The Girls Who Grew Big

A Novel

By: Leila Mottley

Narrated by: AhDream Smith, Erin Spencer, Khaya Fraites

From the author of Oprah's Book Club pick and New York Times bestseller Nightcrawling, here is an astonishing new novel about the joys and entanglements of a fierce group of teenage mothers in a small town on the Florida panhandle.

Adela Woods is sixteen years old and pregnant. Her parents banish her from her comfortable upbringing in Indiana to her grandmother’s home in the small town of Padua Beach, Florida. When she arrives, Adela meets Emory, who brings her newborn to high school, determined to graduate despite the odds; Simone, mother of four-year-old twins, who weighs her options when she finds herself pregnant again; and the rest of the Girls, a group of outcast young moms who raise their growing brood in the back of Simone’s red truck.

The town thinks the Girls have lost their way, but really they are finding it: looking for love, making and breaking friendships, and navigating the miracle of motherhood and the paradox of girlhood.

Full of heart and life and hope, set against the shifting sands of these friends’ secrets and betrayals, The Girls Who Grew Big confirms Leila Mottley’s promise and offers an explosive new perspective on what it means to be a young woman.

Raw, real, beautiful, poetic

Incredibly beautiful. Raw and poetic. Highly recommended, especially for a new mother. One of the best books I’ve listened to this year. Very well narrated

The relationship between the “Girls”

I loved the book, will be reading more of this authors books. Love a black author

Its was relatable to understand not only for teen mothers .

I liked the characters and how each was presented not only one but i felt like i knew each one.

Phenomenal read! Girls and Women are Resilient!

The Girl Who Grew Big by Leila Motley was absolutely phenomenal! You can tell Miss Motley put in the work to deeply understand childbirth—her research and attention to detail was very present. The storytelling is rich with knowledge, emotion, and vivid imagery, taking you on a roller coaster ride of highs, lows, and everything in between. By the end, she ties every thread together beautifully, leaving nothing to the imagination. (Which I personally loved!)

Whether you’re looking for a quick read or something to savor slowly, this book delivers. You’ll walk away with greater knowledge, deeper empathy, and a renewed appreciation for the strength and resilience of women in the birthing process and motherhood. I wholeheartedly recommend this read. Continued success Leila Motley!

Family comes in all shapes and sizes

Such a beautifully written book about love, life and family. Ms. Mottley is a very talented writer. I look forward to her long career.