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Run, Girls: A Memoir of an Appalachian Family in Crisis
A gripping, unfiltered, and courageously candid portrayal of a family of girls on the run.
The narrative begins in 2024; Jenny runs out of her bed after she lets out a blood-curdling scream. PTSD is an aftereffect of her childhood trauma from the 1970s and 1980s. Despite her early days living with a drug-addicted father, she overcame significant obstacles, including foster home abuse, rarely missing school, and never missing church.
This eye-opening real-world saga shows how unflagging self-determination and a heart filled with God’s light can shatter any chains and lead to triumph. If you like real-life struggles, finding salvation in the darkest of times, and never giving up, then you’ll love Jenny Cafaro’s heart-stopping tale.
The narrative begins in 2024; Jenny runs out of her bed after she lets out a blood-curdling scream. PTSD is an aftereffect of her childhood trauma from the 1970s and 1980s. Despite her early days living with a drug-addicted father, she overcame significant obstacles, including foster home abuse, rarely missing school, and never missing church.
This eye-opening real-world saga shows how unflagging self-determination and a heart filled with God’s light can shatter any chains and lead to triumph. If you like real-life struggles, finding salvation in the darkest of times, and never giving up, then you’ll love Jenny Cafaro’s heart-stopping tale.
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 23, 2025
It started out interesting, but ended super religious. I’m sure some people will love it, but I was turned off. It gave the feeling that it was written by two different people, or in two different styles?
September 20, 2024
Run, Girls by Jenny Cafaro
If you found Demon Copperhead interesting….you’re going to DEVOUR Run, Girls! It’s a true story, fast paced, and riveting!
Cafaro’s writing is so uplifting, even though she discusses some wildly grim situations. It’s an amazing, intense, yet optimistic view of life growing up in Appalachia where she is surrounded by abuse, drug and alcohol addictions, and is in and out of foster care with her four sisters.
This is her triumphant story of breaking generational curses. Her buoyancy, perseverance, ambition, drive, and spirituality are her ticket to rid herself and her daughters of that curse. She is able to make lemonade out of lemons, so to speak. She learns at an early age that God helps those who help themselves and sticks with that motto throughout her life. She turns Run, Girls from a terrifying moment to a powerful message to her daughters.
This is the perfect book for those who wish to be empowered by strong women! I highly recommend this wonderfully written memoir and testament of faith and severing of generational curses.
If you found Demon Copperhead interesting….you’re going to DEVOUR Run, Girls! It’s a true story, fast paced, and riveting!
Cafaro’s writing is so uplifting, even though she discusses some wildly grim situations. It’s an amazing, intense, yet optimistic view of life growing up in Appalachia where she is surrounded by abuse, drug and alcohol addictions, and is in and out of foster care with her four sisters.
This is her triumphant story of breaking generational curses. Her buoyancy, perseverance, ambition, drive, and spirituality are her ticket to rid herself and her daughters of that curse. She is able to make lemonade out of lemons, so to speak. She learns at an early age that God helps those who help themselves and sticks with that motto throughout her life. She turns Run, Girls from a terrifying moment to a powerful message to her daughters.
This is the perfect book for those who wish to be empowered by strong women! I highly recommend this wonderfully written memoir and testament of faith and severing of generational curses.
July 27, 2024
This is a very good book to read. I highly recommend it. It is written by friend of mine. We graduated high school together bin 1992. Please read it if you get a chance. It just may help you or someone you know that is going through what Jenny and her family did
March 25, 2025
Good read, well written memoir of growing up impoverished in the hills of KY. A great deal resonated with me as I also shared the challenge of growing up in a challenging environment with very little money. For that reason, I connected with a good amount of her stories. It did get a bit confusing when she introduced facts regarding people in her life that made me scratch my head and have to go back and reread. When I did that rereading, it still left me puzzled as to where the new information had come from. The other issue I had was the preaching and religious aspect from about three-quarters through. Scripture was quoted so much that I felt like I was in a Bible class from a good bit of the reading. I'm glad she has her faith and feels it so deeply, but that much is never what I'm personally looking for; it made me want to skip pages and even chapters. I didn't skip, since it was a fairly short read, but it sure took the flow out of the book for me.
August 7, 2024
This book is amazing! It is about a woman and the trials that she has endured as she has grown up and how she has risen above her circumstances. It is written in a way that pulls you into the story. This book is definitely hard to put down and if you do, you can’t wait to get back to it and find out what happens next. We all go through trials and reading about Jenny’s trials made me thankful I have not had to endure some of what she and her family have. However, reading how she had overcome her different situations only encourages me that all things are possible!! I believe this is why she has written this memoir, to give hope to others! Well done Jenny! Well done.
July 27, 2024
I didn’t realize that my dear friend Jenny had hard life growing up. Her and sisters are very strong. This was a PDF copy
July 4, 2026
inspiration
This author shared her life and her ability to overcome what she has endured with God
By the end I was teary eyed and so proud of her
This author shared her life and her ability to overcome what she has endured with God
By the end I was teary eyed and so proud of her
March 11, 2025
Good
What a horrific but inspiring story! However it was written very tastefully. Her faith and strength shone through. Worth reading.
What a horrific but inspiring story! However it was written very tastefully. Her faith and strength shone through. Worth reading.
July 25, 2024
Run, Girls by Jenny Cafaro
This is a novel to read! Well done and well written. What a story this author has to tell, and she tells it well. She had just the right about of detail and description without it being too much. The reader can just imagine the rest.
What a life to have lived and experienced in such a short amount of time, although it probably felt like forever, and to come out on top. Heartache, loss, love, fear, abuse, to name a few....Jenny you have overcome and accomplished and should be so proud of yourself. I can feel the love that you feel for your children, your siblings and your mom in this memoir. You are so brave to have put this on paper and publish it for your readers. You are a strong woman!
I have to say this was quite the read, I kept thinking things had to get better, not worse, and the courage this woman had to do just that over time and with so little.
I felt so many emotions in this book, my own and the authors. From such a young age she experiences things that most never will and some that no one should. Some of the emotions and memories are hard to read about, as the author describes being raised in poverty with abuse and alcoholism so prevalent. I'm sorry the author was raised this way, I'm glad she had her sister's for love and support, I think that her life experiences made her a stronger person, as did the love of her mom and sisters. She also made it sound like some of the events left some good positive memories in place.
Jenny mentions at the end of her novel that her sister is also writing a book, that's on my to be read list.
This is a novel to read! Well done and well written. What a story this author has to tell, and she tells it well. She had just the right about of detail and description without it being too much. The reader can just imagine the rest.
What a life to have lived and experienced in such a short amount of time, although it probably felt like forever, and to come out on top. Heartache, loss, love, fear, abuse, to name a few....Jenny you have overcome and accomplished and should be so proud of yourself. I can feel the love that you feel for your children, your siblings and your mom in this memoir. You are so brave to have put this on paper and publish it for your readers. You are a strong woman!
I have to say this was quite the read, I kept thinking things had to get better, not worse, and the courage this woman had to do just that over time and with so little.
I felt so many emotions in this book, my own and the authors. From such a young age she experiences things that most never will and some that no one should. Some of the emotions and memories are hard to read about, as the author describes being raised in poverty with abuse and alcoholism so prevalent. I'm sorry the author was raised this way, I'm glad she had her sister's for love and support, I think that her life experiences made her a stronger person, as did the love of her mom and sisters. She also made it sound like some of the events left some good positive memories in place.
Jenny mentions at the end of her novel that her sister is also writing a book, that's on my to be read list.
July 29, 2024
I want to start with saying, I personally do not like to review memoirs or biographies as I feel what right do I have to judge someone writing about their life experience. But since I read this as an ARC, guess I have to lol.
I will say that I felt Jenny did a wonderful job writing her story. I'm sure this wasn't easy, having to relive her past. It shows her strength and courage!
Run, Girls by Jenny Cafaro is a deeply moving memoir about her tumultuous childhood and relentless pursuit of a better life. Growing up in a family dealing with abuse and poverty, Jenny’s story is all about resilience and hope. She openly shares the physical and mental abuse she endured and the hardships her family faced.
What makes this memoir stand out is Jenny’s unbreakable spirit and faith, which gave her strength during the darkest times. Her writing is so vivid and sincere that you can’t help but feel her pain and cheer for her victories. Run, Girls is an inspiring story of overcoming challenges and finding light in the darkest moments, reminding us that there’s always hope and a way forward.
I will say that I felt Jenny did a wonderful job writing her story. I'm sure this wasn't easy, having to relive her past. It shows her strength and courage!
Run, Girls by Jenny Cafaro is a deeply moving memoir about her tumultuous childhood and relentless pursuit of a better life. Growing up in a family dealing with abuse and poverty, Jenny’s story is all about resilience and hope. She openly shares the physical and mental abuse she endured and the hardships her family faced.
What makes this memoir stand out is Jenny’s unbreakable spirit and faith, which gave her strength during the darkest times. Her writing is so vivid and sincere that you can’t help but feel her pain and cheer for her victories. Run, Girls is an inspiring story of overcoming challenges and finding light in the darkest moments, reminding us that there’s always hope and a way forward.
July 26, 2024
I waited to read this book until I knew I could read it cover to cover. You will not want to put it down once you begin reading it! It is such an extraordinary book and memoir. It stands out among so many other memoirs due to the authenticity and vulnerability of her voice. She is unflinching in describing her life and all the steps she had to take and the losses she incurred as a result. But for me, the brilliancy of the book shines through with her time through the entire book. Ultimately, this is a book about growth and transformation. Will read again. 100/100
December 14, 2024
Run Girls!
Written by Jenny Cafaro
My 5⭐️ Review!
“A Beacon Of Light”
To write a Memoir is no easy feat. Doing so takes a lot of strength and a lot of courage.
Mrs Cafaro has displayed just that as she is a vivid storyteller that allows you to take this journey with her.
The Appalachian lifestyle has been one that has intrigued many throughout the years, the music, the folklore, and the mountain range itself. Many books, movies and songs have been written about the culture.
Mrs Cafaro story is bravely portrayed in this well written Memoir not only about herself but her family included and what is what like growing up in Appalachia!
It is a story that’s sets you on an emotional rollercoaster, its heart wrenching and heart warming all at the same time allowing you to sympathize with her through the many trials and tribulations as well as that of her families.
Despite her many setbacks Jenny’s Faith in God is what held her together. Giving her the resilience she most needed to make it through life each and everyday. Understandingly her life brought a tremendous amount of hurt and pain, even resentment and some hatred.
Navigating through the mess and I mean a mess she saw a difference in the people she encountered through her earlier years as she attended a church. That difference was a light she desired to become a part of and it would be her guide through her deepest and darkest moments.
That light was the love and power of Jesus Christ who not only spoke into her life but performed many miracles within it!
From victim to victor Jenny’s story is one that will inspire you to achieve your greatest goals and reach your highest potential.
Through her faith and her story she has become a beacon of light to all who know her and share her story. Her memoir is a beacon of light and a must read for anyone who has dealt with some of life’s greatest tragedy’s. Thank you Jenny for sharing this deeply moving story with us while sharing your faith in Jesus Christ with us as well.
Written by Jenny Cafaro
My 5⭐️ Review!
“A Beacon Of Light”
To write a Memoir is no easy feat. Doing so takes a lot of strength and a lot of courage.
Mrs Cafaro has displayed just that as she is a vivid storyteller that allows you to take this journey with her.
The Appalachian lifestyle has been one that has intrigued many throughout the years, the music, the folklore, and the mountain range itself. Many books, movies and songs have been written about the culture.
Mrs Cafaro story is bravely portrayed in this well written Memoir not only about herself but her family included and what is what like growing up in Appalachia!
It is a story that’s sets you on an emotional rollercoaster, its heart wrenching and heart warming all at the same time allowing you to sympathize with her through the many trials and tribulations as well as that of her families.
Despite her many setbacks Jenny’s Faith in God is what held her together. Giving her the resilience she most needed to make it through life each and everyday. Understandingly her life brought a tremendous amount of hurt and pain, even resentment and some hatred.
Navigating through the mess and I mean a mess she saw a difference in the people she encountered through her earlier years as she attended a church. That difference was a light she desired to become a part of and it would be her guide through her deepest and darkest moments.
That light was the love and power of Jesus Christ who not only spoke into her life but performed many miracles within it!
From victim to victor Jenny’s story is one that will inspire you to achieve your greatest goals and reach your highest potential.
Through her faith and her story she has become a beacon of light to all who know her and share her story. Her memoir is a beacon of light and a must read for anyone who has dealt with some of life’s greatest tragedy’s. Thank you Jenny for sharing this deeply moving story with us while sharing your faith in Jesus Christ with us as well.
August 3, 2026
Really enjoyed the book. All about the life in Appalachia snd overcoming a difficult upbringing. True story.
July 14, 2026
motivation and faith rock this book to its core.
Appalachian families live as best they can. Normal people with normal feelings like anyone else. This book takes us on a journey of survival in some of the worst conditions possible Jenny’s story is a testament to belief in God and trusting him with your life, your very existence. A successful life is one of hard work and prayer. Jenny did it, she survived and thrived with God’s grace in all. A book recommended to young women and men everywhere.
Appalachian families live as best they can. Normal people with normal feelings like anyone else. This book takes us on a journey of survival in some of the worst conditions possible Jenny’s story is a testament to belief in God and trusting him with your life, your very existence. A successful life is one of hard work and prayer. Jenny did it, she survived and thrived with God’s grace in all. A book recommended to young women and men everywhere.
June 16, 2026
Inspirational!
The literary work offers a compelling exploration of the human experience, presenting intricate narratives and multifaceted characters that engage the reader throughout. The profound storytelling effectively transcends conventional narrative boundaries, providing a sophisticated and nuanced examination of complex thematic elements. Highly recommended.
The literary work offers a compelling exploration of the human experience, presenting intricate narratives and multifaceted characters that engage the reader throughout. The profound storytelling effectively transcends conventional narrative boundaries, providing a sophisticated and nuanced examination of complex thematic elements. Highly recommended.
June 8, 2026
Highly Recommended!
This book brought back so many childhood memories. It's so similar to my childhood. I grew up in western Kentucky. When I was around 6 years old, my mom left my alcoholic father with four kids and moved to Florida as well. A large part of this book could have been written about my childhood.
This book brought back so many childhood memories. It's so similar to my childhood. I grew up in western Kentucky. When I was around 6 years old, my mom left my alcoholic father with four kids and moved to Florida as well. A large part of this book could have been written about my childhood.
June 5, 2026
❤️
This is a compelling memoir. It does have some typos; those are mainly at the beginning. Perhaps the electronic version didn’t come through correctly. Writing this memoir had to be incredibly difficult, and took a great deal of courage. The end is inspirational and full circle. While I’m a little confused by some of her choices (mainly remarriage, particularly in lieu of her strong Christian faith) - and while I couldn’t understand her positive feelings toward her abusers, I understood better, later. Forgiveness and grace are crucial for our own mental health. One thing I was truly never able to understand, is how her dad somehow became her hero. I will say it is certainly kind of her. It’s a great memoir, and has a lot to unpack. I recommend it!
This is a compelling memoir. It does have some typos; those are mainly at the beginning. Perhaps the electronic version didn’t come through correctly. Writing this memoir had to be incredibly difficult, and took a great deal of courage. The end is inspirational and full circle. While I’m a little confused by some of her choices (mainly remarriage, particularly in lieu of her strong Christian faith) - and while I couldn’t understand her positive feelings toward her abusers, I understood better, later. Forgiveness and grace are crucial for our own mental health. One thing I was truly never able to understand, is how her dad somehow became her hero. I will say it is certainly kind of her. It’s a great memoir, and has a lot to unpack. I recommend it!
February 2, 2025
Inspirational Book
Having been raised in an alcoholic, abusive home and then going on to marry an abusive alcoholic, this book brought back many memories of that type of home life. It is so inspiring to read how Jenny and her sisters were able to overcome the hardships of poverty and achieve so much with education and faith. God was a powerful force in their lives and Jenny has expressed her gratitude and devotion for His help in her life. A powerful book!
Having been raised in an alcoholic, abusive home and then going on to marry an abusive alcoholic, this book brought back many memories of that type of home life. It is so inspiring to read how Jenny and her sisters were able to overcome the hardships of poverty and achieve so much with education and faith. God was a powerful force in their lives and Jenny has expressed her gratitude and devotion for His help in her life. A powerful book!
October 6, 2025
I found this book to be relatable in that Jenny and I are the same age. I also grew up poor, but not at the extreme of which Jenny and her 3 sisters endured. I have often said we all come from disfunction, the level of disfunction varies. Jenny's story is at a higher level of disfunction that one does not wish upon anyone. Jenny's will to overcome her past and be someone is inspirational.
July 10, 2026
Heartbreaking
This book was a heartbreaking telling of growing up with nothing. I love that she pulled herself up by the bootstraps. This has received 3 stars, because the beginning was so gloriously detailed but the ending lacked the details that drew me into the beginning. Some chapters went over the deep end being overly religious.
This book was a heartbreaking telling of growing up with nothing. I love that she pulled herself up by the bootstraps. This has received 3 stars, because the beginning was so gloriously detailed but the ending lacked the details that drew me into the beginning. Some chapters went over the deep end being overly religious.
January 4, 2025
You want to read this!
I genuinely appreciate this book and how it was written. The author, Jenny, is a true survivor and overcome. She is honest, forthcoming and sincere. I couldn't stop reading this memoir! Thank you for sharing your life journey and inspiring me to rest in Gods promises.
I genuinely appreciate this book and how it was written. The author, Jenny, is a true survivor and overcome. She is honest, forthcoming and sincere. I couldn't stop reading this memoir! Thank you for sharing your life journey and inspiring me to rest in Gods promises.
December 16, 2024
Inspiration book.
December 17, 2024
Great story
This was an excellent memoir. The strength and fortitude it took to break the generational path is beautiful and full of hope
This was an excellent memoir. The strength and fortitude it took to break the generational path is beautiful and full of hope
February 7, 2025
Beautiful!
Very well written and easy to read. Like me, you won't be able to put it down. I have so much respect for mom and "the girls". What a wonderful family!
Very well written and easy to read. Like me, you won't be able to put it down. I have so much respect for mom and "the girls". What a wonderful family!
July 4, 2026
Fascinating memoir. Her faith got her through, making me realize that I needed to take a page from her book.
July 9, 2026
The first half was such an interesting story of her upbringing that I can’t imagine going through - and then it turned into completely different hyper religious / braggy random stories about being a nurse
August 1, 2026
Very much worth reading!
January 4, 2025
👌 excellent story of perseverance
Jenny speaks about hard times but then shows how anyone can overcome a crisis. Even if it's only one step it's forward progress.
Jenny speaks about hard times but then shows how anyone can overcome a crisis. Even if it's only one step it's forward progress.
July 29, 2026
I loved it! Growing up in the same area, knowing the places she talks about, I could interested I myself into her story as a fly on the wall. Did she and I have the same upbringing? No. Did I know people just like her? Yes. Excellent book!
August 6, 2024
AMAZINGGGGG!!!
This is one of the first memoir style books I have ever read - and I couldn’t put it down! Literally finished the entire book in less than a day, and haven’t stopped thinking about it since I finished it. Some of the trials and tribulations Jenny faced really struck home with me - and gave me a sense of hope that change and happiness is achievable. Great read. Great story. 10/10.
This is one of the first memoir style books I have ever read - and I couldn’t put it down! Literally finished the entire book in less than a day, and haven’t stopped thinking about it since I finished it. Some of the trials and tribulations Jenny faced really struck home with me - and gave me a sense of hope that change and happiness is achievable. Great read. Great story. 10/10.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews