More Than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are (No Matter What They Say)

I had not read a book cover to cover in years. I am so glad that More Than Enough was that book. I read it at a time when I was in transition in my career, thinking about the next step, and a little scared for the opportunity before me. Elaine’s story was filled with so many reminders that we are all ready for that new beginning. That a dream realized doesn’t mean an end. And I am so grateful that she shared these nuggets of wisdom with the world.As someone who once dreamed of going into the magazine industry, this book was an amazing insider look into that world as a woman of color. It was fascinating to read Elaine’s journey, starting from the Bay, to Sac State, to LA, NYC, and beyond. I had read much about Elaine’s ascent to editor-in-chief at Teen Vogue, but hearing the backstory and the duality of that public success was fascinating and told in such an honest, vulnerable manner. The arc of the biography was well paced, though reading about her tenure at Teen Vogue certainly felt like a whirlwind at times.I really wish I caught Elaine in San Francisco while she was touring. But, I hope to catch her at another event, conference, or talk in the future, wherever her career takes her. For any woman, and especially woman of color, navigating relationships, career, life crossroads, or even dreams realized, pick up More Than Enough. It’s a fantastic read!

First, I'm so sad that I finished this book in only THREE days but it was just that good! As a mid-twenty something, black woman that grew up in a very white/privileged area, I can say that this book was so necessary. I didn't know too much about Elaine before this book besides seeing her cameo in Black-ish a few years ago and most recently her wedding that went viral. This book was recommended to me by a friend and the reviews looked good so I said "why not?" and I am so glad I did! (I had also just finished Becoming and was looking for something with a similar feel- this is definitely IT!) Her story is so great to read, especially because she is such an amazing writer. It also made me see my mixed raced friends in a different light. Her stories were so relatable and put names and pieces of advice to a lot of my own experiences that I didn't even know I needed. I'm already thinking about reading it again. Please read this book whether you are black, white, teenager, twenties, even thirties and beyond. Elaine Welteroth is such a great writer and I am so glad she is using this gift. She mentioned fiction writing so I am already ready to order whatever comes next!

I saw this book advertised in Essence Magazine. I was drawn to purchase it and I am sssssoooo glad I did...Even though I am a 72 year old woman...happily retired now 13 years...I got so much out of it! I thank you "Lainey" for sharing your truth. I sent a copy to one biological Granddaughter and one Granddaughter by another Mother and recommended it to a friend. The friend purchased it and is enjoying it immensely as well. I doubt I will get any feedback from my Granddaughter, she didn't even acknowledge receipt. If she chooses not to read it, it will truly be HER LOSS as I do think she will benefit from it. Just ordered a copy to be sent to my other Granddaughter and I do think she will give me feedback when she finishes it. I have posted it to my Facebook page twice along with WHY I AM MORE THAN ENOUGH #!!! MUCH CONTINUED SUCCESS TO YOU, ELAINE WELTEROTH!!!

OBSESSED, is an understatement.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️This is an autobiography that I am so happy to have discovered. @elainewelteroth weaves an interesting story about her life that is incredibly relatable. Her voice is funny and unique— and her life seemed at points like a mirror reflecting back to me. This book unpacks so much of what it means to be a young Black girl and how we find our identity. The importance of family, community, sisterhood, purpose, faith!📚I encourage you to pick it up and read it. There are lessons in here for everyone. I can only hope that one day I’m blessed to pass on the wisdom my mother passed to me, and the stories in this book weave so many of them together so brilliantly.

I want to read more non fiction books this year and “More than Enough” was a great way to kick that goal off. I didn’t know who Elaine was prior to reading it, but even so I was invested in her story from the beginning.The book walks through Elaine’s childhood, college years, and professional life. It gave enough detail to draw you in but not bore you. I loved the way Elaine spoke about being a bi-racial woman and the struggle of figuring out for herself what type of Black woman she wanted to be. Elaine speaks so proudly of her Black mother and you got to see the strength of her mother that was passed on to her. Her exploration of race and racism was authentic deep and shed light to the experience of Black women in America.What stood out most to me was Elaine’s ability to reflect back on her life and critically examine what she could have done differently and the advice she would give herself today. She didn’t just paint a picture of her life being easy or great but brought the reader along on her struggles and hardships. And she’s only 34! I was surprised at how much she’s accomplished at such a young age. I mean she was the Editor-in-Chief at Teen Vogue at age 29 & was the first Black person in that role! Elaine has paved the way for so many other women and her passion for young people and advocacy was encouraging.If you’re looking for a nonfiction memoir that centers a Black woman, I’d recommend More than Enough!Favorite quote: “When the world tells you to shrink, expand.”

This book is very powerful and motivating. I really enjoyed it. It made my look deeper into my dreams and makes me want to accomplish more.

Elaine!! I’ve been following you since you got the EIC position with teen vogue. I loveeee you ig makeup on the go videos. I’m so proud of all your success and so appreciative of this necessary body of work. I really took my time reading your book because there was so much to unpack. I found myself doing major self reflection each time I put down your book. I’m grateful, inspired and feel hopeful. Thank you. From @tanisha.cherry

All I can say is that the lines definitely fall in pleasant places in God's time.This book has opened my eyes to the importance of knowing one's worth and believing it even when everything around us screams the opposite.Thank you Elaine for sharing your story with us.

Wonderful storytelling and the message will resonate with women of all age navigating the space of intersections like race, gender, relationships, etc.

I liked the story of a young girl from humble beginnings who believed in herself enough to achieve her dreams. We all need a dose of these kinds of books to renew our hope.

This book is powerful. Made me realize and understand my potential as a young black woman. It uplifted and encouraged me