Aleesha Barlow

Aleesha Barlow is a survivor of child sexual abuse, at the hands of her maternal grandfather. At age 6, Aleesha told her Aunt, that her father was touching Aleesha in her “private parts.” Aleesha’s 2 aunts and mother, told Aleesha to keep it a secret from the police and her own father. They promised the abuse would stop. Unfortunately, Aleesha was still brought around her grandfather and the abuse continued for years. It took Aleesha 20 years to tell her dad, but the moment she did, she had an immediate weight lifted off her shoulders that she wants all survivors to feel! And so she started, the Tell Somebody movement. Bringing awareness to child abuse, and encouraging survivors to speak up and Tell Somebody! No matter how long it’s been.

1. What inspired you all to write a children's book?

I always wished that somebody would’ve taught me about my body when I was younger. That way I could’ve stopped my own abuse, or at least knew it was wrong. I’ve always wanted to bring awareness to child abuse, and save children! Writing a children’s book was a no-brainer! 

2. If you could tell yourself one affirmation as a kid, what would it be?

If I could tell myself one affirmation as a kid, I would tell myself, “You’re worth something! And you’re gonna be something! Just hold your head up!”

3. What's next for you as an author?

What’s next for me as an author? Well, I just got done writing a book for teenagers. So I guess, the sky is the limit! I just want to keep doing God’s work, and go wherever he takes me!

Follow Aleesha Barlow on all platofrms @_queenleesh and purchase Tell Somebody here!