Still Here: Life Together on the Long Way Home

by Steven Curtis Chapman, Mary Beth Chapman

“Forty years of messy, crazy, good‑then‑bad‑then‑better experiences, and they are Still Here to share it.” —Max Lucado

Everybody knows the music. Everybody knows, as well, their tragedy. But what makes the Chapmans so remarkable—Steven Curtis and Mary Beth—is that the same endurance their relationship embodies can be true of each of ours as well.

Still Here is their take on marriage, on parenting, on the lives we live and the promises we make. The Chapmans’ story, like all our stories, is one of total dependence on God’s grace and goodness, on His faithfulness and forgiveness, and on His readiness to redeem, in all of us, every outbreak of brokenness.

It’s been more than forty years of that now, together, and they’re inviting you inside to see it, to feel it—not to show you how it’s done, but to show you it can be done. Come along on their journey, and see yourself on your journey, trusting God for His faithful mercies on all our journeys home.
 

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Marriage, Audiobook, Biography

224 pages, Hardcover

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

Steven Curtis Chapman is a devout Christian, singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, author, and a social activist regarding youth violence prevention and adoption.

He and his wife, Mary Beth Chapman, have six children, four grandchildren and live near Nashville, Tennessee.

Reviews

[Carrie Brownell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Husband and I read this one together. I think I walk away saying that it might not be for everyone, but it was definitely for us. We split our time listening to it on audio (to hear their voices) and reading the book itself. Listening was our favorite because it felt like the best kind of encouraging chat from an older couple further down the road from yourself. Their message was one of hope and commitment and it hit the mark and was very much appreciated.

I read through other reviews of this title who knocked it for including SCC lyrics throughout and I just want to pushback and point out that their argument was that they have had a public career speaking Gospel truth at some of the lowest points of their marriage. The lyrics are shared as some of the "behind-the-scenes." In a "Look, this is where we were when I wrote this." That was the point. They weren't trying to sell CDs or anything.

This book gets a major thumbs up from us. It's quite unlike any other book on marriage you'll read because they AREN'T trying to counsel -- just encourage you to hold fast to the commitment you made to each other before God. And it felt like the encouragement came from friends who know how to laugh at the funny things and cry at the sad things.

It was perfect (for us).

[Nikki Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always been a big fan of the Chapmans. From music, to their life and everything in between. So I was super intrigued when they released a book on marriage. However, this is not your typical marriage book, autobiography type or any of the sort. It’s different. It’s more like an ongoing conversation between them and you. It dives into life of every season and how they always pressed forward even if they annoyed one another in the process. Founded on God, matured in love. It’s comical. It’s so down to earth. It’s sweet.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still Here is the joined writing effort of recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife of forty years, Marybeth Chapman. If you know anything about their story or have read their previous books, you know they’ve been through a lot together, and that their marriage has not always been easy. In Still Here, they share about what has kept them fighting for one another over the years. It is important to know going in that this is more of a conversational memoir than a self-help book about marriage. Steven and Marybeth are very candid about their story and offer insights from their own experience, but this is not a “how to have a good marriage book.” I listened to a lot of this on audio and would recommend that format, as the authors read the sections they wrote. I would recommend this for fans of the Chapmans, or anyone looking for general marriage encouragement, especially if you need to be reminded that it’s worth it to keep fighting.
Thank you to Netgalley and B&H Publishing for the advanced review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book written by Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth Chapman. I grew up listening to Steven Curtis Chapman's music so there is a long-time connection/sense of nostalgia I associate with him. I'm not sure how this book would resonate with someone who doesn't have that connection. Generally I strongly dislike books written in a very casual/conversational tone- this is definitely that but probably because of the connection to the author, the tone was endearing and personal vs annoying for me. Marriage books are a dime a dozen and I haven't cared for the majority I've read. This one was not at all didactic- truly a memoir of marriage by a couple who has experienced tremendous challenges in marriage and hardship/grief in life (along with success, too). I found their story and their commitment to keeping their marriage together for 40+ years heartening, encouraging, beautiful, and *real*. My mom listened to the audiobook which is read by both of them and loved that way of experiencing the book as well.

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not really a memoir if that is what you are looking for. Gives advice in generalities and with lots of Scripture. Lots of "as I wrote in the lyrics of a song..." Not bad. Just not what I expected and kind of boring.

[LAMONT D · Rating 4 out of 5]

My wife and I are big fans of Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman. We have supported their non-profit Show Hope ministry in the past. The loss of their sweat Maria still leaves a lasting impact in the words that they share about themselves and their marriage. The title is very appropriate and the many quotations to words from his songs are relevant to what they are trying to communicate. What a gifted songwriter! Probably I should have looked up those various songs to replay them again. The song "I will Be Here" is iconic and was a surprise to them at least that it became such a wedding song favorite though it was born out of the facts of his parents and their divorce. In true Chapman fashion they just write from their hearts, no really talking points or nuggets to hold onto other than it is a decision that they made repeatedly to stay together as a couple and to know looking back it has all been worth it, all the fights, the struggles, the tears, the laughs and moments of just living life together. I guess that is the message to all. Just hang in there and look to God who was the author of marriage in the first place.

[Allyson Strickland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Chapmans as if I’ve actually known them from the youth group days when I was 16 and can still see the youth camp videos of his music playing in the background. Their story is precious, real and valuable to any stage of marriage. It’s not Hallmark and we shouldn’t expect life or marriage to be that way. So many nuggets of wisdom and encouragement to couples to not quit, cling to the Gospel and to remain still here.

[Wysteria Campion]

Read this as a potential review assignment but I’ve declined to publish officially my thoughts because I was not the appropriate reader for this work and could not set that aside. Might write a few thoughts on form later.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the audiobook version read by the authors. Loved their honesty and the ways their stories and Steven's song lyrics were woven into the overall fabric of the book.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

review to come

[Tammi Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anyone who knows anything about the Chapmans would not say their life has been easy, but I was surprised by their vulnerability in sharing their marital struggles. It was refreshing and encouraging to read how they have repeatedly decided to choose each other, even through the excruciatingly hard times of losing a child and the career of a musician, as well as the struggles of being two opposite personalities. The beauty of the gospel is so gracefully woven throughout the entire book, and the last chapter, was the perfect ending, showing the beauty, the joy, and the security that is the end result of sticking it out, striving together to be “still here” despite all the odds stacked against them right from the get go. I gave it 4 stars only because at times it didn’t feel quite relatable to me. There were definitely still some really good takeaways, though, and I would recommend it especially to young marrieds as solid biblical advice.

[Rachel Lundy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still Here is a memoir of the marriage of Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth Chapman. I was encouraged by their commitment to one another through difficult times in life and in marriage. They admit that their marriage has not been easy, but they continued to stay together and to persevere through trials.

For those who are not familiar with the Chapman's story, it would be beneficial to read their previous memoirs before picking up this book. I recommend reading Between Heaven in the Real World by Steven Curtis Chapman and Choosing to SEE by Mary Beth Chapman. Once you have read those books, it will be easier to follow and understand things referenced in Still Here.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started this book I was a bit surprised at the disjointed writing. I came to the conclusion that it's due to the fact that I had an ARC copy that perhaps hadn't had the final edit. It felt at times like I was reading a book and listening to SCC and MBC discuss it in the background. It was a bit hard to follow at first. Once I got past that distraction, I began to feel uncomfortable. These people fought all the time, or so it seemed. I began to think they'd be happier apart and maybe writing a book on marriage wasn't the best idea. (note my final review is 5 stars)
I almost put the book down, I even asked a friend if they had the same feelings about it and they encouraged me to keep reading. So, just like SCC and MBC, I stayed and I'm glad I did. The second half of the book took a turn for me. Somewhere MBC mentioned the two of them singing 500 miles on ig. That song was on my favorite cd back in the day. I loved the music and I loved that he produced an entire cd for his wife...and knowing now that their marriage wasn't all lovey dovey, I love it even more. I went in search of that video. I didn't find that one but what I did find was two people who seemed to enjoy one another's company. They laughed and acted goofy and seemed like two people you might see on a regular basis...just normal people. Their life wasn't just one battle after another, there was some good times in the mix.
As I read the second half of the book I began to see their story as an encouragement to those who are honest enough to admit that marriage is hard and the struggle is not always fun. You may not always "feel like" loving your spouse but what a blessing it is to love them anyway. I love how they talk about the things they would've missed if they had given up. These are things I strive for. Ending well with my family. Having those years of commitment and memories to look back on. Feeling so comfortable and at home with another person on the planet. Someone I know will love me in spite of my weird, annoying habits. I never want to give that up just because it's hard.
As I said the book was an encouragement, not necessarily a step by step, do this and get that sort of book. However, there were definitely some good reminders on how we should die to ourselves in order to prioritize our spouse and they gave excellent examples of that truth in practice. One of my favorite quotes was "wherever grace is happening, good things are not too far behind." Demanding your own way never feels good...well maybe it does in the moment...but given some time to breathe it shouldn't feel good. Give grace and give grace again. God gives it to us each day, each moment. Why would we withhold that from our spouse!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[katescleanreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book primarily about marriage, Still Here is gritty, personal, bathed in Scripture, and wonderfully relatable. If you believe a successful Christian music career on the outside means harmony behind closed doors, think again. If you say you’ve already heard their stories and know their testimony, start reading.
The Chapmans are wide open and brutally honest about their struggles. But through it all is woven the theme that our only Hope, the only One that can hold us together, is Christ Himself. He gives grace and mercy when we cannot see the bigger picture. He gives kindness and help when we have nothing left. In a very readable, conversational format, the Chapmans beautifully illustrate exactly what it means go forward holding tight to each other and the One who brought us together, so that we too will be able to say “We’re still here.”
There is no magic formula, no 10-step program to follow. Just one family’s story of faith that refuses to quit amidst trials dark and deep. A redemption story that is available to all of us. He makes beauty from ashes.
A huge thank you to the Chapmans for sharing 40 years of God’s faithfulness through every difficult situation. It could not have been easy to write. But it is something we need more of, to know we are all in similar boats, yet there is Someone who can keep us from sinking. No matter what season of life you are in, this book is a must read.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Erin Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still Here: Life Together on the Long Way Home by Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman tells the story of their rather tumultuous marriage of forty plus years. The book reads like a friendly letter and feels like an intimate conversation over coffee. For readers in unsafe marriages, however, I think some of the Chapman’s advice could be damaging. On the other hand, for those in highly compatible marriages, it will not likely be very relatable. I would recommend this read to those in overall healthy yet mismatched marriages. They will find lots of encouragement in its pages to continue working through personality differences. The Chapmans have travelled long together in the same direction, despite their clashing personalities. Theirs has been a hard but rewarding journey, and I admire their bravery in sharing what they have learned along the way. Writing a memoir of any kind is not for the faint of heart, and you can sense their nervousness in putting pen to paper on the subject of their marriage. Still Here is an easy read, and fans (like me) will also enjoy the song lyrics peppered throughout its pages. In reaching for this book, especially if your marriage is in trouble, please remember to read it as a memoir. For marriage advice, seek professional help from a licensed counsellor…just as the authors so transparently share that they have many, many times over the years.

(The publisher sent me an advanced reader copy for review, but all opinions are my own.)

[Katie Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth bring genuine warmth and vulnerability to Still Here, sharing four decades of marriage marked by joy, grief, and hard-won grace. Their honesty about their struggles is the book's greatest strength, and fans of Chapman's music will feel right at home in his familiar voice.

However, readers looking for a focused narrative may find the book somewhat meandering. Themes recur without much new development, and the chapters don't always build cohesively toward a larger whole. The heart behind the book is sincere, but a firmer editorial hand could have sharpened its impact.

Ultimately, Still Here is best suited for devoted Chapman fans or anyone simply looking for companionship on a difficult marital journey. The grace they describe is real — even if the presentation could have been more purposeful. I appreciate their thoughtful Christian viewpoint throughout as they reflect on their journey so far.

Thank you to NetGalley and B&H Publishing for the advanced review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Dorkst3r · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of Still Here from the author and publisher. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review it.

Still Here by Steven Curtis Chapman and Mary Beth Chapman is an honest and encouraging book about marriage, family, faith, and God’s grace.

What I appreciated most is how real this book feels. The Chapmans do not present themselves as having a perfect marriage or all the answers. Instead, they share their joys, heartbreaks, struggles, and lessons from more than forty years together.

This is not a typical marriage advice book with step-by-step instructions. It feels more like sitting down with a couple who has been through a lot and hearing how God carried them through.

The writing is warm, simple, and heartfelt. I laughed, teared up, and finished feeling encouraged. The message is powerful: marriage takes commitment, forgiveness, faith, and choosing each other again and again.

Overall, this is a meaningful and uplifting read that reminds us God’s grace is enough for every season. ❤️📖🙏

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a longtime fan of Steven Curtis Chapman's music, and it has met me at some of the highest and lowest points of my life. I have also read the memoir he published several years ago, and I have read his wife's memoir about the passing of their daughter, Maria. Both were poignant and beautifully written, so when I saw they were writing a book together, I knew I had to read it. The book was so good. I appreciate their honesty about their relationship, the highs and the lows, and how God has sustained them through the good times and the bad times. I highly recommend this book. I would also recommend using an audiobook platform to have them read the book to you while you use the hard copy. You get sweet personal touches in the process, and a couple of surprises along the way. Five out of five stars for both the hard copy of this book and the audiobook.

[Jessica Wilczynski · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley and B&H Publishing for an advanced copy of Still Here.

Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth Chapman talk about how they are still here and married after forty years together. It is not always easy but it is always worth it. Through their faith they choose each other everyday. No marriage is easy or perfect and that is okay it is not supposed to be.

I really loved the way they spoke about their life and marriage the good the bad and the ugly. They are so relatable and are so open and honest. It was beautiful to hear their story and get insights from them! A must read for every couple!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very open and honest shall we say, “conversation”, between Steven and Mary Beth Chapman about their 40 years of marriage. They share the struggles and the triumphs they have experienced in a way that I am sure many are able to relate to. Marriage is a sacred covenant ordained by God to show the sacrificial love of Christ for His bride, the church. Marriage requires a lot of sacrifice and is sanctifying. I believe they have done a good job of showing the reader that truth. I had some difficulty following it as I felt it read more like a transcript to a podcast than a book and because of that, it may be easier to listen to the audiobook version.

Gifted from #Netgalley

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman share their forty years of marriage and life together through this book. They’re the first to admit that they are imperfect, sinful, and still struggle. They’re not trying to teach the readers how to live but rather how God has come alongside them in their seasons.

I think it’s a great way to hear their personal and professional stories. It has a very personal touch.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have loved SCC's music since the 80s, have read both his and MBC's books written after Maria's passing, and was really excited for this book. Alas, DNF at 31%.

I felt it lacked cohesion and a narrative arc--it couldn't decide what it wanted to be, and in that indecision, ended up being ... not much. Maybe it improved as it went on, but when I still felt this way after 31%, it was a tough sell to keep going.

I received an eRC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Danielle Crouse · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt that the main thrust of the authors was: "Marriage is HARD, but still worth persevering in." While they shared some truths along the way, much of the advice seemed divorced from the biblical grounding that is essential to applying advice in a godly way. For example, when we speak of deferring to our spouse, how do you decide what to defer on, and how to do so? What grid should we use to determine what can be laid down, and where we need to biblically stand our ground? I wish more of this kind of counsel, and less general advice, had pervaded the book.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quite honest personal look at the Chapman’s marriage. The theme is we are by no means perfect, but we are still here for each other … still together after 40 years. I love when one or the other of them is speaking. The ‘It’s Worth It’ chapter was the perfect ending to their ‘great adventure’ so far.

[Beth]

(Did not finish)
Got about 40 pages in. It’s a lot of “marriage is hard! We have problems too!” but it takes them a long time to say what any of the problems are. The advice seemed vague.
Interspersed are song lyrics from Steven’s new album. I haven’t listened to the album so the lyrics were not meaningful to me.

[Rachel Florida]

I love getting a deeper look in to the marriage of the Chapman’s. His music was a huge part of my childhood. They have so many important things to say on marriage. It’s a gem of a book with so many good nuggets of wisdom.

[Bekah | Justanotherbookishmama · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not quite what I would’ve wanted it to be. There was certainly a lot of good general wisdom, but it fell flat. They included A LOT of SCC lyrics throughout the book in ways that felt unnatural to me.

[Christine Barth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reads a little disjointed... unless you've read their other books or followed their careers.
My husband and I aren't fighters like these two, but there are some good truths worth remembering nonetheless.

[Ryan Hillis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book. Small print hard to read. Passed on to my Bible Study Class.

[Kristin Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story of their ups and downs and commitment to their marriage and the faithfulness and grace of the Lord.