What do you think?
Rate this book
Who's Watching Shorty?: Reclaiming Myself from the Shame of R. Kelly’s Abuse
Who’s Watching Shorty? is a fearless, timely memoir about one of the most high-profile cases of a generation. Reshona Landfair—known as “Jane Doe” when she testified at R. Kelly’s trial—was the 14-year-old-girl in the child pornography video that ultimately led to racketeering and sex-trafficking convictions and a 30-year prison sentence for the R&B superstar. No one in Landfair’s world was looking out for her interests or trying to protect her from someone who was a known (or at least rumored) predator. The people who should have stood up for her—from her family to music business executives to social services to law enforcement—all looked the other way, blinded by his fame and celebrity. That's the story that hasn’t been told, and which Reshona is finally ready to recount, in her own words.
What was it like to be a young teenager, emotionally still a child, and be caught up in his orbit? Why did she believe he loved her, despite how badly he treated her? Why did she keep his secrets for so long? This book is an insider’s view from the girl, now woman, that R. Kelly called his “goddaughter,” the man to whom she lost her virginity, her voice, her freedom, and nearly her life, in the years he had her under his perverse control.
A deeply personal and ultimately empowering memoir, Who’s Watching Shorty? is more than a story of bravery; it’s a hard-hitting reminder to always look after those you love. Jane Doe is no longer a nameless plaintiff on a long court document. Jane Doe is Reshona Landfair, a champion of victims of abuse and coercion, a woman whose fearless voice and transformative words will provide courage for generations to come.
What was it like to be a young teenager, emotionally still a child, and be caught up in his orbit? Why did she believe he loved her, despite how badly he treated her? Why did she keep his secrets for so long? This book is an insider’s view from the girl, now woman, that R. Kelly called his “goddaughter,” the man to whom she lost her virginity, her voice, her freedom, and nearly her life, in the years he had her under his perverse control.
A deeply personal and ultimately empowering memoir, Who’s Watching Shorty? is more than a story of bravery; it’s a hard-hitting reminder to always look after those you love. Jane Doe is no longer a nameless plaintiff on a long court document. Jane Doe is Reshona Landfair, a champion of victims of abuse and coercion, a woman whose fearless voice and transformative words will provide courage for generations to come.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published February 3, 2026
65 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Reshona Landfair
1 book3 followersReshona Landfair was the face of of 4 The Cause, a four-person musical group signed to RCA/BMG from 1994-2000. More recently, Reshona has worked in community health within the Chicago public school system and is the founder of Project Refine, a mentor program for young women.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 11, 2026
Memoir Audiobook Review
Before I begin, I must say that this is one of the hardest reviews I’ve had to write. I had to think on it for days before I could put the words together. I’m going to be transparent and say that I was a victim as a child as well. Which led to self destruction and a life full of alcoholism and drugs. I needed to hear her story and maybe you do too.
Reshona met Kelly when she was 12 years old. Later, he would become her God Father, when she was 14 years old. That same age, she was sexually and emotionally abused by this man. He stripped her of her identity, dehumanized her, took her away from her family, and defiled her in so many ways.
What ultimately proved his actions were all the videos he did while abusing this young girl. 😭😭😭😭. It made me sick and angry. It made my heart hurt.
Let me clarify that I would NEVER have read this had it been fiction. However, HER STORY NEEDS TO BE HEARD. Society normalized it and the people around her turned a blind eye.
The best part to her story is her father making amends for allowing it to happen 11 months before his death. This gave me peace.
While this is not one I can recommend to everyone, it’s an excellent story. Her story and it needs to be heard. One of the best memoirs I’ve ever listened to and deserves nothing less than
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Thank you to @fullof_lit for all the venting and discussions while we read this book.
Thank you to Legacy Lit for the gifted copy.
Before I begin, I must say that this is one of the hardest reviews I’ve had to write. I had to think on it for days before I could put the words together. I’m going to be transparent and say that I was a victim as a child as well. Which led to self destruction and a life full of alcoholism and drugs. I needed to hear her story and maybe you do too.
Reshona met Kelly when she was 12 years old. Later, he would become her God Father, when she was 14 years old. That same age, she was sexually and emotionally abused by this man. He stripped her of her identity, dehumanized her, took her away from her family, and defiled her in so many ways.
What ultimately proved his actions were all the videos he did while abusing this young girl. 😭😭😭😭. It made me sick and angry. It made my heart hurt.
Let me clarify that I would NEVER have read this had it been fiction. However, HER STORY NEEDS TO BE HEARD. Society normalized it and the people around her turned a blind eye.
The best part to her story is her father making amends for allowing it to happen 11 months before his death. This gave me peace.
While this is not one I can recommend to everyone, it’s an excellent story. Her story and it needs to be heard. One of the best memoirs I’ve ever listened to and deserves nothing less than
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Thank you to @fullof_lit for all the venting and discussions while we read this book.
Thank you to Legacy Lit for the gifted copy.
February 26, 2026
4.5 Stars!
"It's not easy being a girl, especially a Black girl. Shamed for our developing bodies,we're considered too foolish or too fast to keep ourselves out of the clutches of lecherous men. Men who our communities put on a pedestal despite their predatory behavior."
Reshona Landfair is one of the most misunderstood people in the Black community. She was "star" of a sex tape at 14 years old that was sold widely even after it was known that the girl in the video was a child. Her "co-star" was world famous R&B singer R. Kelly. She was 12 years old when they met and he was 29 and already had a reputation for "liking young girls".
"You grit your teeth and cry your way through the bad stuff to reap the good stuff."
She was failed by everyone around her but she still turned out most ok. She's a grown woman and mother. She's far more forgiving than I am. Her parents and her aunt literally sold her to R. Kelly and yet she doesn't hold a grudge.
I shouldn't need to tell you that R.Kelly is a piece of shit but unfortunately he still has lots of loyal defenders. These people place more fault on literal children than on a grown man. I grow up listening to his music I even heard the "rumors" that R. Kelly had married a 15 year old Aaliyah(its not a rumor its true) but I was a kid and he made great music. I no longer listen to his music, I stopped long before the documentary series Surviving R.Kelly but his music still gets lots of play on R&B radio and I'm still recommended it on streaming.
"After all, I wouldn't be the first girl to have to pay a powerful man with my body and silence."
But next time you turn on Step In the Name of Love just know he wrote it about his victim Reshona...you know the one he started groom at 12 years old.
"From the folks on his personal payroll to the executives at Jive Records, everyone was turning a blind eye to Robert's addiction and hitching themselves to his rising star."
This is a hard read but its important. The world is controlled by sex predators. The wealthy and powerful almost always get away with their crimes but that doesn't mean we stop fighting them.
"I am 38 years old and learned sex through the lens of a pedophile. I have never had a loving relationship with a man that lasted longer than a year. I made the decision some years ago to take control of my broken life."
I highly recommend this book!
Reshona is a hero.
"It's not easy being a girl, especially a Black girl. Shamed for our developing bodies,we're considered too foolish or too fast to keep ourselves out of the clutches of lecherous men. Men who our communities put on a pedestal despite their predatory behavior."
Reshona Landfair is one of the most misunderstood people in the Black community. She was "star" of a sex tape at 14 years old that was sold widely even after it was known that the girl in the video was a child. Her "co-star" was world famous R&B singer R. Kelly. She was 12 years old when they met and he was 29 and already had a reputation for "liking young girls".
"You grit your teeth and cry your way through the bad stuff to reap the good stuff."
She was failed by everyone around her but she still turned out most ok. She's a grown woman and mother. She's far more forgiving than I am. Her parents and her aunt literally sold her to R. Kelly and yet she doesn't hold a grudge.
I shouldn't need to tell you that R.Kelly is a piece of shit but unfortunately he still has lots of loyal defenders. These people place more fault on literal children than on a grown man. I grow up listening to his music I even heard the "rumors" that R. Kelly had married a 15 year old Aaliyah(its not a rumor its true) but I was a kid and he made great music. I no longer listen to his music, I stopped long before the documentary series Surviving R.Kelly but his music still gets lots of play on R&B radio and I'm still recommended it on streaming.
"After all, I wouldn't be the first girl to have to pay a powerful man with my body and silence."
But next time you turn on Step In the Name of Love just know he wrote it about his victim Reshona...you know the one he started groom at 12 years old.
"From the folks on his personal payroll to the executives at Jive Records, everyone was turning a blind eye to Robert's addiction and hitching themselves to his rising star."
This is a hard read but its important. The world is controlled by sex predators. The wealthy and powerful almost always get away with their crimes but that doesn't mean we stop fighting them.
"I am 38 years old and learned sex through the lens of a pedophile. I have never had a loving relationship with a man that lasted longer than a year. I made the decision some years ago to take control of my broken life."
I highly recommend this book!
Reshona is a hero.
February 18, 2026
I’m not going to pretend this was an easy read. It wasn’t.
But it was necessary. And one of the bravest memoirs I’ve ever read.
In Who’s Watching Shorty? Reshona Landfair takes her name back. She refuses to stay “Jane Doe.” She tells the truth about what happened to her as a child and she does it without softening it for our comfort.
The authority of her standing her ground is felt in how she writes to YOU. The reader. She doesn’t let us sit at a safe distance. She reminds us that abuse doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in communities that look away. It happens when talent is valued more than children. It happens when powerful, predatory men are protected.
The grooming started long before any video surfaced. Long before the headlines. It started with trust. With access. With adults who should have known better.
And yet this book is not just about what was done to her. It’s about the moment she chose to walk away at 26. It’s about motherhood and how trauma can make love feel complicated. It’s about beginning to heal with her father before he passed. It’s about breaking silence.
For those of us who read (and write) for healing this is what that looks like.
Healing starts with telling the truth.
Healing starts with naming shame.
Healing starts with taking your power back.
Reshona’s story is painful. And it is powerful. And it matters.
But it was necessary. And one of the bravest memoirs I’ve ever read.
In Who’s Watching Shorty? Reshona Landfair takes her name back. She refuses to stay “Jane Doe.” She tells the truth about what happened to her as a child and she does it without softening it for our comfort.
The authority of her standing her ground is felt in how she writes to YOU. The reader. She doesn’t let us sit at a safe distance. She reminds us that abuse doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in communities that look away. It happens when talent is valued more than children. It happens when powerful, predatory men are protected.
The grooming started long before any video surfaced. Long before the headlines. It started with trust. With access. With adults who should have known better.
And yet this book is not just about what was done to her. It’s about the moment she chose to walk away at 26. It’s about motherhood and how trauma can make love feel complicated. It’s about beginning to heal with her father before he passed. It’s about breaking silence.
For those of us who read (and write) for healing this is what that looks like.
Healing starts with telling the truth.
Healing starts with naming shame.
Healing starts with taking your power back.
Reshona’s story is painful. And it is powerful. And it matters.
February 4, 2026
I listed to the audiobook which I feel did the story justice. At times, you could even hear her struggling to get out the words. There were moments where I had to pause and not because it was bad, but because it was painfully real. As a survivor of domestic abuse, grooming, and childhood sexual abuse, a lot of this hit very close to home. Hearing it triggered some things in me that I also thought were buried, further proving her point of how hard it is to even share this.
Survivors are often met with jokes, judgment, shame, and opinions especially when the abuse happened in childhood, when there was no power, no choice, and no understanding of what was being done to them.
It’s important to remember that manipulation and brainwashing don’t end when the abuse ends. It follow you into adulthood, shapes your thoughts, your fears, and the way you move through the world. To speak openly about that, knowing how cruel and dismissive people can be, takes real strength.
That shame should never belong to survivors. This story was told so well that I was reminded of this.
It’s a triggering story, but it really dives deep into the mind of those who were abused and their struggles of the aftermath. I recommend you listen to it with care.
Survivors are often met with jokes, judgment, shame, and opinions especially when the abuse happened in childhood, when there was no power, no choice, and no understanding of what was being done to them.
It’s important to remember that manipulation and brainwashing don’t end when the abuse ends. It follow you into adulthood, shapes your thoughts, your fears, and the way you move through the world. To speak openly about that, knowing how cruel and dismissive people can be, takes real strength.
That shame should never belong to survivors. This story was told so well that I was reminded of this.
It’s a triggering story, but it really dives deep into the mind of those who were abused and their struggles of the aftermath. I recommend you listen to it with care.
February 14, 2026
My heart broke for Reshona. I opted for the audio and I felt her emotions. It hurts my heart that so many adults were complicit/looked the other way as she was subjected to over a decade of sexual, mental, emotional and physical abuse.
I pray that this helps with her healing journey. I would absolutely recommend but take your time, this is a heavy one.
I pray that this helps with her healing journey. I would absolutely recommend but take your time, this is a heavy one.
Review of advance copy
Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the eARC.
This book is not for the weak. It is raw, it is painful, it is devastating. What Reshona endured at the hands of a grown man is no less than horrifying. I don’t have words to do it justice, nor do I feel like I can give it an appropriate rating. Reshona put it all out there for her readers, she didn’t hold back. It’s so devastatingly traumatic.
This book is not for the weak. It is raw, it is painful, it is devastating. What Reshona endured at the hands of a grown man is no less than horrifying. I don’t have words to do it justice, nor do I feel like I can give it an appropriate rating. Reshona put it all out there for her readers, she didn’t hold back. It’s so devastatingly traumatic.
February 28, 2026
If I said what I really wanted to about #that man my account would probably get banned…so I’ll just say it was heartbreaking to hear about how many adults passively and actively aided in the abuse of young black girls over decades.
This memoir and a Rolling Stone interview released in January has been Reshona’s first time publicly speaking, which is understandable as her name and identity were unfairly made public when she was still a teenager. In this book we hear Reshona walk us through years of abuse, eventually finding her way out, and back to herself. It can be easy to ask “why did she do xyz” or point blame at certain family members in her life, but she does a good job of explaining how this situation isn’t black and white; while also saying she’s had to process, have hard conversations, and forgive herself and others as a way to continue to heal from this.
Forever wishing peace to all of his victims ❤️ Check TW before reading
This memoir and a Rolling Stone interview released in January has been Reshona’s first time publicly speaking, which is understandable as her name and identity were unfairly made public when she was still a teenager. In this book we hear Reshona walk us through years of abuse, eventually finding her way out, and back to herself. It can be easy to ask “why did she do xyz” or point blame at certain family members in her life, but she does a good job of explaining how this situation isn’t black and white; while also saying she’s had to process, have hard conversations, and forgive herself and others as a way to continue to heal from this.
Forever wishing peace to all of his victims ❤️ Check TW before reading
February 22, 2026
Timely and important story about a girl who was failed by all those who should have been protecting her. The audiobook lets us hear the victim's voice, which really brings it home. I was particularly horrified (though not surprised) that when she was questioned they tried to blame her.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me listen to this audiobook
This is a review of the audiobook.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me listen to this audiobook
This is a review of the audiobook.
February 25, 2026
I was born and raised in Chicago. In 2001, R. Kelly wasn’t just a superstar; he was a living legend in the city. I remember hearing about the leaked tape while buying bootleg CDs and DVDs, like everyone else. I thought it was just another celebrity sex tape. But while watching it, something felt deeply wrong. The woman in the video didn’t look like a woman at all; she looked like a child. And he was urinating on her. This was an obvious case of child exploitation, and everyone in the city was trying to identify her.
It was one of the saddest, most disturbing periods I can remember in Chicago. I felt so bad for her and hated R. Kelly after that. For years I thought about that child whom I only knew as Jane Doe. Now, Reshona Landfair has released a memoir claiming she is Jane Doe. In this book, she tells her story with honesty and restraint, remaining respectful of other victims’ privacy. The memoir is heartfelt, shocking, and emotionally heavy. Please check your triggers before diving in.
I’ve worked crimes against children cases for the past 16 years, and the patterns she describes are painfully familiar. Grooming, manipulation, isolating the child, and gaining the trust of parents. The only difference here is that R. Kelly has a lot of money and influence, which makes everything ten times worse.
She comes across as sincere and credible to me. There are several jaw-dropping moments, but the most powerful part for me is hearing a little girl, failed by nearly every adult around her, finally reclaim her voice. That, more than anything, makes this memoir matter. I’m very proud of her and glad she told her story. I recommend the audiobook since she does her own narration.
Tiffany D. Jackson’s book “Grown” was based on this story. But instead of rapper Korey Fields and Enchanted, you have the actual story of Robert Kelly and Reshona Landfair.
It was one of the saddest, most disturbing periods I can remember in Chicago. I felt so bad for her and hated R. Kelly after that. For years I thought about that child whom I only knew as Jane Doe. Now, Reshona Landfair has released a memoir claiming she is Jane Doe. In this book, she tells her story with honesty and restraint, remaining respectful of other victims’ privacy. The memoir is heartfelt, shocking, and emotionally heavy. Please check your triggers before diving in.
I’ve worked crimes against children cases for the past 16 years, and the patterns she describes are painfully familiar. Grooming, manipulation, isolating the child, and gaining the trust of parents. The only difference here is that R. Kelly has a lot of money and influence, which makes everything ten times worse.
She comes across as sincere and credible to me. There are several jaw-dropping moments, but the most powerful part for me is hearing a little girl, failed by nearly every adult around her, finally reclaim her voice. That, more than anything, makes this memoir matter. I’m very proud of her and glad she told her story. I recommend the audiobook since she does her own narration.
Tiffany D. Jackson’s book “Grown” was based on this story. But instead of rapper Korey Fields and Enchanted, you have the actual story of Robert Kelly and Reshona Landfair.
February 24, 2026
TW: CSA/SA
Whew. This was a very tough read to get through. I wanted to support Reshona Landfair in reclaiming her voice and power so I finished it. Abuse is such an insidious cycle and through reading this books you can see how the abusers are dependent on others to help them carryon with their heinous acts. While Reshona has found forgiveness for the adults in her life, my heart broke for her. EVERY single adult in the woman's life has failed her. I was happy to learn that she is now using her voice to empower other survivors. She is beyond brave for what she is doing. I hope this book was therapeutic for her and I am wishing her much success and overall PEACE.
Whew. This was a very tough read to get through. I wanted to support Reshona Landfair in reclaiming her voice and power so I finished it. Abuse is such an insidious cycle and through reading this books you can see how the abusers are dependent on others to help them carryon with their heinous acts. While Reshona has found forgiveness for the adults in her life, my heart broke for her. EVERY single adult in the woman's life has failed her. I was happy to learn that she is now using her voice to empower other survivors. She is beyond brave for what she is doing. I hope this book was therapeutic for her and I am wishing her much success and overall PEACE.
February 11, 2026
I hate that this is the story of so many women. And i wish more men spoke up about their own abuse without the threat of being embarrassed, laughed at, or shamed by their peers. Whether the perpetrator was famous or not, the effects are the same.
I used to “step in the name of love,” but I never considered myself a true fan of R Kelly. He had some bops, sure, but never anything to be excited about.
I was 13 when Reshona’s case went to trial. From my recollection, I remember being disgusted with R Kelly. If I remember correctly, I remember feeling bad for the girl being urinated on. I couldn’t understand how she could have possibly gotten herself in that position. Where were her parents? Because certainly my daddy wouldn’t allow that. Why did her daddy, her hero, allow that?
When the case was over, I, too, was disgusted at the fact that r Kelly got off Scott free and Reshona and her family didn’t speak up. He bought them out and they allowed it as far as I was concerned.
I was in my mid-twenties when “surviving r Kelly” came out. I binged it. Learned of R Kelly’s indiscretions. I contemplated “muting” r Kelly because that’s what everyone else was doing. But you can’t truly “mute” anyone. He, in fact, wrote one of my favorite songs by Michael Jackson “You Are Not Alone.” You can’t mute a man who has imbedded himself in each and every corner of the music industry (this goes for many people. Not just r Kelly). So I listen to “You Are Not Alone” offline so as not to give him any streaming dollars.
N E Wayyyyyyyy. During the first “surviving r Kelly” docuseries, I finally understood what happened to Aaliyah. And it hurt me that her story couldn’t be told. And to this day none of the people who were supposed to protect her speak. Disgusting.
When the docuseries dropped, I was reminded of “the girl who was urinated on.” (I didn’t know her name at the time, so she was always anonymous to me.) I wondered how she was doing. Had she healed from that situation? Was it worth it for her parents to get paid off? I felt bad for her.
As years went on, “surviving r Kelly” pt 2 dropped. I couldn’t finish it. But my mind went back to that 14 year old girl who was well into adulthood by then. Always wondering about her. Always feeling bad for her. Disgusted at the adults at the time and even now who still blame that 14 year old girl. I always wondered about her. Always wondered how that impacted her mental health. Identifying with her in some ways. Always wondering.
Now, Reshona has spoken her truth. I couldn’t be any more proud of her. Yes, we have the women who spoke their truth in the “surviving r Kelly” docs. No story is more important than any other, but I always felt that Aaliyah & Reshona deserved to have their stories told. Aaliyah’s story was forever silenced in 2001. Her family still dont speak up for her. Still don’t protect her. They failed her. Each and everyone of them. But Reshona? Her parents apologized to her. They admitted that they failed her and asked for her forgiveness. Her family spoke up for her, whether it’s considered “too late” or not. Her family tried protecting her in the midst of it. Aunt sparkle had good intentions with calling CPS. I understand everyone’s disdain, but if you compare and contrast, no one else tried to protect Reshona. I have other thoughts about Aunt Sparkle, but I will admit that she at least TRIED to protect her niece.
I applaud you, Reshona, for telling your story. For healing. For speaking up for what’s right & what’s wrong. For not going public until you were ready. Your silence was strength. Your book is strength. It gives hope.
I wish I could give Reshona a hug for numerous reasons.
I used to “step in the name of love,” but I never considered myself a true fan of R Kelly. He had some bops, sure, but never anything to be excited about.
I was 13 when Reshona’s case went to trial. From my recollection, I remember being disgusted with R Kelly. If I remember correctly, I remember feeling bad for the girl being urinated on. I couldn’t understand how she could have possibly gotten herself in that position. Where were her parents? Because certainly my daddy wouldn’t allow that. Why did her daddy, her hero, allow that?
When the case was over, I, too, was disgusted at the fact that r Kelly got off Scott free and Reshona and her family didn’t speak up. He bought them out and they allowed it as far as I was concerned.
I was in my mid-twenties when “surviving r Kelly” came out. I binged it. Learned of R Kelly’s indiscretions. I contemplated “muting” r Kelly because that’s what everyone else was doing. But you can’t truly “mute” anyone. He, in fact, wrote one of my favorite songs by Michael Jackson “You Are Not Alone.” You can’t mute a man who has imbedded himself in each and every corner of the music industry (this goes for many people. Not just r Kelly). So I listen to “You Are Not Alone” offline so as not to give him any streaming dollars.
N E Wayyyyyyyy. During the first “surviving r Kelly” docuseries, I finally understood what happened to Aaliyah. And it hurt me that her story couldn’t be told. And to this day none of the people who were supposed to protect her speak. Disgusting.
When the docuseries dropped, I was reminded of “the girl who was urinated on.” (I didn’t know her name at the time, so she was always anonymous to me.) I wondered how she was doing. Had she healed from that situation? Was it worth it for her parents to get paid off? I felt bad for her.
As years went on, “surviving r Kelly” pt 2 dropped. I couldn’t finish it. But my mind went back to that 14 year old girl who was well into adulthood by then. Always wondering about her. Always feeling bad for her. Disgusted at the adults at the time and even now who still blame that 14 year old girl. I always wondered about her. Always wondered how that impacted her mental health. Identifying with her in some ways. Always wondering.
Now, Reshona has spoken her truth. I couldn’t be any more proud of her. Yes, we have the women who spoke their truth in the “surviving r Kelly” docs. No story is more important than any other, but I always felt that Aaliyah & Reshona deserved to have their stories told. Aaliyah’s story was forever silenced in 2001. Her family still dont speak up for her. Still don’t protect her. They failed her. Each and everyone of them. But Reshona? Her parents apologized to her. They admitted that they failed her and asked for her forgiveness. Her family spoke up for her, whether it’s considered “too late” or not. Her family tried protecting her in the midst of it. Aunt sparkle had good intentions with calling CPS. I understand everyone’s disdain, but if you compare and contrast, no one else tried to protect Reshona. I have other thoughts about Aunt Sparkle, but I will admit that she at least TRIED to protect her niece.
I applaud you, Reshona, for telling your story. For healing. For speaking up for what’s right & what’s wrong. For not going public until you were ready. Your silence was strength. Your book is strength. It gives hope.
I wish I could give Reshona a hug for numerous reasons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2026
I’m proud of her. I hope she truly can find healing and peace.
March 4, 2026
I hope she continues to heal
February 16, 2026
Waste of Money
If I could get my money back I would. This book repeated its self over and over with no real details. The whole book can be summarized into an Article in a magazine. Theres no way anyone can convince me that her parents were that dumb. Not everything is learned behavior. In my opinion they were sorry excuses for parents. I skipped the last few chapters. I couldn’t take another second reading this.
If I could get my money back I would. This book repeated its self over and over with no real details. The whole book can be summarized into an Article in a magazine. Theres no way anyone can convince me that her parents were that dumb. Not everything is learned behavior. In my opinion they were sorry excuses for parents. I skipped the last few chapters. I couldn’t take another second reading this.
February 15, 2026
I wish this story had been written years ago, but I'm glad it's finally being shared. Absolutely heartbreaking how many people were aware of this (including the parents), but kept silent.
Read
February 13, 2026The sick perversion from Robert Kelly went on entirely too long. People, of course, disgustingly like to blame the victims for “being fast”, looking for fame, “taunting him”. It was Robert and the adults enabling him who let these atrocities go on for decades. The fact that I remember being a young Black child hearing his music at every cookout, wedding, family reunion, school event “I Believe I Can Fly”, and church events (because he was able to do a few gospel songs to “redeem” himself. I remember turning 14 and hearing jokes from grown folks saying I was the prime age for R. Kelly, as if it was funny. The jokes were so normal and embedded into our culture. This is why I was anticipating hearing from Reshona Landfair because it was her who was the butt of these sick jokes that carried on for years. While he got to tap dance (or should I say STEP) his way out of trouble and onto the charts, into people’s heart under the guise of “being changed”, Reshona was being groomed, manipulated, sexually assaulted, and abused. They painted her to be a harlot and not what she was, A CHILD!!! Black girls rarely get protection, and when it came to question why she didn’t say anything before they acted like she was some mastermind. Meanwhile she was a naive teenager without a full high school education, who grew up in the church with rules saying always respect your elders. I could go deeper on that last part but won’t here. What I will say is I applaud Reshona for reclaiming her voice, her likeness, her name, and childhood. At so many parts I had to pause reading because it was so sick what was being done in reference to her and others. It’s the gut churning fact that she could have said more and detailed, but didn’t so it’s not more that cycles and follows her. I hope she does not feel ashamed for speaking her truth, and that this encourages more people with stories similar to hers to speak. When that time comes we need to hush and listen.
No more of that “Well his music is timeless…Separate the art from the artist” when it is even more heavily documented that Robert is a predator, and many songs are based around things he did to his victims.
No more of that “Well his music is timeless…Separate the art from the artist” when it is even more heavily documented that Robert is a predator, and many songs are based around things he did to his victims.
February 20, 2026
Put Sylvester UNDER the jail!
March 11, 2026
This is the hardest review I’ve ever had to write. Mainly because there’s so much that needs to be said that I know will get left out. I hope that everyone will at least read what I do manage to cram into this review.
The 2002 leak of the tape featuring R. Kelly and *14 year-old* Reshona made its rounds like wildfire. Being one of those prominent R&B influences made this a huge deal in the black
community. I was 17 when I saw it, and for that I’m sorry. What I will say though is even at 17 what I saw was R. Kelly, nude, standing over what was obviously a nude CHILD and urinating in her mouth. I was disgusted. I never looked at him the same again nor his music.
What confuses me is MY community. Yes black people I’m talking to you on this one because I have to. Even as a child what I saw was the abuse of a child so it is enraging to me that so many people in our community have sat there for 24 years (!!!) calling this girl FAST, a gold digger, and so much worse. Fourteen. She was FOURTEEN. What is wrong with you???
Let me tell you something: aside from the fact that this wasn’t a “fast” girl, I need to tell you that in any case there is NO amount of speed at which a girl can move that will justify a grown man abusing her.
Let me get everyone together and summarize as best I can what this child went through. What everyone saw was a random girl on a tape with a pedophile (because that’s what he is) where she and her family later lied about the abuse. Here’s what you didn’t see: a girl who was groomed, raped, held captive, beaten, sodomized, isolated, and manipulated from the age of 12 to 26. You tell me how YOU would fare mentally.
At 12 she and her family were introduced to a mega superstar by her aunt SPARKLE (singer) who was one of his artists. This aunt had her own sexual relationship with R. Kelly but that’s another story. Reshona’s father is a musician who becomes employed by R. Kelly. One day Sparkle tells Reshona she should sit on R. Kelly’s lap and ask him to be her godfather. Everyone knew the rumors about R. Kelly at this point (he had married 14 year old Aaliyah prior to this). You will never be able to convince me that Sparkle didn’t dangle her niece in front of who she knew was a pervert. For what? Clout? To keep her spot solid in his circle? I don’t know. Why her parents allowed this I also don’t know. My daughters aren’t sitting on anyone’s lap. I can’t imagine this. As you can imagine R. Kelly said yes.
Fast forward and the grooming begins. Reshona spends a lot of time at the music studio where her father is I think most of the time but she spends a lot of time alone with R. Kelly. He starts calling her private phone line at home. He asks what she has on. He tells her not to call her underwear “drawers” and to call them panties. He starts making suggestions about how she should touch herself. She was 13. In no time is he taking her virginity, and having her do the most depraved things you can’t even begin to imagine. Then he starts filming her. So not only does he sleep with this child. He has the nerve to film it. He has her convince other children, her friends, to join them. What she doesn’t want to do sexually he makes her watch him doing it with other women.
He was very methodical in how he groomed this little girl, and also how he groomed her family. He saw them and he saw a weakness. He infiltrated her family. Did her parents allow it? Yes. The abuse of Reshona did not got unnoticed. When Sparkle is essentially outed from R. Kelly’s circle (he found out she had a boyfriend and since she had been sleeping with him too this was a problem) she reports what’s going on between them to CPS which I guarantee wasn’t out of concern but out of resentment.
Reshona denies it because, shocking, why would she admit it? She’d been groomed for years by this point. Her parents seem suspicious but it was much easier to ignore the allegations than admit what was going on. So they did nothing. They were willfully blind. They saw it but they didn’t want to admit that they saw it.
Once the tape leaks FOUR years after the abuse has started, R. Kelly confesses his love for her to her parents. How he walked out of their house alive I don’t understand. They forbid her from seeing him anymore and at his direction she threatens suicide and everything else he has told her to do to manipulate the situation.
Her mom quits her job because of harassment because people know the girl on the tape is her daughter. No big deal though because R. Kelly was financing their whole life. He made it where they were reliant on him. Again did they allow this? Yes. He then sends them on a vacation to avoid some of the publicity surrounding the tapes release while prepping them for how to handle it. What lies to tell.
Eventually Reshona would move out and be put in an apartment that she wasn’t allowed to leave and if she did was forced to wear a disguise. She wasn’t allowed to speak to her friends. She wasn’t allowed to speak to her family. During all this hearings for the charges against R. Kelly we’re going on. She wasn’t allowed to watch the news. Keep in mind it took years for them to put him on trial. He didn’t want Reshona seeing or hearing anything about the proceedings. He needed to control the narrative. R. Kelly later does the same to other women. Holds them hostage. Isolates them from their parents. It’s his pattern.
Why did her and her parents lie at trial? They felt they were at his mercy. Reshona had been groomed for years at this point, abused, sodomized, you name it she was a victim of it. Were her parents worried they’d lose his financial support? Of course they were. They had become completely reliant on him. Her mother was scared of him, her dad was afraid of losing his job. R. Kelly was R. KELLY. It wouldn’t be until years later that people would speak up against him. Her family would’ve lost everything and they knew that. R. Kelly was of course acquitted.
Now I want you to imagine a 26 year-old Reshona. This is when she finally starts to act out. Flirt with other men. Dress seductively. Do anything that might piss him off so he’ll let her go. That’s 14 years. Fourteen years that she had been groomed, abused, manipulated, gaslighted, and so many other things I just don’t have the words for. I know you’re all like “well she was almost 30 she could’ve been left him alone.” I won’t dignify the ignorance with a response to those thoughts. If that’s how you feel, look up Stockholm syndrome, and read this review from the beginning. That was all she knew.
Did her parents fail her? Yes. They know that. Later conversations with her father would prove vital in understanding why he turned his head. There was an age gap with his parents and he really thought R. Kelly loved her. He tried to justify it in his mind.
Years later when federal charges are brought against R. Kelly and Reshona has learned she wasn’t the only child he had abused she is in her 30’s. She’s a mother and she decides she’s going to tell the truth when agents reach out to her. She lets her parents know no more lies. She comes clean and thankfully so do many other people that were privy to what was being done to her that turned their heads and said nothing.
Keep in mind studios are full of people. Everyone saw her there. Everyone knew what was going on. No one said anything.
This was the hardest memoir I’ve read/listened to. She read it herself. She cried during parts.
Reshona…. I believe you. It wasn’t your fault.
The 2002 leak of the tape featuring R. Kelly and *14 year-old* Reshona made its rounds like wildfire. Being one of those prominent R&B influences made this a huge deal in the black
community. I was 17 when I saw it, and for that I’m sorry. What I will say though is even at 17 what I saw was R. Kelly, nude, standing over what was obviously a nude CHILD and urinating in her mouth. I was disgusted. I never looked at him the same again nor his music.
What confuses me is MY community. Yes black people I’m talking to you on this one because I have to. Even as a child what I saw was the abuse of a child so it is enraging to me that so many people in our community have sat there for 24 years (!!!) calling this girl FAST, a gold digger, and so much worse. Fourteen. She was FOURTEEN. What is wrong with you???
Let me tell you something: aside from the fact that this wasn’t a “fast” girl, I need to tell you that in any case there is NO amount of speed at which a girl can move that will justify a grown man abusing her.
Let me get everyone together and summarize as best I can what this child went through. What everyone saw was a random girl on a tape with a pedophile (because that’s what he is) where she and her family later lied about the abuse. Here’s what you didn’t see: a girl who was groomed, raped, held captive, beaten, sodomized, isolated, and manipulated from the age of 12 to 26. You tell me how YOU would fare mentally.
At 12 she and her family were introduced to a mega superstar by her aunt SPARKLE (singer) who was one of his artists. This aunt had her own sexual relationship with R. Kelly but that’s another story. Reshona’s father is a musician who becomes employed by R. Kelly. One day Sparkle tells Reshona she should sit on R. Kelly’s lap and ask him to be her godfather. Everyone knew the rumors about R. Kelly at this point (he had married 14 year old Aaliyah prior to this). You will never be able to convince me that Sparkle didn’t dangle her niece in front of who she knew was a pervert. For what? Clout? To keep her spot solid in his circle? I don’t know. Why her parents allowed this I also don’t know. My daughters aren’t sitting on anyone’s lap. I can’t imagine this. As you can imagine R. Kelly said yes.
Fast forward and the grooming begins. Reshona spends a lot of time at the music studio where her father is I think most of the time but she spends a lot of time alone with R. Kelly. He starts calling her private phone line at home. He asks what she has on. He tells her not to call her underwear “drawers” and to call them panties. He starts making suggestions about how she should touch herself. She was 13. In no time is he taking her virginity, and having her do the most depraved things you can’t even begin to imagine. Then he starts filming her. So not only does he sleep with this child. He has the nerve to film it. He has her convince other children, her friends, to join them. What she doesn’t want to do sexually he makes her watch him doing it with other women.
He was very methodical in how he groomed this little girl, and also how he groomed her family. He saw them and he saw a weakness. He infiltrated her family. Did her parents allow it? Yes. The abuse of Reshona did not got unnoticed. When Sparkle is essentially outed from R. Kelly’s circle (he found out she had a boyfriend and since she had been sleeping with him too this was a problem) she reports what’s going on between them to CPS which I guarantee wasn’t out of concern but out of resentment.
Reshona denies it because, shocking, why would she admit it? She’d been groomed for years by this point. Her parents seem suspicious but it was much easier to ignore the allegations than admit what was going on. So they did nothing. They were willfully blind. They saw it but they didn’t want to admit that they saw it.
Once the tape leaks FOUR years after the abuse has started, R. Kelly confesses his love for her to her parents. How he walked out of their house alive I don’t understand. They forbid her from seeing him anymore and at his direction she threatens suicide and everything else he has told her to do to manipulate the situation.
Her mom quits her job because of harassment because people know the girl on the tape is her daughter. No big deal though because R. Kelly was financing their whole life. He made it where they were reliant on him. Again did they allow this? Yes. He then sends them on a vacation to avoid some of the publicity surrounding the tapes release while prepping them for how to handle it. What lies to tell.
Eventually Reshona would move out and be put in an apartment that she wasn’t allowed to leave and if she did was forced to wear a disguise. She wasn’t allowed to speak to her friends. She wasn’t allowed to speak to her family. During all this hearings for the charges against R. Kelly we’re going on. She wasn’t allowed to watch the news. Keep in mind it took years for them to put him on trial. He didn’t want Reshona seeing or hearing anything about the proceedings. He needed to control the narrative. R. Kelly later does the same to other women. Holds them hostage. Isolates them from their parents. It’s his pattern.
Why did her and her parents lie at trial? They felt they were at his mercy. Reshona had been groomed for years at this point, abused, sodomized, you name it she was a victim of it. Were her parents worried they’d lose his financial support? Of course they were. They had become completely reliant on him. Her mother was scared of him, her dad was afraid of losing his job. R. Kelly was R. KELLY. It wouldn’t be until years later that people would speak up against him. Her family would’ve lost everything and they knew that. R. Kelly was of course acquitted.
Now I want you to imagine a 26 year-old Reshona. This is when she finally starts to act out. Flirt with other men. Dress seductively. Do anything that might piss him off so he’ll let her go. That’s 14 years. Fourteen years that she had been groomed, abused, manipulated, gaslighted, and so many other things I just don’t have the words for. I know you’re all like “well she was almost 30 she could’ve been left him alone.” I won’t dignify the ignorance with a response to those thoughts. If that’s how you feel, look up Stockholm syndrome, and read this review from the beginning. That was all she knew.
Did her parents fail her? Yes. They know that. Later conversations with her father would prove vital in understanding why he turned his head. There was an age gap with his parents and he really thought R. Kelly loved her. He tried to justify it in his mind.
Years later when federal charges are brought against R. Kelly and Reshona has learned she wasn’t the only child he had abused she is in her 30’s. She’s a mother and she decides she’s going to tell the truth when agents reach out to her. She lets her parents know no more lies. She comes clean and thankfully so do many other people that were privy to what was being done to her that turned their heads and said nothing.
Keep in mind studios are full of people. Everyone saw her there. Everyone knew what was going on. No one said anything.
This was the hardest memoir I’ve read/listened to. She read it herself. She cried during parts.
Reshona…. I believe you. It wasn’t your fault.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC REVIEW
I’ve read three books written by survivors of R. Kelly. This one is for sure the most impactful. The events documented in this book are mind blowing. Better yet, they are down right disturbing! I commend Reshona for being so brave, open and brutally honest in telling her truth. Believe me when I say she left no stone unturned in this memoir.
When I was gifted this book by the publisher I didn’t know who Reshona Landfair was. It was obvious from the title she was a R. Kelly survivor. I just didn’t know which one. Then I read the Preface and it all became clear.
Reshona Landfair is the 14-year-old girl from the infamous child p*rn *video that became central evidence in R. Kelly’s racketeering and sex-trafficking court cases. She was one of the key witnesses in the trial that led to R. Kelly’s convictions. For many years she was known only as “Jane Doe,” but in this memoir she removes the veil and tells her story in her own name. This is her truth, in her words and in her voice.
Who’s Watching Shorty? is a deeply emotional, heart wrenching, superbly written, hard to put down memoir. Reading this book felt like Reshona was sitting across from me telling me her story. The delivery was smooth, conversational, almost as if she was speaking from her diary. Her story pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning to the heartbreaking end.
I finished this book with a complete understanding of how this young girl was manipulated and abused by the man she trusted. I felt her pain and confusion. Hearing her story allowed me to understand the hurt and devastation Reshona and her family has carried all of these years.
This memoir offers a rare look at how abuse reshapes a child’s sense of identity, and self-worth. It’s the ultimate case study for how child predators lure victims into their devastating web.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of the story is how clearly Reshona shows the grooming process. She does an amazing job of capturing how R. Kelly used affection, validation, and dependency, to manipulate her young mind, making it difficult for her to recognize what was happening in real time.
I was also struck by how Reshona necessarily, yet compassionately holds her parents and her Aunt Sparkle accountable for their roles in this tragedy. The way in which R. Kelly managed to infiltrate not just her life, but the lives of her entire family was shocking. I believe Reshona’s Aunt Sparkle played a huge part in feeding Reshona to the wolf. Something definitely was not right with Sparkle’s actions, and Reshona payed a life altering price for Sparkle’s deceitful decisions.
This book allowed Reshona to publicly address the adults who made fun of the infamous video that clearly shows her, a child, being victimized and abused by a predator. She describes how painful it was seeing comedy skits performed by people like Dave Chappell. She admits that no one seemed to take her, a child, into consideration while making fun of R. Kelly. Her most embarrassing moment was put on display for entertainment and laughs. I’m glad this book will now add a sense of humanity to the conversation in reference to that video tape.
What I appreciate most about this book is that it doesn’t just tell us about Reshona’s pain, it also tells us about her victory. It documents the strength it took for her to get her life back. Although Reshona was victimized and let down by numerous adults, she was determined to right the wrongs of her past. As an adult she took control of her life and did something she never thought she would ever have the courage to do…testify against R. Kelly.
This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand why victims may return to abusive relationships. It’s an emotional read, so I took my time with it. It answered all the questions I had pertaining to that disturbing 2002 video. I wanted to know how could something like this happen in plain sight? Where were her parents? Why did she deny being in the tape? She answered every one of my questions plus so many more. This book is deep. Reshona gives it to us straight no chaser. It is raw and uncut.
I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR. It is definitely a must read.
Publication date February 3, 2026
Oh and in case you're wondering if she discuss Aaliyah in the book, the answer is no. She quickly mentioned her name once or twice but it was nothing in depth. I greatly appreciate and respect her for making that decision.
Note: This book was gifted to me by the publisher Legacy Lit in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve read three books written by survivors of R. Kelly. This one is for sure the most impactful. The events documented in this book are mind blowing. Better yet, they are down right disturbing! I commend Reshona for being so brave, open and brutally honest in telling her truth. Believe me when I say she left no stone unturned in this memoir.
When I was gifted this book by the publisher I didn’t know who Reshona Landfair was. It was obvious from the title she was a R. Kelly survivor. I just didn’t know which one. Then I read the Preface and it all became clear.
Reshona Landfair is the 14-year-old girl from the infamous child p*rn *video that became central evidence in R. Kelly’s racketeering and sex-trafficking court cases. She was one of the key witnesses in the trial that led to R. Kelly’s convictions. For many years she was known only as “Jane Doe,” but in this memoir she removes the veil and tells her story in her own name. This is her truth, in her words and in her voice.
Who’s Watching Shorty? is a deeply emotional, heart wrenching, superbly written, hard to put down memoir. Reading this book felt like Reshona was sitting across from me telling me her story. The delivery was smooth, conversational, almost as if she was speaking from her diary. Her story pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning to the heartbreaking end.
I finished this book with a complete understanding of how this young girl was manipulated and abused by the man she trusted. I felt her pain and confusion. Hearing her story allowed me to understand the hurt and devastation Reshona and her family has carried all of these years.
This memoir offers a rare look at how abuse reshapes a child’s sense of identity, and self-worth. It’s the ultimate case study for how child predators lure victims into their devastating web.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of the story is how clearly Reshona shows the grooming process. She does an amazing job of capturing how R. Kelly used affection, validation, and dependency, to manipulate her young mind, making it difficult for her to recognize what was happening in real time.
I was also struck by how Reshona necessarily, yet compassionately holds her parents and her Aunt Sparkle accountable for their roles in this tragedy. The way in which R. Kelly managed to infiltrate not just her life, but the lives of her entire family was shocking. I believe Reshona’s Aunt Sparkle played a huge part in feeding Reshona to the wolf. Something definitely was not right with Sparkle’s actions, and Reshona payed a life altering price for Sparkle’s deceitful decisions.
This book allowed Reshona to publicly address the adults who made fun of the infamous video that clearly shows her, a child, being victimized and abused by a predator. She describes how painful it was seeing comedy skits performed by people like Dave Chappell. She admits that no one seemed to take her, a child, into consideration while making fun of R. Kelly. Her most embarrassing moment was put on display for entertainment and laughs. I’m glad this book will now add a sense of humanity to the conversation in reference to that video tape.
What I appreciate most about this book is that it doesn’t just tell us about Reshona’s pain, it also tells us about her victory. It documents the strength it took for her to get her life back. Although Reshona was victimized and let down by numerous adults, she was determined to right the wrongs of her past. As an adult she took control of her life and did something she never thought she would ever have the courage to do…testify against R. Kelly.
This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand why victims may return to abusive relationships. It’s an emotional read, so I took my time with it. It answered all the questions I had pertaining to that disturbing 2002 video. I wanted to know how could something like this happen in plain sight? Where were her parents? Why did she deny being in the tape? She answered every one of my questions plus so many more. This book is deep. Reshona gives it to us straight no chaser. It is raw and uncut.
I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR. It is definitely a must read.
Publication date February 3, 2026
Oh and in case you're wondering if she discuss Aaliyah in the book, the answer is no. She quickly mentioned her name once or twice but it was nothing in depth. I greatly appreciate and respect her for making that decision.
Note: This book was gifted to me by the publisher Legacy Lit in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Who’s Watching Shorty by Reshona Landfair is a heavy, necessary read. This memoir is an account of the author’s abusive connection with R. Kelly & her firsthand experience as the Jane Doe in his 2008 trial. The sharing of her perspective takes a level of bravery & candor that can’t be overstated. Landfair’s story is raw, painful, & riddled with abuse, manipulation, & the long-term damage that comes from adults choosing convenience, access, or money over protection. The book powerfully reinforces one uncomfortable truth: turning a blind eye never really helps anybody, fr fr.
That said, my main disappointment lies in what the author skirts around. There’s minimal accountability given to the role her family played in her proximity to Kelly. No matter how it’s framed, her access to him stemmed from adults chasing clout, glitz, & proximity to fame. Even if the abuse wasn’t known initially, once it was known, the silence was compensated—financially & otherwise. That complicates the narrative in a way the book doesn’t fully reckon with. There’s also a broader conversation missing about victims who stay not solely out of fear, but because leaving threatens financial stability—at some point blurring the line between coercion & choice. That’s uncomfortable to say, & I know not everyone is ready for that convo. Please know that I am referring to once she became an adult.
Another throughline that’s impossible to ignore is the parallel between Landfair’s story & another well-known singer: relatives acting as gatekeepers who effectively delivered young girls to predatory power structures. In this case, Landfair’s aunt, Sparkle, served as that access point. For that, she is culpable too—just as much as Kelly, in my opinion. Silence, facilitation, & benefiting from abuse are not neutral acts.
Which let me say this, sis seemed like she had more smoke for Sparkle than her own parents, which is bizarre to me. Plus I don't like the narrative that Landfair attempts to paint about her fam being torn apart by the revelation of her abuse. The fracture had less to do with her abuse & more to do with who among the fam was willing to take the payoff or be aligned with someone of Kelly's celebrity stature.
All in all, Who’s Watching Shorty is important, painful, & worth reading, even with its omissions. I truly hope this memoir provides the author with the healing she needs. Accountability & compassion can—& should—exist in the same space.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
That said, my main disappointment lies in what the author skirts around. There’s minimal accountability given to the role her family played in her proximity to Kelly. No matter how it’s framed, her access to him stemmed from adults chasing clout, glitz, & proximity to fame. Even if the abuse wasn’t known initially, once it was known, the silence was compensated—financially & otherwise. That complicates the narrative in a way the book doesn’t fully reckon with. There’s also a broader conversation missing about victims who stay not solely out of fear, but because leaving threatens financial stability—at some point blurring the line between coercion & choice. That’s uncomfortable to say, & I know not everyone is ready for that convo. Please know that I am referring to once she became an adult.
Another throughline that’s impossible to ignore is the parallel between Landfair’s story & another well-known singer: relatives acting as gatekeepers who effectively delivered young girls to predatory power structures. In this case, Landfair’s aunt, Sparkle, served as that access point. For that, she is culpable too—just as much as Kelly, in my opinion. Silence, facilitation, & benefiting from abuse are not neutral acts.
Which let me say this, sis seemed like she had more smoke for Sparkle than her own parents, which is bizarre to me. Plus I don't like the narrative that Landfair attempts to paint about her fam being torn apart by the revelation of her abuse. The fracture had less to do with her abuse & more to do with who among the fam was willing to take the payoff or be aligned with someone of Kelly's celebrity stature.
All in all, Who’s Watching Shorty is important, painful, & worth reading, even with its omissions. I truly hope this memoir provides the author with the healing she needs. Accountability & compassion can—& should—exist in the same space.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
March 9, 2026
Who's Watching Shorty by Reshona Landfair is a deeply unsettling yet compelling memoir that centers on the author's childhood abuse and the complicated emotional aftermath that followed her into adulthood. Landfair writes with honesty about the trauma she endured and the psychological hold it continued to have on her long after the abuse itself ended.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the narrator’s vulnerability when reflecting on her relationship with her abuser. Many readers may find themselves questioning why she continued to stay in contact with him as an adult, but Landfair makes it clear, both directly and indirectly, that abuse rarely ends cleanly. The manipulation, conditioning, and emotional control that begin in childhood can create a powerful psychological bond that is incredibly difficult to break. Her story offers an important reminder that it is easy to judge from the outside, but far harder to understand the deep-rooted effects of long-term abuse.
What the memoir does particularly well is give insight into the mindset of someone who was groomed and manipulated at such a young age. Landfair shows how confusion, fear, loyalty, and shame can become intertwined, making it difficult for survivors to see their situation clearly for many years.
That said, I did find myself wishing the book spent more time exploring certain moments in greater depth. Some of the most pivotal experiences of abuse felt summarized or briefly mentioned rather than fully explored. Because of this, there were times when the emotional impact didn’t land as powerfully as it could have. A more detailed look at those moments might have helped readers feel more immersed in her experience and better understand the full weight of what she endured.
Overall, this is a powerful and important story about survival, manipulation, and the lasting effects of childhood abuse. While I would have appreciated deeper exploration in parts of the narrative, Landfair’s courage in sharing such a painful chapter of her life is undeniable. It’s a difficult but worthwhile read that encourages empathy and challenges the tendency to judge survivors for the complicated ways they cope and heal.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the narrator’s vulnerability when reflecting on her relationship with her abuser. Many readers may find themselves questioning why she continued to stay in contact with him as an adult, but Landfair makes it clear, both directly and indirectly, that abuse rarely ends cleanly. The manipulation, conditioning, and emotional control that begin in childhood can create a powerful psychological bond that is incredibly difficult to break. Her story offers an important reminder that it is easy to judge from the outside, but far harder to understand the deep-rooted effects of long-term abuse.
What the memoir does particularly well is give insight into the mindset of someone who was groomed and manipulated at such a young age. Landfair shows how confusion, fear, loyalty, and shame can become intertwined, making it difficult for survivors to see their situation clearly for many years.
That said, I did find myself wishing the book spent more time exploring certain moments in greater depth. Some of the most pivotal experiences of abuse felt summarized or briefly mentioned rather than fully explored. Because of this, there were times when the emotional impact didn’t land as powerfully as it could have. A more detailed look at those moments might have helped readers feel more immersed in her experience and better understand the full weight of what she endured.
Overall, this is a powerful and important story about survival, manipulation, and the lasting effects of childhood abuse. While I would have appreciated deeper exploration in parts of the narrative, Landfair’s courage in sharing such a painful chapter of her life is undeniable. It’s a difficult but worthwhile read that encourages empathy and challenges the tendency to judge survivors for the complicated ways they cope and heal.
February 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I highly recommend the audiobook for Who’s Watching Shorty? and suggest going into it with generative, compassionate listening. If someone approaches this story simply looking to critique, debunk, or judge, this may not be the book for them. This is a story that asks for humanity and care.
I would give this book five stars regardless, simply for the courage it took for Reshona Landfair to tell her story in her own time and in her own way. Too often survivors are told their timing is “too late” or questioned about what might have happened had they spoken sooner. That line of thinking overlooks a fundamental truth: it is her story, her healing, and her decision when and how to share it. For that alone, she deserves respect.
What stands out is the balance of transparency and dignity. She shares enough to paint a clear picture while maintaining her self-respect and refusing to sensationalize her pain. She does not need to be graphic to be honest. That restraint actually strengthens the narrative and preserves her humanity throughout.
This book also reads as an example of narrative reclamation. For readers who have experienced similar harm, there is a familiarity that can help loosen the grip of shame. It reinforces an important truth: abuse is something that happened to someone, not something that defines them. The abuser carries responsibility for the harm. The survivor carries the work of healing, but not the shame.
What I appreciated most is that this is not a story of perfection or instant triumph. It is a story of survival, dignity, and reclaiming power over time. Being hurt did not mean staying broken. Being knocked down did not mean staying out. There is strength in that kind of testimony.
I read this book to support the telling of stories like this...stories that carry anthropology, humanity, and the pursuit of dignity after harm. Sharing one’s truth can be a form of restoration, whether emotional, spiritual, or even financial. Whatever the author’s intentions were in telling this story, I hope they were met. Her voice adds to a larger understanding of resilience, accountability, and what it means to reclaim oneself.
I highly recommend the audiobook for Who’s Watching Shorty? and suggest going into it with generative, compassionate listening. If someone approaches this story simply looking to critique, debunk, or judge, this may not be the book for them. This is a story that asks for humanity and care.
I would give this book five stars regardless, simply for the courage it took for Reshona Landfair to tell her story in her own time and in her own way. Too often survivors are told their timing is “too late” or questioned about what might have happened had they spoken sooner. That line of thinking overlooks a fundamental truth: it is her story, her healing, and her decision when and how to share it. For that alone, she deserves respect.
What stands out is the balance of transparency and dignity. She shares enough to paint a clear picture while maintaining her self-respect and refusing to sensationalize her pain. She does not need to be graphic to be honest. That restraint actually strengthens the narrative and preserves her humanity throughout.
This book also reads as an example of narrative reclamation. For readers who have experienced similar harm, there is a familiarity that can help loosen the grip of shame. It reinforces an important truth: abuse is something that happened to someone, not something that defines them. The abuser carries responsibility for the harm. The survivor carries the work of healing, but not the shame.
What I appreciated most is that this is not a story of perfection or instant triumph. It is a story of survival, dignity, and reclaiming power over time. Being hurt did not mean staying broken. Being knocked down did not mean staying out. There is strength in that kind of testimony.
I read this book to support the telling of stories like this...stories that carry anthropology, humanity, and the pursuit of dignity after harm. Sharing one’s truth can be a form of restoration, whether emotional, spiritual, or even financial. Whatever the author’s intentions were in telling this story, I hope they were met. Her voice adds to a larger understanding of resilience, accountability, and what it means to reclaim oneself.
February 26, 2026
ALC Review
📚 Book Title: Who’s Watching Shorty?
✍🏽Author: Reshona Landfair
🎙️Narrator: Reshona Landfair
📕 Format: 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🕑Quick Take:
Reshona Landfair was known as the 14-year-old Jane Doe identified in the child pornography video with R&B superstar R. Kelly. In Who’s Watching Shorty?: Reclaiming Myself from the Shame of R. Kelly’s Abuse, we get the raw and unfiltered accounts of Ms. Landfair’s experience with this alleged predator. She shared how she was unprotected due to his notoriety. Who’s Watching Shorty? is Ms. Landfair’s heartfelt and empowering memoir.
✨ Tropes:
- Gripping
- Raw & Unfiltered
- Empowering & Healing
- True Crime
🎭 Narration:
Reshona did a great job telling her story in her own words and voice, which I believe really connects with the reader (listener).
⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content Warnings)
- Grooming & Sexual Abuse
- Physical Abuse
- Child Pornography
- Exploitation
- Power & Control
- Public Shame & Humiliation
💭Final Thoughts:
We all heard the rumors about R. Kelly’s alleged relationships with underage girls, including videos, court cases, and accusations. I remember hearing about the sexual misconduct involving minors when I was in elementary or high school. I watched the ‘Surviving R. Kelly’ docuseries. But hearing Reshona Landfair share her raw, unfiltered account of her abuse was visceral, heavy, and emotionally impactful. I wanted to take my time, but her compelling story drew me in as she described her journey from childhood to adolescence. Her story highlights how Black women and girls are often prematurely adultified, labeled as fast or foolish, and reflects the pervasive rape culture and misogynoir. I appreciate Ms. Landfair’s bravery and vulnerability in sharing her story and her healing journey! Lastly, this is an important but emotionally heavy read, so take care of yourself with this one!
Thank you so much, NetGalley and Hachette Audio, for the advanced listener copy!
📚 Book Title: Who’s Watching Shorty?
✍🏽Author: Reshona Landfair
🎙️Narrator: Reshona Landfair
📕 Format: 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🕑Quick Take:
Reshona Landfair was known as the 14-year-old Jane Doe identified in the child pornography video with R&B superstar R. Kelly. In Who’s Watching Shorty?: Reclaiming Myself from the Shame of R. Kelly’s Abuse, we get the raw and unfiltered accounts of Ms. Landfair’s experience with this alleged predator. She shared how she was unprotected due to his notoriety. Who’s Watching Shorty? is Ms. Landfair’s heartfelt and empowering memoir.
✨ Tropes:
- Gripping
- Raw & Unfiltered
- Empowering & Healing
- True Crime
🎭 Narration:
Reshona did a great job telling her story in her own words and voice, which I believe really connects with the reader (listener).
⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content Warnings)
- Grooming & Sexual Abuse
- Physical Abuse
- Child Pornography
- Exploitation
- Power & Control
- Public Shame & Humiliation
💭Final Thoughts:
We all heard the rumors about R. Kelly’s alleged relationships with underage girls, including videos, court cases, and accusations. I remember hearing about the sexual misconduct involving minors when I was in elementary or high school. I watched the ‘Surviving R. Kelly’ docuseries. But hearing Reshona Landfair share her raw, unfiltered account of her abuse was visceral, heavy, and emotionally impactful. I wanted to take my time, but her compelling story drew me in as she described her journey from childhood to adolescence. Her story highlights how Black women and girls are often prematurely adultified, labeled as fast or foolish, and reflects the pervasive rape culture and misogynoir. I appreciate Ms. Landfair’s bravery and vulnerability in sharing her story and her healing journey! Lastly, this is an important but emotionally heavy read, so take care of yourself with this one!
Thank you so much, NetGalley and Hachette Audio, for the advanced listener copy!
February 5, 2026
WOW - where do I even begin??? Rarely am I ever speechless but this book hit different!!! Reshona’s testimony is equal parts powerful, introspective, and utterly devastating. So much was taken from her yet she’s still standing, still surviving, and still thriving. This is NOT an easy read by any means, yet I found myself unable to put the book down. Landfair’s voice is clear, genuine, and raw out the gate. She tells it to the reader straight no chaser while managing to take accountability for her role in the way that things played out (even though none of this was ever her fault). Some scenes made me sick to my stomach because I couldn’t fathom for the life of me why a grown a** man, let alone a public figure would prey on such an innocent and beautiful soul such as Reshona. We see her light dimmed in real time and it’s gut wrenching as a reader because you want nothing more than to stop the runaway freight train in its tracks. On the other hand, those same scenes made me stop and reflect about how terrified (and cornered) she must have felt in those moments along with how I was myself as a teenager and how I might have responded if that were my daughter caught in the clutches of a serial predator. I found myself snapping pictures of some of the passages in the book because they spoke to me on a spiritual level. God is all up and down this book. The writing leaps off the page and etches itself into every fiber (and beat) of your heart. For a long time, I have prayed that Reshona would come forward and I’m so glad that she finally did. I see you. I love you. And I believe you sis. 🫶🏽 I pray that the rest of her life is the best of her life and that this traumatic period in her life no longer haunts her.
Signed,
A Black Woman Rooting For You 🤎
Signed,
A Black Woman Rooting For You 🤎
February 26, 2026
This is not an easy read, but it is a necessary one.
This memoir is powerful, unflinching, and deeply empowering. What struck me most wasn’t just what she survived, but how she chose to reclaim her voice after being exploited by her predator and later, by a world that often makes excuses for men with clout while questioning the girls they harm.
This story is about taking your power back.
It’s about reclaiming the narrative.
It’s about calling a spade a spade and walking boldly in your truth.
What happens to us does not have to define us and this book is an excellent portrayal of that truth.
We are living in a time where stories like this are being heavily publicized, but let’s be clear: this is not a new story. It has been happening for far too long. Too often, the blame shifts to the young girl: how she dressed, how she behaved, why she was there, instead of holding the adults accountable. The adults are the problem. Full stop.
Statistics tell us that 1 in 4 women in America will experience sexual assault, and most often, it’s at the hands of someone they know. I am one of the 1 in 4.
That is why this story needed to be told.
Reading this felt like witnessing a testimony, raw, brave, and necessary. I can’t imagine speaking this truth to the world at any age. To live through it, process it, and then share it publicly takes immeasurable courage.
Five stars feels small for a story this impactful.
This isn’t just a memoir. It’s a reclamation. It’s a warning. It’s a reminder. And most of all, it’s proof that surviving is powerful but owning your truth is revolutionary.
This memoir is powerful, unflinching, and deeply empowering. What struck me most wasn’t just what she survived, but how she chose to reclaim her voice after being exploited by her predator and later, by a world that often makes excuses for men with clout while questioning the girls they harm.
This story is about taking your power back.
It’s about reclaiming the narrative.
It’s about calling a spade a spade and walking boldly in your truth.
What happens to us does not have to define us and this book is an excellent portrayal of that truth.
We are living in a time where stories like this are being heavily publicized, but let’s be clear: this is not a new story. It has been happening for far too long. Too often, the blame shifts to the young girl: how she dressed, how she behaved, why she was there, instead of holding the adults accountable. The adults are the problem. Full stop.
Statistics tell us that 1 in 4 women in America will experience sexual assault, and most often, it’s at the hands of someone they know. I am one of the 1 in 4.
That is why this story needed to be told.
Reading this felt like witnessing a testimony, raw, brave, and necessary. I can’t imagine speaking this truth to the world at any age. To live through it, process it, and then share it publicly takes immeasurable courage.
Five stars feels small for a story this impactful.
This isn’t just a memoir. It’s a reclamation. It’s a warning. It’s a reminder. And most of all, it’s proof that surviving is powerful but owning your truth is revolutionary.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“Who’s Watching Shorty?” by Reshona Landfair is a courageous and profoundly moving memoir that sheds light on a story too long kept in the shadows. Known to many as “Jane Doe,” Landfair bravely steps forward with her real name and her truth, recounting her harrowing experiences as the young survivor at the center of the R. Kelly case.
With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, Landfair details not only the trauma she endured but also the collective failure of those who should have protected her. Her account is both a personal reckoning and a powerful indictment of the systems and individuals who allowed fame to overshadow justice and basic human decency.
Landfair’s voice is both vulnerable and resilient as she explores the complexities of her relationship with her abuser, the reasons she kept silent, and her long journey toward reclaiming her identity and her strength.
This book is more than a memoir—it is a clarion call for accountability and compassion. Landfair’s story will resonate deeply with survivors and advocates, but it also serves as a necessary reminder for all of us to protect and believe those most at risk. “Who’s Watching Shorty?” is an important, timely, and inspiring testament to the power of survival and the necessity of speaking out.
Thank you, Reshonda Landfair, NetGalley, and Grand Central Publishing, for the ARC read.
With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, Landfair details not only the trauma she endured but also the collective failure of those who should have protected her. Her account is both a personal reckoning and a powerful indictment of the systems and individuals who allowed fame to overshadow justice and basic human decency.
Landfair’s voice is both vulnerable and resilient as she explores the complexities of her relationship with her abuser, the reasons she kept silent, and her long journey toward reclaiming her identity and her strength.
This book is more than a memoir—it is a clarion call for accountability and compassion. Landfair’s story will resonate deeply with survivors and advocates, but it also serves as a necessary reminder for all of us to protect and believe those most at risk. “Who’s Watching Shorty?” is an important, timely, and inspiring testament to the power of survival and the necessity of speaking out.
Thank you, Reshonda Landfair, NetGalley, and Grand Central Publishing, for the ARC read.
March 10, 2026
“Who’s Watching Shorty?” recounts the years of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse endured by Reshona Landfair, who was only thirteen when she was introduced to R&B star Robert Kelly by family members connected to Chicago’s music scene. Kelly rose to national fame in the 1990s as the “Pied Piper of R&B,” a prolific songwriter, producer, and performer. Yet behind the acclaim was a long‑running, widely whispered truth: he maintained a predatory, controlling pattern of abuse toward underage girls. Landfair was one of many young women trapped in his orbit. His stature in Chicago’s music industry, and the network of enablers who protected him, kept him insulated from accountability for years.
Landfair eventually broke free, but doing so forced her into the public eye as an unwilling witness to his crimes. Exposing him meant exposing herself, and the scrutiny that followed added another layer of trauma. Her account is courageous, offering clarity to those who have long asked how and why such abuse could persist. The book is difficult to listen to at times and includes descriptions of sexual abuse that may be triggering for some readers.
Four stars for Ms. Landfair’s bravery, resilience, and her willingness to give voice to a chapter of her life that could have shattered her spirit—yet she emerges wiser, stronger, and determined to be heard.
Landfair eventually broke free, but doing so forced her into the public eye as an unwilling witness to his crimes. Exposing him meant exposing herself, and the scrutiny that followed added another layer of trauma. Her account is courageous, offering clarity to those who have long asked how and why such abuse could persist. The book is difficult to listen to at times and includes descriptions of sexual abuse that may be triggering for some readers.
Four stars for Ms. Landfair’s bravery, resilience, and her willingness to give voice to a chapter of her life that could have shattered her spirit—yet she emerges wiser, stronger, and determined to be heard.
February 21, 2026
I am continuously enamored by the way R Kelly survivors continue to use their deepest trauma to tell stories of empowerment and strength. It’s one thing to survive something like this, but it’s another thing entirely to stand up and say, "This is what happened, and I am still here." Reshona does exactly that.
I’ll be honest that this novel was hard to read. It is a heavy, raw account that does not shy away from the darkest realities. This book mentions pedophilia, sexual assault, and child neglect in many ways, and seeing those experiences laid bare is gut-wrenching. As a Black woman, the empowerment in this book comes from a central, urgent focus: Black women must be believed. It is heartbreaking to realize that these survivors suffered for as long as they did simply because it took so long for people to actually listen to them. Their pain was ignored for decades, and that delay is a trauma in itself. This book is a reminder that our voices matter and our stories deserve to be heard the first time they are told. I am so incredibly happy that Reshona finally spoke out. Her story was long awaited and so deeply needed. While the content is heavy, the takeaway is one of resilience. She is a woman finally not afraid to stand in her own light. I’m so proud to see it!
I’ll be honest that this novel was hard to read. It is a heavy, raw account that does not shy away from the darkest realities. This book mentions pedophilia, sexual assault, and child neglect in many ways, and seeing those experiences laid bare is gut-wrenching. As a Black woman, the empowerment in this book comes from a central, urgent focus: Black women must be believed. It is heartbreaking to realize that these survivors suffered for as long as they did simply because it took so long for people to actually listen to them. Their pain was ignored for decades, and that delay is a trauma in itself. This book is a reminder that our voices matter and our stories deserve to be heard the first time they are told. I am so incredibly happy that Reshona finally spoke out. Her story was long awaited and so deeply needed. While the content is heavy, the takeaway is one of resilience. She is a woman finally not afraid to stand in her own light. I’m so proud to see it!
March 9, 2026
This is a complex story. I listened to the audiobook and original thought there was another narrator use instead of the author as advertised because her voice sounds so childlike. Digging into the complexities. I did not get why this family outside of Sparkle got wrapped up with R-Kelly because Reshona was already part of a successful group that was touring and she was a rapper not singer. I do know that the father ended up being a guitarist for Kelly for years even post sex tape era. That brings me to my next point is the parents taking most of this blame, that father was too much in the mix to not know and to stop it. She holds more disdain for her aunt than her parents, when she stopped talking to her aunt very early on into the relationship with Kelly. One interesting thing was learning that she had stayed with him well after the original trial and kept contact right up until the last one she testified at, going into her 30s with this back and forth. Also interesting is the relationship she had with his wife starting early. That is the complexity of it, too many adults involved and too long of a period for this to have gone on. She was failed from many perspectives.
All in all I hope she finds the healing she needs and has been doing actual therapy for her healing process
All in all I hope she finds the healing she needs and has been doing actual therapy for her healing process
March 20, 2026
3.8 ⭐
R Kelly is sick!!
The more I read the more pissed I became. The title is perfect. R Kelly, his staff, those who saw and said nothing, her parents (who she at many times in the book ALMOST held accountable but continuously made excuses for) all failed her and were not looking out for her. My goodness her parents... She gave them so much grace and that's really all that matters. But it's infuriating to see that her dad before he passed was still working for R Kelly, last time being around 2018. WTF?!
This girl really went through it. I forgot or maybe didn't realize that we were the same age. I remember being in HS as this all unfolded, saw the pics, then came the jokes and as quick as it came it just as quickly faded away and by maybe Junior or Senior year my school's band was playing Step in the Name of Love during one of our concerts. It's insane really.
She was extremely vulnerable and brave for putting her side of the story out for the public. It was sickening to hear how it all unfolded and a bit triggering really although my experience wasn't to the extent of hers. I hope writing her story was a cathartic experience for her and that one of these days she's able to heal.
R Kelly is sick!!
The more I read the more pissed I became. The title is perfect. R Kelly, his staff, those who saw and said nothing, her parents (who she at many times in the book ALMOST held accountable but continuously made excuses for) all failed her and were not looking out for her. My goodness her parents... She gave them so much grace and that's really all that matters. But it's infuriating to see that her dad before he passed was still working for R Kelly, last time being around 2018. WTF?!
This girl really went through it. I forgot or maybe didn't realize that we were the same age. I remember being in HS as this all unfolded, saw the pics, then came the jokes and as quick as it came it just as quickly faded away and by maybe Junior or Senior year my school's band was playing Step in the Name of Love during one of our concerts. It's insane really.
She was extremely vulnerable and brave for putting her side of the story out for the public. It was sickening to hear how it all unfolded and a bit triggering really although my experience wasn't to the extent of hers. I hope writing her story was a cathartic experience for her and that one of these days she's able to heal.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews