At the heart of every impactful memoir is a story that transcends personal boundaries and speaks to the universal truths of human experience. Shana Marie Gilbert’s Raising Jesca is one such memoir, earning the prestigious title of Best Debut Memoir in the US of 2025 from Best of Best Review. This powerful and heart-wrenching narrative is an exploration of adoption, education, love, and the deeply transformative journey between a literature teacher and the abandoned street girl who would forever alter her life.

A Journey of Transformation

Shana Marie Gilbert’s journey began not with the typical steps of parenthood but with an encounter that would forever change the course of her life. As a documentary filmmaker, she was in Uganda working on the award-winning White Wanderer when she met Jesca, a tiny abandoned girl surviving on the streets of Kampala. The two quickly formed a bond that transcended their differences, embarking on a journey that would take them from the streets of Uganda to the classrooms and institutions that would help shape Jesca’s future. Raising Jesca captures both the joy and the hardship of their incredible journey, showcasing the profound connection between a mother and daughter, and the powerful impact of international adoption on both of their lives.

Highlighting the Power of Education and Adoption

Raising Jesca is more than just a memoir about adoption. It’s a story about the impact of education, faith, and love in shaping the future of a child who was once abandoned and overlooked. Gilbert's background as a veteran literature teacher adds a unique depth to the narrative, as she not only recounts the life of Jesca but also reflects on the evolution of her own understanding of education and parenting. As a mother to a black girl in America, Gilbert explores the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way, particularly in navigating systemic barriers and racial challenges.

Through this journey, Gilbert demonstrates how international adoption is not just a personal story of triumph; it is also a broader message of hope, love, and resilience. As she takes readers through the obstacles Jesca overcame, both internal and external, Raising Jesca becomes a compelling call to action for those interested in supporting the adoption community, especially for teachers and parents of internationally adopted students.

The Impact of Raising Jesca

A theme that resonates deeply within the pages of Raising Jesca is the notion of transforming lives through education, and it has not gone unnoticed by those who have already read it. One review on Goodreads captures the essence of the book: “Shane and Jesca are an inspiring pair in every way! Shane’s story of raising Jesca displays curiosity, calling, and unconditional love. It encourages the reader to consider what education means, how learning develops, and how systems and individuals can support all students.” The message is clear: this memoir is not just a story of one child’s growth but a reflection on how education can and should evolve to better serve all children, especially those who face unique challenges.

Gilbert’s honest recounting of her experiences brings readers face to face with the raw realities of international adoption and parenting, along with the unforeseen lessons that emerge when a white mother learns firsthand the challenges of raising a black daughter in modern-day America. The memoir’s authenticity and depth have made it stand out as a beacon of hope and education for parents, teachers, and adopters alike.

A Story Rooted in Compassion and Faith

What sets Raising Jesca apart is the unwavering theme of love and faith. Gilbert’s journey with Jesca is a testament to the strength of a bond formed not by blood but by choice. The book showcases the transformative power of compassion, proving that when we step into the unknown with open hearts, extraordinary things can happen. The memoir's exploration of personal growth and the challenges of cross-cultural parenting speaks to a wide audience, from educators to adoption advocates and families alike.

Gilbert’s own story is a moving reminder that life’s most profound lessons often come from the least expected places. In her words, "Every culture and story is an opportunity to react or transact, reflect or grow in confidence - all of it is the education, the development of our identity, our becoming."

The Future of the Memoir and Its Lasting Legacy

Raising Jesca is not just a memoir; it is a journey of love, a call to action, and a celebration of the human spirit. The story is one that will continue to inspire readers for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who experience it. Gilbert’s work has already been recognized for its impact, and this award further solidifies her place as one of the most compelling voices in the realm of memoir writing today.

Shana Marie Gilbert’s Raising Jesca is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of love and education, and it serves as a moving reminder of how life can surprise us with the most beautiful connections when we are open to the unexpected.

For more information on Raising Jesca, you can visit Shana’s official website.