Hannah Bere Unveils Powerful New Book Exploring the Hidden Emotional World of Mothers and Women

A powerful new literary voice is emerging in Nigeria’s creative landscape as author Femi Johnson unveils her deeply reflective book, Mind of a Mother, a work that explores the emotional, mental, and identity-centred experiences of women, especially mothers, who often remain unseen despite the weight they carry.

In an interview, Johnson revealed that the inspiration for the book came during a season of intense self-reflection — a period she described as one where she felt “unseen yet deeply needed.” She explained that many women navigate life with unspoken emotions because society rarely creates room for them to express their struggles. According to her, the spark for the book was ignited by a personal question: “Who am I becoming beyond all that I give?” That moment, she said, became the foundation for a project designed to honour the woman behind the roles.

At the heart of the book lies a message Johnson hopes every reader will carry: a reminder that a mother is still a woman becoming. She emphasised that motherhood does not erase a woman’s identity, but rather magnifies it. She said she wants readers to walk away with empathy for themselves and others, and the permission to honour their emotional truths.

Johnson admitted that the writing journey was far from easy. The most challenging part, she noted, was being “raw honest,” confronting long-held fears and unspoken emotions. She said she persevered by reminding herself that if even one woman felt seen or healed by the book, the vulnerability would be worth it.

Though Mind of a Mother is not a memoir, Johnson said it is heavily influenced by real experiences — from mothers, daughters, friends, and even strangers whose private battles and hopes shaped the emotional depth of the book. She described it as a tapestry woven from the “hidden battles” of countless women whose stories remain largely unheard.

As she reflected on her writing style, Johnson described it as warm, introspective, and layered, noting that the book matured as she did. Through the process, she became braver, telling the truth without softening it for comfort.

Beyond storytelling, Johnson hopes the book contributes to building a culture of empathy. She said she wants communities to better understand the emotional and mental weight carried by women and mothers, adding that if the book helps even one family appreciate their mother’s inner world, its purpose will be fulfilled.

There were moments, she revealed, when the direction of the book surprised even her. What began as a writing project eventually evolved into a mirror one that forced her to confront deeper emotions she didn’t realise she had been carrying.

Johnson said she is most proud of the chapters that centre on identity, reminding women that they are allowed to dream, desire, and evolve beyond caregiving roles. She believes those chapters will “liberate many hearts.”

Her advice to aspiring writers is simple: start early, write bravely, and stay true to your own voice. She described writing as both a creative and emotional journey that requires grace and honesty.

Looking ahead, Johnson has several projects in motion, including a Women’s Empowerment Circle inspired by themes in the book, as well as tours, readings, and conversations aimed at deepening discourse around womanhood and identity. She also confirmed that she has begun nurturing ideas for her next book.

Speaking on the impact she hopes Mind of a Mother will have, Femi Johnson said: “This book is my love letter to every woman who has ever felt unseen. I want them to know that their voice matters, their emotions are valid, and their journey deserves a place in the light.”

With Mind of a Mother, Johnson joins a growing list of Nigerian authors using storytelling to challenge cultural expectations, elevate women’s voices, and spark meaningful reflection within homes and communities.