The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

— Written by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M. D., in 2014, 364 pages

— Review Written by Heather Gonzales, 2022

Quick Review & Considerations:

  • Excellent source for trauma informed learning

  • Although the content pertains to adoptees and previous experiences of trauma, connections to adoption are not directly communicated for the reader 

  • Is longer than most books on this list (20 chapters) and has the potential to bog some down

  • The section on the brain, while being more reader friendly than many, can still feel overwhelming to some. Consider skipping this section if needed, and still benefit from the wealth of information this book has to offer

  • Has a substantial section (several chapters) on healing and recovery with actionable ideas

  • Cites other research and literature to support writing

 
 

Please Note:

Listing books here is not intended to indicate absolute agreement with all content, techniques, suggestions, word choices, or other work by the authors- but to indicate a large portion of information that was found helpful. It is recommended that whatever you read, no matter who recommends it or writes it, that readers use critical thinking and that content is reviewed in a thoughtful, contemplative, and reflective manner.

List and comments reflects the individual opinions of Heather Gonzales and are written from the perspective of an adoptee, for those looking for resources for adoptees or adoptive families specifically. Lists are not necessarily a reflection of all staff or Encompass Adoptees as a whole.

Additional lists, books, details, and reviews are added periodically.