Foster Care Film Series: Volume 01

This collection of three short films made by Yasmin Mistry present foster care stories that end happily for the most part. In Feeling Wanted, Charell Star Charleston, an African American public relations professional, says she was raised primarily by her mother, who was in and out of rehab, while her father, a drug dealer, served time for murder. Her great grandmother took care of Charell until health issues got in the way. Unfortunately, Charell’s first foster family was abusive, but her great grandmother made sure she felt loved. Charell has also developed a good relationship with her mother, who has now gotten her life in order. Ashley Wolford, the Native American childcare provider in My Identity, never knew her father. She ended up in foster care due to her mother’s addiction to drugs and alcohol. She also spent time with her half-brother's father and a cousin who introduced her to Sufism, a branch of Islam. Since Ashley was separated from her brother at an early age, they took different paths in life and had a strained relationship until recently. Camilla Tecsy, a white teenager in Family Rewritten, has cystic fibrosis. She ended up in foster care when her mother lost her job as a translator. Her father, an alcoholic cab driver, was unable to provide for Camilla, so a family friend ended up taking her in and making sure that she receives healthcare and emotional support. A bonus featurette, "Snapshots," offers additional comments from the subjects about case workers, aging out, and friends. The range of experiences presented here will prove instructive for those who are interested in learning about foster care. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)