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A Pocketful of Holes and Dreams
The poor boy who made his fortune . . . not just once but twice. Little Jeff Pearce grew up in a post-war Liverpool slum. His father lived the life of an affluent gentleman whilst his mother was forced to steal bread to feed her starving children. Life was tough and from the moment Jeff could walk he learned to go door to door, begging rags from the rich, which he sold down the markets. Leaving school at the age of fourteen, he embarked on an extraordinary journey, and found himself, before the age of thirty, a millionaire. Then, after a cruel twist of fate left him penniless, he, his wife and children were forced out of their beautiful home. With nothing but holes in his pockets, Jeff had no alternative but to go back down the markets and start all over again. Did he still have what it took? Could he really get back everything he had lost? A Pocketful of Holes and Dreams is the heartwarming true story of a little boy who had nothing but gained everything and proof that, sometimes, rags can be turned into riches . . .
- GenresBiographyNonfiction
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First published January 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 8, 2018
Could not put this book down, simply written, factual, story of Rags to Riches and back again and again.
March 2, 2019
Really enjoyed this true story, funny, sad, a book I just wanted to keep reading. Worth more than 5 stars
January 22, 2018
This was s fabulous book would highly recommend this book to everyone
It was by far the best book I have read in a long time so I give it five stars
It was by far the best book I have read in a long time so I give it five stars
July 24, 2022
This autobiography was an excellent read. From poverty and struggle to fame and fortune. I did not know anything about Jeff Pearce until I read his incredible life. Considering that he spent most of his life without the ability to read or write, he surprisingly managed to write a very well written story. He was born in 1953 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. He had a difficult childhood, with an absent drunken father and a poor family. In school, he struggled a lot to point that some of his teachers gave up on him and thought that he will be a failure in life. He did not learn to write or read until he passed 50 years in age !
However, he did have one advantage… A very caring and patient mother. His mother believed in him when everybody lost faith in him, always encouraging him and protecting him. She struggled a lot to provide for her children and did everything to care for them. Jeff brings a very touching story from his childhood when he remembers that his mother had to steal some food to feed her children. In doing that, she was caught by the police and went through a very mental experience. I quote the story here because it probably represents many similar poor families that had to go through the same hardship:
There was a policeman standing next to my mum’s chair. He looked at me sitting on Mum’s lap and asked her, ‘Have you no shame? Theft is a very serious crime, even if it is only a loaf of bread….
Then she groaned as the shame of it hit her. ‘Has it come to this?’ she cried out. ‘Having to steal a loaf of bread to feed my children? What in heaven have I done? The neighbours …’ She knew that within ten minutes of our leaving the store everybody from streets around would know what had happened. They would have something new to gossip about, …
My poor little mum. She must have felt so mortified knowing she had brought shame to our home. It was almost too much for her to bear. She broke down, weeping for the longest time…
Jeff in return loved his mother so much and was her favorite son. Whatever money he gained as young, he gave it to his mother. In the book, it almost felt that it is an autobiography of his mother. He spoke about his mother so much even after she died. Indeed, the book was written in the memory of her: In loving memory of Elsie, my mother, for having given me the greatest gift a son could ever wish for.
Jeff talked about the death of his mother of cancer and describe it in a very touching manner. His mother told him before she died that he will be famous and rich, and that’s what happen at the end. Good fortune accompanied him throughout his life, just like what his mother said. He kept saying in the book that his mother was looking after him even after she died. At the end, he became a successful fashion cloths seller and managed to make of himself a millionaire.
Although, Jeff is not very very famous, his life worth reading as it has many lessons. His struggle, persistence, and risk taking will certainly teach the reader something about life.
Highly recommended Book.
However, he did have one advantage… A very caring and patient mother. His mother believed in him when everybody lost faith in him, always encouraging him and protecting him. She struggled a lot to provide for her children and did everything to care for them. Jeff brings a very touching story from his childhood when he remembers that his mother had to steal some food to feed her children. In doing that, she was caught by the police and went through a very mental experience. I quote the story here because it probably represents many similar poor families that had to go through the same hardship:
There was a policeman standing next to my mum’s chair. He looked at me sitting on Mum’s lap and asked her, ‘Have you no shame? Theft is a very serious crime, even if it is only a loaf of bread….
Then she groaned as the shame of it hit her. ‘Has it come to this?’ she cried out. ‘Having to steal a loaf of bread to feed my children? What in heaven have I done? The neighbours …’ She knew that within ten minutes of our leaving the store everybody from streets around would know what had happened. They would have something new to gossip about, …
My poor little mum. She must have felt so mortified knowing she had brought shame to our home. It was almost too much for her to bear. She broke down, weeping for the longest time…
Jeff in return loved his mother so much and was her favorite son. Whatever money he gained as young, he gave it to his mother. In the book, it almost felt that it is an autobiography of his mother. He spoke about his mother so much even after she died. Indeed, the book was written in the memory of her: In loving memory of Elsie, my mother, for having given me the greatest gift a son could ever wish for.
Jeff talked about the death of his mother of cancer and describe it in a very touching manner. His mother told him before she died that he will be famous and rich, and that’s what happen at the end. Good fortune accompanied him throughout his life, just like what his mother said. He kept saying in the book that his mother was looking after him even after she died. At the end, he became a successful fashion cloths seller and managed to make of himself a millionaire.
Although, Jeff is not very very famous, his life worth reading as it has many lessons. His struggle, persistence, and risk taking will certainly teach the reader something about life.
Highly recommended Book.
March 4, 2024
This book is sooo Underrated. This autobiography is hands down one of the best books I've had the pleasure of reading this year. It's a story of Jeff Pearce who despite suffering from dyslexia since childhood, defies all odds to become a self-made millionaire in post-war Liverpool, not just ones but two times.
Jeff Pearce's story is nothing short of inspirational. From growing up in a slum to starting his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 8 by selling clothes in the market with his mum, Pearce's hardwork and determination shine throughout the book. He tries everything imaginable to support his family, whether delivering grocieriers to his neighbor every week, to selling clothes in the market at the small age of 8, teaching polo, working as Gofer and what not, facing setbacks and challenges along the way.
One of the most heart-wrenching moments in the book is the conversation between Pearce and his mother on the night before her passing. It's moment that touches your heart deeply, making you feel the immense love and sacrifices made by those closest to you, no matter what. Salute to his Mother Mrs. Elsie pearce who grew Jeff in a rough environment and in a rough household protecting him from the world and making him who he is,
Pearce's sharp wit and his honesty leave a lasting impression, that helps him in his journey "Honesty is indeed the best policy" . His dedication to providing his family with a better life than his own is truly admirable. And nor forgetting his supporting wife Mrs.Gina Pearce who helped him buid him business twice, supporting him in tough times. We all need these kind of partners in our lives to be succesfull, Jeff's really one lucky guy.
You are right Jeff our loved ones always watch us over from heaven and in time of hardships they are the one who kepp suporting and motivating us.
This book made me realize how strong people can be when they face tough times. Pearce's story shows that if you keep going and stay true to who you are, you can overcome anything. It's a great read for anyone who needs a boost of motivation and a reminder that no matter how hard things get, you can push through. A solid 5/5.
Jeff Pearce's story is nothing short of inspirational. From growing up in a slum to starting his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 8 by selling clothes in the market with his mum, Pearce's hardwork and determination shine throughout the book. He tries everything imaginable to support his family, whether delivering grocieriers to his neighbor every week, to selling clothes in the market at the small age of 8, teaching polo, working as Gofer and what not, facing setbacks and challenges along the way.
One of the most heart-wrenching moments in the book is the conversation between Pearce and his mother on the night before her passing. It's moment that touches your heart deeply, making you feel the immense love and sacrifices made by those closest to you, no matter what. Salute to his Mother Mrs. Elsie pearce who grew Jeff in a rough environment and in a rough household protecting him from the world and making him who he is,
Pearce's sharp wit and his honesty leave a lasting impression, that helps him in his journey "Honesty is indeed the best policy" . His dedication to providing his family with a better life than his own is truly admirable. And nor forgetting his supporting wife Mrs.Gina Pearce who helped him buid him business twice, supporting him in tough times. We all need these kind of partners in our lives to be succesfull, Jeff's really one lucky guy.
You are right Jeff our loved ones always watch us over from heaven and in time of hardships they are the one who kepp suporting and motivating us.
This book made me realize how strong people can be when they face tough times. Pearce's story shows that if you keep going and stay true to who you are, you can overcome anything. It's a great read for anyone who needs a boost of motivation and a reminder that no matter how hard things get, you can push through. A solid 5/5.
September 12, 2018
A blast from the past !
By chance after visiting a prestige car event near Chester we were returning home when we past a reclamation yard close to the Cheshire Polo Club ground . My partner asked me to turn around and let her visit the establishment. I did as requested and suddenly had a premonition that I would find an old friend from the clothing industry there . I told my friend what had h a happened and she told me not to be silly .
A young lady approached us and a s ked if we required help. Not deterred I asked I f Jeff Pearce had anything to do with this business and when she replied yes I was
speechless .Over there she cried out and seeing the back of a man with red hair I shouted out Jeff, turned and immediately mentioned my name.
Some 20 years earlier I met Jeff in the days of Tickled Pink and recognised that he was someone special and invited him to accompany me to China .The firm that I was working with at the time were specialists in sourcing clothing from there and I saw a synergy between Jeff's business what we could do for him . We went together and spent a few days establishing a rapor, but sadly my Directors did not share my vision.
I resigned my engagement out of principle ,perhaps letting my disappointment rule .Now having resumed the connection and read his book ( with great pleasure and admiration ) I can only salute Jeff and recognise Gina his wife for being his rock, approving in the end not once but twice and now for perhaps a third time that they are special and blessed
"Well done old friend" seems inadequate to sum up what I want to put on record here !
A privilege to have known you and another to read your book _ Highly recommended as a true story and a guide to us all that tenacity and determination in the face of whatever adversity can and does win through in the end .
By chance after visiting a prestige car event near Chester we were returning home when we past a reclamation yard close to the Cheshire Polo Club ground . My partner asked me to turn around and let her visit the establishment. I did as requested and suddenly had a premonition that I would find an old friend from the clothing industry there . I told my friend what had h a happened and she told me not to be silly .
A young lady approached us and a s ked if we required help. Not deterred I asked I f Jeff Pearce had anything to do with this business and when she replied yes I was
speechless .Over there she cried out and seeing the back of a man with red hair I shouted out Jeff, turned and immediately mentioned my name.
Some 20 years earlier I met Jeff in the days of Tickled Pink and recognised that he was someone special and invited him to accompany me to China .The firm that I was working with at the time were specialists in sourcing clothing from there and I saw a synergy between Jeff's business what we could do for him . We went together and spent a few days establishing a rapor, but sadly my Directors did not share my vision.
I resigned my engagement out of principle ,perhaps letting my disappointment rule .Now having resumed the connection and read his book ( with great pleasure and admiration ) I can only salute Jeff and recognise Gina his wife for being his rock, approving in the end not once but twice and now for perhaps a third time that they are special and blessed
"Well done old friend" seems inadequate to sum up what I want to put on record here !
A privilege to have known you and another to read your book _ Highly recommended as a true story and a guide to us all that tenacity and determination in the face of whatever adversity can and does win through in the end .
May 18, 2021
Loved this book, took me back to visiting the Markets with my Mum and Nan. A most heartwarming rags to riches, back to rags and the fight to get back to riches. Jeff worked like a trojan to acquire his Girl Talk and Kids Talk empire, a lovely home and a place among the country set when recession hit and he lost the lot. Not one to take this lying down, he went back to his humble beginnings and returned to The Markets, and made good once again.Having won "The Independent Womenswear Retailer" category, he went on to win "The Gold award for the Independent Retailer of the year".
Jeff had battled with Dyslexia from first starting school, and with the help of written notes relating to memories published this book for friends after 51 rejections from publishers then got a phone call to say someone wanted to publish his book. He has an indomitable tenacity which saw him through whatever he turned his hand to.
Jeff had battled with Dyslexia from first starting school, and with the help of written notes relating to memories published this book for friends after 51 rejections from publishers then got a phone call to say someone wanted to publish his book. He has an indomitable tenacity which saw him through whatever he turned his hand to.
February 1, 2018
Wow! Amazing "rags to riches" story!
I don't often write reviews on the books I read, but felt compelled to write just a few words for this one. Jeff's story is certainly one that convinced me as the reader that even with the "disability" of not being able to read and write, with hard work; a lot of perseverance; family and friends who love and believe in you around you; you can become very successful and achieve your dreams! I couldn't put it down and read it in 3 afternoons!
I don't often write reviews on the books I read, but felt compelled to write just a few words for this one. Jeff's story is certainly one that convinced me as the reader that even with the "disability" of not being able to read and write, with hard work; a lot of perseverance; family and friends who love and believe in you around you; you can become very successful and achieve your dreams! I couldn't put it down and read it in 3 afternoons!
January 1, 2019
Absolutely loved this book. It is written beautifully, and gives a true account of someone who has lead a fascinating life, working hard to become the best at his game, to loose it all, and to get it all back again through hard work and determination. It gives an underlying message to anyone that it doesn't matter where you start off in life, if you work hard and don't give up, you can make it. I actually found this book really inspiring towards the end. A tale of a boy who was deemed to be a nobody, but ended up being somebody. Overcoming huge obstacles. I could hardly put the book down!
March 12, 2019
Inspirational.
Truly inspirational. Very enjoyable read, in the face of adversity determination and hard work follow. I remember the recession and like Jeff we lost a great deal including our home. A divorce later and two children under five I knew there was only one way to go. Up. I decided that my kids needed me to be a survivor and we are all still here to tell the tale. Thanks Jeff from one who has faced adversity and come out the other side. Never give up is the best advice I can give people depend on yu.
Truly inspirational. Very enjoyable read, in the face of adversity determination and hard work follow. I remember the recession and like Jeff we lost a great deal including our home. A divorce later and two children under five I knew there was only one way to go. Up. I decided that my kids needed me to be a survivor and we are all still here to tell the tale. Thanks Jeff from one who has faced adversity and come out the other side. Never give up is the best advice I can give people depend on yu.
December 21, 2025
By chance I met the author of this book and his wife last Sunday. As he told me his story of how his wife helped him hide his inability to read and write as they worked their way up through the fashion retail industry I was brought to tears. I immediately went home and bought the audio edition of this book. I was hooked on it all week and have just finished it in less than a week since meeting Jeff & Gina. It has made me laugh,cry and feel inspired. I highly recommend listening to the audio version of this heartwarming book as the narration is excellent.
September 3, 2017
An excellent read
Inspirational tale of hard work and determination that took a young lad from the slums of Liverpool to millionaire status. Incredible considering that Jeff Pearce could barely read or write . A story that emphasizes the ups and downs of life and a determined effort to fight back when things get tough showed courage. It tells the story of a devoted family man who made it big in the world of independent fashion retail . A very readable book throughout .
Inspirational tale of hard work and determination that took a young lad from the slums of Liverpool to millionaire status. Incredible considering that Jeff Pearce could barely read or write . A story that emphasizes the ups and downs of life and a determined effort to fight back when things get tough showed courage. It tells the story of a devoted family man who made it big in the world of independent fashion retail . A very readable book throughout .
January 4, 2018
A brilliant book, i didn't want it to end. The best book I've read ,what a amazing life i loved it . i take my hat of to you and your family Jeff .well done to you all xc
A brilliant book, I didn't want it to end. The best book I've read, what a amazing life. I loved your book. I take my hat off to you and your family Jeff .well done to you all , total amazing and beautiful written. Xx
A brilliant book, I didn't want it to end. The best book I've read, what a amazing life. I loved your book. I take my hat off to you and your family Jeff .well done to you all , total amazing and beautiful written. Xx
September 20, 2020
Beautifully written. Life story of Jeff Pearce.
It is beautifully written. The beauty of this book is that it is written in simple way. You do not need to put efforts to understand the writing and complexities of scenes.
From Rags to Riches category is foreign to me. This probably is first one I have read. And the fact that it is based on true story of writer makes it more amazing.
You would finish this book in days, let alone weeks even if you are slow reader. Does not get boring at any point in time.
Highly recommended.
It is beautifully written. The beauty of this book is that it is written in simple way. You do not need to put efforts to understand the writing and complexities of scenes.
From Rags to Riches category is foreign to me. This probably is first one I have read. And the fact that it is based on true story of writer makes it more amazing.
You would finish this book in days, let alone weeks even if you are slow reader. Does not get boring at any point in time.
Highly recommended.
January 17, 2018
It is one of the books that you can't put down. Chapters after chapters it gets more interesting and surprising. Jeff is gifted with such a creative mind. One thing this book taught me is that you should never give up on your dream even if all odds are against you and hard work always pays off. I would recommend it to any keen reader especially someone who is searching for a spark to life.
March 12, 2018
Great read
I have enjoyed every moment of this book. I suffer with dyslexia myself though not as severely and it just go so show finding your niche you can achieve. Some of the narrations remind me of stories that dad tells us when he was young. Great job and thank you for sharing
I have enjoyed every moment of this book. I suffer with dyslexia myself though not as severely and it just go so show finding your niche you can achieve. Some of the narrations remind me of stories that dad tells us when he was young. Great job and thank you for sharing
June 17, 2018
Brilliant and inspiring!
I chose this rating because the book was hard to put down. I wanted to know what happened next. Whether inspiration for business or just a read for leisure , this book was a pleasure to read. The last episode reminder me of the series Mr Selfridge, except Jeff was successful at the end. Would absolutely recommend.
I chose this rating because the book was hard to put down. I wanted to know what happened next. Whether inspiration for business or just a read for leisure , this book was a pleasure to read. The last episode reminder me of the series Mr Selfridge, except Jeff was successful at the end. Would absolutely recommend.
June 19, 2023
Inspiringly told and very well delivered. The author's true tale of going from extreme poverty to enviable riches will give hope to those who are not trapped in a class system. Jeff Pearce came of age at just the right time in the history of the United Kingdom.
I like how he attributes all of his success to his darling, self-motivated, industrious mom
I like how he attributes all of his success to his darling, self-motivated, industrious mom
October 29, 2017
What a read
I ran my own business for 15 years until struck by illness. I now work for someone else but would love to set up on my own again. This book has given me the hope that it is achievable if I believe. Well written and inspirational.
I ran my own business for 15 years until struck by illness. I now work for someone else but would love to set up on my own again. This book has given me the hope that it is achievable if I believe. Well written and inspirational.
November 22, 2017
Excellent
I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was an astonishing insight into the rag trade and business in general. Life's struggles and frustrations overcome by ambition and hard work
I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was an astonishing insight into the rag trade and business in general. Life's struggles and frustrations overcome by ambition and hard work
April 24, 2018
A good read, and an amazing life story of a rags to riches .
Rags to riches story, interesting and an compelling read. Just shows that hard work really does pay off if you try hard enough
Rags to riches story, interesting and an compelling read. Just shows that hard work really does pay off if you try hard enough
October 29, 2019
Inspiring and interesting story.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, I could not put it down. I was not aware it was a biography until near the end. My son is dyslexic and similar to you kept going and is a brilliant motor mechanic and we are very oriud.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, I could not put it down. I was not aware it was a biography until near the end. My son is dyslexic and similar to you kept going and is a brilliant motor mechanic and we are very oriud.
February 21, 2020
This book was a joy to read. It is so uplifting to read a book about someone with such optimism and drive. Sure, he has had some good luck along the way, but it was inspiring to read such an honest life story.
March 11, 2020
Brilliant story of grit and determination and love
A inspirational account of one mans great courage love and determination to succeed despite being dyslexic and having no formal education.
A inspirational account of one mans great courage love and determination to succeed despite being dyslexic and having no formal education.
November 4, 2020
Absolutely loved this
I was recommend this book by my dad and was unsure at first but once I started reading I was hooked straight away I loved it. I could visualise everything that was being spoken about and enjoyed hearing how Jeff’s life used to be and how he overcome so many obstacles. I would definitely recommend this book.
I was recommend this book by my dad and was unsure at first but once I started reading I was hooked straight away I loved it. I could visualise everything that was being spoken about and enjoyed hearing how Jeff’s life used to be and how he overcome so many obstacles. I would definitely recommend this book.
March 24, 2024
Anyone can
Had this book sitting in my to read pile for a while, why did I not get to it sooner absolutely loved this man's story of determination. Through it all he never gave up. Would recommend this to anyone great read great story.
Had this book sitting in my to read pile for a while, why did I not get to it sooner absolutely loved this man's story of determination. Through it all he never gave up. Would recommend this to anyone great read great story.
March 21, 2025
Really enjoyed! Champions the values of determination and hard work. And believing in yourself. Although certainly no millionaire! I’ve lived my life this way and sometimes have to shake myself to believe what I’ve managed to achieve. Oh to have retired at 53 though! Go you!
November 23, 2017
Fantastic book
I enjoyed every page of this book. It's so good to read about a family who survived an awful lot when so many obstacles were in the way.
I enjoyed every page of this book. It's so good to read about a family who survived an awful lot when so many obstacles were in the way.
January 27, 2018
Hard work
A story that rings through that nothing beats hard work and that love conquers all problems that you may have
If you believe you can achieve
A story that rings through that nothing beats hard work and that love conquers all problems that you may have
If you believe you can achieve
January 30, 2018
Brilliant
The book proves just what can be achieved with determination and hardwork. Lovely rags to riches story twice over.Thoroughly enjoyable.
The book proves just what can be achieved with determination and hardwork. Lovely rags to riches story twice over.Thoroughly enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews