Memoir
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here
The Kid Who Paid the Paperboy in Bubblegum
Memories of Detroit, a fresh start in Houston, a life in hairdressing, and the unexpected turns that shape a life.
Find the memoir on AmazonThe life behind the books
About Tony Hatty
Author, hairstylist and salon owner. A life shaped by creativity, family, laughter and the courage to start again.
From Detroit to Houston
Tony Hatty grew up in Detroit, the youngest of seven children. One childhood memory—paying the paperboy in bubblegum—would later become the subtitle of his memoir.
In 1981, Tony moved to Houston with a dream of building a new life. He spent his first week living in his car before finding his footing in the salon industry.
Over more than four decades as a hairstylist and salon owner, Tony built a career around creativity, client relationships and helping others grow. His journey also took him to Traverse City, Michigan, where he owned a salon for five years, before returning to Houston.
His salon history includes Tony Hatty’s Positive Image.
A career recognized in print
Tony received American Salon’s 1987 Hair Stylist of the Year Award. His original plaque honors design excellence, creativity and outstanding achievement in professional salon hair styling.
American Salon’s letters and magazine coverage document this chapter of his career. Tony also recalls magazine features in Japan and Mexico and an appearance in John McCormack’s book Self-Made in America.
Much of that recognition happened before the modern internet. Tony kept the original materials, and is now sharing his history online.
See the award and original documentsFamily, laughter and second chances
Tony’s story reaches beyond his work. His memoir brings together family memories, friendships, starting over and three encounters with death that deepened his gratitude for life. The words “You’re not supposed to be here,” spoken during his recovery from sepsis, became the title of his book.
Books by Tony Hatty
Personal experience & practical guidance
Low-Carb Diet After 60
The Simple Guide to Losing Belly Fat, Preserving Muscle, and Staying Strong for Life
Tony shares his personal journey with low-carb eating and intermittent fasting after 60, alongside practical topics on food and staying active.
Find the book on AmazonBiography based on Tony Hatty’s recollections and personal archive. Original American Salon materials are available on the award history page.