Better, Not Bitter

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They didn't know who they had. So begins Yusef Salaam's story, highlighting that no one's life is defined solely by their worst experiences. During his seven years of wrongful incarceration as one of the Central Park Five, Yusef matured from a child into a man, gaining a profound spiritual perspective. He discovered that everyone is "born on purpose, with a purpose." Despite facing the harsh realities of racism and injustice, Yusef transformed his pain into a positive force for himself and marginalized communities. This memoir marks the first time one of the Exonerated Five shares his individual journey in his own words. Yusef recounts his upbringing in central Harlem during the '80s, raised by a strong mother and grandmother, his years behind bars, and his eventual reentry and exoneration. He connects his experiences to the lessons that empowered him to endure life's challenges, urging readers to embrace their own paths and purposes. Through intimate insights, he critiques systems that profit from the oppression of Black and Brown people, encouraging readers to channel their anger into constructive action. This inspiring memoir addresses a significant miscarriage of justice while reflecting a 400-year history of accountability issues in America. Yusef Salaam's message is essential for today, serving as a motivating resource for change. Better, Not Bitter has the potential to soothe, inspire, and galvanize action.