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Magic Lessons: Celebratory and Cautionary Tales about Life as a (Single, Gay, Transracially Adoptive) Dad shares stories and reflections about family life for Joe—a single, gay, white man—and his adopted black sons, Daveon and Mark.

It humorously but honestly details Joe’s experiences of being amazed, aggravated, exasperated, and awed—by his kids and others in their family journey.

By revealing lessons learned about being “other,” as well as Joe’s own parenting successes and mistakes, Magic Lessons provides a guide for anyone who is part of, or considering, an alternative family structure.

Finalist, 2020 IAN Book of the Year Awards:
Family/Parenting/Relationships

What Readers Are Saying

“Joseph shares openly from his heart the purpose and passion behind leading and guiding with love. Magic Lessons is a book for parents, but all leaders who want to make a difference in the world as it is a book about love, hope, acceptance, and joy.”
- Shannon Kaiser, Best-selling author of The Self-Love Experiment
“Joe shares the story of his family, their magic, and their lessons learned in this conversational, honest, and often humorous book. Plenty of family and parenting nuggets and reminders, no matter your family structure. Thanks for sharing and reminding us to celebrate the magic!”
D. Pepp, Parent, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

“As a single parent, I enjoyed reading Magic Lessons. Joe reminds us of those moments that make life with your children magical. I recommend it to any parent or those considering parenthood.”

J. Romero, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Joe shares about “Diversity in Schools” at the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans

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Where to Buy Magic Lessons

Support independent bookstores!

Shop safely from home while supporting independent bookstores. Check out bookshop.org today!

Or order Magic Lessons from one of these local booksellers, many of which offer online and phone orders:

Oakland:
East Bay Booksellers
Marcus Books
MudLab
Owl & Company Bookshop

La Cañada Flintridge:
Flintridge Bookstore

New York:
Bureau of General Services – Queer Division

Philadelphia:
Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni’s Room

Vancouver:
Little Sister’s
Spartacus Books

London:
Gay’s the Word

and online in eBook and paperback format from:

Buy on Amazon
Buy on Lulu