15 stories featuring some of literature's well known as well as lesser known black women from past and present and their short stories that make you want to read more. Each story was just the right pick for this particular book, and such a great job was done by all involved.

As a fan and follower of Glory Edim's collective, Well Read Black Girl, I knew I had to get my hands on this ARC as soon as it became available. Reading her first book (of the same name) was such a refreshing experience, as it described my journey finding characters that looked like me in the literature I devoured. Now, with On Girlhood, I felt similar feelings as I ran through these stories-- a few of which I had read before.

On Girlhood is the perfect collection for the black woman who reads far and wide, searching for her likeness in stories. I wish I would have had this book growing up! So often I've enjoyed coming-of-age tales, yet longed to meet a main character that looked like me within the pages.. On Girlhood curates some of my favorite stories by authors such as Toni Morrison, Dorothy West, Zora Neale Hurston, and Alice Walker.

Divided into four sections- Innocence, Belonging, Love, and Self-Discovery, On Girlhood beautifully delivers black women's experiences in a way I appreciate so much. Reading each story has been a most amazing gift to me. It reminds me of all the stories I've collected and held close to my chest. Stories I saw my mother and grandmothers in. Stories I saw myself in. Stories I now share because I see my daughter and nieces in. If you get the chance, I implore you to please read this book and grab a few copies for other women you love-- especially the ones who appreciate a good story.

Thank you to Netgalley for the eARC of On Girlhood by Glory Edim in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately, this book was archived before I got a chance to read it. I’m so sad because I was so excited to read it. Rating it based on the fact that I think it’s going to be a great book