Hey White Boy: Conversations of Redemption

by Sonny Von Cleveland

Hey White Boy, Conversations of Redemption is a profoundly authentic and moving memoir that delves into the transformative journey of Sonny Von Cleveland. Raised in a small town in Michigan, Sonny's childhood was marred by unimaginable sexual molestation, which shattered his innocence and left him grappling with profound emotional scars. Unable to cope with the devastating abuse, Sonny's once gregarious and outgoing nature gave way to anger and rebellion.
By the age of seven, he faced his first felony charge, and the downward spiral continued, leading him to prison at sixteen and again at twenty-one, resulting in eighteen years behind bars.

However, Sonny's path took an unexpected turn amidst the darkness of his incarceration. During 19 months in solitary confinement, he encountered a fellow inmate—a wise Muslim man—who would become his mentor. Through their profound conversations and teachings, Sonny embarked on a journey of self-examination, forgiveness, and personal accountability.

Sonny shares his remarkable transformation from victimhood to self-actualization and redemption in Hey White Boy . This memoir is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of letting go, and the capacity for personal growth.

Genres: Memoir, Biography Memoir, Nonfiction

216 pages, Paperback

Published February 24, 2024

About the author

Sonny Von Cleveland is a transformative voice in literature and advocacy, drawing from his own profound journey from darkness to enlightenment. His memoir, "Hey, White Boy, Conversations of Redemption," offers a raw, unflinching look at his escape from a cycle of incarceration and trauma, guided by the unexpected wisdom of a mentor found in the depths of solitary confinement.

As the Founder of The Von Cleveland Foundation, Sonny champions mindset shifts and personal development for the marginalized and incarcerated, believing deeply in the power of resilience. A professional photographer and host of 'The Choice Effect Podcast,' he captures and shares stories of redemption and choice.

Renowned as a motivational speaker, Sonny's work is a beacon of hope, advocating for a life led with authenticity, kindness, and purpose. Dive into Sonny's world on Goodreads, where every story is a step towards transformation.

Reviews

[Randall Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazingly inspirational!

[Leigh Schrage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eloquent and moving. Inspriational and honest. I cannot say enough good things about this memoir. This should book should be required reading for everyone, no exceptions.

[Joshua Goddard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really great look at how no matter the circumstances in life, we always have a choice as to how we respond to them. Even after making a million wrong decisions, you can still start making the right ones and leaves those wrong ones in the past. Very inspiring and raw and honest.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sonny Von Cleveland's "Hey White Boy" is an amazing, inspiring memoir. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting. His honesty about his tough past—childhood trauma and prison—is remarkably brave. But it's not just a sad story; it shows how much people can change. His journey of self-discovery and forgiveness started with a mentor in solitary confinement. Sonny's words give hope: redemption is possible, no matter what. You need to read this; it's all about resilience and growth.

[Nicole Rodgers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sonny Von Cleveland brings you into his story with an open, honest, and vulnerability that is inviting yet emotional. Through trauma, misguided decisions, and and the advice of a wiser individual, Sonny is able to reflect and transition to become the incredible person he is today. A true tale of triumph and inspiration, I read from cover to cover in one evening.

[Lauren Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye opening, raw, excruciating read, but also so hopeful, life altering, and inspiring. To learn to reframe your life as never a victim can be so hard, but when you see how Sonny was able to create such an amazing, better life from less than nothing, you can’t help but feel inspired for more in life.

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed 'Hey White Boy, Conversations of Redemption' by Sonny Von Cleveland. His story is a raw and compelling testament to resilience and transformation. From a troubled past marked by profound adversity, Sonny's journey through pain, introspection, and eventual redemption captivated me from start to finish—I couldn't put it down, finishing in less than 24 hours. His candid storytelling not only illuminates personal growth but also offers a beacon of hope for anyone navigating their own path to healing. This book is a must-read for its honesty, courage, and profound insights into the human spirit.

[Ben Melsenti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbelievable read. Read it in two days, which is extremely fast for me... Incredible story of redemption and SVC's writing keeps you glued to the pages.