Pushing Hope: An Illustrated Memoir of Survival

Ages 14 And Up, Grades 9 And Up

One of the Central Park Five reflects on his wrongful conviction—and tireless fight for his 2002 exoneration—in this moving young adult illustrated memoir.

Raymond Santana’s story is an example to teens of the power of hope and resilience—and the importance of fighting injustice to stand up for what’s right.

When Raymond Santana was just 14, he was accused of a crime he didn’t commit. The 1989 rape of a jogger in Central Park was pinned on Santana and four other young teens, a tragedy that would change their lives forever.

In this powerful illustrated memoir, Raymond Santana takes readers on a journey from his move to Harlem, to his arrest and trial, and from his time in prison to his ongoing fight for justice. Exonerated in 2002, Santana has made it his mission to fight wrongful convictions and injustice. What has sustained him and given him the strength for that fight, is his creativity—art and fashion have always been a refuge and a source of hope.

Teaming up with celebrated artist Keith Henry Brown, Raymond Santana shows in vivid color how one can survive by pushing a message of hope.

Story Locale:New York City, particularly Manhattan, Harlem and the Bronx; New York juvenile facilities; Riker's Island.

About the Author

Raymond Santana is an author, designer, and activist. He currently travels around the country telling his story of hope and overcoming obstacles as he continues to fight against the inequities of the American justice system. Santana also owns the clothing company Park Madison NYC (ParkMadisonNYC.com), named after his hometown of New York. He currently lives in Harlem and is running for a New York City Council seat representing District 8.

Author Residence: New York, NY

Author Hometown: New York, NY

Keith Henry Brown began his artistic career in comics, went on to pursue painting, and later became creative director for Jazz at Lincoln Center. He has illustrated many award-winning children’s books and album covers for prominent jazz musicians as well as created posters for Jazz Appreciation Month for the Museum of American History. The father of two sons, he lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Illustrator Residence:Brooklyn, NY