Not All Heroes Wear Capes: The incredible story of how one young man found happiness by embracing his differences

by Jonathan Lancaster

Finding self-acceptance hasn't always been easy. I was abandoned at birth with a facial difference, and as I got older, I began to hate my face and the world I lived in. Gradually, through trial and error, random moments with strangers, and some tragic haircuts, I've found self-love and happiness. This book is the story of how I found my way out of difficult times, and how you can do the same.'

Jono Lancaster was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome - a condition that affects facial appearance - and at only two weeks old, he found himself in foster care. In his remarkable story, Jono shares the highs and lows of his journey and how he turned his differences into his greatest strengths. Inspirational, empowering and moving - this is an extraordinary memoir with a powerful you are strong enough to become your own hero. (Cape optional.)

'An extraordinary story of transformation and inner strength' - KATIE PIPER
'Truly remarkable and so helpful' - FEARNE COTTON '

Genres: Nonfiction, Autobiography, Memoir

224 pages, Hardcover

Published January 26, 2024

Reviews

[Suz]

Released 04/05/2023
Ebury Press - Penguin
I can't wait to read this young man's story after reading about him today. He seems quite the man!

[Sarah Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an inspirational book, I bought this book for myself and to share with my daughter who has Treacher Collins syndrome.
However this book isn't just about that, it's about so much more.

[Paul Botterill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a truthful and inspiring story of a man’s life. He has been through a lot and visited some dark places. He has worked through his challenges, sometimes positively sometimes negatively, and he continues to work on himself. The fact that he has been through so much and is in a good place where he loves himself is a real inspiration.

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A motivational book about celebrating all that we are. The author hasn’t let his physical condition and abandonment bring him down and after a bumpy quest, he has become his own superhero on self love with many kind superheroes by his side.

[Tracy Hodge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been meaning to read this book for ages and so glad I did get around to buying it and reading it!

Its such an inspirational and positive book and there are lots of parts of the book that will resonate with everyone, from not fitting in, to being bullied etc.

Its also a book that makes you see that you can come out the other side and live a wonderful, fulfilled life and you can love yourself as Jonno says many times.

A really good book that I can see myself reading again.

[Suzie Huntington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very positive and encouraging book for people to understand the traumas of bullying and becoming more confident in themselves. This guy has a great sense of humour and although I had a tear in my eye at times, I laughed even more at the honest descriptions of coming of age experiences. It’s a must read for anyone.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book about self-love and acceptance! Thank you for sharing your stories and being so vulnerable. My son has Treacher Collins Syndrome and I originally bought this book for him, not realizing how much I would relate to the emotions and stories. I loved the self-love activities incorporated throughout the book. Brilliant and inspiring. After reading this book, I bought more copies for friends and family. Everyone should read this book!

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn’t enjoy it! Quite repetitive and disjointed

[Michelle Kee · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I was in the internal war trying to fight this weird battle of not living for my needs but doing things that I felt I needed to do. Somewhere I had lost my values - too busy people-pleasing, world-pleasing, showing up every day for others but not myself and not always those that mattered."

Probably the biggest take home message for me. This book has been a major life-saver and a comforting hug. 🤍✨️

[Laurent · Rating 3 out of 5]

I appreciate this book’s uplifting message and insight into growing up with Treacher Collins syndrome.

But I feel like the structure and flow of the book is more like a random train of thoughts journal that sometimes abruptly change topics. A mix of journal, memoir and self-help book, makes it hard to delve deep into Jono’s life and the message he’s trying to convey.

Nevertheless, I appreciate it for what it’s trying to do.

[Norina · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a heartfelt guide to self-love. Jono truly wants his readers to accept themselves, and I admire his discipline in working towards his ideal body. His world was shaped by bars, parties, and chasing romance, which isn’t my scene, but that’s just the environment he came from. His message of self-acceptance is strong, and his determination is inspiring

[Lisa]

I got a copy of this from The Corn Exchange in Manchester after the author, Jono Lancaster kindly donated copies for his book launch. Thank you for sharing your story and showing the world how important it is to be your own hero!

[Jon F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a person with a facial difference, self confidence and self love issues, I loved this book and related to it in very intimate ways. It was an easy quick read for me and having met the author, I am grateful to him for writing this book.

[Claire Milne · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important, honest and thought provoking book.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

was disappointed at first as i thought it was a straightforward biog and it's a sort of self help book as well - but it worked really well. Recommended.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very honest and insightful

[Beth]

SFP 3/18/24. CML: uh, NO

[Izzy Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and honest insight into Jono's, although a little cringe and repetitive at times