Seeing Beyond the Shadows provides a window into the life of a blind individual. Burton addresses some of the obstacles that people with visual impairments encounter, such as the issue of transportation, the low employment problem, and the overall lack of opportunities that impede progress. She provides firsthand accounts of her own experiences navigating these obstacles and relates her faith journey as she has come to rely on God’s guidance.

The memoir is lighthearted and contains many amusing anecdotes and insightful reflections on the beauty of God’s creation. Visual imagery as well as a vast array of tactile, olfactory, and auditory details immerse the listener in the author’s world. Burton discusses her family and the love of literature they imparted to her. She also relates the life lessons she has learned through her studies, writing journey, half-marathon participation, and travel.

The memoir will serve as a book to counterpoint more liberal titles in the disability nonfiction genre. The world needs many diverse voices. Seeing Beyond the Shadows will be relatable not only to the disabled community but the nondisabled one as well. As listeners discover Burton’s story, empathy and knowledge can be gained by everyone. Seeing with your eyes is only one of the myriad ways God enables a person to experience the world. Through this memoir, much joy and insight can be unearthed. The memoir also includes an appendix of frequently asked questions the author has been asked during speaking events. The book also contains two fictional short stories.

In “Pagae’s Way,” a young woman sent to gather fruit for a festival must face danger in the forest when her path converges with a soldier. In a land ruled by hatred, Aleasha must discover courage when her best friend is in danger. In “The Trailor Park Girl’s Gift,” a teacher receives a lesson in love from an often overlooked student. Both stories embody the themes present in this memoir."