LaFaye Baker’s New Book Encourages Young Girls To Speak Up

The age-old saying, “A child is to be seen and not heard,” is something author and Hollywood stunt woman LaFaye Baker, 62, believes needs to be laid to rest.

“Start listening to kids, because when you’re listening, it tells the true story of their feelings… It can kind of identify some of the issues that they may have internally,” Baker told MadameNoire.

Baker has built a career as a stuntwoman and coordinator in several Hollywood blockbusters, such as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Introducing Dorothy Dandridge, and Set It Off. Now, she’s creating a space for young girls to raise their voices beyond the big screen through her new book, You’re Not Listening To…What I Have To Say.

“As a young kid, I really felt that most people didn’t listen to what I have to say,” Baker revealed. But when she started her nonprofit organization, Diamond in the RAW in 2008, she “noticed that some of the young girls were having the same issues,” she added.

Source: Author LaFaye Baker is creating a space for young girls to raise their voices beyond the big screen through her new book, “You’re Not Listening To…What I Have To Say.”

Baker recognizes that today’s youth face overwhelming and diverse experiences that can often leave them confused and seeking answers.

She emphasizes the importance of allowing children and young adults to express themselves and articulate their thoughts without being silenced.

“Times have changed with technology, and I think it’s a two-way street. They can learn from the old [folks] and we learn from them, especially with technology, that’s very important, that we have both people coming together, trying to understand one another.”

You’re Not Listening To…What I Have To Say

In her book, You’re Not Listening To…What I Have To Say Baker promotes resilience forged through therapy, community, and self-discovery for young girls.

The book reveals 25 first-person stories from teen girls, alongside the author’s own personal journey, who courageously confront real-life struggles such as depression, bullying, suicidal thoughts, and identity challenges.

“The stories that I have are the ones that are meant to be in the book, that are really compelling,” Baker said.

She applauds the brave young women who share their truths—one describes surviving ovarian cancer at age 9, another copes with her mother’s schizophrenia, and one recounts losing her baby brother at birth.

“These stories are so good, they help other girls understand whatever you’re going through. You can get past this and not only can get past this, they can share that with somebody else,” Baker states.

Shedding light on mental health

Aware of the emotional weight these stories carry, Baker includes affirmations at the bottom of each page and offers support resources tied to each narrative.

“The book helps people understand that you’re not alone and somebody’s experiences and stories will be able to help you navigate and understand this is safe space, and you can get through this as well,” Baker said.

She envisions the book as a tool for educators, mental health professionals, parents, and community leaders working to support and empower young people.

After reading the book, Baker encourages young readers to use the blank pages in the middle of the book to add their own stories to the anthology.

“If they ever want to write a story [about] their life, it’s just an asset for them to reflect or kind of use that as a tool,” Baked added. “I purposely created it so they can remember their stories.”

What’s next?

While Baker continues to spread the word about her book You’re Not Listening To…What I Have To Say she is already brainstorming on her next project.

She envisions a TV series adaptation that captures these stories on screen and deepens conversations about youth and mental health.

“I mean, one thing is a book, but when they actually see it on television, it hits a little bit harder when they actually see it on TV,” Baker professed.

The anthology book, available in paperback and hardcover, can be purchased online for $25 and $35, respectively.

“To be honest with you, I am so elated. I mean I’ve been working for a long time and everyone knows I don’t give myself credit for a lot of things, but this book has been one of my major accomplishments,” Baker gleefully shared.

Categories: Family & Parenting