ABC/Randy Holmes(NEW YORK) — Mike Epps is jumping into the book world with his latest project, Unsuccessful Thug: One Comedian’s Journey from Naptown to Tinseltown.

In his memoir, Epps chronicles his early beginnings in Indianapolis, his struggles with the law, and how he ended up turning his life around from drug dealer to comedian and actor. Epps tells ABC Radio his motivation behind writing his book was simply to encourage others.

“I did write it so that I could inspire some children,” Epps says. “Because, you know, there’s a lot of platforms for kids — for people promoting education and people promoting — which is great, I love it. But, there is no platform for a voice to talk to at-risk children and kids who need a second chance — a redemption chance. “

Epps, who admits he too was an at-risk youth growing up, says it’s important that kids with similar experiences know that there’s more out there than just living the street life.

“There’s so many kids out there [who are] up against a lot of odds,” he says. “They just don’t have the help to make it. So to read a book like this I think it will help kids say, ‘You know what, I can make it, too. You know this is a story that I can relate to. This is a story that will make me not want to give up. This is a story that will keep me positive.’ And that’s why I wrote it. So that someone can read it and change their life.”

Mike Epps’ Unsuccessful Thug: One Comedian’s Journey from Naptown to Tinseltown is now available online.

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