So I've Been Thinking

by Judy Marano

 Are you the kind of person who notices the small and not-so-small events that occur around you as you make your way through life? Or do you put your blinders on and try to go through your day checking off the to-do list? What if, instead of just moving through your day, you found a moment to stop, notice, and ask yourself, "What can I learn from this?" So I've Been Thinking is a series of stories about everyday life experiences. Although we are individuals, at the core of our being, we share the same pride in our families, traditions passed from generation to generation, and the ups and downs of life. There is an unseen web that connects each of us together. While reading, you might find the corners of your mouth begin to rise; perhaps a laugh will slip through, or a tear will slide down your cheek. Although the details may be different, the daily lessons we can gather from even the smallest interactions can be very similar. Each of the tales in this book is taken from the experiences of the writer, with the permission of her friends and family. Of course, everybody recognizes themselves. Yet every reader that picks up this book will find the story or stories that were written just for them. This is not a self-help book. However, it is a book about yours, mine, and ours. While reading this book, the writer hopes that you will discover new ways to cherish your life and find moments filled with joy.

208 pages, Paperback

Published July 17, 2025

Reviews

[Kate Edmondson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A happy book of little stories, that make you realise that it’s not only your brain that thinks like this!
It’s ok to over think, and to over think everything! I love Bertha the oven, the mother in law definitely knew the future there!
It reminds you your opinion is ok, and chat things through!

[Hann Juliet · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking stands out as a deeply human and emotionally inclusive work that embraces the beauty of everyday reflection. Judy Marano writes not as a performer or lecturer, but as a companion on the shared journey of learning to live with more courage and compassion. Her stories about navigating family transitions, confronting longstanding fears, and discovering new joys invite readers into genuine vulnerability without ever feeling heavy or dramatic. Instead, they offer comfort and reassurance through honesty. There is a quiet power in her writing that guides readers toward self-awareness without pressure, helping personal insights emerge naturally. I came away feeling encouraged to notice my own life more closely and to approach change with greater openness. Judy’s voice reflects the rare ability to connect authentically with people, making her storytelling especially well suited for speaking opportunities, book clubs, and coaching or workshop formats where shared reflection becomes a catalyst for true emotional growth. This book is not just something you read once; it is something you return to when you need grounding and gentle perspective.

[Mia Milly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Marano’s So, I’ve Been Thinking captures the essence of reflective living with remarkable grace. Her storytelling is vivid yet gentle, weaving personal experiences into universal truths that remind us of the importance of pausing, observing, and learning from the world around us. Each story takes a seemingly ordinary moment, trying something new, facing a fear, connecting with family, letting go of expectations, and reveals emotional layers that resonate deeply. Judy’s sincerity shines through in every chapter, making the reader feel like a trusted confidant rather than a distant observer. What sets this book apart is the steady sense of emotional companionship it provides. It’s easy to imagine Judy’s voice reaching people just as powerfully in a live environment, whether through speaking engagements, workshops on personal reflection, or sessions focused on emotional resilience. This book not only enriches the reader’s inner world but also showcases the author’s potential to guide and inspire others in meaningful, lasting ways.

Highly recommended

[Annn Card]

There is something incredibly comforting about reading this book. Judy Marano writes in a way that feels genuine and deeply human no exaggeration, no forced inspiration, just honest reflections that quietly touch the heart. Her stories demonstrate how growth happens in small moments: conversations with family, personal challenges, stepping into unfamiliar experiences, and learning to see ourselves with compassion. This book would resonate well in group discussions, book clubs, or personal development circles. Judy clearly has the talent to turn storytelling into meaningful engagement, making her a wonderful candidate for speaking events or group facilitation centered around emotional growth.

[Alyson Corry · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this advanced copy from @bookwormsbookspr and my review is voluntary.

I received this “finished book” copy and was looking forward to a new author non fiction .
Unfortunately even for a short story collection there were too many grammatical errors to look past this resulting in a low rating. That aside these meant to be inspirational stories are similar to Chicken Soup for the Soul books. The difference being this is from one writer. I’m sure this collection would come off relatable and endearing to the more “mature” reader, that being someone over 60.
However I felt like these little stories of personal life experiences would be better suited to a daily blog for followers rather than a book published for profit.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine sitting on a porch swing with a wise, funny friend who hands you a glass of wine and says, “Okay, listen to this…” That’s what reading So I’ve Been Thinking feels like. Judy Marano doesn’t lecture. She shares. She wonders. She pokes at life with a curious stick and invites you to do the same.

This book isn’t a self-help manual. It doesn’t come with five-point plans or bolded advice boxes. Instead, it's a series of short, real-life stories pulled from Judy’s own experiences and written with an honest voice that’s both sharp and warm. Each essay reflects on something we all wrestle with: family dynamics, personal growth, fear, nostalgia, bravery, and, yes, dessert.

The stories start small, a paddleboard ride, a dance across campus, a Thanksgiving dinner flip-flopped in reverse. But somehow, each one blooms into something bigger. It’s less about what happened and more about what it all means. Judy has a way of turning everyday events into little wisdom bombs. Like the time she went to her first opera and walked out changed, not because of the music, but because she finally stopped letting fear run the show.

What made this book resonate with me is how normal everything is. You recognize these moments. They’re universal. The quiet ache of an empty holiday. The sweet chaos of raising kids. That quiet voice that says, “I don’t belong here,” and the louder one that finally replies, “Actually, I do.” The writing is conversational but thoughtful. No fluff. No filler. Just well-told moments that make you think without trying too hard. One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re staring out the window thinking, “Yeah… I’ve felt that too.”

There’s a lot of love in these pages, love for curiosity, for change, for letting go, for holding on. Judy doesn’t claim to have the answers, and that’s probably why the book works. She just asks the right questions. And she does it with grace, humor, and a touch of sass.

So I’ve Been Thinking is for anyone who’s trying to make sense of life’s messiness and magic without getting too serious about it. Read a chapter before bed, on a train, in between errands. It’s that kind of book, light enough to carry, rich enough to stay with you. Highly recommended if you like Anne Lamott, Nora Ephron, or just good old-fashioned real talk.

[Alex Waldeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking by Judy Marano is a beautifully written collection of personal vignettes that explore fear, family, growth, vulnerability, and human connection in the most authentic way. From stepping outside comfort zones through new experiences like attending her first opera or aerial yoga, to tender stories about holidays, motherhood, shifting family traditions, and finding connection through unexpected friendships, every chapter feels intimate and genuine. Judy’s voice is honest, soothing, and deeply relatable not preachy or prescriptive, but warm and encouraging.

What makes this book so special is how naturally it invites self-reflection. Each story gently nudges readers to examine their own habits, fears, and relationships while offering moments of comfort and inspiration along the way. I often paused after chapters to think about how I might approach everyday life with more courage, openness, and gratitude.

Beyond the beautiful storytelling, this book showcases Judy Marano as a thoughtful communicator and natural guide someone uniquely gifted at facilitating meaningful conversations about personal growth and human connection. Her work would translate perfectly into speaking engagements, workshops, or discussion groups, as the stories spark honest dialogue and emotional engagement.

This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you close it not because it tells you what to change, but because it helps you see why you already want to change. I will absolutely be following Judy Marano’s work moving forward and recommending her both as a writer and a voice worth hearing more from.

[Natalie McMeans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the free ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!

I don’t typically reach for nonfiction—but I’m so glad I picked this one up. So I’ve Been Thinking is a warm, reflective collection of short essays that invites you to slow down, pay attention, and find meaning in the everyday. And honestly? It surprised me in the best way.

Judy Marano writes with honesty, humor, and heart, sharing stories that are personal yet deeply relatable. Whether she’s talking about family, tradition, friendship, or simply noticing the small moments we often overlook, her voice feels like that of a trusted friend sharing a thoughtful observation over coffee.

What I loved most is how accessible and gentle this book is. It’s not a lecture or a life manual—it’s a collection of insights and reflections that feel honest and human. Some stories made me smile, others made me pause and think about my own life, and that emotional resonance is what really makes this book shine.

This is a perfect pick for anyone looking to reconnect with the little things in life, or just wanting a quiet, thoughtful read to dip into one story at a time.

Heartfelt, reflective, and beautifully written—this one left me thinking long after I turned the last page.

[Serena L · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking is a deeply reflective and beautifully paced collection that gently guides readers through the emotional landscapes of everyday life. Judy Marano has a remarkable way of transforming ordinary moments into meaningful insights, allowing readers to recognize themselves within her stories. Whether she is writing about navigating evolving family traditions, gathering the courage to try something new, or learning to embrace vulnerability, her voice remains honest, warm, and reassuring. The book does not push solutions or preach lessons; instead, it creates intentional space for quiet reflection. I often found myself setting the book down after chapters to consider how her experiences mirrored my own choices and fears. This natural capacity to open thoughtful dialogue is what makes Judy’s storytelling so powerful. Her work does more than entertain; it encourages emotional awareness and self-understanding. The clarity and empathy displayed on the page show that Judy is not only a skillful writer but also a natural facilitator of personal growth conversations, perfectly suited for speaking engagements, workshops, or group discussions focused on connection and personal development.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking is a book that feels like a quiet awakening. Judy Marano takes the small, easily overlooked fragments of everyday life and turns them into moments of clarity and meaning. Her reflections on family, courage, curiosity, and self-discovery allow readers to examine their own inner experiences with gentleness. What impressed me most was her ability to communicate complex emotional truths through such simple, relatable stories. She writes with openness and vulnerability, creating a reading experience that is both comforting and transformative. As I moved through each chapter, I felt guided toward deeper self-awareness, not because Judy demanded it, but because she naturally inspires it. Her presence on the page is so warm and thoughtful that I can easily imagine her making an even greater impact in live discussions, workshops, or speaking engagements. The themes she explores, change, connection, perspective, are perfect foundations for group conversations and personal growth sessions. This book is not only beautifully written; it also showcases Judy’s natural gift for helping others reflect on their own stories.

[Roberta Lerma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading So, I’ve Been Thinking felt like stepping into a quiet, meaningful conversation with someone who genuinely understands the complexity of everyday life. Judy Marano doesn’t simply tell stories she unwraps moments. From family changes and shifting traditions to the bravery it takes to try something new or speak honestly, each chapter unfolds with sincere vulnerability and calm wisdom. I often found myself lingering after a story, thinking not just about what I’d read, but about how it connected to my own journey.

What makes Judy’s writing so impactful is her ability to hold space for the reader. She doesn’t rush to teach lessons; instead, she allows insights to emerge naturally. That gift the ability to deeply connect, listen, and guide reflection shines throughout the book and would translate beautifully into speaking events, writing workshops, or small group discussions. So, I’ve Been Thinking isn’t just a book you finish and move on from it’s a book that stays with you, encouraging you to approach life with more awareness, courage, and heart.

[Emily Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Marano’s So, I’ve Been Thinking is a celebration of humanity in its simplest, most authentic form. Each chapter feels like someone opening the door to a quiet thought they haven’t shared before, a moment of honesty, a struggle, an unexpected joy, or a realization that changed something small inside them. Judy’s writing style is wonderfully unpretentious, which makes the emotional impact of her stories even greater. She has a talent for recognizing lessons in everyday encounters, conversations with family, the shift of seasons, trying a new activity, or navigating uncomfortable emotions. What makes this book so special is the way it encourages deep introspection without ever feeling heavy or overwhelming. It sparked many moments of personal reflection for me, and I can see it becoming a catalyst for meaningful dialogue in group settings. Judy’s voice carries the qualities of a compassionate facilitator, making her work ideal not only for readers but for audiences in need of grounding, guidance, or a renewed sense of emotional connection

[Kelson Jesus · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something incredibly grounding about So, I’ve Been Thinking. Judy Marano writes in a way that brings the reader close, as though you are sitting across from her while she shares stories that shaped her outlook on life. The reflections she offers, on embracing fear, handling change, nurturing relationships, and finding tenderness in ordinary experiences, are delivered with authenticity and emotional maturity. She doesn’t try to impress with complexity; instead, she speaks to the heart with simplicity and truth. What I appreciated most is how her writing encouraged me to slow down, breathe, and look at my own life with a softer lens. That ability to inspire introspection through everyday storytelling is rare and deeply valuable. Judy’s voice has the potential to resonate even more strongly in interactive environments. I can see her leading impactful conversations in workshops, wellness retreats, or speaking events where emotional honesty and connection are central. This book is a testament to her ability to reach people meaningfully, both on the page and beyond it.

[Soledad D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking is more than a collection of stories, it is an invitation to rediscover yourself. Judy Marano blends everyday experiences with heartfelt reflection, creating chapters that feel like stepping stones through the emotional journey of being human. She writes with courage, openly sharing her own vulnerabilities, fears, and moments of unexpected joy. Her reflections on family life, self-growth, and perspective shifts are relatable and deeply touching. Judy’s voice is calm and reassuring, offering insight without pressure and wisdom without judgment. As I read, I often found myself nodding in recognition, realizing how many of her thoughts mirrored my own unspoken emotions. This book would be a powerful tool for group discussions, personal development circles, or guided workshops because the themes lend themselves naturally to shared exploration. Judy has a rare ability to make readers feel both supported and understood, a skill that extends far beyond the written page.

[Hann Juliet · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking felt like sitting across from a close friend over coffee — the kind who listens well, tells wonderful stories, and leaves you thinking about your own life long after the conversation ends. Each vignette is relatable, emotionally grounded, and full of quiet wisdom. Judy Marano doesn’t lecture or preach; instead, she gently invites readers into her reflections on fear, family, courage, and connection. I found myself pausing often to think about moments in my own life that mirrored hers times when fear stopped me from trying something new or when simple connections changed my day. This book is warming, thoughtful, and deeply human. It reminds us that growth doesn’t come from huge dramatic events, but from noticing the beauty of everyday experiences.

[James Bridgeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking by Judy Marano is a beautiful collection of reflective stories that explore themes of fear, courage, family, self-acceptance, and personal growth. The chapters flow like gentle conversations — honest, warm, and deeply human. Judy’s experiences, from navigating changing family traditions to stepping beyond her comfort zone, feel incredibly relatable and inspiring. What stood out to me most is her ability to transform everyday moments into lessons about gratitude and connection. This book highlights Judy not only as a gifted storyteller, but as someone capable of guiding meaningful discussions around emotional wellness and perspective. I can easily imagine her leading workshops or speaking to groups looking for practical, heart-centered inspiration.

[Tamera Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me with its emotional depth. At first glance, it’s a collection of small stories, but together they build a powerful message about perspective, self-acceptance, and bravery in ordinary life. Judy’s voice is authentic and comforting, never forced or overpolished just real. Whether she’s describing family traditions, stepping outside her comfort zone, or grappling with vulnerability, each moment feels genuine and easy to connect with. I especially appreciated how universal the stories felt even when the details were specific, the emotions were familiar. This is a book that slows you down and encourages you to think more intentionally about your own experiences.

[Joe Kingman · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking is the kind of book that quietly reshapes how you look at daily life. Judy Marano finds meaning in moments most of us pass right by small fears, fleeting interactions, evolving family dynamics and reminds us that these moments shape who we are. Her writing is warm, conversational, and honest, making the stories feel personal and intimate. I loved how every chapter stood on its own, making the book easy to dip into whenever I needed a moment of calm or reflection. This isn’t a self-help book filled with instructions; instead, it’s a gentle companion encouraging curiosity, openness, and empathy. I walked away feeling lighter and more aware of the simple joys around me.

[David Caldera · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most about this book is its sincerity. Judy writes the way people actually think and feel with humor, vulnerability, and imperfect clarity. Her stories about family, confidence, aging, and taking emotional risks resonated deeply. I often found myself nodding as I read, realizing how many of her reflections mirrored my own quiet thoughts. The book doesn’t try to solve your problems it validates your experiences and helps you reframe them with more compassion. It feels comforting without being fluffy and insightful without being heavy. This is the kind of book I would gift to close friends who need encouragement or simply want to reconnect with themselves.

[Jones John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a true reminder of how powerful personal stories can be. Judy Marano writes with authenticity and openness, sharing moments that many of us quietly experience but rarely articulate. Her reflections on motherhood, vulnerability, social courage, and appreciation for life resonate on a deeply emotional level. Rather than offering rigid advice, her storytelling gently encourages self-growth and awareness. So, I’ve Been Thinking showcases Judy’s natural ability to connect with readers in a sincere and supportive way the kind of voice that would be incredibly impactful in speaking engagements or community programs focused on reflection, mindfulness, and life balance.

[Joyce Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I’ve Been Thinking reads like a thoughtful companion that walks beside you as you reflect on your own life journey. Judy Marano’s writing is warm, honest, and quietly powerful. Her stories about family traditions, personal challenges, and the bravery needed to try new experiences are written with a beautiful vulnerability that encourages readers to open up emotionally as well. Each piece leaves space for the reader to absorb and apply what they’ve read to their own lives. Judy’s voice feels perfectly suited not only for writing but for mentorship, workshops, or keynote discussions that center on emotional resilience and personal clarity.

[Oriane Skye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books like this are rare. They don’t chase trends or try to dazzle you, they just mean something. Each chapter in So I've Been Thinking feels like a soul-level conversation. Judy Marano writes about parenting, grief, love, hope, and even mundane days in ways that made me reflect on my own life. I’ll be recommending this one to anyone going through transition or needing a quiet reminder of what matters.

[Adams Hub · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a gentle reminder to slow down and pay attention to the little things. While reading, I found myself nodding along, thinking of my own family moments and how often I rush past them. Some stories made me laugh, others brought a lump to my throat, but every single one left me reflecting. Truly a beautiful collection.

[❀❣♡kristie♡❣❀ · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC review - this was an enjoyable non fiction book, different to what I know in a self development book but still enlightening nonetheless.
It’s very nice to read a non fiction ARC as opposed to all the fiction ones I’ve been reading lately.
This book has given me more reason to shape my mindset.