a raw, honest story about motherhood, chronic illness, and hope
Good (Enough) Mother
A collection of honest and poignant essays and vignettes from acclaimed writer Ashley Fenker about her journey to motherhood against all medical odds, written for anyone who has ever wondered if their dream of becoming a mother would come true.
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At 16, Ashley was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder more common in women decades older than her.
She was later stunned to read the words in her medical records: “Spoke to patient about future risks of pregnancy.” This was news to her. “The doctor, he lied.”
What does it mean to be a “good mother”?
In this new collection of stories and essays, Ashley delves into the complexities of chronic illness, modern motherhood, and faith. She invites you to confront your own fears and wrestle with questions like: Where do I carry the pain of unmet expectations? How do I live a meaningful and full life?
With poetic reflections and the laugh-while-you-cry style readers have come to love, Ashley interweaves snapshots of ordinary grocery lists evolving over time with deeply resonate essays on marriage, creativity, patience, love, and the meaning of being a “good mother.” What does it mean to come to the end of our lives and hear, “Job well done”?
Kirkus Reviews
“Poignant… an immersive read… her clear, honest prose offers readers a heartfelt look at one woman’s experience.”
ELIZABETH PASSARELLA, author of Good Apple and It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway
“I'm not sure how a book that asks so many questions feels so satisfying, but that is the beauty of these spare and darkly funny essays. Ashley's stories are sad and hopeful and a little bit weird—my very favorite kind.”
ERIN LOECHNER, author of Chasing Slow and The Opt-Out Family
“In Good (Enough) Mother, Ashley Fenker explores the mysterious question that brings shallow breath to every mother: Who will we be to our children? Written in a jilted cadence that echoes our collective uncertainty, each essay invites us all to seek - and find - the answers we must.”
SANDRA GLAHN, author of When Empty Arms Become a Heavy Burden: Encouragement for Couples Facing Infertility
“Ashley Fenker’s candid essays and vignettes—written with an eye for beauty and the craft of a poet—invite readers into Fenker’s world as she wrestles with chronic illness, modern expectations of motherhood, and faith. Highly recommended for anyone willing to embrace the beautiful messiness of motherhood.”
CHRISTIE PURIFOY, author of Roots and Sky and Placemaker
“Good (Enough) Mother surprised and delighted me. Ashley Fenker's writing is creative and clever, playful and wise. I didn't want it to be over. I can't stop thinking about it. You should read this book.”
LISA-JO BAKER, bestselling author of Never Unfriended and It Wasn't Roaring, It Was Weeping
“If motherhood was a book it would be exactly this: unexpected, bruisingly beautiful, and overflowing with doubt, paint, new ways to cook chicken, and passion. My must-read for this year.”
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If you're ready to connect with a relatable story…
This book is for you.
This book is for you if you crave stories that make you think more deeply about motherhood.
This book is for you if you appreciate a touch of humor in our messy and beautiful world.
This book is for you if you’re drawn to honest stories about ordinary people that stay with you.
This book is for you if you’re a mom—or someone exploring what it truly means to love and be loved.
Grab your copy today.
meet ashley
Ashley Fenker, Professional Writer, Published Author, & Personal Essay Expert
Ashley is an essayist and freelance professional writer, with essays published in O, The Oprah Magazine, Upworthy, Fathom Magazine, Scary Mommy, Coffee + Crumbs, and more. Her essays have gone viral, bringing in hundreds of thousands of page views from readers across the globe.
Ashley has a BA in English and Communication, with a minor in Writing, from McDaniel College, and an MA in Biblical and Theological Studies, with a focus in Media Arts and Worship, from Dallas Theological Seminary. She has 15+ years experience working as a professional writer and editor in various marketing and communications roles in agency, nonprofit, editorial, and education environments.
In 2022, she welcomed her first son with her husband and their two crazy cats.
“My must-read for this year.” - Lisa-Jo Baker
“My must-read for this year.” - Lisa-Jo Baker
"I can't stop thinking about it. You should read this book." - Christie Purifoy
"I can't stop thinking about it. You should read this book." - Christie Purifoy
“I inhaled this book in one sitting... I want more." - Elizabeth Passarella
“I inhaled this book in one sitting... I want more." - Elizabeth Passarella
order today
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