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'Gus Becomes a Big Brother' is a heartwarming adoption story, with special emphasis on how an older sibling, Gus, deals with the anticipation, preparation, and experience of becoming a big brother. As the Barker family embarks on their adoption journey, Gus navigates his way through many difficult emotions; such as anxiety, frustration and jealousy. But with the support and guidance of his parents; Gus ultimately develops patience, empathy, compassion, and a ton of brotherly love. Authored by an adoptive mother and psychologist, this book contains many valuable insights for parents involved in domestic or international adoption. It is also applicable to diverse families, such as the Barkers- who successfully worked together to overcome challenges, while celebrating each other's differences. Overall, the story reveals a deeply connected adoptive family that is bound by love, acceptance and understanding.
About the author
Heather S. Lonczak holds a PhD in educational psychology and a master's degree in clinical psychology. She completed her MA practicum at Western Psychiatric Institute and was awarded a postdoctoral fellowship from the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington. She has extensive experience as a research scientist in the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and social work, and is a certified DSM-5 clinical interviewer. She has published numerous peer-reviewed social science articles and ten children's books aimed at promoting positive youth development and empathy for animals. Dr. Lonczak lives in Seattle with her beloved family and pets.
