The Birth of Hope

by Jeane Rhodes

The Birth of Hope is the story of a baby named Hope, from her conception through her birth as the child of teen parents who are in foster care at the time of her conception. Hope's story is one of... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1449506550
• ISBN13: 9781449506551
• Release Date: November 2009
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 364 Pages
• Weight: 1.07 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A deftly written novel

Hope is a child of teenage parents who were in foster care when she was conceived. "The Birth Of Hope" by Jeane Rhodes is a deftly written novel about this child and her parents, presenting the reader with an engaging story that will cultivate a renewed respect for, and appreciation of, the stages of human from its prenatal environment through birth. Of special note is how a supportive community of adults, friends and mentors is so essential for the success of a young couple struggling with the realities of parenthood. Although a work of fiction, author Jeane Rhodes obviously draws upon her real-life experiences and expertise having worked in a foster care system as a therapist and manager, making "The Birth Of Hope" a superbly presented account and an especially recommended addition for personal reading lists and community library collections.

Incredible Read

Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (1/10) I can honestly say this is one of the most intriguing, educational books I have read in quite a while. Jeane Rhodes has written "The Birth of Hope" with passion and intent to educate readers about teen pregnancy and the foster care system. Her experience in the field has led her to give readers many resources regarding one's birth, family history, and therapy. Readers will follow Tasha and Justin, two teens who find they are going to be parents - through the initial shock of the news and the foster care system which actually worked with the help of supportive foster parents and case managers. Tasha and her sisters have been in many placements during their young lives and often don't have any good memories of their mother. Justin has been placed with a family that treats him as their own. His foster parents are very supportive of the couple and their wishes, yet still can provide loving guidance as they move through the pregnancy. In each chapter readers get recommendations of books or websites that will add more valuable information. Different therapy techniques were described in detail, which I really appreciated, as well as exercises to connect with the baby. I found that her thoughts on communication with the teens and families and therapists very important. Readers will clearly see through the author's words that she is very dedicated to her profession as well as those she works with. Her extensive knowledge in this field reveals that even in a not so great system, with work and dedication good things can happen. Readers will not be able to put this book down. It is one that is full of compassion, love and caring. It opens eyes to the foster care system. I would love to see a follow-up to the story of Tasha and Justin. "The Birth of Hope" by Jeane Rhodes, PhD, is a book I will certainly recommend to my Psychology students.

A positive model

Jeane has written an important book revealing many positive possibilities for pregnant teen couples and others expecting their first child. She has created an engaging story as a foundation for presenting healthy options for pregnancy and relationship. An important element is the setting--a young couple in foster care. This environment may not be well known to many readers outside that world, but it needs to be better known. The unique challenges and opportunities it affords are revealed with sympathy and respect. I recommend this book to teachers, therapists, social workers, professionals in the legal and medical systems, and any others who care about our youth and work for change in our society.