HOW to write a graphic novel about foster care adoption

HOW to write a graphic novel about foster care adoption

Author: Marcy Bursac, Adoptive Mom & Founder of The Forgotten Adoption Option September 9, 2025 Duration: 56:21

Meet my graphic novel writing coach Maria Rodgers O’Rourke! Maria is a writer and certified Story Grid Editor. Her career began in advertising and public relations, moved to nonprofit leadership, and homed in on communications and writing after earning her master’s degree in pastoral studies. Maria is publisher and author of two women’s journals. She’s contributed stories to the St. Louis Post Dispatch and the HuffPost, and to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Maria runs MRO Creative, where she supports writers as a developmental editor and coach and crafts her own stories and reflections. Learn more about Maria and her approach at mrocreative.com.


Now in its sixth season, The Forgotten Adoption Option Podcast moves beyond statistics to explore the human heart of foster care adoption. Hosted by Marcy Bursac, an adoptive mother and founder of the initiative, this podcast creates a space for voices often overlooked. Conversations flow naturally with adoptive parents, adoptees themselves, adults who experienced the foster system, and seasoned child welfare professionals. Together, they unpack the complexities, joys, and raw realities of building families through this path. The central, sobering truth guiding these discussions is that nearly 30% of children in U.S. foster care are legally free for adoption, yet many potential families encounter hurdles that prevent finalization. This series exists to bridge that gap with authenticity and practical insight. By listening, you’ll hear firsthand narratives that challenge misconceptions, offering a clearer picture of the process and the profound connections it can forge. Marcy’s role as a mentor shines through in each episode, fostering dialogues that are as informative as they are deeply personal. It’s a documentary-style journey into the layers of society and culture surrounding child welfare, designed for anyone curious about adoption, involved in the system, or simply seeking stories of resilience and belonging. Tune in monthly for these essential conversations that illuminate a path toward permanent homes.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 86

The Forgotten Adoption Option Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Meet CJ - Foster Child & Author [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:14
CJ is the author of "Obliterating the Odds". She was in foster care and was never adopted although she lived in 35 homes before age 17. Listen to hear her journey of going from tragedy to triumph.
Meet Amber - Adoptive Mom (of a sibling pair!) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:19
Amber is in Texas and is the adoptive mom of a sibling pair. She also gifts my book The Forgotten Adoption Option to potential adoptive families in her area. Get ideas and insights about foster care adoption in this epis…
Meet Grandpa Bob - Adoptive Grandparent (and my dad!) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:13
Adoption impacts immediate and extended family. I'm excited to introduce you to my dad who shares his experience with my family's foster care adoption journey.
Meet Rita Soronen - Foster Care Adoption Advocate [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:43
Learn about the opportunity to adopt and advocate for children through the foster care system from Rita Soronen, President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.