Cedric Jennings, the subject of the best selling novel “A Hope in the Unseen,” spoke to a capacity crowd last night at the Union Ballroom.

Jennings discussed his life story, answered questions, and gave words of encouragement to students.

“Everything was great,” said Jennings. “The energy here was incredible, people came ready to ask questions.”

Jennings began his speech by asking students if they had read any good books lately. What followed was a speech about his life experience that has been detailed in the novel written by Pulitzer Prize winner Ron Suskind.

“I would like to bring the book back to life,” Jennings said. Jennings detailed his struggles growing up in a poor Washington D.C. area. His single mother quit her job and went on welfare in order to be at home when he was young.

In high school Jennings attended a school known for violent outbursts by students. He described knife fights as being a common occurrence. Despite describing himself as troubled, Jennings excelled in his academics. Jennings was not afraid of letting his peers know about his academic achievements.

“I was very proud of being a straight A student,” Jennings said. “It made me a target. Other students accused me of trying to be white.”

Jennings also explored his years at Brown University. He spoke of his hard work and determination to succeed.

During his years at Brown, Suskind followed Jennings documenting his life for the book. Suskind followed him almost everywhere including on dates. The two developed a close relationship and Jennings is proud of the outcome.

“I think the most important dimension of the book is that anybody can pick it up and relate to it,” Jennings said.

Following the book, Jennings graduated from Harvard in June and is currently attending the University of Michigan. Jennings is studying for his Masters Degree in social work.

After his speech, Jennings stayed to sign copies of the book. Jennings also continued to field questions that students may have had.

“It was a very warm and supportive environment,” Jennings said. “I feel like I could come back and still be embraced. The students are great here.”

Jennings also spoke with students in afternoon sessions in a question and answer style format. Throughout the day Jennings spoke to around 1,200 students.

Despite the success and impact of the novel Jennings says there will be no follow up book. There may be another edition of the novel with a new afterword. A movie based on the book is currently in the works with Jennings and Suskind as creative consultants.