Natural Harmony

About the Book

Frank, courageous, and deeply moving, Natural Harmony is the memoir of an endearing little girl named Jade, who was born with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect. Placed in foster care at birth, she was eventually reunited with her mother, who struggled against all odds to get the best for her child. While the story recounts many setbacks and disappointments, its heart is Jade herself, with all of her comical antics. Despite the formidable obstacles she faced at times, this child was able to elicit genuine, deep emotion from everyone who came into contact with her.

Readers will be enlightened by Natural Harmony's universal life themes of frustration and coping, sadness and joy, loss and lasting love--and they will be touched irrevocably by this heartfelt re-creation of Jade's unique spirit.

About the Author

I grew up in Montreal, Quebec, the fourth of eight children. I now live in Victoria, British Columbia with my husband and three children. Having earlier had a child with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect, I had long felt the need to convey the spirit and meaning of my daughter Jade's brief life.

In writing Natural Harmony, my intention was to move, to inspire, and to educate people about the injustices dealt to those born with distinct challenges. As well, I wanted to share some of the joy that I found in the love and laughter of my sweet little girl.

Praise for Natural Harmony

An affectionate memoir...poignant...humorous...deeply affecting.
-Sidney Allinson, Victoria Times Colonist newspaper

I laughed at some parts, cried at others, felt anxious, distressed, happy, hopeful--it did exactly what a book needs to do--give the reader feelings. A sensitively written work full of love and insight. A book as special as the child whose story it tells.
-Ann Alma, author of bestselling novel, "Summer of Changes"

This book will have you experiencing every emotion: joy, anger, sadness, and everything in between. Any parent of a child with Down syndrome will be able to relate to Gail and Jade's heartwarming story--and it is a blueprint for how we should all fight for our children's rights.
-Dennis Dykes, director, Canadian Down Syndrome Society

Undeniably inspiring . . . a most enjoyable read!
-Ann Jonaitis, National Association for Down Syndrome

I was captivated with the turn of every page.
-Heidi Dauer, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, Inc.

Easy to read and hard to put down.
-Kathryn Sadgrove, New Zealand Down Syndrome Association

This honest account of a short but powerful little life elicits strong emotions. A good read for parents, professionals, educators and the general community. We can all learn through the eyes of a loving mother and a vibrant child.
-Sue Wilson, Down Syndrome Association of West Australia

As a healthcare professional, I've gained greater insight into the triumphs and tribulations of a critically ill child. Deeply moving with a good dose of humour. Jade is a real scene-stealer, who inevitably stole my heart!
-Maureen Garland, RN

A gentle, yet powerful story of the profound love between a mother and her child. An interesting read for every parent and every educator. This book is a strong reminder that children learn from their peers, and that all children have many gifts to share.
-Sue Johnston, educator

A beautiful tribute which also acknowledges the cause--and positive effect--of foster parenting.
-Tracey Morrissey, medical foster parent for the State of Missouri

An excellent addition to the home library for those who enjoy a true slice-of-life type work.
-Molly Martin, teacher, writer, and reviewer for BookPleasures.com www.angelfire.com/ok4/mollymartin/