Happy Place Books flies away with Lancaster’s inspiring memoir Not All Heroes Wear Capes

Happy Place Books has signed campaigner Jonathan Lancaster’s inspiring debut memoir Not All Heroes Wear Capes, “the incredible story of how one young man found happiness by embracing his differences".

Publishing director Laura Higginson bought world language rights directly from the author, for publication on 20th July 2023.

Lancaster, founder of the charity Love Me Love My Face, was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects his facial appearance. Growing up, he experienced many hurdles in life relating to how he was perceived and treated by others. He had no relatable role models to look up to and help him make sense of the world.

So, the publisher says, he became his own advocate, the role model he wished he could have had as a kid – his own hero. “Now Jono is a charity founder, public speaker and powerful voice for inclusivity and acceptance online. He regularly travels the world and is now a hero to thousands of children and families within the craniofacial community and beyond. He is committed to sharing his experiences to build a confident, happy new generation of heroes.”

The publisher says that “no matter what you look like, this book is for anyone who has ever felt ‘out of place’,” adding: “In his inspiring debut memoir, Jono shares his remarkable story and how he has come to find true happiness. Along the way, he includes prompts to encourage self-kindness, acceptance and self-belief, so that readers, too, can become their own heroes. His message is this: it is possible, no matter how hard it may seem, to find strength and happiness in our differences. The lessons and guidance this heart-warming memoir shares are for everyone.”

Lancaster said: “As I’ve shared my journey, my experiences and the things I’ve learnt throughout the years, people from all over the world, from all backgrounds, have said ‘Jono, I needed to hear you speak today, thank you’. I never truly know what impact my words have on those individuals, but I do know that they mean it. So, when writing my book, I wanted to create that same connection between the reader and myself. Throughout this book, I’m raw, open and vulnerable as we go on a journey together to find the true epic hero that you can be too!"

Higginson added: “Jono is one of the most positive and kind people I’ve ever had the privilege to meet. He is a true force for good and a refreshing new voice. Our team is so proud to publish his story and to introduce more people to his life-changing outlook.”