Author(s): David C. Pollock & Ruth E Van Reken

Pregnancy & Parenting

In this publication, the authors explore the experiences of those who have become known as "third culture kids" (TCKs) - children who grow up or spend a significant part of their childhood living abroad. The book is rich with real-life anecdotes and examines the nature of the TCK experience and its effects on maturing, developing a sense of identity, and adjusting upon their return. Widely acclaimed as the first and only book to fully examine the legacy of transition and change shared by those who have grown up globally, Third Culture Kids speaks to the challenges and rewards of a multicultural childhood: the joy of discovery and heartbreaking loss, its effect on maturing and personal identity, and the difficulty in making the transition home. Pollock and Van Reken give voice to children everywhere who have grown up living abroad - third culture kids (TCKs). Through interviews, poetry, and personal writings, the authors validate past experiences of TCKs, placing into clear context their shared heritage and profiling typical characteristics and emotions - from practical social skills and identity development to restlessness and delayed adolescence. For parents, educators, and the thousands of adult TCKs around the world, Third Culture Kids brings to life the essence of the cultural, emotional, physical, and geographical experience of the nomadic life of a TCK. About the Author: David Pollock has worked with third culture kids and adult TCKs for more than twenty years. Ruth Van Reken knows intimately the world of living in a culture and country not your own, for her missionary kid childhood and as a parent and grandparent of TCKs.