This is the most relevant to current day issues book I’ve ever read. And honestly, it has only become more relevant since it was written. No One Ever Asked tackles the difficult conversations relating to racism and education and many other topics. Being a public school teacher myself I related even more to this book, but with three main characters and tons of side characters, everyone will find someone to relate to in this book.

No One Ever Asked revolves around the lives of three separate women and their families. Anaya, Camille, and Jen have a few things in common but truly lead very different lives. I found myself relating very much to Anaya as she is a teacher. But I also felt an extreme longing to be Jen since she is an adoptive mother and I’d very much like to do the same one day.

I was really impressed with Anaya. For a first-year teacher, she really had it all together. Her classroom sounded amazing and I love that she prayed for her students. With Jen what I loved the most were the strong emotions, she was feeling as an adoptive mom. The window into her soul was truly heartbreaking at times and heartwarming at other points in the story. I admired her courage and strength. With Camille, I’ll admit being a little annoyed. But at the same time, I know tons of people just like her - full of opinions without any true reasons behind them!

The issues tackled in the book with race were good reminders that our country hasn’t really come that far. Black children, teens, and adults alike have to be so careful. It broke my heart to read some of the stories in this book about conversations black kids have to have with their parents. Racism is still a problem today and I’m glad Ganshert tackled a difficult topic.

I also really appreciated the honesty in which adoption was written about. Many people think that adoption is a piece of cake and I’m glad Ganshert shared some of the difficult moments it can bring. I actually learned a lot in this book about attachment. It was so interesting to have an inside peek into the life of a family with an internationally adopted child. I especially loved the moments when Anaya sat down with Jen and gave her advice.

This book will challenge you to look into your own life. To see how you think about so many things including but not limited to: race, gun violence, education, teachers, segregation, health, bullying, and forgiveness.

I’ve read this book twice now and can honestly say I noticed new things the second time. I know this is one I will read over and over again because it truly is that good.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.