Raccoon Girl Rising: A Memoir
When she was twenty-one, Jennifer got a tattoo of a women’s symbol with a fist in the middle of it. To her it represented her anger at the injustice women experience, especially sexual violence. A former partner refused to acknowledge that the tattoo included a fist, explaining to others it was a raccoon instead. Over time, as Jennifer actively worked on healing from personal and generational trauma, she fought to create and hold boundaries that required others to treat her with respect. She was no longer the dutiful “raccoon girl” but instead someone who could look back on the traumatic events marking her history and move forward not only as someone intent on changing the world, but also honoring herself. Raccoon Girl Rising recounts the hidden trauma affecting multiple generations within a family, and how it is possible to find peace.
Coming: September 9, 2025
Pre-order: $19.95 - through September 8th
List price: $21.95
ISBN: 978-1-964495-02-6
Pre-order now!
Praise for Raccoon Girl Rising
"Raccoon Girl Rising blends a heartfelt diary with a map of how trauma shapes us. It explores how early childhood adversity forms a cycle, making it seem as if life piles on more. At its core, this is a story of strength. It's about piecing together the "why," and finding your footing. Even when life feels like a constant test, Raccoon Girl Rising reminds us that growth is always possible. It's a beacon of hope from one who has lived the nightmare and come out the other side."
-- Gary Rukin LPC , Trauma Informed Care professional
"This book powerfully illustrates how trauma affects not just one person, but can ripple through generations. Jennifer's talent for storytelling pulls you right into the heart of the narrative; despite the delicate nature of the subjects, I could not put this book down!"
-- Connee Meschini MA, Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor and McHenry County, IL Mental Health Board President
"As the CEO of the Neuro Leadership Academy, I train thousands of professionals worldwide in neuroscience-based leadership and resilience. My work requires me to read countless books and research articles, yet few have had as deep an impact as Raccoon Girl Rising. This book is more than a story of trauma—it is a powerful bridge between lived experience and science, showing how understanding the brain can transform the way we heal."
-- Rick Griffin, CEO, Neuro Leadership Academy
Jennifer Baker
Jennifer Baker is driven by the impact of intergenerational trauma to build more responsive systems and services. As a macro social worker, Dr. Baker works to understand challenges from a person-first perspective that honors the dignity and worth of people. In addition to holding several direct practice roles, she has led three behavioral health-focused non-profit entities and four politically appointed policy positions. She proudly holds an undergraduate degree in women's studies, a master's degree in social work, and a doctorate in public administration. She shares her story in hopes that others feel less alone. Raccoon Girl Rising is her first memoir.