In this book the author interviews several orphanages and tells of their success stories. As I read, I thought of all the news article and memoirs of children in the system, going through foster homes after foster homes, at times sexually abused by those who are supposed to care for them.

It's nice to hear of the success stories, though I am not sure if that is the answer to the problem. For one thing, some of these places cherry-pick whom they admit. Second, it's easy to imagine that if such programs expand, the quality may simply be lowered, and just like schools and foster families, attract people who get into it not for the love of children but rather the money.

However, for the children who are lucky enough to enter these homes, it certainly makes a difference. And for the family too, as so often not having to care for the children allow the parent to finish a degree or improve their life and pull the family up the social economic ladder. In that sense it's almost like the extended family safety net in the old way.

While researching the book, the author, in an ironic manner, sees her relationship with her son falling apart. As she writes of the success stories of delinquents, she witnesses her son spiraling down into one. Her experience illustrates what a fine line it is between good and bad parenting.

After taking out a book titled My Life in Houses, it seems fitting to add this book about orphanages into the bookbox.

Hardcover with dust jacket.

Claimed from the 2023 edition of the Biographies of Things bookbox with thanks.

I don't know of any orphanges here in Hawaii; we seem to rely mostly on foster care.

Note to azuki: I love your labels. :D