I Thought About It, and No

I Thought About It, and No is the unapologetic celebration of women who have chosen-or are still considering-a life without children. Part memoir, part chorus of voices, this book speaks to every woman who has been pressured, doubted, or dismissed for daring to imagine a full life outside of motherhood.

With humor, honesty, and raw candor, Stephanie Johnston shares her own story alongside women from all ages and walks of life, proving that the childfree choice isn’t selfish, sad, or strange. It’s simply human.

Readers will discover reflections that cut through stigma and pressure, insights about relationships, identity, freedom, and self-discovery, and reminders that you belong, you are enough, and your life is worth celebrating.

For those who have chosen, those still considering, and the allies who want to understand, this book is bold, warm, and validating-a mirror, not a map.

Author Biography

Stephanie Johnston is a writer, publisher, and cat mom based in California. She’s the founder of Whisker & Wing Publishing and the author of I Thought About It, and No: Choosing a Life Without Kids-a raw, honest, and often funny exploration of what it means to build a full life outside of motherhood.When she’s not writing, Stephanie manages clinical education operations for a nonprofit supporting clinicians who work with individuals with autism and developmental differences. She’s passionate about stories that challenge norms, celebrate choice, and spark meaningful conversations.You can usually find her with her cats, a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine), and a new creative project in the works.