No Free Lunch: One Man's Journey from Welfare to the American Dream

By Rodney Carroll and Gary Karton

"Everyone who is successful, regardless of age, race, or ethnicity, at some point in their lives received an opportunity. Someone believed in them enough to give them a chance."These are the words of... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0345452291
• ISBN13: 9780345452290
• Release Date: April 2002
• Publisher: One World/Ballantine
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 1.24 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 1.1" x 6.4"

Customer Reviews

long after I put the book down, the story remained with me

Awesome - I believe that Rodney, in the course of his remarkable career, has indeed changed our world for the better with his compassion and belief. I also truly believe this book should be a mandatory read in all high schools and colleges. It gives much food for thought, including the responsibility each of us has to help address and solve the welfare problem Corporate America is living today. Most of us know little about the demeaning lives the people on welfare are forced to live, or the almost impossible task of improving their lives and Rodney, through his telling of his own experiences exposes the readers to their plight. I found this book an endless source of inspiration for me as a pacifist and believer in justice and equality for all. Rodney's skillful representation of welfare today reminds me of the unforgettable words of the late Dr. Martin Luther King where he prophetically penned: "We cannot have an enlightened democracy with one great group living in ignorance...... We cannot have a nation orderly and sound with one group so ground down and thwarted that it is almost forced into unsocial attitudes and crime". Like Dr. King, Rodney has forever altered the consciousness of America, like Dr. King, Rodney understands that love of God and love of ourselves are the necessary first steps on the road to freedom.One of Rodney Carroll's greatest aspects is his commitment to his very own thoughts and thus, speaking his mind. He doesn't necessarily say what America's majority want to hear. That is why he is so phenomenal, so involved. His urgency in helping America's welfare recipients create themselves a better future, oppressed people world-wide; and his logical prioritising of human rights before civil rights, are evidential of his deep complex understanding of human nature. Rodney's searing story belongs on the small shelf of great autobiographies. The reasons are many: the blistering honesty with which he recounts his transformation from a black kid trying to survive in the ghetto's of America finest into the exemplary, courageous and articulate man he is today. His honest portrayal of his life is a morally uplifting story, but it is also a fun read. This book will make you think, laugh and cry. It is also one of the most entertaining stories I've ever read. I've read it twice and in a few years, another read will be time well spent. All will be enriched by this fascinating book. It's a MUST!!Rodney you're the BEST. Keep up the good work.

Many are called few are chosen

Rodney's book has sparked interest and attention. When one reads the book : you might wonder how could Rodney rise above his surroundings and overcome his roadblocks ? Well knowing Rodney for a number of years ; I've noticed that Rodney doesn't see roadblocks and has never fell victim to any of his apparently tough surroundings. He's a remarkable man with a gift. Everyone that has the opportunity to meet and share with him will notice this. He his :what success is meant to be. Rodney will enjoy tremenedous success because he always tries to share his good fortune.He truly believes that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. His calling is to make others great and he will never fail. I'm priviledged to know Rodney and call him friend.Rodney is a big man with a big mission-and anyone anywhere who can fellowship with him will leave inspired.Any corporation that has him will definitely excel.Any person that has Rodney as a friend is definitely blessed. Oprah,Tom Joyner,Tony Brown, and Rev Gray showcase this man................Wes Southall

INSPIRATIONAL

Mr. Carrolls' story is one of triumph and inspiration. I laughed and I cried. At one point I just wanted to give him a great big hug. I am a nurse in an inner city public elementary school and I know children who are starting out just as Mr. Carroll did and I hope I can in some way help to develop future success stories like Mr. Carroll. This is one of the best books I have ever had the pleasure to read.

A Must Read For Every Household: Humorous and Emotional

"No Free Lunch" is an exceptionally well-written, brilliantly-told story of a child's strong will, faith, determination, and never-ending dreams. It chronicles how a grandmother's love, patience and christian beliefs guided him along the path from abused child and welfare recipient, to accomplished adult. It is the story of the evolution and motivation of a man who, regardless of his obstacles, strives to remember where he came from by reaching out to others. Each chapter develops a different time, story and emotion. By the time you turn the last page, your heart will be captured and you will be transported back in time to recall a special person or people who may have influenced you and allowed you to dream of a better life. This story is inspiring and reminds us of the importance of faith, hard work, the belief in self and others.

Incredibly moving & inspirational; well-written

Despite having 2 young children I could not put this book down. This story made me laugh, cry and want to go out and give someone an opportunity. It reaffirmed by belief in the tenacity of the human spirit. It was a true pleasure to read. Thank you Mr. Carroll and Mr. Karton.