Book excerpt: Joan Zaretsky was adopted as an infant, and grew up in a loving, happy home with adoptive parents who supported her to experience many opportunities. Following her retirement, and her adoptive parents passing away, Joan courageously endeavors to reconnect with her birth family—but this journey won’t be without difficulty. She may not find acceptance at every door at which she knocks, and will have to overcome other hardships, like cancer, loss, and mourning. But, ultimately, the little windfalls and serendipities of life could lead her to more love and family than ever. The Missing Puzzle Pieces: Finding My Birth Family is the incredible true story of Joan Zaretsky’s life and post-retirement search for her birth family. It’s a must-have memoir for fans of heartfelt, feel-good stories of family, and an inspiring, relatable read for those involved in adoption or who may be facing trials in their life. It’s never too late to find what’s missing.