From Girlhood to Womanhood

by Shanae Watkins

I’ve tried on a few occasions to write my story. In my opinion, it would seem easy given the fact that I've spoken about my documentary for most of my life. However, my story is far more complex and painful. It’s taken several years and rounds of therapy to dissect the traumatic events of my life and how they’ve affected me. Please understand that this book is being written in my own thoughts, more like a diary of my recollections and processings. I'm sure that some people involved will remember or see things differently and I can respect your recollections as much as I pray that you can respect mine. I guess, the biggest thing that I would like you guys to keep in mind is that the adults in my life did the best they could with what love, provision or patience they had to give. I know that I was loved, well loved. However, if we do not speak of the misconceptions of the black “Superwoman”, latchkey kids, corporal punishment, the effects of molestation and the lack of mental health support within our commnity, these cycles will continue to plague our children.

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2022

Reviews

[India · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading this book in one day after watching the documentary! I had heard of the story but never knew the depth of either parties.

Shanae’s memoir is beautifully written. Reading through all the trauma she suffered through in childhood and through adulthood bought me to tears at times. Being from Baltimore, I understand how easy it is to fall into the wrong crowd and change the trajectory of your life based on one mistake. Shanae is proof that with the right resources and help that people can indeed change their life and go on to do great things despite their past.

[Shequana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This baby had me in a chokehold all evening...

I started by stumbling on an interview she'd done and just had to watch the documentary. After the documentary, I had to know what happened, so I started and finished the book in one evening.

She'd lived 3 lifetimes by the time she was 12, it was heartbreaking and suspenseful all at the same time.

You did a phenomenal job with this all on your own. May God continue to bless you and your children.

[Semuteh · Rating 2 out of 5]

powerful testimony but needed professional editing

Ms Watkins’ story was definitely eye opening. It was just hard to read due to a lack of editing. I wish she had someone who could have done that for her.