Home for a While - Hardcover

by Lauren H. Kerstein (Author), Natalia Moore (Illustrator)

A gentle and hopeful story about foster care, trust, and finding a place to belong

"Ultimately, the book is as much a model for foster parents as it is a story to provide validation of foster children's experiences . . . . Gentle and wise--especially as a read for foster parents."--Kirkus Reviews

This thoughtful picture book follows Calvin, a young boy in foster care who wants to trust but feels unsure how. Having lived in many different houses, Calvin carries his worries with him as he moves once again, this time into Maggie's home. Through patience, respect, and everyday kindness, Maggie helps Calvin begin to see himself in a new way and imagine the possibility of connection.

Written with sensitivity and care, the story offers reassurance and validation for children who have experienced foster care, while also modeling empathy and understanding for adults. Praised by Kirkus Reviews as "gentle and wise," the book serves as both an engaging story for children and a meaningful resource for foster parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting children through transition.

Key features:

• Child-Centered Foster Care Story Presents foster care through a young child's emotional perspective in an age-appropriate, accessible way.
• Themes of Trust and Belonging Explores how kindness, respect, and consistency can help children feel safe while also feeling seen and valued.
• Support for Caregivers Offers insight for foster parents and adults seeking to better understand foster children's experiences.
• Conversation Starter Encourages discussion about feelings, relationships, and what it means to feel safe and cared for.
• Trusted Publisher From Magination Press, the children's imprint of the American Psychological Association, experts in child development and emotional well-being.

Author Biography

Lauren Kerstein, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She writes books for children and young adults, and even wrote a textbook about Autism Spectrum Disorders. She lives in Englewood, CO. Visit her at laurenkerstein.net, on Facebook @laurenkersteinauthor, on Twitter and Instagram @LaurenKerstein

Natalia Moore has illustrated over 25 books and is a qualified art teacher. She lives in South Devon, UK. Visit her at nataliamoore.co.uk, on Facebook @nataliamooreillustration, on Twitter @NataliaMoore_, and on Instagram @nataliaillustrates.