| Subtitle | The stories we tell, the stories we change and the power of everyday heroes |
| By | Jaz Ampaw-Farr |
| Published By | |
| ISBN | 9781781352984 |
| Non-Fiction Genre | Memoir, Education |
| Publication Date | 07/07/2025 |
| Price | 16.99 |
| Paperback Hyperlink | https://www.crownhouse.co.uk/because-of-you-this-is-me |
Synopsis
In this powerful memoir-meets-manifesto, Jaz Ampaw-Farr brings her signature blend of insight, inspiration and laughter to the page to celebrate the vital and transformative impact teachers have on the children in their care.
Authors Biography
Jaz Ampaw-Farr is a writer, international speaker, former teacher and stand-up comedian. Named “The British Oprah” by US audiences and three-time winner of Speaker of the Year, Jaz’s raw honesty and humour have already inspired millions through her viral TED talk and headline keynotes for organisations from Google to Gucci.
Reviews
Jaz Ampaw-Farr reveals her heart-rending personal story, singling out the teachers that made a world of difference on her unlikely journey to success.â Jean-Louis Dutaut in Schools Week.
âIllustrates the profound, life-altering impact that teachers can have on their studentsâ lives more powerfully than any set of statistics ever could.â Reviewed in Teach Secondary.
âDeeply moving yet inspirational, deeply personal yet incisive in its analysis of the education sector.â Professor Damien Page, Vice Chancellor, Buckinghamshire New University.
âOne of the most inspiring, wonderful and informative books I have read in a long time.â Gemma Oaten, actress, TV and radio presenter, CEO of SEED.
âShocking, searing, moving and enraging yet ultimately uplifting.â Leslee Udwin, BAFTA multi award-winning producer/director, human rights campaigner, founder and executive chair at Think Equal.
âBecause of You, This is Me is more than a memoir; itâs a masterclass in resilience, courage and the power of human connection.â Zara Janjua, presenter, journalist and writer.
âA shining beacon of hope in a world that can seem really, really bleak.â Lucas Maxwell, LoveReading4Kids.
âAn absolutely awe-inspiring read, gripping, heart wrenching but real, human and full of heart and hope!â Rachel Johnson, author of Time to Think and Box Cleverand CEO of PiXL.
âItâs full of heart, humour and hope and if youâve ever heard Jaz speak, youâll hear her voice in every word.â Mark Finnis, author of Restorative Practice, Director of L30 Relational Systems.
Jaz is one of the most incredible story tellers I’ve ever come across. She has the ability to take you on a roller coaster of emotions leaving you with lessons from her story but also with hope, optimism and feeling that tiny bit braver.
Flicking through to choose a book to read I came across a video of the author with this entry: powerful! This will be my first choice to read next.
This is an incredibly courageous determined woman. She gives her raw story but gifts her journey to special teachersâŚ.sharing her gratitude for their love, for being seen – itâs a heart grabber. When I grow up I want to be Jaz! (Even if Iâm 52!!)
I just couldnât put this book down. The fact that you share your story to help others is truly something . Recognising those every day heroes and helping them to see the difference they make – touches people in ways you would never imagine . I was one of those people Jaz – forever grateful.
reading it as i wrote, so hard to read yet unputdownable
As inspirational to read as she is to listen to in person.
A compelling and inspirational story teller, whether in person or in print
This should be a staple read for every teacher and social worker undergraduate. Iâve shared it widely and canât recommend it more highly.
A must read for the modern world. A reminder that people, yes people, make the differences in this life. Our relationships, particularly in those early years are crucial to shaping us and it is those small moments of time or compassion that genuinely change lives. Read it and remember how people changed and shaped your life and then be that person to others.
An emotional rollercoaster with Jazz sharing heartache but showing how she overcame adversity to be the strong woman that she is who motivates so many with her positivity!
Jaz Ampaw-Farrâs âBecause of You, This is Meâ is a deeply moving and empowering memoir, through raw honesty and uplifting storytelling, she honours the everyday heroesâteachers, mentors, and carersâwhose compassion changed her life. Truly inspirational, a must-read.
The first page stopped me in my tracks. Could I go on reading this? I had to for Jaz. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. Jaz is so positive after everything she’s been through. A must read.
An amazing book; beautifully written and deeply moving. Itâs an easy read in style, but not an easy one to process emotionally. The stories are raw, real, and powerful, pulling you into an emotional whirlwind you canât escape. At the same time, the book is surprisingly practical. Itâs not just about telling stories; itâs about showing how to make a real difference.
I finished this book in one day. I have had the pleasure of meeting Jaz and listening to her speak and I am in awe of everything she does. Her story is so moving and inspiring and a reminder anyone can make a difference to someone else’s life even if you don’t realise the impact you have, the interaction you have can last a life time – a must read
Absolutely loved this book and gifted it to others. As an educator it hits hard but warmly. Beautifully written storytelling, of a very hard to stomach early life.
Brilliant read for every teacher !!
This is the most heart wrenching yet heart warming book Iâve red in years!
Jaz tells it how it was and how it is – thank goodness she lived to tell the tale so that others can benefit from her very important message!
This is a life changing book. Jaz will give anyone who reads this hope that their past is not a script for their future, and that they can make a difference. Amazing!
This is such a powerful book. It made me reflect on the teachers who helped shape my life.I have used extracts of it with my trainee teachers to show them the difference they can make. Relationships, being human first, day in day out can change lives.
Nice one Jaz! Great writere and orator!
Devoured it in a sitting ! Knowing the person now makes it all the more poignant a read.
A heart breaking insight with a heart warming twist. This book dispels myths and breaks the mould. A must read for anyone in education, social services and beyond.
Jaz is one of the most brilliant, inspiring, funny people I’ve ever met and this book encapsulates her life story brilliantly.
This book is a must read. There are books that are a ‘one of a kind’ of our generation and this one of them. Funny, heart breaking and inspiring. Jaz’s story is one you will never forget and it will impact your life. Don’t miss this book!
A painfully beautiful read. It made me laugh in parts and sob in others. I am blessed to know and love Jaz, so reading tbis book made my heart swell with love and gratitude for her resilience, what she has brought to the world and how she has broken the cycle for her family.
This book is very special and will make the world a better place, like jaz does every day. Thank you Jaz for having the courage to put it on paper at last â¤ď¸
What an emotionally inspiring read! Not only to discover Jazâs journey but to also discover how we can be positive change makers in the lives of others – wherever we find ourselves in life.
Truely Amazing!!!! Strap in for an emotional rollercoast ride. This book should be read by every person who has any interaction with children. It really shows the huge impact and difference you can make to someones life no matter how ssmall.Love, love, love it x
A heartfelt, shocking, but inspiring story told masterfully by an accomplished storyteller, taking you on a rollercoaster of emotion to a braver place. Thank you for sharing your story with the world!
Very excited to read my new purchase- well done Jaz!
The power of this extraordinary book is life changing, and it’s message is desperately needed in our schools and colleges today. I am giving a copy to every teacher I meet.
An absolutely inspiring read! I was in awe of this incredible womanâs journey. As a teacher, I felt so connected to her story , itâs powerful, heartfelt, and a true reminder of resilience and hope. I recently heard her speak at a teachersâ conference, and she is by far the best speaker Iâve ever come across. Reading her book only deepened that admiration. Truly inspirational!
Jaz has brought about a profound change in me personally, helping me to become that little bit braver and celebrate giving things a go even if they go wrong. This book is a must read for everyone. Because of you, this is me, indeed. đ
Proud of you Sis!â¤ď¸
Incredible book by such an inspirational person. Jaz you are a hero đ
Amazing person, amazing speaker, inspiring human.
Where do I start?!
Perhaps with congratulations, Dr (Dr) Jaz! đŠđ˝âđ
It takes a lot of talent to write a good book. It also takes a lot of courage to write one about yourself⌠đ
You achieved both – the talented and the courageous in equal measures, you managed to paint a picture of the true complexities of life: the good, the bad, and the ugly. âď¸
Thank you for keeping me company on my own journey. Not âthereâ quite yet, but your writing (through all of the âclosing throatâ choked up moments, free-flowing tears, and the crazy laughing out loud too!) – you keep helping more than you will ever know. đ§ââď¸
Keep going, keep growing, and keep doing good! đŠˇ
Jazz is a visionary, motivator and natural leader.
Her book, âBecause of You, This is Meâ, is an eye opener, a story about resilience. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Jaz has a wonderful way of connecting to people through her heartfelt storytelling and she inspires hope for us all that it is possible to forge a better life through growth, laughter and happiness.
A heartbreaking and inspiring memoir that forever changed me.
A reminder of how powerful both small and large acts of observing + action can forever change the course of someone’s life.
Jaz’s courage to share her story inspires anyone who reads it.
Such an inspirational read and Jaz is such a wonderful person who inspires me with her story and her support for Everyday Heroes.
Jaz is an incredible human being, her book is a brilliant read⌠not just for teachers, it has the power to change many lives.
Awesome! SoberingâŚ
A must read for every teacher.
Jaz is a true survivor and knows from her lifeâs experience that a teacher who cares makes a world of difference to a child who feels invisible and is seen by the devoted teacher.
This is a truly special book and one that makes a difference.
Jaz shares her personal journey through a traumatic and difficult childhood, and throughout recognises the difference of 5 adults/ everyday heroes/ teachers made to her.
if you’ve ever worked in education, with children abd young people or if you’ve ever doubted the impact you have, this is a must read!
Each chapter is summarised with learnings and every page with footnotes, you can almost hear Jaz speaking to you through the pages and if you’ve ever experienced one of her key notes, you know what that means for the quality of this book!
Cannot recommend it enough!
Having heard Jaz speak in person and know the impact she has in a room, and longer term within the education sector this book will simply spread her “Jazziness” and messages to reflect on even more widely. An inspirational storyteller, and lived experience rollercoaster share that will no doubt impact personally and professionally on every single reader and those who they share it with…
Jaz Ampaw-Farr is human sunshine. She shows that every single day, no matter what, it’s possible to change our lives. Jaz gifts bravery and resilience to everyone who has the pleasure of meeting her, listening to her or reading her work. This book is more than a story. It’s a Magic tool to inform every single Adult in the land, how to be human first. WOW! It’s a MUST read! Thankyou Jaz. What an honour to read your words xxxx
An honest, gritty and at times painfully brilliant book, with hope for future generations of teachers and social workers to be human first and look behind, under and around the behaviour of a scared child who needs an adult they can trust with the truth.
A story of hope & inspiration – as an educationalist it helps you to remember your why – love the footnotes and the humour even though the story is so tough in parts – what a woman- thank you Jaz for you amazing book!
A story of hope & inspiration – as an educationalist it helps you to remember your why – love the footnotes and the humour even though the story is so tough in parts – what a woman- thank you Jaz for you amazing book!
A story of hope & inspiration – as an educationalist it helps you to remember your why – love the footnotes and the humour even though the story is so tough in parts – what a woman- thank you Jaz for you amazing book!
A story of hope & inspiration – as an educationalist it helps you to remember your why – love the footnotes and the humour even though the story is so tough in parts – what a woman- thank you Jaz for you amazing book!
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Wow, just wow, what an incredible woman, a journey through survival and hope, tears and laughter, upliftment and being courages – Thank you for this incredible inspiration through your life story, Jaz!
In this book, Jaz give a testimonial of her impressive hard to read story, and fantastic strength that shows us past don’t define our future. This is an emotional, raw and humble book, that will make you shake to your soul.
If you’re ready to emotional roller coaster, this is your next book.
Hello – it’s me – Jaz! I’ve just been reading through these and I am blown over! Thank you so so much for your words and even more for your heart, passion and dedication to fighting for the highest good of others!
This is our âWhyâ. Essential reading for all in our profession and beyond.
I love to share Jazâs story with my ECT trainees, always a profound response. Thank you Jaz!
Jaz is a true diamond, a positive disruptor championing for our most valuable children. Her words bring to life the power teachers can have in supporting change for our children and helping them achieve belonging in their world. An absolute must read for anyone who is anyone, and a vital read for teachers to help them remember just what a part they play in shaping the lives of our children and young people. Positive disruptors forever!!!
Spread the word!
This is a truly transformational book â one that doesnât just inspire, but changes the way you see yourself, your purpose, and the difference you can make.
Jaz Ampaw-Farrâs story is raw, courageous, and profoundly human. Through her words, you feel the lasting impact of the individuals who saw her potential, believed in her worth, and changed the course of her life through compassion and connection. Itâs a powerful reminder that the smallest acts of belief can shape a childâs entire story.
For me, this book has been genuinely life-shaping. It has guided my leadership journey and reaffirmed what matters most â that being human first is not optional, itâs essential. The relationships we build, the way we listen with empathy, and the belief we hold for every child are at the heart of what we do.
Ever since meeting Jaz over ten years ago â and several times since â Iâve carried her message with me. She gave me the courage to follow my lighthouse â an analogy that has become a golden thread through my leadership: guiding and being guided by the light. Her influence helped me quiet the imposter syndrome, confront self-doubt, and recognise that leadership isnât about status or privilege (despite my own privilege as a white male) â itâs about authenticity, courage, and service.
Jaz taught me to lead with heart, and because of her, my goal every single day is to empower children: to offer them a sanctuary where they truly belong, where their individuality and uniqueness are celebrated. I want them to fly â to find their own light and follow it fearlessly.
Jaz Ampaw-Farr is, without question, my Everyday Hero. She gave me belief when I didnât have it, and for that, I will always be grateful. Because of You, This Is Me isnât just a book â itâs a beacon of hope and humanity for everyone who strives to lead, teach, and live with purpose.
Jaz writes with raw honesty and humility, and has completely changed my outlook on hope and moving forward. She refuses to let past trauma rule her future and continues to shine her light to brighten the path for all those she meets.
Since hearing this lady speak at my work conference, her story has stayed with me. I take her now with me every day in all I try to do and be in my role in education. This book is exactly the same, it has stayed with long since closing the last page. she writes with warm and wit, it is inspiring and soul destroying in all the right ways. Thank you for telling your story x
Just wow!!! Jaz takes you through so many emotions just as when I heard her at a conference. Absolutely love this book
This book deserves to win. Jaz isn’t famous, but her impact is global and powerful. I’ve read lots of memoirs by famous celebrities and can honestly say this one is the most powerful. I left a 17-year abusive relationship last year, and this book was the catalyst that helped me to be 10% braver. I want others to have that chance. This book should win.
Jaz is an absolute inspiration and this book should be read by every educational professional! The best book I have ever read and now used in my work on a daily basis, so impactful, inspirational, emotional and powerful. Really there are no words to truly do justice to this book
Hereâs a tighter, more personal version:
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This book really stayed with me. Jaz writes with such honesty and strength, it made me reflect on my own mindset and how we choose to move through challenges. Itâs uplifting without being over the top, just real, powerful, and genuinely inspiring.
This book and Jaz are inspirational. She has a way of making you feel you can do it by being 10% braver.
I had the honour to meet Jaz a few times the most beautiful uplifting happy courageous women
I instantly read her book I cried I smiled I was totally hooked what Jaz had been through the hardship the life experience she has been thru and has become this amazing inspiring woman it blows me away she is inspiration for all women truly honoured to have met her
Jaz and all that she offers has painstakingly been described in this book. Take home a part of her to realise what we do and why do it!
The book is touching and beautiful yet heartbreaking account of the the power and impact of compassion. This book needs to be read by anyone working with children. It shows just how transformational teachers can be for children in their everyday interactions. It shows how valuable schools are in supporting children and young people.
There is so much learning that can taken from this book – it sends huge messages of hope. Thank you Jaz for sharing your story with us.
Brave, beautiful and inspirational – both Jaz and the book.
I have heard Jaz speak many times and every time a different thing touches me or makes me laugh out loud. Jaz is not only a great story-teller but a champion for children of trauma and instills self-belief in the professionals she serves. It is not only on paper that Jaz can communicate but in person, equally effective to an intimate group of teachers or a stadium. It has been truly inspirational to know you, thanks.
there hasn’t been a book for a long time that once I picked it up, I could not put it down. so well written, it draws you in from the get go. I can across Jazz from attending a Trauma training session at school and I thought, I need to know more about this lady and this book does not disappoint. Jazz made me keep going on School days when you think you are not making a difference to never give up and that you are, even if you don’t feel like you are moving forward. I would love to be at one of her speaking events. she truly is inspirational to Schools.
Powerful, life changing book by and incredible woman. Somehow she tells a stoary of desperate sadness with humour, nuance and inspiration.
Because of You, This Is Me by Jaz Ampaw-Farr is not just a book you readâitâs a book you feel, carry, and are ultimately called to act on.
It would be easy to move through these pages, to absorb Jazâs powerful story, and to admire it from a safe distance. But the true impact of this book lies in what happens after you close it. If we simply read it and do nothing, thatâs where the impact ends.
What makes this book so extraordinary is not only the story itself, but the courage, strength, and emotional labour behind it. Jaz shares her truth with remarkable honesty and generosity. She offers her experiences not for sympathy, but as a giftâone that invites us to reflect, to learn, and to take responsibility.
At its heart, Because of You, This Is Me is a tribute to the people who showed up, who cared, and who made a difference. But it is also a challenge to the reader: to become one of those people for someone else.
The message âNothing about us, without usâ resonates powerfully throughout. Jaz reminds us that lived experience must not only be heard, but valued and centredâwhether in education, leadership, or everyday interactions. This is not just a principle; it is a moral and professional responsibility.
This book doesnât allow you to remain passive. It asks something of you. It asks you to listen more deeply, to see more clearly, and to act more courageously.
Jazâs story is not just a moment captured in pagesâit is a movement waiting to be continued by every reader.
A profoundly important and necessary read
I canât stop raving about this book to everyone. Iâve given copies to key teachers in my foster daughterâs current school, who are the epitome of every day heroes and deserve to know it. Beautifully written – brave, accessible and a heart-rending insight into how it feels to be a traumatised child navigating a world that doesnât always understand you. Jaz is a brilliant advocate for being 10% braver – she also shows what could happen if everyone strove to be 10% kinder.
This book has reminded me of the why behind what I do every day, that every interaction with every child is an opportunity and that I love doing what I do. Every teacher, teaching assistant, educator and human should read this book.
Because of You, This is Me feels like more than a memoir, itâs a reminder of how powerful human connection can be in changing the trajectory of a life. Jaz Ampaw-Farrâs story highlights the profound impact that even one caring adult can have, especially in the midst of adversity.
What stands out most is the way this book honors resilience while also calling us to responsibility, whether we are educators, helpers, or simply humans crossing paths with others. Itâs a powerful reflection on how small moments of compassion can ripple into lifelong transformation.
This is the kind of story that doesnât just stay on the page it invites you to show up differently in your own life.
Best book Iâve read in a long time. Really touched me as a victim of sexual abuse x This book really resonated.
The contrast of pain, humour, life catalogue and focus on hope and love is beyond phenomenal. Beautifully written certainly – but the courage goes far beyond “10% braver.”
Jaz’s authenticity as a positive disruptor has never been more poignant. I say that humbly as it’s hardly my place to judge. I simply mean that this story and the way it is told, will reach out to you and despite the horrific experiences through childhood and adolescence, it will leave you in no doubt about the power of relationships and Everyday Heroes / Sheroes.
Because of You, This is Me – is a reassurance that any of us can make a difference – and that all of us can learn from those who inspire us and all who inspired and cared for them.
A beautiful quote was shared with me recently which seems so apt. “Participate with love, do the next right thing and trust the ripples”. This book will send in many, many, many ripples.
I could not put this book down once I felt ready to read it! Many parts of it broke my heart but what you are left with is feeling that we are doing the right thing by our children, we are present, we are listening, we care. Everyone who works with children should read this book, or have it explained to them so we can better understand the impact our comments, looks, behaviours can have. Will never forget this book.
Jaz is an amazing writer, speaker, and human being. I am inspired by her story and so privleged to meet her. Unforgettable.
In a world that prioritises punctuality, uniformity & conformity, Jaz’s gritty story hits home the importance of compassion, consistency and authenticity. She urges us all to be Human First, to allow children to be seen, heard, and believed.
What a moving story; I couldn’t put it down! You will laugh, you will cry, but you will also be inspired to know just how powerful the work that teachers do can be.
Jaz is living, thriving proof that belonging and possibilities are far more important than attendance records and exam grades. Grab a box of tissues and be inspired!
So incredible, resilience and proof. A tough read but so important to share. Thanks Jaz for doing what you do in helping others xxx
I read Jaz’s book in one evening as I was so captivated after meeting her.
The words determination, perseverance and resilience do not do justice to Jaz.
An absolutely amazing woman and role model to many.