What do you think?
Rate this book
Year of Yes: 10th Anniversary Edition
In this 10th Anniversary Edition, Shonda Rhimes, executive producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte, and more, not only revisits her galvanizing New York Times bestseller but gives readers an extraordinary cache of brand-new stories that showcase the continuing power that saying YES has had on her life.
In Shonda’s own “This book is the same as before, but it also is not. It is brand-new. It has changed. Transformed. Evolved. Grown. Just like me.”
In 2015, Shonda Rhimes, the trailblazing creative force behind some of television’s most beloved series, took on a challenge that would change her life forever. She decided to say yes to everything for a year, and the results were exhilarating. Hailed as “honest, raw, and revelatory” (The Washington Post) and “as fun to read as Rhimes’s TV series are to watch” (Los Angeles Times), Year of Yes quickly became a New York Times bestseller, captivating readers everywhere and inspiring them to undertake their own YES journeys.
In this celebratory and expanded anniversary edition, you’ll find more wildly candid and transformational chapters that reveal how the mega-talented Shonda, once a self-described introvert, achieved badassery worthy of a Shondaland character—and how you can, too.
In Shonda’s own “This book is the same as before, but it also is not. It is brand-new. It has changed. Transformed. Evolved. Grown. Just like me.”
In 2015, Shonda Rhimes, the trailblazing creative force behind some of television’s most beloved series, took on a challenge that would change her life forever. She decided to say yes to everything for a year, and the results were exhilarating. Hailed as “honest, raw, and revelatory” (The Washington Post) and “as fun to read as Rhimes’s TV series are to watch” (Los Angeles Times), Year of Yes quickly became a New York Times bestseller, captivating readers everywhere and inspiring them to undertake their own YES journeys.
In this celebratory and expanded anniversary edition, you’ll find more wildly candid and transformational chapters that reveal how the mega-talented Shonda, once a self-described introvert, achieved badassery worthy of a Shondaland character—and how you can, too.
Audible Audio
Published October 14, 2025
82 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Shonda Rhimes
10 books2,402 followersIn this poignant, hilarious, and deeply intimate call to arms, Hollywood’s most powerful woman, the mega-talented creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal and executive producer of How to Get Away with Murder reveals how saying YES changed her life—and how it can change yours too.
She’s the creator and producer of some of the most groundbreaking and audacious shows on television today: Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder. Her iconic characters—Meredith Grey, Cristina Yang, Olivia Pope, Annalise Keating—live boldly and speak their minds. So who would suspect that Shonda Rhimes, the mega talent who owns Thursday night television (#TGIT), is an introvert? That she hired a publicist so she could avoid public appearances? That she hugged walls at splashy parties and suffered panic attacks before media interviews so severe she remembered nothing afterward?
Before her Year of Yes, Shonda Rhimes was an expert at declining invitations others would leap to accept. With three children at home and three hit television shows on TV, it was easy to say that she was simply too busy. But in truth, she was also afraid. Afraid of cocktail party faux pas like chucking a chicken bone across a room; petrified of live television appearances where Shonda Rhimes could trip and fall and bleed out right there in front of a live studio audience; terrified of the difficult conversations that came so easily to her characters on-screen. In the before, Shonda’s introvert life revolved around burying herself in work, snuggling her children, and comforting herself with food.
And then, on Thanksgiving 2013, Shonda’s sister muttered something that was both a wake up and a call to arms: You never say yes to anything.
The comment sat like a grenade, until it detonated. Then Shonda, the youngest of six children from a supremely competitive family, knew she had to embrace the challenge: for one year, she would say YES to everything that scared her.
This poignant, intimate, and hilarious memoir explores Shonda’s life before her Year of Yes—from her nerdy, book-loving childhood creating imaginary friends to her devotion to creating television characters who reflected the world she saw around her (like Cristina Yang, whose ultimate goal wasn’t marriage, and Cyrus Beene, who is a Republican and gay). And it chronicles her life after her Year of Yes had begun—when Shonda forced herself out of the house and onto the stage, appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and giving the Dartmouth Commencement speech; when she learned to say yes to her health, yes to play and she stepped out of the shadows and into the sun; when she learned to explore, empower, applaud, and love her truest self. Yes.
This wildly candid and compulsively readable book reveals how the mega talented Shonda Rhimes, an unexpected introvert, achieved badassery worthy of a Shondaland character. And how you can, too.
She’s the creator and producer of some of the most groundbreaking and audacious shows on television today: Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder. Her iconic characters—Meredith Grey, Cristina Yang, Olivia Pope, Annalise Keating—live boldly and speak their minds. So who would suspect that Shonda Rhimes, the mega talent who owns Thursday night television (#TGIT), is an introvert? That she hired a publicist so she could avoid public appearances? That she hugged walls at splashy parties and suffered panic attacks before media interviews so severe she remembered nothing afterward?
Before her Year of Yes, Shonda Rhimes was an expert at declining invitations others would leap to accept. With three children at home and three hit television shows on TV, it was easy to say that she was simply too busy. But in truth, she was also afraid. Afraid of cocktail party faux pas like chucking a chicken bone across a room; petrified of live television appearances where Shonda Rhimes could trip and fall and bleed out right there in front of a live studio audience; terrified of the difficult conversations that came so easily to her characters on-screen. In the before, Shonda’s introvert life revolved around burying herself in work, snuggling her children, and comforting herself with food.
And then, on Thanksgiving 2013, Shonda’s sister muttered something that was both a wake up and a call to arms: You never say yes to anything.
The comment sat like a grenade, until it detonated. Then Shonda, the youngest of six children from a supremely competitive family, knew she had to embrace the challenge: for one year, she would say YES to everything that scared her.
This poignant, intimate, and hilarious memoir explores Shonda’s life before her Year of Yes—from her nerdy, book-loving childhood creating imaginary friends to her devotion to creating television characters who reflected the world she saw around her (like Cristina Yang, whose ultimate goal wasn’t marriage, and Cyrus Beene, who is a Republican and gay). And it chronicles her life after her Year of Yes had begun—when Shonda forced herself out of the house and onto the stage, appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and giving the Dartmouth Commencement speech; when she learned to say yes to her health, yes to play and she stepped out of the shadows and into the sun; when she learned to explore, empower, applaud, and love her truest self. Yes.
This wildly candid and compulsively readable book reveals how the mega talented Shonda Rhimes, an unexpected introvert, achieved badassery worthy of a Shondaland character. And how you can, too.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 28, 2025
The first time I read this, it was 7 years ago. I was turning 50 and was inspired and did a year of yes That was a very good year for me. It’s very timely that the 10 year anniversary comes out now just when I need it.
I like the updates and it’s still very inspiring. I’ve decided to make 2026 another year of yes.
I like the updates and it’s still very inspiring. I’ve decided to make 2026 another year of yes.
November 3, 2025
4.5⭐️
🎧 I'm so glad I did audio for this one! Shonda Rimes is not only an amazing writer and storyteller, but a fantastic and animated narrator. I also really liked having the original audio for the few speeches mentioned. This book was fun, empowering, and actually made me think deeper. I really enjoyed it!
🎧 I'm so glad I did audio for this one! Shonda Rimes is not only an amazing writer and storyteller, but a fantastic and animated narrator. I also really liked having the original audio for the few speeches mentioned. This book was fun, empowering, and actually made me think deeper. I really enjoyed it!
October 12, 2025
read if you like:
📺 Greys Anatomy, Scandal or Bridgerton
🥺 introverts
✍️ writing in Hollywood
summary:
This original book came out in 2015, but in honor of its 10 year anniversary, Shonda Rhimes has expanded on it with new chapters to share how her life has evolved since her original goal to “say yes”. The book is a refreshingly honest, funny, and inspiring memoir about what happens when one of the most powerful women in television decides to stop saying “no” to everything that scares her — and starts saying “yes” instead.
Shonda Rhimes, the genius behind Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder, brings readers behind the scenes of her high-powered, high-pressure world. Despite her success, she admits to being deeply introverted and often paralyzed by fear. When her sister challenges her to start saying “yes” to more opportunities, she commits to a full year of stepping outside her comfort zone — saying yes to public speaking, self-care, her kids and to confidence when she’d normally be scared.
What makes this book so great is Rhimes herself — witty, sharp, and unapologetically real. She doesn’t sugarcoat her struggles with anxiety, body image, or motherhood, and her self-deprecating humor makes her both relatable and kind. It’s an important reminder that growth often comes from discomfort and that “yes” can be radically empowering! By the end, you can’t help but feel motivated to find your own version of a “year of yes” — to embrace the things that scare you and open yourself up to new experiences.
Thanks to Simon Element, S&S/Marysue Rucci Books, and NetGalley for the ARC, and check out this expanded book when it releases on April 14!
📺 Greys Anatomy, Scandal or Bridgerton
🥺 introverts
✍️ writing in Hollywood
summary:
This original book came out in 2015, but in honor of its 10 year anniversary, Shonda Rhimes has expanded on it with new chapters to share how her life has evolved since her original goal to “say yes”. The book is a refreshingly honest, funny, and inspiring memoir about what happens when one of the most powerful women in television decides to stop saying “no” to everything that scares her — and starts saying “yes” instead.
Shonda Rhimes, the genius behind Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder, brings readers behind the scenes of her high-powered, high-pressure world. Despite her success, she admits to being deeply introverted and often paralyzed by fear. When her sister challenges her to start saying “yes” to more opportunities, she commits to a full year of stepping outside her comfort zone — saying yes to public speaking, self-care, her kids and to confidence when she’d normally be scared.
What makes this book so great is Rhimes herself — witty, sharp, and unapologetically real. She doesn’t sugarcoat her struggles with anxiety, body image, or motherhood, and her self-deprecating humor makes her both relatable and kind. It’s an important reminder that growth often comes from discomfort and that “yes” can be radically empowering! By the end, you can’t help but feel motivated to find your own version of a “year of yes” — to embrace the things that scare you and open yourself up to new experiences.
Thanks to Simon Element, S&S/Marysue Rucci Books, and NetGalley for the ARC, and check out this expanded book when it releases on April 14!
November 2, 2025
Loved, Loved, LOVED this ❤️
Shonda-land who has had me ugly cry on a routine basis whenever I watch anything her genius has had her hands on.
Shonda, who has single-handedly shown the complexity of humans in all her shows, who celebrates those from all walks of lives and brings the joy and despair to the lives to the forefront of each of the shows.
And, that of her writing, remains timeless and utterly beautiful.
Shonda, who has shown that, every person is capable of changing their lives by recognising their patterns.
Shonda, who is a great spokesperson for inspiration and creativity 👏
Shonda, who lifts up the lifes who is around her through her life, both in the professional sense and that in her personal life.
Amazing, a true masterpiece and an absolute pioneer in her field. Thank you for your inspiring story and life.
10/10 memoir.
Shonda-land who has had me ugly cry on a routine basis whenever I watch anything her genius has had her hands on.
Shonda, who has single-handedly shown the complexity of humans in all her shows, who celebrates those from all walks of lives and brings the joy and despair to the lives to the forefront of each of the shows.
And, that of her writing, remains timeless and utterly beautiful.
Shonda, who has shown that, every person is capable of changing their lives by recognising their patterns.
Shonda, who is a great spokesperson for inspiration and creativity 👏
Shonda, who lifts up the lifes who is around her through her life, both in the professional sense and that in her personal life.
Amazing, a true masterpiece and an absolute pioneer in her field. Thank you for your inspiring story and life.
10/10 memoir.
December 28, 2025
Excellently done. This is a republishing of the original with several additional chapters. I enjoyed hearing about her journey to say both yes, and no.
Some key takeaways:
• Embrace hard work over relying on “luck.” Success comes from action, not from waiting for fortune to smile. 
• Accept and own your achievements. Instead of shrinking away from praise, learn to say “thank you” and own your greatness. 
• Build a life beyond work: you are more than work and you must make space for joy, rest, and relationships. Shonda recognized she needed a life outside of the nonstop demands of her career. 
• Be willing to have difficult conversations and cut toxic ties. The “yes” journey wasn’t just about new experiences, but also about self-respect: letting go of relationships that no longer served her.
Some key takeaways:
• Embrace hard work over relying on “luck.” Success comes from action, not from waiting for fortune to smile. 
• Accept and own your achievements. Instead of shrinking away from praise, learn to say “thank you” and own your greatness. 
• Build a life beyond work: you are more than work and you must make space for joy, rest, and relationships. Shonda recognized she needed a life outside of the nonstop demands of her career. 
• Be willing to have difficult conversations and cut toxic ties. The “yes” journey wasn’t just about new experiences, but also about self-respect: letting go of relationships that no longer served her.
January 9, 2026
I hate self-help books. Loathe them! I fine them so conceited, self-serving and lacking in humility that I struggle to get through them. This book had all the things I hate in self-help books but for some reason I just kept reading. The message really did inspire me and encouraged me to let go of my fear and start living my life. I hate to say you can tell when the new, recently written chapters start, but you can. The writing style gets a lot better and I prefer the end of the book way more. Regardless, I did enjoy this and I know it will impact me so much in the long run. Here’s to my Year of Yes!
December 30, 2025
I read the original book when it came out 9 years ago and loved it immediately. It inspired me to live my own “year of yes” which has had so much lasting impact on how I live today.
While this book and Shonda’s engaging story telling skills drew me, I have to admit I feel like this book could’ve just been left as is. Her extra chapters were fun (love to hear she picked up golf as a hobby) but I didn’t see the real point of re-releasing this book. There was no new ideas, themes, or revelations. It all came back to the same one as her original book: the way she was living no longer served her so she needed a change.
I love Shonda. I am so happy to have listened to this vs reading it this time around. But no need to do anymore with this concept - leave it be
While this book and Shonda’s engaging story telling skills drew me, I have to admit I feel like this book could’ve just been left as is. Her extra chapters were fun (love to hear she picked up golf as a hobby) but I didn’t see the real point of re-releasing this book. There was no new ideas, themes, or revelations. It all came back to the same one as her original book: the way she was living no longer served her so she needed a change.
I love Shonda. I am so happy to have listened to this vs reading it this time around. But no need to do anymore with this concept - leave it be
February 8, 2026
YES!!! As an OG Greys fan I think I was predestined to like this book but it was way better than even I expected. This is a must read for anyone with anxiety, imposter syndrome or even those trying to balance the career with the day to day. I definitely highly recommend this one. Also I did just skip right to the 10th anniversary edition which I recommend even if you didn’t read the first edition, like me.
December 28, 2025
I read Year of Yes some years back and loved the additional chapters in this 10 year anniversary. I’m so grateful for the additional chapters and inspired. I cannot wait to discover a hobby I can sink my teeth into. Thank you for sharing your life with us. I will very likely be re-reading this book again next year.
January 3, 2026
So I started listening to the audiobook for this and honestly, it felt like a good book that I just couldn’t put down. I never wanted to stop listening. I listened in my car. I listened getting ready for work. I listened in quiet moments I had to myself. What a fun way to start the new year. Thanks Shonda 💛
November 18, 2025
Listened to it on audiobook.
If I would have actually had to sit down on read it, it wouldn’t have kept my attention. Not because it wasn’t interesting, but just because I wouldn’t have been able to hear Shonda’s way of speaking. I found it enjoyable.
If I would have actually had to sit down on read it, it wouldn’t have kept my attention. Not because it wasn’t interesting, but just because I wouldn’t have been able to hear Shonda’s way of speaking. I found it enjoyable.
January 12, 2026
I read or listen to the original book every year in January since it came out. And to now have a fresh version with new chapters? What a gift! Ah and the new chapters are wonderful and I definitely shed some happy tears. Thank you Shonda, THANK YOU ♥️
January 19, 2026
I loved this book the first time it came out and it was the best occasion to re-read it and celebrate the new additions. This is a book you can read annually to gain new insights. I found myself paying attention to different parts because of what’s happening in my life.
February 12, 2026
This was my 3rd time reading this book. I don’t know if I changed or if maybe 3 times with the same book is just too much, but I didn’t enjoy it as much this time around. The new chapters could’ve been just one chapter honestly. With that being said, it is still a great read and I highly recommend it.
February 12, 2026
I can see how this would be helpful for someone that doesn’t have great boundaries or lives in their comfort zone, I just felt like it was repetitive. Loved listening on audio and still worth it for some good reminders!
September 8, 2025
What a great book. I laughed and I cried. Inspiring and a wonderful look inside the worlds she created on TV. When Christina Yang cries, I cry - and now I have a better understanding of why.
December 12, 2025
I love her storytelling and narration!
January 2, 2026
Loved this, what a fantastic book to read at the beginning of a new year!
January 6, 2026
I really liked the book, I once seen a review mentioning how often she mentions being a writer and the shows she’s created so many times in the book and I then I couldn’t unsee it. However I will say definitely a good read and messages learned from it
January 5, 2026
I read the original and loved it back then. The new 10th anniversary edition is even better. The old and new takeaways plus Shonda being Shonda makes this easily worth the read.
January 6, 2026
Best book to start off 2026 with. I could listen to Shonda Rhimes talk all day, so I’m glad I listened to this as an audiobook.
January 8, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ some chapters were wonderful, some dragged.
January 13, 2026
4.5 ⭐️- audiobook version is so worth it!
January 29, 2026
Great read….love Shondas voice and the stories that was told.
February 1, 2026
I love Shonda Rhimes!
October 19, 2025
I listened to the original audiobook 10 years ago and loved it, so my Grey’s/Scandal-nerd heart was very happy that there were additional Shonda thoughts to be had.
January 25, 2026
This was a good read to me. It was the first self help/memoir type book that I have read. Well listened to. I liked the audiobook it felt good hearing the actual person read it lol loved the chapter about being a working mom and making time for her children. The graduation speech was a fave too. Also liked the fitness health chapter basically I liked it all lol
January 29, 2026
Interesting read & I feel like everyone can learn a lot from someone as smart as Shonda. Also, related to her quite a bit, although I‘d never expect to relate to a famous American screenwriter/multimillionaire. As a proud introvert I loved seeing how far a fellow introvert was able to get in life although the world seems built for extroverts. Inspiring to follow what you love doing.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews