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What Should I Say?

About the Book   Excerpts   Behind the Story   Reviews   Buy Now

Advance Reviews

What Should I Say? The Right (and Wrong!) Words and Deeds for Life's Sticky, Tricky, Uncomfortable Situations is a wonderful resource for those needing guidance on being there for friends and loved ones going through life-changing experiences. Shelly Burke has packed wisdom, compassion, and comfort into the pages of this invaluable book.

—Carmen Leal, author of The Twenty-Third Psalm for Caregivers and The Twenty-Third Psalm for Those Who Grieve



“Finally! Someone who has been willing to acknowledge those of us who do not fit into the ‘norm’ of society. We are the childless and infertile of the world who wanted to have children, but could not. Thank you, Shelly, for including scenarios of our misunderstood life’s situations in your book!”

—Diane Black, Co-founder www.childlessnotbychoice.com



What can you say when a loved one of somebody you know dies suddenly and unexpectedly? This book will give you the words and wisdom for what to say and do when nothing you can think of seems right. Shelly has tackled the toughest circumstances we know, and come up with wonderful words to help you get through the awful, awkward silence that stretches before you when confronted with difficult circumstances.

Her insight and compassion show through on every page.

If you’ve ever found yourself tongue-tied--or with your foot in your mouth all the way up to your knee--this is the book for you. Maybe there is no ‘right’ thing to say--but this book will help you from saying the wrong things and making the situation worse.

—Joy Dannelly, RN



Shelly Burke has done it again, this time with her insightful wisdom aimed at conveying diplomacy and discretion when you find yourself fumbling for what to say. In a book that you’ll reference again, Shelly’s sensibility shines through, just as it did in Home is Where the Mom Is.

You’ll want this unique reference at your fingertips when you’re at a loss for words, because Shelly’s perceptive and sincere advice will serve you well. This book tackles life’s ticklish problems in a way no other book has. It picks up where Miss Manners leaves off, by addressing the words to convey a tactful message and counters with what not to say as well.

—Beth Burke, unrelated freelance editor



In a world where it’s easy to remain insulated in our cars, our homes, within our own choice of music and thoughts, day-to-day verbal interaction with others – particularly in times of stress or crisis – is more important than ever. Alas, it’s at those very times when most of us “choke” on our thoughts or fall short on courage to engage others in a meaningful, helpful way.

Burke’s chapter on Encouraging Words, forged from experience, observation and prayerful consideration is a common-sense approach to what I fear is becoming a lost art – investing one’s self in the lives of others. This chapter is a very appropriate “how to” launching point for one wishing to be a friend in times of joy, sorrow and dilemma. If the Biblical Book of Proverbs needed a checklist on caring communications, Shelly Burke has provided it.

—Dan M. Crummett, Editor, Rural Life Magazine www.rurallifemagazine.com



Words and actions have the power to heal or hurt. This well-organized and much-needed guide will give you ideas of how to respond to the difficult situations and people in your life. Learn what to say and do as well as what not to say and do!

—Sue Johnson, author Grandloving: Making Memories with Your Grandchildren, www.grandloving.com



We all have experienced those awkward predicaments of life. Someone is standing in front of us, an emotional wreck..... awaiting our response. Our minds are racing, our palms are sweating. We open our mouths to speak and realize we have no idea what to say! Finally, a guide through life's most awkward and uncomfortable moments. Shelly gives practical advise how to confront your fears, head on, through Christ's compassionate love.

—Martha Whited, RN



“What Should I Say?” is a priceless guide for anyone involved in the life of a child with a disability. This highly informative book offers plenty of advice on how best to talk to a disabled or seriously ill child, or the parent of that child, with compassion and understanding. This is an important book for the general public, as well as those who love, live with and care for a disabled child or teenager. Burke should be commended for bringing a sensitive subject to the forefront of public awareness.

—Marie D. Jones, Author and mom of a child with cerebral palsy



'What Should I Say?' should be on the bookshelf of everyone who has ever been at a loss for words. With this book, you'll never worry about facing a difficult person, or uncomfortable situation again—you'll know exactly what to say and do, and just as importantly, what not to say or do, to make your point. I could have avoided many uncomfortable silences if I'd known what to say to difficult people we all deal with at one time or another. "

—Rebecca Edwards