Syrup Sandwiches is a powerful story about a young black boy who defeats the odds. Anthony Owens shares how he became a successful man as he had to rise above the expected outcome for a child raised in poverty. Even though he was subjected to neglectful, abusive men, Anthony understood the importance of breaking this cycle to become the caring and responsible father he never had. Anthony Owens is one of the underrepresented voices in America – a black man raised by a single mother struggling to make ends meet; he speaks for the voices that so often go unheard. Faced with the odds of poverty, an absentee father, trauma, violence, bullying and gang brutality, Anthony gives us a raw look at how he was determined not to be defined by his circumstances and makes a way out of no way. Syrup Sandwiches is an inspiring story that gives hope to all children, especially poor children of color, providing a message of hope and success. In a time when society is looking at stories that speak to the black American experience, this is a story that is unapologetically authentic.
Anthony Owens felt compelled to write this memoir because far too many children are facing issues such as poverty, bullying, domestic abuse, single parenting, discrimination, fatherlessness, and a myriad of other issues that he endured. Syrup Sandwiches reveals Anthony Owen’s plight as it uncovers how he was able to choose success. This memoir provides hope for those facing similar issues. For those fortunate enough not to have known these hardships, it gives a real-life glimpse into what it was like to be poor, black, and living in a big city in the 70’s. Others may connect to Syrup Sandwiches through the details of Anthony's plight while revealing how he was able to overcome the odds. Some may connect to Syrup Sandwiches because they too grew up in similar circumstances and are able to look back at what once was. This memoir provides hope; a reminder that there is a way out. Those who work with children can gain insight into what it takes for children to overcome the odds, what it is exactly that promotes success for all children. Anthony believes he is the best person to write this memoir because he has lived through hell, and when giving up was his only option, he chose not to. When he could have easily allowed all the problems in his life to change who he was, he chose to look up, tuning out all the naysayers, and charting his way forward. His goal for Syrup Sandwiches is for readers to see that even when life is unpredictable and challenging, giving up is not an option. Anthony also wants readers to know that our traumas, challenges and difficulties should not define or dictate who we are or shall be, and that we should all choose not to give up. Entertaining, inspiring and raw, Syrup Sandwiches is a must read for everyone.
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