My Name Is Why

At seventeen, Norman Greenwood discovers his true identity as Lemn Sissay through his birth certificate. His journey begins with a childhood spent in foster care and six years in care homes. He learns about his Ethiopian heritage and the struggles of his mother, who sought to reclaim him since birth. This memoir explores themes of neglect, resilience, race, and the quest for belonging. Sissay reflects on his experiences within the institutional care system and what it means to find home and family.