Maybe I Don't Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery

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A Book of the Year in The Observer and The Times and winner of the Visionary Honours Award. 'David Harewood writes with rare honesty and fearless self-analysis about his experiences of racism and what ultimately led to his descent into psychosis . . . This book is, in itself, a physical manifestation of that hopeful journey.' - David Olusoga, author of Black and British This powerful and provocative memoir charts critically acclaimed actor David Harewood's life from working class Birmingham to the bright lights of Hollywood. He shares insights from his recovery after an experience of psychosis and uncovers devastating family history. Maybe I Don't Belong Here is a groundbreaking account of the impact of everyday racism on Black mental health and a rallying cry to examine the biases that shape our society. As a young actor, David had a psychotic breakdown and was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. He was physically restrained by six police officers, sedated, then hospitalized and transferred to a locked ward. Only now, thirty years later, has he been able to process what he went through. What caused this breakdown and how did David recover to become a successful actor How did his experiences growing up contribute to a rupture in his sense of his place in the world David's compelling story poses the question: Is it possible to be Black and British and feel welcome and whole

Reviews

One of the best books on mental health, race, Britain and the thrill of acting I have ever read. You will fall in love with the miraculous David Harewood as he grows up, stumbles, falls and rises in triumph. This incredible, touching and inspiring story will change lives. -- Stephen Fry
David Harewood writes with rare honesty and fearless self-analysis about his experiences of racism and what ultimately led to his descent into psychosis at the age of twenty-three. With equal candour, David plots the story of his recovery. This book is, in itself, a physical manifestation of that hopeful journey. -- David Olusoga, author of Black and British
Heartwarming, eye-opening, gut-wrenching... Maybe I Dont Belong Here shines a light on the interplay between race, identity and mental well-being with tremendous moral courage. -- David Lammy, MP
An eye-opening read and a subject we dont hear enough about -- The Guardian
Startling and thought-provoking -- The SundayTimes
Such a powerful and necessary read...Don't wait until Black History Month to pick up this book, it's a must-read just now. -- Candice Brathwaite, Sunday Times bestselling author of I Am Not Your Baby Mother and Sista, Sister

Author Bio

David Harewood was born in Birmingham, England. His parents are originally from Barbados and they moved to England in the 50s and 60s. He grew up in Small Heath. He trained as an actor at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He is best known for his roles in Homeland and Supergirl. His critically acclaimed BBC documentary Psychosis and Me received a BAFTA nomination for best documentary. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II appointed David a 'Member of The Most Excellent Order' of the British Empire for his services to acting in 2012, giving him the title David Harewood MBE. David is married, has two daughters and is an avid Birmingham City FC fan. Maybe I Don't Belong Here is his first book.