Review of Because of You, This is Me by Jaz Ampaw-Farr

Because of You, This is Me is not just a memoir — it’s a rallying cry. Jaz Ampaw-Farr writes with a rare blend of vulnerability, grit, and hope, delivering a deeply personal story of surviving an abusive childhood, finding refuge in the compassion of “Everyday Heroes,” and transforming that survival into a life of impact and leadership.
The book’s power lies in its dual narrative: on one hand, a raw and unflinching account of neglect, violence, and emotional hardship; on the other, a celebration of the teachers, mentors, and strangers whose consistent kindness shifted the author’s trajectory. We meet figures like Mr Williams, who taught truth with humour and patience; Mr Simpson, whose steadfast daily greetings wore down walls of mistrust; and Mr Readman, who modelled vulnerability and compassion in the classroom.
Jaz doesn’t romanticise resilience — she dismantles the myth of being “unbreakable” and instead reframes it as the ability to get back up, sometimes slowly, and keep going. The book is peppered with sharp, practical reflections for educators and leaders, challenging them to stand in the fire, notice invisible barriers, and embrace authenticity.
Her writing is disarmingly honest. She takes the reader through scenes of harrowing abuse, moments of childhood shame, and the complex psychology of living two lives — the one at home and the one at school. But the narrative is never hopeless. Each chapter affirms the life-changing impact of seemingly small acts of care: a teacher noticing, a neighbour asking the right question, someone showing up consistently.
By the end, the reader is left with two clear messages:
Ordinary people can make extraordinary differences.
You might already be someone’s Everyday Hero without even realising it.
Because of You, This is Me is equal parts memoir, manifesto, and love letter to those who choose courage and compassion over indifference. It’s not an easy read in places — nor should it be — but it’s one that will stay with you long after the last page.
Essential reading for educators, leaders, and anyone who believes in the transformative power of human connection.