Dear Black Girls

How to Be True to You

By: A'ja Wilson

Narrated by: A'ja Wilson

This program is read by the author.

“Through honest stories and inspiring lessons from her life, A’ja Wilson reminds us to never doubt who we are or apologize for being true to ourselves. Dear Black Girls is a must-read for every Black girl out there.” ―Gabrielle Union, New York Times bestselling author of We're Going to Need More Wine and You Got Anything Stronger?

This one is for all the girls with an apostrophe in their names.

This is for all the girls who are labeled “too loud” and “too emotional.”

This is for all the girls who are constantly asked, “Oh, what did you do with your hair? That’s new.”

This is for my Black girls.

Despite gold medals, WNBA championships, and a list of accolades, A’ja Wilson knows how it feels to be swept under the rug—to not be heard, to not feel seen, to not be taken seriously. As a fourth grader going to a primarily white school in South Carolina, A’ja was told she’d have to stay outside for a classmate’s birthday party. “Huh?” she asked. Because the birthday girl’s father didn’t like Black people.

Wilson tells stories like this, about how even when life tried to hold her down, it didn’t stop her. She shares her contribution to “The Talk,” and how to keep fighting, all while igniting strength, passion, and joy. Dear Black Girls is a necessary and meaningful exploration of what it means to be a Black woman in America today—and a rallying cry to lift up women and girls everywhere.

“​D​ear Black Girls is filled with phenomenal stories and empowering insight on what it means to be a woman in today’s world. I didn’t want to put it down.” ―Tunde Oyeneyin, New York Times bestselling author of Speak

A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books.

Critic reviews

“​D​ear Black Girls is filled with phenomenal stories and empowering insight on what it means to be a woman in today’s world. I didn’t want to put it down.”
―Tunde Oyeneyin, New York Times bestselling author of Speak

“Through honest stories and inspiring lessons from her life, A’ja Wilson reminds us to never doubt who we are or apologize for being true to ourselves. Dear Black Girls is a must-read for every Black girl out there.”
―Gabrielle Union, New York Times bestselling author of We're Going to Need More Wine and You Got Anything Stronger?

"After reading Dear Black Girls, I needed a moment to compose myself. Never has a book so perfectly captured my attention and made me feel so seen. I highly recommend this book!"
―Zaila Avant-garde, Winner of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, Two Times Guinness World Records Holder, and New York Times bestselling author

“Watching A’ja Wilson on the court is amazing, but to know her life story and all that she has overcome is witnessing poetry in motion. She epitomizes resilience, determination and courage. A’ja embodies the true spirit of what it means to be inspiring, always pushing herself and others to be the best version of themselves. It's a joy and an honor to see her book and know her story and how this will impact all women.”
―Dawn Staley, American basketball Hall of Fame player and coach

"[Wilson] becomes a beacon of hope for all who face adversity. Her book is a powerful and crucial call to support women and girls worldwide and a source of encouragement for everyone seeking to embrace their authentic self and overcome obstacles." ―Booklist

Inspiration for little black girls

This a great look into the life of a very SPECIAL black woman. The stories of her growing up and her family relationships were very loving.

a must-read for all teens!

A potent, real, to the heart of the matter text. A'ja's truth is powerful medicine and just what the world needs.

Wonderful and Inspirational!

I work with young adults (18-24), transitioning from homelessness to housing (most of whom are young ladies). So, I am constantly looking inspirational quotes, motivational books, etc.; And this is it! This book had me laughing, crying, and thinking; Sometimes in the same paragraph! Ms. Wilson, please keep writing. We need your voice.

Blend of perspective, support, and autobiography

Lots of good messages and anecdotes in this book. I felt perhaps what was missing is guidance for someone who doesn’t have the strong family support that A’ja grew up with. But I enjoyed the author’s words of wisdom and reflections on her life, strengths, and imperfections.

Dear Black Girls

This book is for Black Girls and Women ......you can do the things that you think are impossible!