This book came from real life — the hardship, the hurt, and the hope that pulled me through. I felt a responsibility to share that journey so someone out there could see what’s possible.
Anthony Owens – 23 December 2025
The Back Flap
Syrup Sandwiches: Choose Not to Give Up! is a true story of survival, perseverance, and purpose. Born in rural Georgia and raised in the tough streets of Brooklyn, Anthony Owens grew up in a world where struggle was constant and dreams were fragile. From nights of hunger soothed by syrup sandwiches to the disciplined years that forged his twenty-year naval career, Owens charts a journey that proves hardship doesn’t have to define you—it can refine you.
With raw honesty and heartfelt reflection, he takes readers through moments of poverty, loss, resilience, and redemption, showing how faith, grit, and choice can turn obstacles into opportunity. This is more than a memoir—it’s a call to rise above circumstance and claim the power of your own story.
In a time when hope can feel distant, Syrup Sandwiches reminds us that giving up is never the answer—because sometimes, the sweetest victories come from the struggle itself.
About the book
What is the book about?
Syrup Sandwiches: Choose Not to Give Up! is a compelling memoir of resilience and transformation. I share the raw truth of growing up in poverty, facing trauma, and navigating life without a father — yet refusing to let those hardships define me. Through honesty and emotional clarity, I show how faith, self-belief, and perseverance can break generational cycles. This book resonates because it offers more than a story of survival; it delivers a powerful message of hope for anyone who has ever felt unseen, underestimated, or ready to give up.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing this book in 2021.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took 5 months of writing and 8 months of editing.
Where did you get the idea from?
This book came from real life — the hardship, the hurt, and the hope that pulled me through. I felt a responsibility to share that journey so someone out there could see what’s possible.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
There were chapters that reopened wounds I assumed had healed. The past rushed back with a force that stole my breath, and I often had to walk away just to steady myself again. But with every break, I returned — because healing isn’t found in silence, it’s found in speaking.
What came easily?
What came easily was the honesty. I wasn’t inventing a story — I was writing the life I had lived. The truth was already there, waiting to be put on the page.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
All of my characters are real life.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
I have been influenced by the works of James Baldwin because of his ability to powerfully write about identity, systemic racism, fatherhood and overcoming social barriers.
I have also been influenced by the works of Maya Angelou for her ability to turn personal trauma and poverty into universal messages of resilience and triumph.
Do you have a target reader?
My target audience isn’t defined by demographics — it’s defined by the desire for hope. Whether you’re a young person searching for direction or an adult rebuilding from hardship, this book speaks to anyone determined to overcome obstacles and keep fighting.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process is about showing up whenever the opportunity presents itself. I write even if it’s just a sentence, a paragraph, or a full chapter — every word is progress.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I do a chapter heading and then some sentences. I enjoy building as I write.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I do a brief edit while writing and a through one when I am completed.
Did you hire a professional editor?
Yes, I hired professional editors. I’ve found that when I’ve spent so much time with my own writing, I become so familiar with the words that it’s easy to overlook things simply because I already know what I meant to say.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
I often listen to smooth jazz while I write. The calming rhythms help me stay focused and relaxed, allowing my ideas to flow more freely. It’s a blend of two passions, music and storytelling — working together to elevate my creativity.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
Yes, I did reach out to multiple agents. Although I received responses that it didn’t align with their current needs, I saw it as part of the process and continued to pursue other avenues to bring my story to readers.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
When traditional agents passed, I refused to let the story sit on a shelf. Self-publishing gave me the freedom to move forward and make an impact.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I did the book cover myself.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Yes, I have a marketing plan that includes video trailers, public speaking engagements at schools, universities, and shelters, and active promotion across social media.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
I always tell aspiring authors: write every chance you get. It doesn’t matter if it’s a sentence, a paragraph, or a page — consistency is what brings a book to life. Don’t pressure yourself to write it all at once. Small, steady progress keeps the words flowing and prevents writer’s block.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York in an area called Bushwick.
Where do you live now?
I live in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.
What would you like readers to know about you?
My mission is to help people help themselves. I believe with everything in me that when you stand on your faith, trust your abilities, and refuse to surrender to hardship, you can accomplish anything you set your heart on.
What are you working on now?
I’m in the process of bringing two new books to readers — my short story collection, The Day We Forgot to Smile, and the sequel to my suspense thriller Reasons II.
End of Interview:
For more from Anthony Owens visit his website and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.
Get your copy of Syrup Sandwiches from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
