By Krystle J Bailey
I Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R., written by Kyle Austin, is celebrated as “amazing,” “genuine,” and “honest.”
One reader describes the 2022 memoir as “a great account of a young black man’s journey, navigating his life despite his adversity and setbacks.”
Kyle Austin of Atlantic City is now a successful personal trainer and author. Growing up, however, was an entirely different story. Facing homelessness at a young age, Kyle is no stranger to life’s struggles and darkness. The Pleasantville, New Jersey native has faced extraordinarily difficult circumstances throughout his life, from poverty and bullying to addiction and heartache. In spite of the trials and setbacks, Kyle has continued to persevere.
The unique format featured in I Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R. offers a conversational tone that breaks down big subjects into easily digestible chapters. In the book, Kyle has a conversation with himself in the mirror. The back-and-forth dialogue gives a glimpse into the heart and mind of Kyle Austin, the 35-year-old who quietly faced the cruelest sides of life as an adolescent.
“When I decided I wanted to tell my story, I wanted to make it simple for people to understand,” explains Austin. “I wanted it to be an easy read that was almost like a therapy session with myself in the mirror.”
Through the self-therapy session, Kyle reveals stories and experiences that he kept to himself for decades, from eviction notices at home to being bullied consistently throughout grade school. There is hope, though, as Kyle shares pivotal moments that helped him grow into the man that he is today. As the story transitions from childhood to young adulthood, the mirror version of Kyle dives deeper into each story, shining light into dark situations and further unpacking the feelings layered within the chapters. Kyle Austin learned to turn his pain into purpose and now spends his days helping others mentally, physically, and emotionally both as a personal trainer and a motivational author.
Fans of the book are highly anticipating Volume two of I Am ST.R.O.N.G.E.R. The next book takes the story further into Kyle’s adult life and the journey that led him to become the inspirational figure that he is today. On February 18th, 2023, author Kyle Austin will be hosting a Sip and Sign book release party for Volume 2 of his story. Everyone is invited to enjoy a live DJ, food, author signings, and more at The Compound, located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Both volumes of I Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R. will be available for purchase at the event.
Event details: February 18, 12:00-4:00 pm, 2547 Fire Rd, EHT
Keep up with Kyle Austin and upcoming book events on Instagram @iam_s.t.r.o.n.g.e.r.
