Shelbi was born with a rare disease that causes her to struggle in a world with little acceptance for those who are different. She was told “no” far too often and bullied, shunned, and mistreated. She was made to feel less than but still knew she could do what was being denied because despite mistreatment, she was also loved, adored, and supported.

Thanks for Telling Her “No” follows the first twenty-six years of Shelbi’s life. Written through the eyes of her mom, you will feel the inner groans of a mother raising a child deemed “different.” Her mom devotes her life to seeing that Shelbi accomplishes what she wants to accomplish. No matter how high, how low, how crowded, or how bumpy, they find a way to keep going and make it through.

Their story is written in chronological order with each chapter building on the last. The chapter titles are different names for God, signifying how He guided them through each trial and victory. The conclusion is proof that it takes a village to raise a child—but also faith. Have you ever been told “no” about something you thought you could do? Never let words keep you from being all you can be. Prepare to laugh, cry, and maybe get angry but ultimately rejoice!