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A SAMPLE OF WHAT STUDENTS, EDUCATORS, THE PRESS AND OTHER READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT GREG'S STORY, THE BOOK BASED ON IT (The First Thirty), THE EXPANDED VERSION (The Silhouette Man), AND/OR ITS COMPANION WORKBOOK (A Place To Sit) (Note: These were their affiliations at the time they sent feedback. They may have graduated, for instance, since sending in the review, or switched companies)
MIDDLE SCHOOL-RELATED: "If we can only have The First Thirty prescribed as a compulsory reading matter for [every] 12 year old in [South Africa], it will make a world of difference....this book has taken me way back to my own childhood...it is an extremely interesting book, especially how a young boy had the guts to break away from the norm...." - Yasien Mohamed, Former Secretary, Pan-African Congress, South Africa
HIGH SCHOOL-RELATED: "A lesson in humanity...The First Thirty delivers a strong, positive message that is particularly relevant to high school students but is valuable to everyone...an uplifting true story that reminds us that all the movie-caliber underdog stories we see don't always have to be make-believe..." - Midwest Book Review
COLLEGE-RELATED: "A remarkable story of strength and conviction filled with lessons that will take every student through the college years and beyond." - College News
GRADUATE SCHOOL-RELATED: "The First Thirty should be required reading in business school. It's a case study in how to start small, think big and lead by example." - Bob Middlemas, Executive Vice President, Nordstrom
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL-RELATED: "...I am just starting a career, and am at a critical point in choosing where I will take it. I have always looked at my career in terms of finding the right balance of [how much I enjoy myself and how much money I make]. Reading The First Thirty has modified my view of success to include the interaction I have with the people around me." - David Cramer, Allstate
TEACHER-RELATED: "Every educator in America should read this story. It reminds me why I became one..." - Amy Ziperstein, Elementary School teacher, Illinois
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION RELATED: "Any man, woman, child with an idea or dream HAS to read this book. Not only will it give them hope, it will inspire them to do more than they could have ever imagined. Throughout my life, I have spent countless hours volunteering in the nonprofit sector. Not only did the book resonate with my experiences, it has encouraged me to do more and accomplish more." - Lindsay K. Walls, Nonprofit Management & Leadership Program, University of Missouri-St. Louis
PARENT/BUSINESS EXECUTIVE-RELATED: "The First Thirty illustrates the responsibilities we have as parents, grandparents, teachers and business leaders to influence the people around us...Every teacher should make The First Thirty required reading. It's William Saroyan for the next generation." - Sam Geil, Parent & Company President
GRANDPARENT-RELATED: "I loved the book!!!!...What an amazing woman [the Grandma character is]. I hope someday that I can have that kind of positive impact on my grandchildren whenever that day comes..." - Lucy Ruiz, CBS 47 (Fresno, California)
CREATIVITY-RELATED: "The First Thirty is a moving portrait of a man who treats life as art and created a masterpiece by helping others realize their dreams." - Art World News
INTERNATIONAL: "An American tale with global relevance, The First Thirty illustrates the ability within each of us to help bridge the divisions that have separated so many for so long." - Peter K, Kenya
THE COMPANION WORKBOOK: "This workbook ought to be in the backpack of every student -- and the briefcase of every adult -- in America. I know it's going in mine." -- Mike Magee, University of South Florida
** MORE REVIEWS FOR THE FIRST THIRTY, THE SILHOUETTE MAN and A PLACE TO SIT **
ALLIE, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT, NEW HAMPSHIRE: "The First Thirty is a wonderful book that reminds us of the magical things that can happen when spending time with our grandparents...I have started on the workbook (A Place To Sit) and on the first page I have already thought of so many ideas on how to help out the community while doing the things I love...Thank you so much for all the tips and ideas you have given me..."
AMBER WILLIAMS, CAMPAIGN DIRECTOR, TEAM IN TRAINING, THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY, VIRGINIA CHAPTER: "I found The First Thirty very inspiring and appreciated the point that anyone, anywhere, at any age can make a difference. Too many times teenagers, or recent college graduates are told that they don't have enough experience to do the "real work" within a company so they're stuck in a corner filing papers. That sort of experience has the tendency to beat the creativity and passion out of some folks to do more. It's really unfortunate because they have so much to offer and an insight that hasn't been tainted by what's "possible" just yet based on what's been done in the past. I really try to stress to my staff that regardless of title, each person can come up with a really great idea that causes us to raise more money and make a greater difference toward finding a cure for cancer. If they don't truly believe that, and I don't truly believe that, it would be difficult for us to work really hard together, as a team with respect for one another. I'm definitely recommending that my staff read this book. It's full of great life lessons and work lessons, especially for those in the non-profit sector."
AMY PSZCZOLKOWSKI, OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT & FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE PROFESSOR, ASNUNTUCK COMMUNITY COLLEGE: "A great story of redemption and determination...a virtual case study for First Year Experience programs...a blueprint for new college students."
AMY ZIPERSTEIN, ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER, ILLINOIS: "Every educator in America should read this story. It reminds me why I became one in the first place."
ANDREW SCHAFFER, BOSTON COLLEGE: "I wrote an essay about Greg for a course I am taking -- comparing his story and what he's done with Ralph Waldo Emerson's book Experience, and one of Gandhi's philosophies about small actions leading to big things."
ANNA MARIE JOHNSON TEAGUE, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, DAWSON + MURRAY + TEAGUE COMMUNICATIONS, TEXAS: "The First Thirty is a tribute to teachers - those found in classrooms, and those who impart their wisdom in the course of everyday life."
ART WORLD NEWS: "A moving portrait of a man who treats life as art and created a masterpiece by helping others realize their dreams."
BARI LEVIN, MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER (ILLINOIS): "I am a special educator and I am using "The First Thirty" with my students in my reading class. I teach Middle School. I love the book and its life lessons. I am using the workbook with them, too (A Place To Sit). Wow! What a great way to teach these kids about life...I have been teaching special education for 19 years and I still love what I do...The book definitely makes you think about your life and I realized that I am happy with my life and what I do...I was at Borders and saw the book. I was a little curious, so I bought it. The best small investment I made. Thank you for putting Greg's life on paper and sharing. Thank you for touching my life and my students."
BETH H, MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT, CANADA: "We all read The First Thirty together in class. I thought the book was amazing. Inspiring, moving, motivational, and the list goes on...It's definItely a book I'll be recommending to anyone, young or old. I'm sure I'll be reading it over again and again untill the pages wear out."
BOB MIDDLEMAS, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, NORDSTROM: "This should be required reading in business school. It's a case study in how to start small, think big and lead by example."
BOBBY, BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY STUDENT: "I read The First Thirty [from beginning to end] today. It was very motivational. The [thirty numbered lessons] within the book give an extra flavor...I enjoyed it very much and hope to share the story with others...reading this book just confirmed what I have been saying. Motivation is everything."
BRENDAN S, BOSTON COLLEGE STUDENT: "Greg's story ranks right up there with Rocky, Forrest Gump, and the other classic underdog stories of our time."
BRITTANY, HIGH SCHOOL INTERN, REGIONAL OFFICE OF EDUCATION: "I think this is a great book for anyone of any age."
BRITTNEY, COLLEGE STUDENT, GEORGIA: "My routine has been class-work-class-events-study...but every night around 1 AM, I read [a few more pages of what is] quite possibly one of, if not the best, books I've read in a few years. I LOVE the book!!...As I have read it, I really feel inspired...I really have enjoyed the thirty lessons. They are all so true! That has been my favorite part along with the "milkshake moment" and the importance of remembering names. After I read that part, I decided to take that with me and get better at names because they are really important!"
CAROLYN SILVER, ESQ., DIRECTOR OF LEGAL ADVOCACY & ORGANIZING, LENOX HILL NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE: "...I read the book yesterday. I don't even know where to begin. It was really amazing to read and I was really impressed and inspired with the story. I really related to Greg and his drive and his interest in helping people...and I think it will really inspire my staff - who are all like-minded folks, trying to do what they can to make a difference in our community, while battling [many [obstacles]..."
CARRIE HEGENDERFER: " What an amazing story--like the movie Pay it Forward. I have made many of the same observations about how people typically isolate themselves by associating with others who look and/or think like them. It reminded me of when I was a grad student and I started a series of diversity dialogue lunches with various undergrad students in the business college. That was the foundation of the class I co-created and co-taught the next semester. But I didn't really follow it up with the drive that continually pushed you forward. I love the framing of the story--it definitely kept my attention. I have to say, after reading it I did a quick inventory of my own life and am feeling even moreso discontent with it... I think actually that--like happens in the book--sometimes I don't want to start with baby steps. I want to do it big or not at all, and in addition to me being my own worst enemy, this might be my biggest obstacle...some great lessons in the book. I think it's ironic that a lot of the lessons in the book were things Greg didn't buy into right away, and often failed at before coming full circle."
CeCe McCALL, NATIONAL CONFERENCE FOR COMMUNITY AND JUSTICE OF METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS: "I've really enjoyed reading The First Thirty. The simple lessons were powerful! I really am blessed by the relationship Greg shared with his Grandma. I fully understand his sincere love for her...the book was a great read and reminds me to face and answer the simple life lessons on a daily basis."
CHICAGOLAND SENIOR NEWS: "Greg's Grandma plays the role only a grandparent can play - the reality check"
CHRIS, STUDENT, USC (CALIFORNIA): "I thoroughly enjoyed The First Thirty. I endlessly admire the ambition and persistence Greg demonstrated when dealing with his desires and dreams. The story is full of lessons that were particularly valuable to me...I [even] seemed to be able to apply the [lessons from the book] to my life as I was reading it. The advice often rang in my head as I confronted life's daily obstacles, and I truly believe I made better decisions because of the shared experiences. Greg overcame difficulties that I certainly could relate to as a college student, and he did so in such a way that has inspired me to start paying as much attention to my dreams as he does..."
COLLEGE NEWS: "A remarkable story of strength and conviction filled with lessons that will take every student through the college years and beyond."
DAVID CRAMER, ALLSTATE: "...I am just starting a career, and am at a critical point in choosing where I will take it. I have always looked at my career in terms of finding the right balance of [how much I enjoy myself and how much money I make]. Reading The First Thirty has modified my view of success to include the interaction I have with the people around me."
DAVID DAVIDSON, MEDICAL STUDENT, RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER: "I interact with people going through adversity every day. I use lessons and take inspiration from The First Thirty to help me create unique solutions to many of the problems."
DAVITA SIEGEL, PARENT, ILLINOIS: "I loved the book!!...more than anything else, what is so extraordinary...is that it documented Greg's entire life in less than 100 pages, and, (2) Greg LIVES his life so fully -- learning and loving along the way. That is in two short sentences what amazes me the most....actually to the point of tears!!"
ELAINE GUTHEIM, ILLINOIS: ""A tribute to grandmothers if there ever was one."
FRESNO FAMOUS: "For anyone who's been knocked down or told, "you can't do it," The First Thirty is an uplifting read that will make you want to get up, dust yourself off, have a milkshake, and get back to work..."
HANNES - THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO, CANADA: "At the recommendation of a good friend, I purchased The First Thirty. Fortunately, I finally found the time to read it and finished it a few weeks ago. All I can say is WOW!!!! Greg is truly an inspiration. Lead on!"
JACKIE FREDRICKSON, BISHOP GALLAGHER SCHOOL (CANADA): "...[The] message of making a difference in the world outside your window was extremely well received and links into so many of our stewardship and volunteerism lessons and activities within our school...."
JAY MATHEWS, THE WASHINGTON POST: "The legacies of Greg Forbes Siegman and Steven Spielberg are the people they have helped and the lessons and images they have brought to life."
JEANNE-MARIE, COLLEGE STUDENT, LOUISIANA: "An inspiring reminder that, whether it's the other side of the world, the other side of the country, or just the other side of the tracks, if you end up in a place you never expected to be and dare to explore it, you just may find your passion in the process."
JENNI, KNOX COLLEGE: "...I was almost in tears during the last several pages. It was definitely inspiring and touching. It reminded me a lot of [a real-life version of the movie] Big Fish...I got goosebumps while reading this...I think I have some people to send this book to...The story is spectacular and I think a movie of it would be moving as well..."
JERRY EHRLICH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ST. LOUIS SOCIETY FOR THE PHYSICALLY DISABLED: "The First Thirty WILL inspire you to believe dreams ARE reachable, "I can't" turns into "I can", and that one person CAN overcome and make a difference (It will also give you a new appreciation for milkshakes)."
JESS C, UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT: "I will be graduating in December, then going on that following spring to get my masters in special education. I LOVED the book..I love Greg's Grandma. I was so inspired by the main character's stories and goals, even as a little guy! I have a warm spot in my heart for anyone who embraces and values their childhood. The main character is clearly such an amazing person who never stops giving. His example is certainly a powerful one that obviously leaves a lasting impression with many young people."
JOEL MARCOVITCH, MICHIGAN: "A story that embodies what unconditional love for a grandchild is all about."
KARA SONSKY, FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY: "I just finished reading The First Thirty, and I have to admit that it left me speechless...it is not like any biography I have ever read..It reminded me just how sacred everything is, whether it be a person, an idea, or even nothing, as Greg showed even nothing is something..."
KARA TIGGAS, EDUCATOR, ILLINOIS: "I literally forgot to go to class because I was so wrapped up in the book...I have to say, I assumed it would be thought-provoking prior to reading it, but I didn't realize that it would be a forget-about-work, hole-up-with-a-book-all-night kind of provoking!"
KATIE, KENDALL COLLEGE: "I was only halfway through the book before I couldn't resist pulling over on the way home from work and getting a milkshake...The First Thirty is inspirational proof of one person's ability to build something meaningful out of literally nothing."
KEISHA BOWMAN, LOUISIANA NATIVE, NOW IN GEORGIA: "I finished the book. I cried at the end. It was beautiful."
KEVIN ANSELMO, GLOBAL HEROES MAGAZINE: "A story that personifies the word determination."
KRIS EKDAHL, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY STUDENT: "It makes you think about what it really means to be a success."
LAKE MAGAZINE: "Greg's Grandma is Mama to his Gump."
LAURA BRANDYS, GENESIS MITZVAH FUND PROGRAM COORDINATOR, JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION (MINNESOTA): "...I finished reading The First Thirty on a trip...a very welcome companion during a 4 hour layover...I continue to be in awe...an amazingly talented author...I read the ending page over and over again, because I enjoyed it so much...The entire book was such an enjoyable read...I will be distributing the book to about 30 teen tutors in the Shabbat School program at my synagogue as a staff appreciation gift. I also intend to use it, along with the workbook (A Place To Sit) based on the book , as a teaching tool for teen philanthropy recruitment."
LEAH JONES, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - ST. LOUIS: "It's essential that college students make the connection between what they are doing now and what they want to achieve after they leave here. The First Thirty could not only help our students see that connection but also give them practical tools that they can start using right away."
LINDSAY GREEN, STUDENT TEACHER (AND FUTURE FULL-TIME EDUCATOR): "I loved The First Thirty. It has a wonderful structure to it, especially how it maps out the 'hero's journey.' I think this would be a great supplement to the Odyssey, Catcher in the Rye, or even Beowulf. Certainly, when I establish my own class curriculum, I intend to implement the First Thirty in some way.
LINDSAY K. WALLS, NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP PROGRAM, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - ST. LOUIS: "Any man, woman, child with an idea or dream HAS to read this book. Not only will it give them hope, it will inspire them to do more than they could have ever imagined. Throughout my life, I have spent countless hours volunteering in the nonprofit sector. Not only did the book resonate with my experiences, it has encouraged me to do more and accomplish more."
LINDSAY MATTINGLY, KENTUCKY: "I almost finished the book last night but I wanted to wait until this afternoon so I could read the ending under the sun at the beach. I don't know how it came about with such great timing, but it did come along at a time when I think I understand it and could use it the most. It was amazing, Greg is amazing, inspiring, a million other words that still can't do it justice..."
LUCY RUIZ, CBS 47, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR: "The message is infectious, it will motivate you to get out of your chair and make a difference."
MARCIA OPP, PARENT: "Where was this book when I was in college and needed this kind of advice?"
MARVIN BARTLETT, FOX 56 Kentucky: "Greg has turned overcoming obstacles and rejection into art form."
MEAGHAM FREYTAG, TEACHER (1): "I read The First Thirty. Amazing. Difficult. Inspiring. Amazing – In such a short time, [the main character, Greg] accomplished so much! He persevered through setback after setback, taking every opportunity to learn and grow from his experiences. He has inspired and touched so many lives in such deep and lasting ways. He has used the fuel of his outrage, the fuel of his passions, the fuel of his imagination, the fuel of the love and support of those he befriended and inspired, to drive him and support him...Difficult – Many times I was near tears as I read about what Greg has done... I have dreams of projects to do with my students...Yet, when it comes to getting down to the details of doing this, I seem to crash... I think I am afraid. I imagine that my fear is of failure…in fact, my primary failure is in not doing...I am [now] going to start really showing up. I am sure that I will fall flat on my face many times in this process. But I will just show up again. Inspiring – ...Reading this book is helping me to recognize how deeply I resonate with the ideas of bringing people together – building bridges. ..I have a poem taped to the door of my apartment so that I see it as I leave each day...The poem is called “The Bridge Builder” by Will Allen Dromgoole and it speaks of a man who comes to a “chasm, vast and deep and wide” crosses it himself and then builds a bridge over the chasm. When others ask him why he is building, since he already made it across, he responds “There followeth after me today/A youth whose feet must pass this way./Good friend, I am building the bridge for him.” Greg is a bridge builder. And by his example, he has inspired youth and aged alike to go out and build bridges. I am working to find my path in this bridge building. His story is yet more encouragement to follow the deep yearnings of my heart. I thank you for sharing his story, it is shaping so many other stories, including mine."
MEGHAM FREYTAG, TEACHER 2: "...I have been using The First Thirty as a reading text with my 4th grade class. The kids are highly engaged in the story. The vignettes and lessons provide so many jumping off points for thoughtful, critical discussion. I bought each of my kids a copy of the book so that they could make it their own by writing notes in the margins and underlining sentences and phrases that really stood out to them. They have also populated their books with sticky notes filled with questions, connections, evaluations, and analysis... I think this book is a wonderful teaching tool because it addresses so many of the kinds of issues kids face – like teasing, bullying, respect, self-esteem, imagination, friendships, loss, facing challenging situations, overcoming setbacks and obstacles, race/ethnicity and a variety of other important life issues. As I mentioned, my kids love it! The book also provides many opportunities for writing extensions and could easily provide a starting point for social studies related discussions or art projects. The reading level is accessible to my kids, especially with my support, and would be great for kids at the 5th or 6th grade reading levels [and up]..."
MICHAEL IRPINO, ACTOR/WRITER/DIRECTOR, CALIFORNIA: "The First Thirty is such an inspirational book that it can even give new hope to someone that's been living in Hollywood for the past fifteen years. It gives new meaning to the phrase "when life gives you lemons make lemonade" and it certainly has taught this old dog some new tricks. I may never look at adverse situations in the same way ever again.
MIKE LYNN, CEO, CRIPPLE CREEK BREWING CO: "Greg is one of the most interesting, creative characters I've ever come across in any book I've ever read. As for the story as a whole, there were parts that brought me to tears -- and I don't cry."
MORGAN, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT (TEXAS): "A refreshing reminder that each of us can -- and should -- be open to the world beyond our window while changing the world within it."
NAHREN ISHAYA, GRADUATE STUDENT (ILLINOIS): "The First Thirty really makes me understand the power of believing in your own dreams. When no one else in the world believes in your vision it is up to you to make others believe, just as Greg did. No matter what obstacles stand in your way, Greg teaches the reader how to rise above all and continue to work for what they envision. In the end, the actual outcome of Greg's hard work proved to be even greater than probably what he even he could have imagined. Thanks to the book, others will continue to learn, be inspired, and believe in the power of changing the world outide of your window."
NATALIE, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT (CALIFORNIA): "The First Thirty should be read by any college bound student or anyone with hopes in making a difference. Student's everywhere can easily relate to Greg Siegman's story and sense of humor..."
NATHAN, MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT (IL): "The First Thirty is a good and funny book. Many of the students like the part where Greg had to wear a helmet because he was so distracted by your dreams. There is a lot of things you can learn from this book. The book is not just a reading novel - you can learn a lot from it. It can help you in life, also."
PAT LANG, PRESIDENT, CONFEDERATION COLLEGE (CANADA): "I read The First Thirty. I was truly inspired...it made me think about the privilege I have every day to change someone's life. I challenged myself to see if there is something more I could be or should be doing. Greg is...truly a gift to society..."
PAUL NEWTON, PRINCIPAL, ENRICO FERMI HIGH SCHOOL (CONNECTICUT): "I personally read The First Thirty earlier this year and was brought to tears on three different occasions. I knew right away that I wanted to try and make it possible for our students and staff to meet Greg. The themes of his story reinforce aspects of our mission like service, leadership and lifelong learning."
PAUL STEWART, PRESIDENT, UNDERGROUND RAILROAD HISTORY PROJECT OF THE CAPITAL REGION, INC (NEW YORK): "I finished the book and enjoyed it...Greg's road was filed with mountains and valleys, triumphs and disappointments...many young people will benefit from his struggle...I found the impact of Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King on his life a real delight. I loved the work toward reconciliation for young and old, rich and poor, blacks, whites and others..."
PETER K, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT, KENYA: "An American tale with global relevance, The First Thirty illustrates the ability within each of us to help bridge the divisions that have separated so many for so long."
RUSSELL FRYE, STUDENT, MOREHOUSE COLLEGE: "A poignant story that epitomizes the evolution of never-ending struggles into ever-lasting legacies."
SAM GEIL, PARENT & COMPANY PRESIDENT, (CALIFORNIA): "The First Thirty illustrates the responsibilities we have as parents, grandparents,
teachers and business leaders to influence the people around us...Every teacher should make The First Thirty required reading. It's William Saroyan for the next generation."
SAMANTHA FARBMAN, SEATTLE: "I just finished reading The First Thirty...a thoroughly enjoyable story, exposing the funny quirks behind a genius."
SIR WILLIAMS, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO HOSPITALS: "...I thought it was a great read. The overall theme I took away from the book really reminded me of one of my favorite poems, The Man Who Thinks He Can. I can almost recite it from memory..."If you think you're beaten, you are. If you think you dare not, you don't. If you'd like to win, but think you can't. It's almost a cinch you won't...Life's battles don't always go to the stronger or faster man, But sooner or later the man
who wins is the man who thinks he can!"
SONYA HESSELS, HONOURS BACHELOR OF ARTS (UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO), BACHELOR OF EDUCATION STUDENT (LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY - CANADA): "I finished the book, I really liked it, it was inspiring. I think it's good for both children and adults, the lessons you have in it resonate with people of all ages and I found them to also really have an impact on me.
SPRINGFIELD REPUBLICAN: "The First Thirty has captured the attention of critics and readers nationwide."
STEVEN EGNA, FATHER AND BUSINESSMAN, NEW YORK: " A great story about defining what success really is; a must read for anybody, especially teenagers and young adults coming of age and trying to come to grips with what really matters...The simple lessons will stay with you a lifetime."
SUE WEINER, THE JEWISH CENTER (NJ): "I love the ending of the book!!!! I really enjoyed the thirty lessons...I think they are important lessons for everyone to see...Our 7th graders are required to do a Mitzvah Project and I think it would be great to use the book as part of the class...on a separate note, when is the workbook going to be available? " [NOTE: The workbook, A Place To Sit, is now available - www.APlaceToSit.com]
TEACHER INFORMATION NETWORK: "A dazzling gem. When you finish, you will want your students to read it, too. Its lessons are immensely teachable."
THERESA CISNEROS, OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS, UCLA ANDERSON SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT: "I could not put the book down...I was literally brought to tears when I began to read about Greg's nonprofit efforts. Sending all those kids to college and all his ideas to get the money raised to do it. What was most moving was his will, passion and determination [within] the entire non profit experience....I can understand why he wouldn't want to or couldn't sleep, there was WAY TOO much planning and important things to do. He truly is a GREAT person. He has touched so many lives that it has caused a ripple effect of goodness. This world needs that and we are so lucky to have him and the people who help him around to be there...my dream was to go to law school but I put it off for awhile. Well, after reading the book, I started to really think about my reasoning as to why I had made that decision. Although at the time the decision made sense, my life was in a bit of chaos, but now the dust has completely settled and I really have no real reason to not continue to pursue my dream. So starting this week I am going to map out a plan for my journey to getting it done! It starts with some careful scripting of my time but it is absolutely possible."
TIFFANY NORWOOD, HOWARD UNIVERSITY STUDENT: "A story filled with magic and wonder and surprises and happiness and sadness and everything else a fairy tale has, right down to the happy ending."
TONA COSTELLO, EDUCATOR, ILLINOIS: "I have already finished the book [within 48 hours of buying it]. I loved it! The book is a beautiful story about the gift of unconditional giving. Greg has not merely given people 'fish to eat', but rather he has taught them how to fish and given them the pole and brought them to the water. It's so inspiring..."
YAN, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT, NEW YORK: "I really have to tell you, it was really the best book I have ever read. It took me only one day to read it because I liked it so much. It made me think about my life...the book was really an inspiration to me because it tells me that there is a place for me in this place we call The World...."
TO GET A COPY OF THE BOOK AND/OR WORKBOOK AND/OR POSTERS BASED ON THEM, CLICK HERE
For bulk orders (for your staff, class, members, clients, supporters and/or to get them for a local organization or school in your community),, email Books@IdeaListEnterprises.com
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