.com.