Are You For Real?

“Stephanie Crowder exposes the consequences of imposter syndrome in the lives of Black women and provides a lens of the Bible and society focused on the price Black women pay to be exceptional in all areas of achievement. Crowder stands strong for the plight of Black women when she acknowledges, ‘Ours is still a world that rewards strong assertive men while shushing and shunning women who dare to speak boldly, eloquently, and with much verbal acumen.’”


—Jesse Jackson Jr., former United States congressman





“Stephanie Crowder has bestowed upon us a gift in Are You for Real? With keen insight, and integrity, Crowder helps us understand the ‘imposition of imposter syndrome’ societally and scripturally. With the lens of a womanist warrior, Crowder’s exploration of imposter syndrome invites us to engage in internal and external critique at the individual and institutional levels, in order to deconstruct and reconstruct lives lived in the fullness of our own authenticity. Don’t miss this transformative treatment of imposter syndrome.”


—Reginald W. Williams Jr., senior pastor, First Baptist Church of University Park





“Theologian, Bible scholar, and womanist, Stephanie Crowder’s queries have produced this literary resource that explores imposter syndrome from a theological, biblical, and spiritual framework. Though not a psychologist, Crowder masterfully places this behavioral health phenomenon in conversation with various biblical characters and provides space for readers to reflect on how imposter syndrome resonates with their personal journey. This intriguing literary exploration grounded in a womanist perspective will undoubtedly invite reflection and discussion.”


—Gina M. Stewart, senior pastor, Christ Missionary Baptist Church





“Using personal as well as culturally specific narratives, Stephanie Crowder raises awareness of the dangers and challenges women—especially Black women—face when experiencing what is commonly known as imposter syndrome. Her care ‘to do no harm’ enabled me to laugh at myself as I became acquainted with the imposters within as presented in the sacred text. The offering of liberating hope calls for our authenticity, as a gift to ourselves and others. A must-read!”


—Sharon Ellis Davis, affiliate professor of pastoral care, McCormick Theological Seminary