The Man Who Never Met A Stranger

by John R. Dolan

In his third book, The Man Who Never Met A Stranger, author Reverend John R. Dolan combines the love and spirituality that infuse his other works to create not only an homage to his friend, Frank Nicholson, but also a model for readers who would love to succeed at their own endeavours. Frank Nicholson's unstoppable positive attitude as well as his humor and grace motivated and inspired the author so much that he decided to write his friend's life story to share with the world. From his birth just before World War II in England, through his employment in Nigeria during the Biafran conflict and Nigeria's Civil War, to the founding of the new American HMO system in the vast and complex Chicago Blue Cross and Blue Shield Organization, Frank Nicholson never met a stranger... His attitude and inspiration influenced many other people besides his good friend, the author, John R. Dolan. As we follow Frank Nicholson in his travels around the world, we learn even more about the quality of this unique human being, qualities that, according to the author, will encourage others to follow their hearts, keep smiling, and live life in a generous and compassionate manner.

202 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2016

Reviews

[Temple Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Man Who Never Met a Stranger” by John Richard Dolan is a extraordinary, true story of a “non-stop” human being who has treated life as an adventure and work as an exploration of excellence. My wife and I have been fortunate enough to know the object of this story: Frank Edward Elliot Nicholson. He is “the man who never met a stranger,” a lifelong friend who greets this difficult world with an intelligent, welcoming, sometimes wry smile of familiarity. From the war-torn nations of West Africa to the organization and underpinnings of America’s Blue Cross, Mr. Nicholson’s personality and moral and ethical strength has made our world a better place. And he still found time to become a world-class marathoner, travel the globe, and cherish his wonderful wife, Kerstin, for 45 years. Oh, and the horses, thoroughbreds, that (like him) made it into the Winner’s Circle. There appears to be very little in life that Frank Nicholson has not done, although he’s still examining the world’s nooks and crannies for more adventure. This book is worth reading, not simply for the story, but for the deeper lessons in how to enjoy a life extremely well-lived. – Temple Emmet Williams, former editor at the Reader’s Digest, award-winning author.

[Patricia Coughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true role model

Frank's story needs to be told. He exemplifies admirable characteristics which are too often missing today. He values diversity and mutual respect (part of the culture at HCSC - the parent of BCBS IL and TX where he worked). He also stayed positive and adventurous in the face of challenges. He has a can do attitude. I would love to see how he maneuvers through his 80's and 90's. He is an inspiration. I often remember his gentle warning to my coworker and me when we grabbed scrumptious desserts at a BCBS event. We ate them but I skip dessert more often now. Perhaps someone can pick up his story where John left off. Hope so!

[Tom Caporaso · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story about a man that lived a full and non stop life. He was never afraid to face new challenges with class and dignity including putting his life at risk to save others.
A true inspiration not to accept the status quo.