ABSTRACT
The construction of a truly meaningful life story occurs when the narratives of the Ghost Kingdom are both accessed and integrated with the other narratives marking other important relationships, fantasies, and realities of the adoptee's life. A. M. Homes, a writer and adoptee, speaks to the significance of owning a life narrative, with particular emphasis on the problems posed by adoption for the evolution and development of a complete life narrative. The Ghost Kingdom is held, coveted, and represents the implicit bond between the birthmother and her baby before relinquishment. In the Ghost Kingdom, the adoptee is looking for the opportunity to be born and get in touch with the original birth experience. The birthmother and other important members of the Ghost Kingdom are idealized, both positively and negatively. The adoptive parent or psychotherapist is conveying to the adoptee that the adoptee's confusion, anger, or expressions of hate will not discourage the adoptive parent or psychotherapist.
