We Were Once a Family: A Story of Love, Death, and Child Removal in America

**We Were Once a Family: A Story of Love, Death, and Child Removal in America - A Gripping Exploration of Family, Systemic Failure, and Unspeakable Tragedy** Dive into the heart-wrenching story of the Hart family and the tragic events of March 2018 with Roxanna Asgarian's award-winning book, *We Were Once a Family*. This meticulously researched and deeply empathetic account goes beyond the headlines to explore the complex lives of Jennifer and Sarah Hart, their six adopted Black children, and the devastating circumstances that led to their deaths. More than just a true crime narrative, *We Were Once a Family* is a searing indictment of the American foster care system and its failures to protect vulnerable children. Asgarian, drawing upon her extensive background as a journalist in Houston, meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the tragedy, shedding light on the red flags that were missed, the systemic biases that perpetuated injustice, and the devastating consequences of a system that prioritizes separation over support. Unravel the carefully constructed facade of the Hart family's seemingly idyllic life. From the outside, they appeared to be a loving, progressive family, documenting their travels and activism on social media. However, beneath the surface lay a troubling pattern of abuse and neglect, carefully concealed from the outside world. Asgarian masterfully pieces together accounts from friends, neighbors, and concerned individuals who witnessed disturbing behaviors that were often dismissed or overlooked. This book places the often-overlooked birth families of the Hart children at the center of the narrative. Asgarian skillfully weaves together their stories, giving voice to their heartbreak and frustration as they fought to maintain contact with their children and navigate the complex legal system. Experience their agonizing journey as they grapple with the loss of their children and the realization that the system entrusted with their care ultimately failed them. Asgarian's investigative work exposes the disturbing racial biases that permeate the foster care system, disproportionately impacting families of color. Discover how cultural misunderstandings, implicit biases, and a lack of adequate resources contribute to the unnecessary separation of children from their birth families. Understand the long-lasting trauma inflicted upon children who are removed from their homes and placed in unfamiliar environments, often without adequate support or understanding. *We Were Once a Family* is not just a story of tragedy; it's a call to action. Asgarian challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about the foster care system and demand meaningful change. Explore the urgent need for increased oversight, improved training for caseworkers, and a greater focus on supporting birth families in order to prevent future tragedies. **Awards and Recognition:** * Winner of the 2023 National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction * Winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize * Winner of the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction * A *Washington Post* Best Nonfiction Book of 2023 * A *New York Times Book Review* Editors Choice * One of *Publishers Weekly's* Best Nonfiction Books of 2023 Prepare to be moved, challenged, and forever changed by Roxanna Asgarian's *We Were Once a Family*. This is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, social justice, family relationships, and the complexities of the American foster care system. It's a vital contribution to the conversation about how we can better protect our most vulnerable children and support the families who need it most.