Airdrie's Boys: Fostering as a Family Form - 9781475930504

Adolescence can be a challenging period under normal circumstances, but for five troubled boys, 1963 is a particularly difficult year. As social worker Airdrie Thompson-Guppy and her family settle in Waterloo, Ontario, Airdrie's life is about to dramatically change when those five boys are placed in her home by the Children's Aid Society.

One by one, the boys cautiously move into the home Airdrie shares with her husband and one-year-old daughter. Lefty is the unwitting victim of his father's anger. Bob has endured constant abuse from his alcoholic parents. Johnny struggles academically, is fatherless and is clearly troubled. Val sports an impish grin and is quick to argue. Dan is a cheery lad who is easily led by others. As Airdrie shares how she cared for the boys despite their inner turmoil and troubled backgrounds, she provides an eye-opening glimpse into one family form that focuses on rescuing and protecting children from the atrocities of a dysfunctional life.

Airdrie's Boys is a poignant story for anyone who cares about children; for families who need to know that lives can change and mend; and for all those who dedicate their professional lives to helping children discover a better life.