Love, Bandit - A Tail of Foster Care

Book excerpt: Bandit is a lovable, sometimes mischievous raccoon who finds himself in foster care with complete strangers, new rules, and many confusing emotions. He eventually works his way through the emotional conflicts to find happiness and acceptance. The story is told from the perspective of the foster child. This book is a wonderful tool for introducing the feelings that accompany leaving a birth family, learning about rules and new environments, and learning to love and trust again. Activities and advice for professionals and foster parents are included. About the author Virginia Ulch is an elementary counselor. She has been a foster and adoptive parent for 20 years. Virginia currently lives with her husband, two children, two dogs, and a variety of critters. Recommendations .Virginia Ulch's book for foster care children is excellent. Both content and photographs address the critical issues foster children face while at the same time bringing hope that they can survive their adversity. This resource would be invaluable for foster parents as well as those in the helping profession who work with foster care children. William Steele, MSW, PsyD, Director of The National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children .As a therapist who works with children in foster and adoptive homes, this book will be indispensable in the therapy office. Children will enjoy hearing about Bandit's adventures, identify with his imperfections, and be able to absorb the valuable lessons about love and acceptance. Jean Cook, M ED., LPCC .I found it delightful in every aspect. As a school psychologist, I was concerned that our best knowledge about the process of foster parenting be presented in an understandable, yetengaging manner. I was quickly reassured for I found that Mrs. Ulch was able to present mature and complex ideas in a manner easily grasped by the younger reader. Douglas Felt, M.A., Licensed School Psychologist It has been my pleasure to review Love, Bandit by Virginia Ulch. I was very impressed with this literary piece for children. In her book, Mrs. Ulch has addressed a subject many young people have questions and concerns about. She has done so with a delightful story that will undoubtedly appeal to her intended audience.Bandit becomes nearly human because of the unique poses and expressive pictures. Mrs. DeAnna Bradley, Media Specialist