Good (Enough) Mother: Stories and Essays

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.

At 16, Ashley Fenker 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."

In this new collection of stories and essays, Fenker delves into the complexities of chronic illness, modern motherhood, and faith. She invites readers to confront their 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, Fenker interweaves snapshots of ordinary grocery lists evolving over time with deeply resonate essays and poems 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"?

Good (Enough) Mother, like the memoirs of Abigail Thomas, Maggie Smith, and Mary Laura Philpott, offers a raw glimpse into the ordinary pain and joy of life. It's an inspirational story about navigating the messy, beautiful, and unpredictable moments that make up the journey to motherhood, reminding readers they're not alone in the wonderfully chaotic and surprising ride.