The original “Alixandra’s Adoption Announcement” was written and illustrated by Alixandra (Ali) Moyer at age 6, with the help of her mother, Elizabeth Moyer. The book was composed as a commemorative item that was used to celebrate the joyous occasion of Ali’s adoption in 1996. Ali’s adoption story demonstrates the rollercoaster ride that an adoption process could ensue on children throughout its course.

Throughout the story, Ali describes feeling frustrated being a foster child for so long; feeling sad and not having an understanding of why grown-ups couldn’t adopt her right away; describing the anxiety it caused, which resulted in bad dreams due to the stress; but ultimately, the story has a happy ending with the judge ruling in favor of granting Elizabeth and Harry Moyer to be Ali’s adoptive parents on July 29, 1996.

One of themes of the book is to acknowledge that love presents itself in any color or in any generation. Ali’s parents are traditionally the ages of grandparents compared to her peers. Also, her siblings were closer to the ages of most of her friends’ parents and older family members. The family’s generation gaps provided an opportunity for insight to the mores of diverse cultures; and provided empathy and understanding for how each generation adheres to social constructs.

The goal of adoption should be the security and stability of a child. Being adopted, and not having to roam from home to home, provided that opportunity. The fear of living with multiple family environments did not manifest; the trust of having a stable upbringing and homelife enabled Ali to thrive in life. Ali encourages parents to foster children if they have the resources and loving nature to do so. Being adopted has provided Ali with opportunities and a stable home life that may not have existed otherwise.