Veronica Speaks

Book Review: ‘Somebody’s Daughter,’ by Ashley C. Ford

It is no secret that many Black women come from broken homes. Growing up without a father has a significant impact on our sense of self. It also affects our well-being. There are many reasons for this. We can talk for days how the so-called “justice” system broke into the Black community and our fathers. Let’s have just one convo about how Ashley C. Ford found herself finally being Somebody’s Daughter.

“When you don’t grow up with a certain line of affection, even when you know you’re worthy of it, it can be hard to accept in adulthood (Ch. 26).”

We hardly talk about how our childhood upbringing shows up in our everyday adult experience. This memoir explores themes of self-discovery, relationships in the Black community, and love through the lived experiences of Ashley C. Ford, a young woman who made out of Fort Wayne, Indiana. 

Ashley recounts her childhood in a small town. Her understanding of life was muddled with the thoughts of everyone around her. It was confused with everyone’s thoughts except her own. Lost in how everyone tells her she should behave, she must find an escape to finally honor and cherish her thoughts. Ford’s self-discovery journey is one that many Black women can relate to.

Ashley Ford’s sensational storytelling invites the you to get inside of your body and feel your emotions. What you’re going to read, you will feel in your body. Ford shares her truth through vivid imagery and descriptive language allowing you to walk alongside her journey and feel what it’s like to take a mile in her shoes. 

This memoir resonated deeply with my soul. Ashley and I share parallel experiences. We were young black girls raised by single mothers. Our mothers were abandoned by their partners, who were then incarcerated. Being Somebody’s Daughter is tough. Your mom is doing her best to raise four children. Meanwhile, your dad is locked away for years. It feels like a piece of yourself is locked away, too. Somebody’s Daughter made me feel seen and heard. I feel inspired to share my story. 

I highly recommend this book to Black women who are dedicated to a journey of self-discovery and self-love.