Overcoming All Odds: I Overcame Poverty, Illnesses, and Abuse

by Ron N. Reel Ph.D.

A memoir recalling the difficult circumstances of an itinerant family from Oklahoma, who settled in the agricultural fields of California, raising their ten children as best they could. One parent tried to keep the family together, but she developed heart problems and cancer, ultimately resulting in her early death. The other parent was an alcoholic and an abusive parent, who tore the family apart through his affairs, loss of wages, and mental and abusive parenting of the children. His success resulted from the activities of a pastor, his congregation, and a number of teachers who engendered a love for learning through drama, speech, and academic activities that allowed the author to climb out of poverty and gave him the opportunity to be accepted into college to change his fate. This book is for anyone who is facing difficult times; anyone who knows someone who is in the beginning of or the midst of family crisis; anyone who likes to see the "good guy" succeed against all odds

226 pages, Paperback

Published March 10, 2025

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the book to be mildly interesting. I did not find the book to be inspiring (sorry). Since the author was a teacher, I was surprised at how often commas were misused. The book would benefit from better editing and more detail. Many of the sentences/thoughts sounded stilted to me. Seemed very cliche at times. Still, a light read and was interesting to hear what things were like back when Reel was in school.

[Nathan Escobar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great piece of work from a childhood trauma and torment survivor. What could easily have left him scarred for life, gave him the strength to inspire people like him to fight.

[Mindy Santos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awe inspiring account of events. I loved how the author unfolds his life onto paper with credibility and passion for life.

[Joanne Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘What doesn’t break us makes us stronger’. This saying could not be more true and apt than for Reel, enough said!

[Tayna Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful life compilation. I usually don’t go for memoirs or autobiographies as I find them quite self-indulgent but this book proved me wrong. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

[Yadiel Mcdaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a source of motivation and hope for all those out there going through difficulties in life and are at the verge of giving up.

[Kianna Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

For all those who are struggling to keep their heads above water, get this book and give it an honest read.

[Kara Barr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy read

Great story of a young mans trials and the stigma of being impoverished. Ron stayed the course and made good.