Sparrow in the Razor Wire

Quan Huynh

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In 1999, Quan Huynh shot and killed another man in a gang-related incident in Hollywood, California. He received a prison sentence of fifteen years to life in a state that, at the time, did not parole prisoners with life sentences. Behind bars, Quan continued his downward spiral.

This could have been the end of the story for Quan, as it is for many prisoners. But somewhere along the way, he discovered a new path—one that prompted him to commit to self-reflection, truth, and personal responsibility.

Sparrow in the Razor Wire is Quan’s story of transformation inside a place many see as the end of the road. In his book, he shares the journey of redemption and discovery that led to his ultimate freedom. He found that, no matter the prison, the key to unlocking the door is in each one of us.

Press & Praise

Bryan Stevenson, executive director, Equal Justice Initiative and author of #1 New York Times bestseller, Just Mercy

"Redemption is one of the most powerful forces on Earth. If you have doubts, Quan Huynh's courageous, brutally honest, and compelling memoir is some of the best evidence you'll find."

Tucker Max, 4x New York Times bestselling author

"The first time I heard Quan speak, my jaw literally dropped. I could not believe his courage and vulnerability. I have only become more impressed with him as I've gotten to know him. His book is an incredible story of resilience, compassion, and hope from a man I am proud to call a friend. I can't recommend his story enough."

Earlonne Woods, co-creator and co-host of the Pulitzer Prize Finalist podcast, Ear Hustle, and former life-term prisoner

"Quan's story illustrates a lifelong process of identity formation--from a child finding his place in the world, to a gang member trying to improve his social standing and self-respect, to a convicted murderer learning to thrive within the rules of prison culture, and finally to a curious and humble person working to improve his own life and the lives of others."

Quan Huynh

Quan Huynh has been described as a mighty warrior, a magician, and a mountain of goodness. He is the post-release program manager for Defy Ventures, a nonprofit helping those with a criminal past transform their lives through the journey of entrepreneurship.

After spending twenty-two years in and out of correctional institutions, Quan was paroled from a life sentence in 2015 and created his first company six months later. The following year, he received the Peace Fellowship Award for his work with the Alternatives to Violence Project. Quan has been featured in Entrepreneur, spoken at One Last Talk, and has appeared on several podcasts.

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