Am I Enough?: Embracing the Truth About Who You Are

by Grace Valentine

Have you had enough of not feeling enough? Grace Valentine identifies the lies that many young women believe about their identity and self-worth, sharing her own struggles with these lies and how she overcame them through her faith in Jesus. Young women today are constantly told they are not enough for this world—not pretty enough, not smart enough, not exciting enough, and just plain not good enough. Grace Valentine has felt the pressure of trying to survive in a toxic culture, let alone thrive. But she’s had enough. Grace uses her story to confront the lies the world tells us every day—lies such Am I Enough? is a line in the sand. It’s a declaration that we will never be enough for this world, because we were created by Someone better for something better. Grace's fresh voice will help you leave your insecurities behind and realize your unique identity in Christ. Discover how to push past the lies and find confidence in who you were made to be!

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Faith, Self Help, Religion, Audiobook, Christian Non Fiction

240 pages, Paperback

Published July 17, 2018

Reviews

[Leanna Domalik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that every single young girl, teen, or adult woman NEEDS this book!!!! Grace had a way of making every situation so real & raw it was almost scary! Every girl goes through the situations that played out in the book and the way the Lord is incorporated into every situation is amazing and inspiring. If you’ve been thinking about getting this book, DO IT!!!! You won’t regret it.

[Mary-Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

"We serve a God who doesn't promise painless lives, but instead promises that if we trust Him, He will bring joy for our mornings.

I have to admit, I wasn't on board with this from the very beginning. I felt like the first few chapters were a bit repetitive, and I almost gave up on it. But I'm so glad I didn't! The majority of the book was fantastic and addressed issues that are very relevant to me. I honestly see this as a good read for any young woman who struggles with thinking she isn't enough (which is all of us, right?). Really solid and meaningful advice from someone who seems very relatable.

Also, you know I was won over when Grace thanked Taylor Swift in her acknowledgements! ;)

[Malia Saldaña · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this devotional! It was encouraging and touched on great topics that all young women deal with. I would recommend to all young women looking for devotional.

[Dora Okeyo · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever asked yourself the question "Am I---- Enough?" then this book is right up your alley! Read it.
I reckon, there's so much that rules and societal expectations have put on us that we forget to live to cherish our lives and our bodies and dreams. Getting to read this book off Netgalley was timely, thanks for the advance digital copy.

[Lex Puls · Rating 5 out of 5]

Personal Response: I really liked Am I Enough by Grace Valentine because I am going through confirmation classes right now and this book has really helped me grow in my faith. Reading the book helped me grow closer to God. The book dealt with topics in which pretty much every Christian teen girl could relate. Grace talked a lot about body image, her party phase, and boy issues. She described how all those trials have brought her closer to God. She went through these struggles when she was about my age. I related to her and the book has been useful in my everyday life.

Plot: The author gave advice to young Christian girls and talked about her struggles in and out of her faith. The chapter that stood out most to me was “Beautiful in God's Sight” because as a teenager I, as well as many other girls my age, have struggled with loving my physical appearance. In this chapter, Grace talked about her struggle with body image. She also talked about how God created us in the likeness of him, so we have no reason not to like our physical appearance. The other chapter that stood out to me was “What to Do with a Broken Heart.” In this, Grace talked about how after a break up, a falling out with a best friend, or even a big fight with parents a girl can be tempted to stray away from God. Instead of being mad and blaming him, people should really pray and give Him their grievances. She said God would help people overcome their problems and would make them stronger.

Characterization: Throughout the whole book, every chapter started off with Grace telling a story that related with the chapter’s title. She described her struggles. By the end of each chapter, she showed how God had helped her through any difficult time. Most of her stories were from when she was in high school or her very early years in college. Throughout the book, the reader really got the idea that she has turned into a much stronger person both in and out of her faith. She became less selfish and relied more on God in her everyday life.

Setting: This book took place in current times in Texas. I did not really think the location was that important to the story. I did think the time period was important to help the reader value the author’s advice. It was written in current times. The author was young and recently went through the struggles of maintaining faith during teen years. Since she recently had these experiences, I related to her story and valued her advice. I felt she understood me.

Recommendations: I recommend this book to teen girls who want to grow in their faith and want to know more than what is just in the Bible. Grace talks a lot about personal struggles and I feel like girls my age can relate to these struggles. She gives good advice about how a girl can overcome her problems.

[Paola L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Personal Response:
I absolutely enjoyed reading, Am I Enough by Grace Valentine. Despite what your faith is, this book is worth reading. Grace writes in a way that is humoristic, relatable, and truly inspiring. This book tackles the core lies women face on a daily basis. Grace proclaimed that humankind will never be enough for this world because they were not created for the world as they were created by someone better for a further purpose than to be “enough.”

Plot:
Grace Valentine used personal stories to illustrate the pressure of trying to survive in a toxic culture-a culture that constantly tells young women that they are not enough for this world-not smart enough, not pretty enough, and simply not good enough. The book was divided into sections based on the lies that human beings tell themselves and hear from others. Each chapter in the section deals with a related topic that opposes the specific lies one believes; furthermore, at the end of every chapter, there is a “real talk” segment with questions that give the reader the opportunity to journal and reflect on the lesson learned.

Characterization:
This book did not have precise character development as the author, Grace, was the speaker of the story. Grace used personal stories in her writing to emphasize the lesson being reflected on. Through Grace's personal stories one could see how significantly she grew as a person throughout her life. Grace described her younger years being times full of bad habits and numerous internal conflicts. These struggles were mainly as a result of the toxic people in her life, such as her middle school peers, that would tear her up with vicious words. Through her faith, Grace was able to confront her internal and external enemies.

Setting:
This book took place in the United States, but this component did not play an important role in the book. However, the time period greatly helped shaped the subject matter of the book. Am I Enough was written within a modern era; therefore, the author was able to touch upon topics relevant to the current era. Her writing focused on battling the struggles modern women face.

Recommendations:
Grace focused her writing on emphasizing the struggles women face, so men would not enjoy reading this book. It would be best if the individual reading this book was at least at a high school reading level due to the mature content.

[Kelli Santistevan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you had enough, of not feeling enough? Start embracing the truth about who you really are. Young women today are constantly told they are not enough for this world - not pretty enough, not smart enough, not exciting enough, and just plain not good enough.

I borrowed this audiobook from Libby. I wanted to read this book because I can relate to not feeling like I’m enough and I still struggle with that. Reading this book doesn’t mean I won’t struggle with feeling like this ever again but I enjoyed this book. It made me feel encouraged and it made me feel better about myself. I would recommend that every girl and woman read this book.

[Alicia Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an amazing resource for a young woman, or any woman, to have as a reminder of just how much you are worth. And I'm talking truth, pure and unadulterated, straight from our Creator. This book is definitely written with young women in mind, as that can certainly be when life and making your way in the world can seem to hit hardest, but I think a woman of any age can benefit from giving this book a read.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers, and Grace Elaine Valentine for the opportunity!

[Ava Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It made me realize some lies that I had been subconsciously listening to. It showed me what I was doing wrong or what was misleading me. It helped me to know that God has more for me. I need to go out and share my testimony and the greatness of God’s love! I think all girls should go read this book!

[Beth Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amount of truth in this book is so good! It completely shatters so many of the common lies the enemy tries to plant in our ears. Such a good read as a devotional!!!

[Aly Hubbard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely helped me shift to a more positive perception of myself and my value according to Christ

[Bayan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, when I came across this book I didn't know it was written by a devoted Christian or that it was about God's love, I truly thought it would be about self-image and self-esteem,
but to my surprise, I continued reading and loving the book, I couldn't put it down, I was figuratively spiritually choking and it came at the right time.

I don't know if the author would've imagined one of her readers to be a Muslim girl in her early twenties going through the same struggles she was going through,
If the author ever reads the reviews I need her to know a few things,

I am proud of her, and I appreciate her and I hope it doesn't seem offensive if I said that I see my hijab the same way she sees her cross, it is a reminder of who I am in this world and my part in it, of how I should act!
&It was funny when I learned I wasn't the only one writing messages for my future husband, cheesy but kinda cute.

Some of the chapters resonated with me more than the others, these include the one about a broken smile and on finding joy in suffering,
and about not treating any man like your husband if he isn't, not venting to male friends about our heartbreaks etc.
I'd end with two of my favs quotes from the book, simple yet deep in their meaning
"Another guy can't put the pieces together."
"Only God can restore a broken heart."
Peace, love and power to all!

[Felicia Cimillo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had a very hard time with this book solely for the fact that it was very in your face JESUS IS AMAZING with no preface that it was going to be like that in the details, summary, or anything. It wasn't until checking the tags (which I rarely do) that it made a comment about being a Christian Nonfiction novel. Now not that there's anything wrong with that, but I am not the most religious person so I had a hard time through some of it. The parts that I was able to strip away some of her very overtly (and in my opinion slightly ridiculous) all you need is God and Jesus comments, some of the advice given and stories mentioned are great for any girl in her early 20s trying to figure her life out. Considering the book I had listened to right before this was all on sex positive and how to empower females, it was little hard to listen to some of the comments being about saving yourself for Jesus and marriage and what almost felt like berating women for not being more "godly" and "christian".

I think if this is the lifestyle that someone lives and are completely devoted to their faith, it's probably a great, 5 Star read for them. Anyone else, it's going to be difficult to get through.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

With experience, warmth and down-to-earth discussions, this book tackles one of the fundamental questions young women face and gives encouragement.

Every moment of life, it seems as if people are constantly reminded to compare themselves to others and see how they stack up—a comparison which always lands with 'proof' that we are lacking in some area. Young women constantly compare themselves not only to other women, but take this self-doubt into relationships and other aspects of life. The result—they are never good enough. Step by step, the author uses examples from her own life to show that not only is this comparison ridiculous, it doesn't have a place in especially Christian lives. To God, we are always enough, and these silly goals do not interest Him.

While I'm normally critical of this type of literature, I was very appreciative of how the author handles this topic. The language and arguments are spot on for young women ages fourteen to their mid-twenties (and even beyond). The author has made mistakes, very usual every day ones, and she doesn't beat around the bush about it. Her approach is honest and doesn't force unrealistic ideas or ideologies. It simply hits home.

The book is broken down into ten main sections, which look at ten lies society imposes on us or we impose on ourselves. The author never puts herself on a pedestal but address the reader like a good friend, an approach which is easy to sink into. While Bible references are used, it never comes across preachy. Never. At the end of each chapter, there are several questions which help to digest the arguments and assist the reader in considering how their lives are and how they feel about it. On the last pages, there are sixty-five short tips or reminders that a reader can always flip to if they begin to see themselves wondering if their are enough.

I love the personal touch of this book and am impressed how well the author maintains a 'best friend' talk atmosphere. I plan on handing this one to my own daughter and have no doubt that she'll enjoy it and find the words inspiring.

I received a complimentary copy through Booklook Bloggers and found it so lovely that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.

[Jessie Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the cover of this book. It is appealing and draws you in, making you want to read what’s inside. When I opened the book I found Grace to be genuine and relatable. She tells her stories throughout the book and uses them to illustrate her points. The audience of this book is girls in high school, college and in their twenties, however, all women can glean some valuable lessons from this book. The stories center around the ages of college and below, which may make them a little far away from some readers but I’m sure we can all remember times in our lives where we had similar experiences. The book is divided into sections based on lies that we tell ourselves or hear from others, and believe. Each chapter in the section deals with related topics that combat the specific lies we believe. I love the included synopsis of Bible characters and how the author uses them to further illustrate her points. I did find a little less use of actual scripture and the actual word God/Jesus than I expected. For example, on the back cover even, she uses “Someone” instead of being specific. There seems to be a lot of commentary which out balances the Scriptures and what God says. But this might be an easier way to understand the topics for a younger woman who may be a less mature believer. I do love how relatable she is. Her writing style is quick and easy. She’s encouraging but not enabling. It seems she truly believes what she is writing and it’s encouraging to see how she has combatted these lies in her life with God’s help. Overall I give this book 3.5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from Book Look Bloggers and the publisher. This has in no way influenced my review. All thoughts are my own.
Find more reviews on my blog: https://livinglifefreeinchrist.com

[Madison Beckham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace is so relatable and discusses common expectations that women are faced with in today’s world. I made notes of points I want to remember as Grace unpacks the lies we are told by this world:

- our bodies are not our own; they were made by God, and we can honor Him with them
- He sees your mistakes - He says “What will you do?” not “What did you do?”
- God, please help me love and see people the way that you do
- The Church= brokenness is welcomed, forgiveness is granted, Christ’s love is celebrated
- Judging is not my job, it’s for God to do (James 4:12)
- Comparison is the thief of joy because it tends to highlight others’ best moments while reminding you of your worst
- 1 Corinthians 9:25
- God shouldn’t be your friend, He should be your everything- taking up full time residence in your heart
- Knowing God has forgiven you should cause you to respect and honor His word, not take advantage of His grace
- When making decisions, consider what makes God happy, not what makes you happy
- “It was this man’s fault for choosing to hook up with another girl, but it was my mistake for allowing his actions to knock down my self worth”
- A guy can compliment you every day, but your Father will give you new mercies everyday
- God turns our trials into testimonies of His strength
- Praying doesn’t make you a “good Christian” - it makes you an obedient disciple
- God gives us hills to climb and the strength to climb them

[Clara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this book 3.5 stars. I was familiar with Grace's blog and liked her honest, relatable style of writing so I was excited to read her book. Her book does not disappoint, she has a great voice that makes you feel like you are talking to a friend. She emphasizes her main points effectively by dividing the book into 10 sections of lies that we tell ourselves, and then refuting each lie. While I did not completely relate to all of her beliefs, I found a lot of great messages that I related to throughout the book. Some of my favorites: "Comparison is the thief of joy because it tends to highlight others' best moments while reminding you of your worst" and "Perhaps you are searching for happiness when you should be seeking joy." I loved the emphasis on seeking joy because I think it serves as a great reminder to appreciate each day and allow yourself to be thankful for where you are in the present. She also is an advocate for loving yourself and accepting yourself the way you are, which I think is a wonderful message for anybody. I also enjoyed her "Real Talk" writing and prayer prompts at the end of each chapter because it created a deeper level of thinking while reading. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to seeing what Grace writes in the future.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 5 out of 5]

My word for the year is “Enough,” so I was excited to come across this title. And after reading it, all I can say is if you have ever wondered if you’re enough (pretty enough, smart enough, good enough, or whatever), you need to read this book!

Valentine has penned a book that is relatable and relevant to teens, young adults, and women everywhere. The author shares her own experiences, including her insecurities and struggles, and she mixes in Scripture verses and biblical truths along the way. This is an inspiring read, though some parts may challenge the reader to confront long-held (and possibly mistaken) beliefs.

You can read the rest of the review on my blog: https://lmckeeediting.blogspot.com/20...

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the HC BookLook Bloggers Program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Reagan Soper · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOODNESS! I absolutely love this book!! this summer, I ran across this book in Baylor University’s social media. I knew I should support a young Christian gal who just got out of college, so I did. I preordered the book and waited. and when I finally received the book and started reading it, I feel in love. Grace writes without sugar coating it, she wrote what actually happened in her life—and it’s relatable and I learned so much. I love that she writes straight from what God has told her. she has taught me so much in this little book. if you are even considering reading this book, READ IT—it might change your life.

[Sofie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow
I read this book while going through a very rough time in my life, filled with sins and running away from God, i couldn’t find my way back.

I was ashamed and had so many regrets.
I felt like I would never be Gods perfect daughter, I felt like I wasn’t enough for this world, for my parents, for my sisters, for my friends but above all for my Heavenly Father.

This book proved me the opposite.
It helped me see that Gods grace isn’t something we can deserve.
God looks passed our mistakes and sins and sees us as his perfect daughters.

Every young girl or woman should read this book.
Thank you Grace Valentine for writing this ❤️

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, one of the best books I’ve read! Grace really speaks truth! This is a great read, no matter what your faith is. Grace helps you understand that we are all imperfect, different human beings, and that we are enough for Him and He will take us and polish us so that we can see the real beauty within us. Perfect for the young woman all the way to 150years old; because there will be many times throughout life we will wonder if we are enough. This book helps answer that question, along with the scriptures too!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

God's truth shines from Grace's book and I couldn't put it down. Every girl needs to read this book because it's relatable and so incredibly real. It's about identity, love, self-worth, relationships. It's about finding Jesus and surrendering yourself to him and allowing him to dwell in your heart. It's about understanding and accepting that YOU are designed in the IMAGE of HIM–and no other thing is as brilliant as you (not even the shooting stars in the sky, nor the bright red roses). And he loves you and finds you beautiful as you are.

Are you enough? Spoiler alert, the answer is YES.

[Esmeralda Sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly one of the best books I have read in a long time. I may or may not have cried in almost every chapter, but I'm truly grateful for this book. It opened my eyes on where I am in my life, drew my closer in my walk with Christ, and really spoke to me in certain chapters.

I think every woman should check this book out and just really soak in some of the messages that are spoken in here. I think this book was written beautifully and made me want to dance with God daily. So thank you, Grace, for writing this book! ☺

[ken! · Rating 4 out of 5]

okay, so this book would have been literally the best (INSTANT FIVE STARS) if i had read it maybe a year ago! however i couldn’t really relate to most of this book considering i had already learned these lessons a while ago and i don’t mean the lessons were bad but they just didn’t apply to my current circumstance! however, some chapters WERE gold and really helped me a lot :) if you are struggling with feeling like you will never be enough, the truth is you won’t be ever enough. Without God. You by yourself are not enough, but you ARE enough in Christ! :) 🤍✝️

[Catherine Bealle · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book! So much truth, and very relatable as a college Christian girl who is in a sorority. I would recommend this book to any teen or young adult girl. I liked how there were Bible verses and stories throughout the book, and she did a great job of mixing personal stories with Biblical Truth and tying it all together. I felt like it was getting a little repetitive in the last couple chapters, but nothing that made it less than a 5 star read. Looking forward to reading Grace Valentine's other book!

[isadora bronzon-maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

obviously, this book is related to a christian lifestyle and most people think it's boring BUT even if you're not christian..READ IT. Grace (who is the sweetest person ever) talks about life situations that she and everyone goes through in a such a relatable way that's just funny to read. i would say that reading the book is just a reminder of how much worth you are and it's always good to hear some words of wisdom, am i right?

[Alyssa Napolitana · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was a quick and easy read that i overall enjoyed but i don’t think self help books are my kind of jam. i liked the writing but some chapters and sections almost made me feel worse about myself and the choices i was making. i didn’t absolutely hate the book. i really liked how relatable the author is and the personal insight she provides, but this genre of book is just not really for me (at least at this moment in my life).

[Dorothea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an easy read book that I added on to my quiet times in the morning. I loved the “real talk” questions at the end of each chapter and felt they really dug into the message but also allowed you to be vulnerable with yourself. I’m not the biggest “self help” or “self love” religious reader but this one I really enjoyed. The only reason I’m not giving it 5 stars is because it didn’t knock my socks off in a wow factor but was good enough to keep me reading.

[Lovely Loveday · Rating 5 out of 5]

Am I Enough is a lovely read that draws you with personal stories that are genuine and relatable that Grace shares beautifully. Each chapter deals with related topics that are relatable to many women has they combat the specific lies we all believe. A book that is full of scripture that encourages. A lovely read for any woman who questions if she is enough.

[Whitney L. Wagner · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's Okay

I did not prefer this style of writing and so couldn't wait for the book to over. That being said, I liked the last chapter and the conclusion the best, because they included valuable words of wisdom. I wish the whole book has been written in more of that style. Grace has potential, I think, but it's hard to see just yet.