I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here

“Conyers can't help but inspire and uplift.”—Good Morning America

“A moving story about finding your supporters and building your future.” —Booklist

“A heartfelt memoir about overcoming long odds to rise from poverty, dysfunction, and the tyranny of low expectations. Inspirational but never sentimental, with many lessons on “adding value to the world.”—Kirkus

“Jonathan Conyers is an inspiration. There are very few people as committed or determined to giving back to their community, and his energy and dedication to his village are admirable. I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here is a brave, honest, and powerful telling of his story. It's a roadmap for overcoming adversity and giving back.”—Brandon Stanton, New York Times bestselling author of Tanqueray and Humans of New York

"Jonathan's story is a shining example of true, honest resilience: not borne just of his grit, but of luck and community. His battle against racism and poverty is courageous and inspiring. An engrossing read."—Stephanie Foo, New York Times bestselling author of What My Bones Know

“His mere living is an act of rebellion, Conyers invites us into a life hard-lived in a family and world that sought to extinguish his light.  With compassion and frustration alike, Conyers navigates New York City, Virginia, and the systems meant to help—but utterly fail—families like his.  Most precious is the vulnerability shown by his admitted imperfection, allowing us to cheer even in those moments for his success.  Conyers builds his own ‘village’ of helpers because his light cannot be extinguished.”  —David Ambroz, author of A Place Called Home

“I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here left me floored—I will be forever transformed, and I highly recommend that you not only read this book, but use it as a tool to strive for more.”—D. Watkins, New York Times bestselling author of The Beastside and Black Boy Smile