"Scoot Over and Make Some Room" is an amazing juggernaut of a book. The author, Heather Avis, is a mom of three unique children who shares her parenting journey and struggles. The book is open, vulnerable, funny and tugs at the reader's heart in all the right ways. I found myself crying during some chapters, nodding and verbally responding,"YES!" in others, and laughing out loud throughout the book.

Avis does a wonderful job of explaining the need for inclusion in all aspects of life, not just parenting. The topics she addresses are handled with tact, lots of insight and an overall feeling of welcome, even if you haven't been in these waters before. She shares the challenges and joys of raising her adopted children; two which have Down syndrome and one who is neurotypical and of African American/Guatemalan descent. She shines a bright spotlight on the wonderful gifts of those same children. The reader connects with each of these amazing kids, from wild and wonderful Truly to sweet August and Macyn, the dancing wildflower.

Avis examines the overall motives of why we choose to settle for the comfortable, not noticing the ones on the fringe excluded from the table. Often we don't even realize we are leaving anyone out until it personally affects us. As the author shares the impact that raising kids who don't fit into society's molds for what a child 'should' be has had on her personally, it challenges the reader to think more of those around us, noticing the places within our reach that are isolationist or just plain forgetful to provide equality for those with differences, be that race or physical ability. (The discussion does go quite a bit deeper in later chapters, so don't assume the book is only about parenting or inclusion!)

The author draws the reader back to Jesus and His persistent inclusion of the ones society said were unclean, unworthy or not enough. She encourages us to embrace the uniqueness of those who view life differently and to value the joy therein. By sharing her real life stories of triumph, pain, consistent issues (that may or may not resolve as quickly as expected), Avis gives the reader insight to choose to face differences in those around us in a healthy, affirming way.

Witty, honest, and at times convicting, "Scoot Over and Make Some Room" is a book that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind. As someone who has family members and friends who face challenges with inclusion on a regular basis, I appreciate this tender, yet fierce call to action by a Mom who has had to prove to a world that values conformity that those who are unique, wild and wonderful are worthy of a seat at the table. If we have the influence to change the narrative, we should be the ones stepping up. Don't expect to read this book and walk away unchanged--I don't think that's possible!

I able to read this book early, thanks to Zondervan. All opinions are my own. ( )