Based on the author's family's experience, this book describes a child's life before and after she was adopted from Russia. From scenes in the orphanage to the child's Russian birthmother, this is one of the first children's picture books to chronicle the special background of children adopted from Russia. Delicate watercolor illustrations perfectly compliment this poetic and heartfelt text, a celebration of the joy that adopting a child brings to a family. Reviews Delicate watercolor illustrations compliment the thought-provoking text in a celebration of the joy a child brings to a family. I liked the way Bashista blends simple adoption language with Russian vocabulary to make the comparison and transition from orphanage to family life easier to understand. When I Met You makes an excellent introduction for a parent to share a more complete story of adoption at age appropriate levels. -- Richard Fischer, Adoption Today Magazine "The author carefully balances a child's memories of Russian culture with new experiences in America. The result is a celebration of both cultures, and the special beauty of families created through adoption." -- Amy Trojanowski, Eastern European Program Specialist, Children's Home Society and Family Services.