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You're Getting Bumped
The stirring histories of the Kelly & Wilson families are revealed over nearly a century. The first 40 years come to life through the stories of those who lived, loved, and survived the devastation of World War I, the Great Depression and World War II. The author breathes life into their memories, adding color to faded snapshots resting in untended boxes and lonely desk drawers.
The spirit of the two families merge when Dale Wilson and Barbara Kelly meet in Joplin, Missouri during World War II. Their relationship is doubted, discouraged, and tested through adversity. It is generally believed that Dale and Barbara are a frenzy of contrasts, totally unsuited for one another. He was quiet and withdrawn—she, engaging and ebullient. He was closed off—she, an open book. He practiced no religion—she was a staunch Catholic. He created distance from others—she was a beacon of acceptance for all. None of it mattered. Their differences were glue, binding them together instead of forcing them apart.
They raise thirteen successful children in an America rife with change. The middle class evolves, a war in Korea stalemates, Beatniks give way to Hippies protesting the Viet Nam War—while revolutions in music and customs challenge both children and parents.
Their story will inspire you. The journey is its own reward.
The spirit of the two families merge when Dale Wilson and Barbara Kelly meet in Joplin, Missouri during World War II. Their relationship is doubted, discouraged, and tested through adversity. It is generally believed that Dale and Barbara are a frenzy of contrasts, totally unsuited for one another. He was quiet and withdrawn—she, engaging and ebullient. He was closed off—she, an open book. He practiced no religion—she was a staunch Catholic. He created distance from others—she was a beacon of acceptance for all. None of it mattered. Their differences were glue, binding them together instead of forcing them apart.
They raise thirteen successful children in an America rife with change. The middle class evolves, a war in Korea stalemates, Beatniks give way to Hippies protesting the Viet Nam War—while revolutions in music and customs challenge both children and parents.
Their story will inspire you. The journey is its own reward.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 10, 2025
This heartwarming and inspiring family memoir chronicles Dale and Barbara Wilson’s remarkable journey as they raise thirteen children, navigating life between city and farm life, and ultimately seeing all their children achieve success.
Wilson paints vivid pictures of daily life, from the complexity and chaos of managing a large household and feeding a growing family, to the dynamics that emerge when siblings must learn to share and support one another.
The title hints at the realities of a family where space, resources, and attention must be constantly redistributed—someone's always getting "bumped" to make room for another.
Wilson weaves together individual stories of achievement within the broader narrative of how Dale and Barbara's parenting philosophy and family structure contributed to these positive outcomes. It is a testimony that celebrates family unity, Midwestern values, and the idea that with enough love, a solid foundation, and determination, any family can overcome any odds or challenges.
Wilson paints vivid pictures of daily life, from the complexity and chaos of managing a large household and feeding a growing family, to the dynamics that emerge when siblings must learn to share and support one another.
The title hints at the realities of a family where space, resources, and attention must be constantly redistributed—someone's always getting "bumped" to make room for another.
Wilson weaves together individual stories of achievement within the broader narrative of how Dale and Barbara's parenting philosophy and family structure contributed to these positive outcomes. It is a testimony that celebrates family unity, Midwestern values, and the idea that with enough love, a solid foundation, and determination, any family can overcome any odds or challenges.
July 1, 2024
Memories
Kelley captured the authentic spirit of the Wilsons. I loved this family from the first time Linda invited me to the farm in 1961. True to their Mother’s creed, I felt like one of the kids from the moment I met the family. I truly enjoyed reading Kelley’s stories.
Kelley captured the authentic spirit of the Wilsons. I loved this family from the first time Linda invited me to the farm in 1961. True to their Mother’s creed, I felt like one of the kids from the moment I met the family. I truly enjoyed reading Kelley’s stories.
April 13, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down. I absolutely loved it! I laughed, I cried. It left me wanting to read more of the story. It’s a beautifully written history of a growing family.
March 17, 2025
Well written and thoroughly enjoyed!
I read this in 2 days!
It made me reflect on my own family and how we struggle to connect.
I look forward to a next book.
I read this in 2 days!
It made me reflect on my own family and how we struggle to connect.
I look forward to a next book.
March 18, 2026
The American Dream
A wonderful family epic that will make you laugh, cry, and feel inspired. You will not be able to put it down!
A wonderful family epic that will make you laugh, cry, and feel inspired. You will not be able to put it down!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews