Just Chris

[Author Debra Shiveley Welch]

Born with cleft lip and palate, Christopher waited for six days until an adoptive family was found for him. Finally placed in the loving arms of his joyous parents, he now faced a new challenged: multiple surgeries.

Read in his own words his memories of growing up with a deformity, his fight to overcome several learning differences, his delight in being adopted, and his incredible love for the lake on which he was raised.

Just Chris is more than just a book. It is a journey through a young man’s memories of growing up and being simply, and beautifully...
Just Chris
"All kids should follow their dreams, and don’t let others tell you that you can’t do it, even if you have learning differences. Focus, work hard, and say to yourself “'There’s nothing you can do to stop me.'”

Just Chris
by: Christopher Shiveley Welch
ISBN# 978-1-897512-12-8
page count: 66
Publisher: Saga Books

It isn't often that I am privileged to review a book written by a youth, and I was very honored to be asked to review his latest book. Just Chris, is a work that will capture your heart, and certainly give you more than the title implies. In this book you will meet Christopher Shiveley Welch, who is one remarkable young boy. Christopher came into this world with physical problems, born to a mom who just was not able to care for this new soul. However, there was a couple who had been believing for the child of their heart, and as Christopher writes in his book, God gave him to them.

Christopher takes us on his journey from settling into his new home to his present time. He opens his heart to the reader. He tells of the love that covered him, the struggles he encountered in his schooling, the pain of his many surgeries to make him acceptable in the eyes of our society, and life in general. Chris speaks of friendships, mentors in his life, emotional struggles and miraculous victories. His story is simple, but complex. It is heart tugging and at times amusing, yet always laced with innocence and truth. I liked that.

I believe after reading his story there were several things impressed upon me. One, Chris is a young boy who faced many insurmountable obstacles in life, but through each one he found new hope, and determination to continue on. If I was watching this unfold in a movie, there certainly would have been times that I would have given him a standing ovation.

I also feel that he knows how special he is. He understands that every person comes from the heart of God and has their own purpose on this earth. No one is a throw away person, and because of his wonderful upbringing, and what he has already overcome, he sees the world and those in it as very special. That in itself is a rare gift.

Just Chris, is more than a boy telling of his life. It is a story that surely will bring encouragement to many who face challenges, feel worthless due to some physical handicap, or face rejection in any way. It is a story of hope, courage and steadfast love. I believe Christopher has an exciting life ahead of him, and he will fly to heights that even he cannot imagine at this time. A great read, from a great young man.

Shirley Johnson
Senior Reviewer
MidWest Book Review