‘Live or Die Tryin,’ Ammi’s memoir of resilience, fight against injustice

After surviving a wrongful 16-year prison term, Yahkhahnahn Ammi came up with a series memoir titled, “Live Or Die Tryin.”

The series chronicles Ammis’ journey from his harrowing prison experience to the ongoing legal and social battles that have defined his life. Central in his story is the systematic attempt to silence, discredit and destroy him —a conspiracy, he alleges, is spearheaded by his ex-wife and her co-conspirators.

Profound and inspiring accounts of the activist’s time and life in prison, the books explore themes that include resilience, life transformation, redemption, freedom, forgiveness and healing.

The books raise questions about the United States of America’s domestic human rights laws and justice system, especially as it kicks against all forms of abuses across the globe.

Sentenced to a 16-year term by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), Ammi’s stories stand out as one of the most shocking and inspiring tales of survival in 21st-century American society. The memoirs chronicle his profound personal evolution, overcoming staggering odds from prison to earning a Ph.D. and his ability to move ahead.

The author’s journey is also fueled by his passion for promoting literacy among the youth and advocating for social justice, which has added depth and purpose to his revealing and heart-touching story.  The transformation started for the US citizen of African descent when he undergoes a profound internal change that led to a spiritual rebirth for him.

As he navigates the challenges of incarceration, he discovers a newfound sense of purpose and determination to not only survive but to thrive to excel. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the darkest of circumstances.  Upon his release, Ammi faces the harsh realities of homelessness, yet he refuses to be defined by his circumstances.

With unwavering resolve, he embarks on a quest for education, ultimately achieving the remarkable feat of earning a Ph.D. Despite the immense challenges, Ammi’s unwavering commitment to freedom, forgiveness and healing is accentuated in every page.  Commenting on his change he notes: “Live or Die Tryin III” is more than a memoir: it is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and emerge stronger in life.” Published by PDG Publishing firm in the USA, the 160-page book, hit international book markets in August 21, 2024.

The story of Ammi, at just 14, sentenced to a 16-year term in an adult prison for a crime he did not commit will surely hold readers spellbound. This comes when the prison term was a punishment far harsher for someone of his age in a country that claims to be God’s own country. The story showcases the imperfection in the American judiciary and crime investigation, as it could be seen in the memoirs of how the real offender shifted the blame of the crime to Ammi, while he secures lighter sentences, yet the criminal investigation fails to uncover this.

The memoirs serve as an inspiration to all who have faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, reminding us that with faith, determination and perseverance, anything is possible.  Born Perrie (Par-ree) Daniell in Brooklyn, (Illinois), USA, the author later changed his name to Yahkhahnahn Ammis to reflect his new lifestyle. After his release, he built a new life—married and becomes a father and, even, earned a Ph.D.   However, his personal struggles continued, as he found himself embroiled in a bitter custody battle following a tumultuous divorce. Ammi’s belief in Black nationalism has placed him at the forefront of both personal and political battles, often at great personal cost.Explaining his stand, he discloses that he frames his experience through what Bryan Allen describes as the “Four Ds: Dismiss, Discredit, Demonize and Destroy.

“From the moment I spoke out against systemic oppression, I was labelled a ‘radical,’ ‘murderer’ and  ‘rapist.’ Cancel culture was wielded against me, erasing my contributions and diminishing the impact of my work. Yet, I refused to be silenced.”

Despite the uphill task, the author’s never-say-die spirit keeps urging him to forge ahead.

“The liberation struggle is worth any price,” he declares, adding that, “Live or Die Tryin series” are testament to his relentless perseverance, especially as they serve as inspiring reminders of the power of resistance in the face of overwhelming odds.    Through his story, Ammi urges others to continue the fight for justice, no matter the personal cost.The memoirs are more than mere recounting of personal pains, but rather a call to action against systemic injustice.

As his voice grows louder across global media space, demystifying the ugly image his attackers have painted his person, the real pictures of his attackers will be known and the truth about his ordeal will come to the fore.   Ammi is not only a multifaceted individual but also an activist and a human rights advocate.   He is a US national of Moorish and African descent.