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I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here: Finding My Voice, Finding My People, Finding My Way
As seen on Humans of New York, Jonathan Conyers introduces us to the teachers, his debate coach, a homeless man, and a boy named Diego who changed his life. Booklist calls it “a moving story about finding your supporters and building your future.”
Everybody was rooting for Jonathan Conyers after seeing his profile on Humans of New York went viral and sparked millions in donations to the Brooklyn Debate League. The kid who went from struggling to read to being a breakout star on his high school debate team, thanks to a life-changing friendship with his transgender debate coach, captured the heart of America. Jonathan’s story highlights the important role teachers play in opening up worlds of opportunity for the most vulnerable students.
In I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here, Jonathan shares the full story of his incredible journey escaping the precarious circumstances he was born into, and the teachers, mentors, and guides who helped him along the way.
Born into a family crippled by addiction and homelessness, Jonathan “failed” kindergarten and was told he would never succeed academically. But instead, Jonathan found ways to defy the limited expectations placed upon him by building a village to save his own life, and realize his dream to get into medical school.
Throughout this heartwarming memoir, we meet the unique and diverse cast of characters who made up Jonathan’s village and helped him change the trajectory of his life.
Everybody was rooting for Jonathan Conyers after seeing his profile on Humans of New York went viral and sparked millions in donations to the Brooklyn Debate League. The kid who went from struggling to read to being a breakout star on his high school debate team, thanks to a life-changing friendship with his transgender debate coach, captured the heart of America. Jonathan’s story highlights the important role teachers play in opening up worlds of opportunity for the most vulnerable students.
In I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here, Jonathan shares the full story of his incredible journey escaping the precarious circumstances he was born into, and the teachers, mentors, and guides who helped him along the way.
Born into a family crippled by addiction and homelessness, Jonathan “failed” kindergarten and was told he would never succeed academically. But instead, Jonathan found ways to defy the limited expectations placed upon him by building a village to save his own life, and realize his dream to get into medical school.
Throughout this heartwarming memoir, we meet the unique and diverse cast of characters who made up Jonathan’s village and helped him change the trajectory of his life.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
21 people are currently reading
784 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 17, 2023
I was a classroom teacher in Harlem and the South Bronx for 34 years.
Whether I was teaching on 124th Street and Lenox Ave, or on 148th and Adam Clayton Powell - two things were clear: there were aspects of any of my students’ lives that were out of their control but which had an absolute impact on their day-to-day existence.
That is just how it was.
The other truth that I discovered was that any student’s narrative - their back story, the “day-to-day” never fit neatly into a specific box. Preconceptions about Harlem, and the young people that I had the good fortune to teach rarely checked the boxes of the sociological voyeurism practiced by what I call “the rest of America. ”
My students’ lives, those that came from Harlem, the Bronx, and Brooklyn were often like a Jackson Pollock painting: I could recognize a story on the canvas if I could stand back and take it in. More often than not, I was so close to the frame that I was unable to get a sense of the larger picture. Jonathan Conyers' autobiography “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here” has provided me with the rare opportunity to step back far enough and take in his full story.
I’ll spare you the “rose growing out of concrete” metaphor and get to the matter at hand,
Mr. Conyers, a former student of mine, has written a memoir that strikes a nearly impossible balance of being brutally honest about the most intimate aspects of his childhood, and his maturation, including the many poor decisions and personal trials that he had to endure. Yet, I “Wasn’t Supposed To Be Here” also provides an undeniable through-line of promise, maturity, and hope; neither of these is delivered with a heavy hand by the author.
He is honest almost to a fault. This is a “creation story” that is told with absolute candor. It is also a fine balance of both hindsight and situational honesty, both of which engage the reader and proves that two things can be true at the same time: a childhood fraught with familial chaos and broken promises can be both damaging and formative.
I cannot imagine how a 9th or 10th-grade English class could not benefit from reading this book
Mr. Conyers’ tone is both reserved and poignant. His story is one to marvel at, yet as a reader, you are so connected with his timeline that amidst a life that is a near miracle, there is a down-to-earth quality that encourages the reader to stay with Mr. Conyers as he navigates the next stone placed against his shoulder.
His story is one that you should become intimately familiar with.
Whether I was teaching on 124th Street and Lenox Ave, or on 148th and Adam Clayton Powell - two things were clear: there were aspects of any of my students’ lives that were out of their control but which had an absolute impact on their day-to-day existence.
That is just how it was.
The other truth that I discovered was that any student’s narrative - their back story, the “day-to-day” never fit neatly into a specific box. Preconceptions about Harlem, and the young people that I had the good fortune to teach rarely checked the boxes of the sociological voyeurism practiced by what I call “the rest of America. ”
My students’ lives, those that came from Harlem, the Bronx, and Brooklyn were often like a Jackson Pollock painting: I could recognize a story on the canvas if I could stand back and take it in. More often than not, I was so close to the frame that I was unable to get a sense of the larger picture. Jonathan Conyers' autobiography “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here” has provided me with the rare opportunity to step back far enough and take in his full story.
I’ll spare you the “rose growing out of concrete” metaphor and get to the matter at hand,
Mr. Conyers, a former student of mine, has written a memoir that strikes a nearly impossible balance of being brutally honest about the most intimate aspects of his childhood, and his maturation, including the many poor decisions and personal trials that he had to endure. Yet, I “Wasn’t Supposed To Be Here” also provides an undeniable through-line of promise, maturity, and hope; neither of these is delivered with a heavy hand by the author.
He is honest almost to a fault. This is a “creation story” that is told with absolute candor. It is also a fine balance of both hindsight and situational honesty, both of which engage the reader and proves that two things can be true at the same time: a childhood fraught with familial chaos and broken promises can be both damaging and formative.
I cannot imagine how a 9th or 10th-grade English class could not benefit from reading this book
Mr. Conyers’ tone is both reserved and poignant. His story is one to marvel at, yet as a reader, you are so connected with his timeline that amidst a life that is a near miracle, there is a down-to-earth quality that encourages the reader to stay with Mr. Conyers as he navigates the next stone placed against his shoulder.
His story is one that you should become intimately familiar with.
Read
January 19, 2026it really does take a village (and an exceptional individual) to surmount the effects of systemic racism and overcome an impoverished upbringing. I teared up a few times while reading, Jonathan's resolve and vulnerability are so striking. I especially admire that his core message isn't about an individual surviving and getting theirs, but a focus on far-reaching solidarity, and a commitment to offering that sort of love to the next generation. being a literal hero shouldn't be the minimum standard that allows one to move from underfunded, overpoliced, government drug-flooded cities and schools
June 12, 2023
I first read Jonathan Conyers story when he was featured in Humans of New York and could not wait for his memoir book release. In I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here Conyers explores his origin story as a boy growing up in the Bronx with two parents who struggled with addiction his entire life. He writes about the housing instability they navigated while living in the shelter system and his journey of becoming a young father.
I enjoyed reading about the educators Conyers meets along the way who forge bonds with him and make it their business to encourage him and support him along the way. As a result of being surrounded by so many good people he was able to get guidance when he needed it the most. This was key in his development as a young man and prevented him from falling into the many traps street life can present. There is a conversation had with Dr. Ubinto where Conyers realizes that despite his parents imperfections they are able to still show up for him in important ways. It's the moment Conyers moves from judgement to compassion towards his parents and it was definitely my favorite part of the narrative. We cannot control who our parents are but we can hold them accountable and also honor the ways they are trying to do and be better. I could read the compassion in Conyer's narrative.
The story ends with Conyer's journey into debate and provides a well rounded overview of how being on the debate team elevated his life and hopes for the future. Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read the e-arc copy of this amazing testimony!
I enjoyed reading about the educators Conyers meets along the way who forge bonds with him and make it their business to encourage him and support him along the way. As a result of being surrounded by so many good people he was able to get guidance when he needed it the most. This was key in his development as a young man and prevented him from falling into the many traps street life can present. There is a conversation had with Dr. Ubinto where Conyers realizes that despite his parents imperfections they are able to still show up for him in important ways. It's the moment Conyers moves from judgement to compassion towards his parents and it was definitely my favorite part of the narrative. We cannot control who our parents are but we can hold them accountable and also honor the ways they are trying to do and be better. I could read the compassion in Conyer's narrative.
The story ends with Conyer's journey into debate and provides a well rounded overview of how being on the debate team elevated his life and hopes for the future. Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read the e-arc copy of this amazing testimony!
November 29, 2023
One of my top 3 books by far! It rivals Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search For Meaning as one of the most inspiring books that will stay with you forever.
September 30, 2023
A fantastic read, especially for anyone who thinks they come from too little to succeed and reach their goals.
April 18, 2025
Excellent story. Poor editing took away from it a little (blatant errors, repetitive)
April 24, 2025
My daughter read this in school and loved the book. She also met the author, who she shared is amazing. I was intrigued, so I picked it up and was not disappointed. First and foremost, I’m so happy that her high school is reading this book. Second, it is an important and inspirational story. I particularly like his view of building one’s village.
November 6, 2023
This book was a personal read for me--I follow Brandon Stanton's Humans of New York &, over the years, have seen hundreds of the human interest stories/photos presented & have become involved in supporting several of the subjects of those stories when one of them especially touches my heart. In this way, I learned the story of DiCo, a New York teacher, & his former student, Jonathan, who both overcame adversity to found the Brooklyn Debate Team which gives underserved students the opportunity to learn the principles of debate & participate in competitions & to improve their chances for further education. I donated to their cause, then began receiving regular updates from Dico, & became a monthly contributor. In one of my updates, DiCo was promoting the book that Jonathan wrote, soon to be released, so I ordered it. Jonathan's story is amazing--born into a family living in New York, youngest of five children whose parents were addicted to smoking crack; living through the hardships of losing their home, not once but over & over, not being able to afford utilities or enough food, moving back & forth between New York & Virginia when times got rough. The one consistent thing was the stress put on a good education no matter what else they were dealing with. Jonathan explains how he was able to take advantage of opportunities that came his way by learning who his "village people" were & following their advice & example. DiCo became one of those people, first as a teacher who got Jonathan interested & involved in debate, then as a friend who made himself available to Jonathan for support & advice, and, finally as co-founders of the Brooklyn Debate Team. Jonathan was able to attend a better high school offering more opportunities, a special summer program at Andover with a goal of college entry, & become part of a special program through Stony Brook College. Along the way, he dealt with poor choices, homelessness, his parents' addiction, becoming a teen father, lack of funds, abandonment, depression, & obstacles that appeared insurmountable. But he always managed to find a way, accept advice & support, & force himself to keep his eye on the prize so he could achieve his goal of graduating & working in the medical field. He learned several valuable life lessons along the way which will stand him in good stead in the future & which he shares daily with other students coming behind him to help them make the most of their talents & opportunities. Very proud of Jonathan & can't wait to share my praise to DiCo so he can pass on the message. They are both making a difference in their world.
May 23, 2025
Wow wow wow.
I discovered Jonathan (and debate teacher/superstar DiCo) in a many-column piece by Humans of New York. Jonathan, the son of two crack users, grew up in poverty in a dangerous neighborhood. But as his story shows, any stereotypes or assumptions you make about what that had to look like is neither nuanced or accurate. Both his parents always prioritized education for all five of their children, and four of them, including Jonathan, graduated from college.
When Jonathan found DiCo and debate, it slowly but surely allowed him to see his own aptitudes clearly and inspired him to hone his innate skills, eventually leading to superior educational prowess and his becoming a respiratory therapist.
But nothing is that neat or simple, and this book covers the scope of Jonathan's childhood experiences until his graduation from college, and the many pitfalls he encountered. Thankfully, he had a "village" of teachers, family members (including his parents, who are both blessing and curse), friends and classmates, as well as some less official and conventional individuals, including a homeless man who taught Jonathan to tie the tie he had to wear as part of his school uniform.
What makes this book stand out is Conyers' incisive, yet modest thoughts on the way he now lives a life of gratitude and positivity, yet never is the book pat or overly sweet. He's just a good and smart person who knows himself, and is happy to share his hard-earned wisdom and perspective.
I remember when I bought this book, I was happy to give money to someone who did so much for the Brooklyn Debate League, because it's my favorite non-profit, and has been since the Humans of New York story. I kind-of wished that DiCo had written a book instead, but now I'm so glad it was Jonathan whose book I read. It's a book that opens your mind and heart equally, and inspires you to believe you can do better, because Jonathan did so beautifully and fully.
That said, DiCo, feel free to write a book I can buy, too.
I discovered Jonathan (and debate teacher/superstar DiCo) in a many-column piece by Humans of New York. Jonathan, the son of two crack users, grew up in poverty in a dangerous neighborhood. But as his story shows, any stereotypes or assumptions you make about what that had to look like is neither nuanced or accurate. Both his parents always prioritized education for all five of their children, and four of them, including Jonathan, graduated from college.
When Jonathan found DiCo and debate, it slowly but surely allowed him to see his own aptitudes clearly and inspired him to hone his innate skills, eventually leading to superior educational prowess and his becoming a respiratory therapist.
But nothing is that neat or simple, and this book covers the scope of Jonathan's childhood experiences until his graduation from college, and the many pitfalls he encountered. Thankfully, he had a "village" of teachers, family members (including his parents, who are both blessing and curse), friends and classmates, as well as some less official and conventional individuals, including a homeless man who taught Jonathan to tie the tie he had to wear as part of his school uniform.
What makes this book stand out is Conyers' incisive, yet modest thoughts on the way he now lives a life of gratitude and positivity, yet never is the book pat or overly sweet. He's just a good and smart person who knows himself, and is happy to share his hard-earned wisdom and perspective.
I remember when I bought this book, I was happy to give money to someone who did so much for the Brooklyn Debate League, because it's my favorite non-profit, and has been since the Humans of New York story. I kind-of wished that DiCo had written a book instead, but now I'm so glad it was Jonathan whose book I read. It's a book that opens your mind and heart equally, and inspires you to believe you can do better, because Jonathan did so beautifully and fully.
That said, DiCo, feel free to write a book I can buy, too.
September 25, 2023
𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Thank you #partners @legacylitbooks @hachettebooks for my #gifted copy
𝗜 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲
𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀
𝟵/𝟱/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✨FOLLOW ME ON BOOKSTAGRAM ✨
📖 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁: Raised in poverty, in a tumultuous, dysfunctional household, in and out of homelessness, Jonathan Conyers could have been a statistic like so many others in his position. Without a familial support system, Conyers forges a village of his own, including teachers, his debate coach, a homeless man, and a boy named Diego. This is a story of how one young man succeeds in life despite all the cards stacked against him.
📌 As seen in Humans of New York @humansofny
💭 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Told with compassion, vulnerability, and humility, Conyers' story is both heartbreaking and inspirational. What really stood out to me was the self-awareness of this child to understand his circumstances and the steps he needed to take to save his life. Despite his difficult start to life, as well as the poor choices made along the way, Conyers developed into a mature, upstanding young man.
In addition to being a memoir, this book is a tribute to teachers/educators and the immense power they have to change lives. 💖 Conyers was so fortunate to have been surrounded by some of the very best.
I read along with the audiobook, which is narrated by Conyers himself. I love author-narrated memoirs and this was no exception. I highly recommend, and I hope this is developed into a YA edition as well.
Thank you #partners @legacylitbooks @hachettebooks for my #gifted copy
𝗜 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲
𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀
𝟵/𝟱/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✨FOLLOW ME ON BOOKSTAGRAM ✨
📖 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁: Raised in poverty, in a tumultuous, dysfunctional household, in and out of homelessness, Jonathan Conyers could have been a statistic like so many others in his position. Without a familial support system, Conyers forges a village of his own, including teachers, his debate coach, a homeless man, and a boy named Diego. This is a story of how one young man succeeds in life despite all the cards stacked against him.
📌 As seen in Humans of New York @humansofny
💭 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Told with compassion, vulnerability, and humility, Conyers' story is both heartbreaking and inspirational. What really stood out to me was the self-awareness of this child to understand his circumstances and the steps he needed to take to save his life. Despite his difficult start to life, as well as the poor choices made along the way, Conyers developed into a mature, upstanding young man.
In addition to being a memoir, this book is a tribute to teachers/educators and the immense power they have to change lives. 💖 Conyers was so fortunate to have been surrounded by some of the very best.
I read along with the audiobook, which is narrated by Conyers himself. I love author-narrated memoirs and this was no exception. I highly recommend, and I hope this is developed into a YA edition as well.
January 18, 2024
I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here: Finding My Voice, Finding My People, Finding My Way is a courageous and heartwarming memoir by Jonathan Conyers about the unique cast of characters who made up his village and helped him rise from poverty, dysfunction, and the tyranny of low expectations. In it, the author opens up about his life trajectory, emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community—his village—and expresses gratitude to those who played a pivotal role in his life.
The way the author tells his story and everything he’s gone through is inspiring. He presents it all with heart and spirit. As a reader, you can't help but root for him. From a structure standpoint, I even love how he structured the chapters. Each is a riff of “I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here.” For example, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Born, I Wasn't Supposed to See My Father Cry, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Set Free in the Bronx, I Wasn't Supposed to be Making Difficult Decisions, I Wasn't Supposed to Be in High School in Harlem, and I Wasn't Supposed to Be at an Elite Private Boarding School. People from all walks of life will see themselves in his story as he discusses addiction to sexual assault, teenage pregnancy, and all these tough things he had to overcome in his life. At just twenty-nine, Conyers has lived through so much already. I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here is so well done and well lived.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
The way the author tells his story and everything he’s gone through is inspiring. He presents it all with heart and spirit. As a reader, you can't help but root for him. From a structure standpoint, I even love how he structured the chapters. Each is a riff of “I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here.” For example, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Born, I Wasn't Supposed to See My Father Cry, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Set Free in the Bronx, I Wasn't Supposed to be Making Difficult Decisions, I Wasn't Supposed to Be in High School in Harlem, and I Wasn't Supposed to Be at an Elite Private Boarding School. People from all walks of life will see themselves in his story as he discusses addiction to sexual assault, teenage pregnancy, and all these tough things he had to overcome in his life. At just twenty-nine, Conyers has lived through so much already. I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here is so well done and well lived.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
September 8, 2023
Reading the book, I was amazed by the author's introspection and humility in describing how challenging it was to learn to accept advice and positive opportunities after so much rejection. That and so many other lessons resonated immensely with what I've felt and struggled to explain while processing my own journey. I truly think so many of the lessons here apply universally to many people's experiences and trauma.
Conyers discusses his experiences, mistakes, and progress with hope and careful consideration that help the reader to understand not only what he went through, but the emotional impact it had on him. I think this is a great read for men (or really anyone) who's been through trauma and struggled to know how to move forward and process those experiences.
As a disabled + trans reader, I appreciated how Conyers drew parallels between his own experiences of oppression and those experienced by others in his life. It is an immense act of courage for an author to share their own journey and experiences of trauma and discrimination so bluntly, and even more so to unpack their own biases and mistakes while doing so. Conyers does, and his example challenges readers to do the same.
Conyers discusses his experiences, mistakes, and progress with hope and careful consideration that help the reader to understand not only what he went through, but the emotional impact it had on him. I think this is a great read for men (or really anyone) who's been through trauma and struggled to know how to move forward and process those experiences.
As a disabled + trans reader, I appreciated how Conyers drew parallels between his own experiences of oppression and those experienced by others in his life. It is an immense act of courage for an author to share their own journey and experiences of trauma and discrimination so bluntly, and even more so to unpack their own biases and mistakes while doing so. Conyers does, and his example challenges readers to do the same.
January 17, 2026
I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here is a raw coming of age memoir that lays bare the Conyer's beautifully broken childhood.
Born to parents who struggle with drug addiction, he challenges stereotypes surrounding addiction. His parents are intelligent, hardworking, and want nothing more than a better life for their children. Their addiction is not their entire identity, it is a devastating reality of people who are trying, failing, loving, and hoping all at once. By showing addiction this way, Conyers really restores dignity to a narrative so often stripped of it.
Throughout the book, he navigates the weight of his parents’ high expectations while quietly carrying hiding the ugliest parts of his life from the outside world in order to survive and succeed.
Conyers defies all odds, even the ones I was sure he wouldn’t overcome, including the daunting reality faced by high school sweethearts turned teen parents.
As an educator, this book tugs at the heart. Teen Jonathan could be any of our students. The ones we root for long after they leave our classrooms. They may never come back to say thank you, but their survival, their growth, their success is all the gratitude we ever need.
This book is a reminder that even though it doesn't feel like it being there mattered.
Born to parents who struggle with drug addiction, he challenges stereotypes surrounding addiction. His parents are intelligent, hardworking, and want nothing more than a better life for their children. Their addiction is not their entire identity, it is a devastating reality of people who are trying, failing, loving, and hoping all at once. By showing addiction this way, Conyers really restores dignity to a narrative so often stripped of it.
Throughout the book, he navigates the weight of his parents’ high expectations while quietly carrying hiding the ugliest parts of his life from the outside world in order to survive and succeed.
Conyers defies all odds, even the ones I was sure he wouldn’t overcome, including the daunting reality faced by high school sweethearts turned teen parents.
As an educator, this book tugs at the heart. Teen Jonathan could be any of our students. The ones we root for long after they leave our classrooms. They may never come back to say thank you, but their survival, their growth, their success is all the gratitude we ever need.
This book is a reminder that even though it doesn't feel like it being there mattered.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2025
Conyers lays it all out about his life growing up frequently unhoused to parents with drug habits and a set of older siblings. They would bounce around between Virginia where grandparents were and New York City. Jonathan worried frequently about where his meals were coming from and how he could succeed when the deck was stacked against him though he was academically successful because he built a village around himself to help him which included joining a debate team and connecting with adults who would find help him find a way through.
And it was always tough because he made decisions that weren't always the wisest like his girlfriend getting pregnant when the pair were just seventeen years old but when Emily was born, she became his why and he found an option with EOP to attend Stony Brook and become a respiratory therapist.
Hard work and dedication through the thinnest of options was how he sliced through his life and what he wants to do now as an adult with children and a wife is to give back like the adults who helped him gave to him.
The book's subtitle says it all.
And it was always tough because he made decisions that weren't always the wisest like his girlfriend getting pregnant when the pair were just seventeen years old but when Emily was born, she became his why and he found an option with EOP to attend Stony Brook and become a respiratory therapist.
Hard work and dedication through the thinnest of options was how he sliced through his life and what he wants to do now as an adult with children and a wife is to give back like the adults who helped him gave to him.
The book's subtitle says it all.
October 18, 2023
How often have you thought, “Why is this happening to me?” and “I am experiencing something I never thought I would experience.”
While reading I Wasn’t Suppose to be Here by Jonathan Conyers, the thought came to my mind.
Jonathan Conyers story is not only a remarkable one, but it is one of those stories you wouldn’t believe unless he told you himself or you read about it. In the words of Conyers, “It took an army to raise me! I needed to start assembling my village to survive my circumstances.”Jon went from being in Reading Recovery in kindergarten to being at the top of his classes in high school and college. He had the most passionate people on his team who helped him reach his ultimate goal! I remember reading Jonathan Conyers’ story when it was featured on Humans of New York and I obviously knew his story was compelling. It will definitely be in my top ten of 2023 and a non-fiction recommendation for Miss T’s book club before the year is out.
Copy from Legacy Lit. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
While reading I Wasn’t Suppose to be Here by Jonathan Conyers, the thought came to my mind.
Jonathan Conyers story is not only a remarkable one, but it is one of those stories you wouldn’t believe unless he told you himself or you read about it. In the words of Conyers, “It took an army to raise me! I needed to start assembling my village to survive my circumstances.”Jon went from being in Reading Recovery in kindergarten to being at the top of his classes in high school and college. He had the most passionate people on his team who helped him reach his ultimate goal! I remember reading Jonathan Conyers’ story when it was featured on Humans of New York and I obviously knew his story was compelling. It will definitely be in my top ten of 2023 and a non-fiction recommendation for Miss T’s book club before the year is out.
Copy from Legacy Lit. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 8, 2023
Jonathan’s story is brutally honest, pure, and inspiring, making for a perfect page-turner. The truths he shares throughout his memoir speak to the lived realities of many inner-city youth who struggle to find themselves and the positivity amidst the chaos, hurt, and hurdles thrown at them.
I felt myself bracing for impact on every page. I, much like Jonathan in his life, was unaware nor emotionally prepared to experience with him what would happen next. I found myself rooting for him, screaming at him (immediately empathizing), crying, and rejoicing every single chapter- multiple times.
His story deserves to be told time and time again. His story will resonate with the youth, educators, and people who are hoping to understand the lived realities of students everywhere. It depicts why we must nurture students even when it may seem so difficult to do so.
Mr. Conyers, well done and thank you for your vulnerability in sharing this story.
I felt myself bracing for impact on every page. I, much like Jonathan in his life, was unaware nor emotionally prepared to experience with him what would happen next. I found myself rooting for him, screaming at him (immediately empathizing), crying, and rejoicing every single chapter- multiple times.
His story deserves to be told time and time again. His story will resonate with the youth, educators, and people who are hoping to understand the lived realities of students everywhere. It depicts why we must nurture students even when it may seem so difficult to do so.
Mr. Conyers, well done and thank you for your vulnerability in sharing this story.
January 27, 2024
I hadn’t heard of Jonathan until he came to speak on his book tour. I was blown away by his story and I fell in love with his style. He is good-natured, humorous, downs-to-earth, hopeful, perseverant, kind hearted, forgiving, and truly an authentic human being. So I brought his book to my book club and we all read it and loved it. His book is so real. You get a feel for him as a human being moving through the world in a life that he didn’t ask for. It humbly shows us all about privilege and poverty, the birth lottery and how circumstances dictate so much of someone’s journey. But it is also a story of tenacity, belief in oneself, love and trusting in people around you that they want you to succeed in life. It is about letting guard down to those of a diverse background and being open to help. This story is a wonderful example of “it takes a village.” Well, done, Jonathan. You are a remarkable person. The world is brighter with you in it and we can’t wait to see what comes next!
September 7, 2023
"I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here" is an incredibly inspiring and moving memoir that beautifully captures the author's journey of resilience and determination, underscored by the profound impact of mentors in their life.
From the first page, you're drawn into their story, sharing in their triumphs and struggles, all the while witnessing the guiding lights of mentors who played pivotal roles. This heartfelt and authentic narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity, find strength in the face of life's unexpected challenges, and the transformative role mentors can play in our lives.
This book is a testament to the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the belief that, no matter the odds, we have the power to shape our own destiny. It's a story of hope that resonates deeply and leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart.
From the first page, you're drawn into their story, sharing in their triumphs and struggles, all the while witnessing the guiding lights of mentors who played pivotal roles. This heartfelt and authentic narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity, find strength in the face of life's unexpected challenges, and the transformative role mentors can play in our lives.
This book is a testament to the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the belief that, no matter the odds, we have the power to shape our own destiny. It's a story of hope that resonates deeply and leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart.
December 14, 2023
i wasn’t supposed to have this memoir. a huge thank you so much @legacylitbooks for gifting me something i had no idea i needed.
this book arrived at the right time. (even tho i couldn’t read it until after comps😅) stress was at an all-time high & i felt like grad school was kicking my ass ON TOP OF wedding planning drama. i cried real tears as i read this book. not everyone is meant to be a permanent member of your village & @iamjonconyers has shown me how & why that’s okay 🥲 that every member, even transient ones were placed in my life for a reason, whether it be a season or a lifetime.
i cannot recommend this book enough & i am so glad i read this before the end of the year. just read it. thank you @iamjonconyers for sharing your story.
🏷️
#memoir #bookstagram #instabook #mustread #highlyrecommend #blackauthor #blackcontentcreator #gradstudent
this book arrived at the right time. (even tho i couldn’t read it until after comps😅) stress was at an all-time high & i felt like grad school was kicking my ass ON TOP OF wedding planning drama. i cried real tears as i read this book. not everyone is meant to be a permanent member of your village & @iamjonconyers has shown me how & why that’s okay 🥲 that every member, even transient ones were placed in my life for a reason, whether it be a season or a lifetime.
i cannot recommend this book enough & i am so glad i read this before the end of the year. just read it. thank you @iamjonconyers for sharing your story.
🏷️
#memoir #bookstagram #instabook #mustread #highlyrecommend #blackauthor #blackcontentcreator #gradstudent
August 30, 2023
An incredible and inspiring story of one man’s journey from being told he’d never academically succeed to becoming an internationally recognized respiratory therapist (and now, author!). I WASN’T SUPPOSED TO BE HERE is an extraordinary memoir about a young man overcoming some of life’s most challenging obstacles all while teaching us the importance & value of growing one’s village. Jonathan’s motivation and dedication to his education was truly incredible. I was cheering him on the entire way!
I had the pleasure of hearing Jonathan speak at the NAIBA + SIBA annual conference for independent booksellers & instantly knew I wanted to read his memoir. Jonathan spoke so beautifully & I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his book. Thank you to Legacy Lit for providing ARCs!
I had the pleasure of hearing Jonathan speak at the NAIBA + SIBA annual conference for independent booksellers & instantly knew I wanted to read his memoir. Jonathan spoke so beautifully & I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his book. Thank you to Legacy Lit for providing ARCs!
September 26, 2023
I found Jonathan Conyers’s story titled “Changing The Narrative That Drug Addicts In The Black Community Can't Be High Functioning”. Although I don’t battle with addiction, I have a more sympathetic understanding of how choices aren’t always yours after going through an experience. I went his book release off the strength of that essay and purchased his book. His dedication to community and building his village came through in his speech and writing. His authentic, honest and reflective storytelling is poignant and inspiring. His honesty and introspection is refreshing but it also required me to take breaks to sit with the heaviness. This isn’t a book to rush through, especially if you have relatable traumas.
September 30, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was the second book this month I read outside of my normal genres. In this book Johnathan Conyers shares stories from his life growing up in the Bronx NY. Living with parents who both had a drug addiction could’ve broke Conyers but this book is about perseverance and the connections/ bonds you build while on your journey. The necessary conversations that happened in the book and the role his educators took in his life to keep him on a stable path was to be admired. I definitely enjoyed reading this one.
Thank you Legacy Lit for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was the second book this month I read outside of my normal genres. In this book Johnathan Conyers shares stories from his life growing up in the Bronx NY. Living with parents who both had a drug addiction could’ve broke Conyers but this book is about perseverance and the connections/ bonds you build while on your journey. The necessary conversations that happened in the book and the role his educators took in his life to keep him on a stable path was to be admired. I definitely enjoyed reading this one.
Thank you Legacy Lit for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2023
This book is an incredible story, that seems lifted out of a movie script, except it happened in real life to Jonathan Conyers. It is a story of an indomitable will, and a village of people who helped someone who wasn't supposed to make it, make it in a very big way. The adversity faced by Jon from birth should have resulted in a very different life, but through his intelligence and intellect, and a host of people who he came to recognize as his village, Jon changed the course of things, and now we are privileged enough to know this incredible story. You should read this book - it will not only make you feel every feeling there is, you will be left shaking your head in amazement at its author. Congratulations Jon and thank you so much for sharing your story with the world.
January 15, 2024
Jonathan Conyers's memoir tells the story of his overcoming difficult family circumstances with extraordinary grit and intelligence and by creating a "chosen village" whose members he selected "based on their knowledge, skills, and attributes rather than on where they came from or what they look like." This memoir enlightens, inspires, and, as Conyers intended, shows "that opening yourself up to the kindness of strangers, to guidance from people who may have taken an unconventional path, and lessons from unlikely sources can lead to innumerable blessings and a life well lived." Everybody needs chosen as well as given family. I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here is a lovely illustration of how to build a village that includes both.
October 13, 2024
I actually got this book a year ago and had the privilege of meeting the author, Jonathan Conyers, at a book meet and greet in Washington, D.C. I thoroughly enjoyed his memoir and could relate to many of the familial struggles he encountered on his journey to success. I was really inspired by his story and how much his village helped him to reach his goals. He was so determined to make something of his life, and even when he wanted to give up, he always found a way. I believe his story will be turned into a movie, according to what he told me during the meet and greet, and I’m excited to see how it’ll unfold on the big screen. Thank you Mr. Conyers for sharing your beautiful life story with the world!
June 30, 2024
I was lucky enough to meet Jonathan in person and immediately purchased his book to hear his entire story. I’m in complete awe of the human being Jonathan Conyers is and the life he has lived thus far. Conyers chronicles his upbringing by parents addicted to drugs and how he pushed himself through school, how he enlisted the help of people who crossed his path to teach him life lessons and how he persevered even when he was ready to give up. I was brought to tears more than once. I appreciate the honesty and candidness Jonathan brings to the reader and how he saw and continues to see the good in everyone who crosses his path. To say I loved this book would be an understatement.
September 11, 2023
The importance of this story cannot be overstated. Jonathan’s voice throughout the book is honest and purposeful, and it beautifully carries the story it tells. This is an eye-opening look inside of the mind of a boy who was forced to be a man far too soon, but was smart and scrappy enough to make it all work, and the insight that Conyers has on life and morality and community is life-changing. Jonathan’s story is one that will save lives. It needs to be in the hands of students and educators everywhere.
September 28, 2023
John Conyer’s story is one of pure grit and determination, tempered with humility and a deep understanding that none of us can rise alone. John had his “village” of friends and family- and even random strangers — that helped him turn his obstacles into motivation and a commitment not to give up or give in. And what makes John a true success story is that he has used his achievements to give back in return. A truly inspiring story that has particular resonance in a world that sometimes seems unwaveringly cynical.
October 2, 2023
Excellent. I read Jonathan Conyers' story in HONY and really appreciated the longer form version in his book. How are more people not reading this?! While his story is impressive on its own, I love his focus on his "village" and how they empowered him to stay on track (and get back on) and reach his goals. The power of mentors and impact of the programs he took advantage of are so important and important to recognize. So glad he's giving back and expanding the reach of the programs that helped him so much.
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