Stephanie Ridge

*MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS* I was impressed with the way it was written structurally and linguistically - it read well, and you felt very much "there" in it, with her. I found it to be a genuine account of her life, from her POV. Yes, it might come across as a bit narcissistic but I suppose she was being introspective. I think she intended to come out of this book as being more understood, and a more "healed" version of herself. I don't really get that vibe. I think this would have been better if it didn't act as part self-help book half the time because Jada isn't really someone qualified to be dishing out psychology. She's a very troubled and complex soul. Not saying that negatively, that's just facts. As for her and Will being separated for 6 years now (because they don't believe in divorce) and how they both have been living "separate lives", I still don't see why Jada is still copping so much hate for her entanglement or how she "embarrasses" Will. It's alluded that he's partaken in entanglements of his own as well, and they will always love each other deeply and are still very much life partners, just not in a romantic sense. It wasn't clear if that leaves room for any other romantic relationships with other people, but it was made clear that they legally won't ever divorce, they live apart, but they come together for the family and for each other and they always will continue to do so. It was also interesting to read in depth about her and Tupac's relationship. And her life growing up in Baltimore. (how did I miss that she was a legit drug dealer growing up? Oopsie.) I found her language changing to more "hood" when she was talking about her Baltimore days and then when she recounts her life post-Will it's very eloquent and spiritual and not that.. at all. I found that interesting. Don't know if that was intentional but alas, she's a woman of many lives and personalities so that's to be expected. Finally I do think it's commendable how much she's prioritised her family and her kids especially, usually at the expense of her own self. It's clear how much she loves them and they in return. That's something to be respected and admired, at the least.