Once clean, Susan dedicated her life to supporting women facing similar struggles. On her own, she eventually found a private drug rehabilitation facility. She cycled in and out of prison for over fifteen years never was she offered therapy or treatment for addiction. As a resident of South Los Angeles, a black community under siege in the War on Drugs, it was but a matter of time before Susan was arrested. Consumed by grief and without access to professional help, Susan self-medicated, becoming addicted first to cocaine, then crack. 'Susan Burton's world changed in an instant when her five-year-old son was killed by a van driving down their street. Alexander, Michelle, ( writer of foreword.). With a foreword by Michelle Alexander, bestselling author of The New Jim Crow: Colorblindness in the Age of Mass Incarceration.Burton, Susan (Founder of A New way of life (Organization)) ( author.). Also recommended for those interested in prison reform and the race, gender, and socioeconomic issues relating to criminal justice.'- Library Journal ' More than just a memoir, this account provides an intimate glimpse into the problems that plague the U.S. Howard Schultz, Starbucks Coffee Company Burton provides a valuable new perspective on the consequences of mass incarceration.” At turns harrowing and inspiring, Becoming Ms. Her journey is a story of courage, compassion, and conviction. 'A dramatic, honest, moving narrative of how hard life can get and how one can still overcome seemingly insurmountable adversity to do good in the world.'- Kirkus

Bryan Stevenson, Equal Justice Initiative and author of Just Mercy

Her powerful and compelling memoir is an unforgettable journey and also an extraordinary light for all who are looking for answers on how we must recover, restore, and redeem those who have been incarcerated. 'Susan Burton is someone who inspires while she educates.

Her book is a stirring and moving tour-de-force-a beautiful inspiration for all of us to continue to fight for justice.' ' Susan Burton's life and work are a testament to the power of second chances and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.

NAACP Image Award Winner, Outstanding Literary Work, 2018īook Prize for Social Justice, Goddard Riverside, 2017Ĭhicago Public Library's Best Reads of 2017 National Book Foundation (home of the National Book Awards) 2019-2020 Literature for Justice pick

Becoming ms burton book