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bookish_and_cookish 's review for:
The Girls Who Grew Big
by Leila Mottley
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Damnit. This one struck me right in the tenderest, most vulnerable part of my heart. As a new mother myself, it’s rare that I don’t feel isolated by my own doing, left to consider my place and value, all while knowing the love I hold for my son conquers all.
Leila Mottley spins narratives so genuine and real, I felt as though I KNEW The Girls, and was very guided by their wisdom. I truly feel like this will be one of my favorites for the year. I couldn’t get enough of the goings-on of Adela, Simone, and Emory as they journeyed along their path into motherhood.
I am BEYOND grateful to aaknopf books, Leila Mottley, and Netgalley for granting me advanced access to this emotionally powerful novel about a clan of girls, sisters rather, living in Florida’s panhandle, living off the sand as they navigate teen motherhood.
When Adela falls pregnant in her whitewashed, privileged life, her parents send her to live with her Noni until the child is born and can go live with capable and willing family - so Adela can return to her cushy life. Upon arriving in Padua Beach, she’s intimidated and hesitant, at first, to join The Girls’ way of life, but curious as to what such path could hold.
Take away the superficial parts of motherhood with the frills and appearances, and you’ll see a love so strong and animalistic, baring its teeth for all to see.
In true Leila Mottley style, I sobbed and held my son as close to me as possible.
I am so stoked for this one to hit shelves on June 24, 2025.
Leila Mottley spins narratives so genuine and real, I felt as though I KNEW The Girls, and was very guided by their wisdom. I truly feel like this will be one of my favorites for the year. I couldn’t get enough of the goings-on of Adela, Simone, and Emory as they journeyed along their path into motherhood.
I am BEYOND grateful to aaknopf books, Leila Mottley, and Netgalley for granting me advanced access to this emotionally powerful novel about a clan of girls, sisters rather, living in Florida’s panhandle, living off the sand as they navigate teen motherhood.
When Adela falls pregnant in her whitewashed, privileged life, her parents send her to live with her Noni until the child is born and can go live with capable and willing family - so Adela can return to her cushy life. Upon arriving in Padua Beach, she’s intimidated and hesitant, at first, to join The Girls’ way of life, but curious as to what such path could hold.
Take away the superficial parts of motherhood with the frills and appearances, and you’ll see a love so strong and animalistic, baring its teeth for all to see.
In true Leila Mottley style, I sobbed and held my son as close to me as possible.
I am so stoked for this one to hit shelves on June 24, 2025.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Death, Domestic abuse, Miscarriage, Racial slurs, Racism, Toxic relationship, Medical content, Grief, Medical trauma, Abortion, Pregnancy, Abandonment, Alcohol