• Free Lunch

  • By: Rex Ogle
  • Narrated by: Ramon De Ocampo
  • Length: 5 hrs and 52 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (213 ratings)

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Free Lunch  By  cover art

Free Lunch

By: Rex Ogle
Narrated by: Ramon De Ocampo
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Publisher's summary

A distinctive new voice: Rex Ogle's story of starting middle school on the free lunch program is timely, heartbreaking, and true. Free Lunch is the story of Rex Ogle's first semester in sixth grade. Rex and his baby brother often went hungry, wore secondhand clothes, and were short of school supplies, and Rex was on his school's free lunch program. Grounded in the immediacy of physical hunger and the humiliation of having to announce it every day in the school lunch line, Rex's is a compelling story of a more profound hunger - that of a child for his parents' love and care.

Compulsively listenable, beautifully crafted, and authentically told with the voice and point of view of a sixth-grade kid, Free Lunch is a remarkable debut by a gifted storyteller.

©2019 Rex Ogle (P)2019 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

“Outstanding, gracious writing and a clear eye for the penetrating truth. A mighty portrait of poverty amid cruelty and optimism.” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review)

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What listeners say about Free Lunch

Average customer ratings
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Narrator was awesome

His voice and accent changes were effective. Each character has their own tone. Brought the story together.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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A hard story beautifully delivered

This was a hard story to hear, but I am grateful to have heard Rex’s story as it reminds me that we are not always aware of other people’s realities.

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Strength, resilience, and hope for the future.

Great story. You really never know what goes on in other people's lives that you don't always see ... or what it takes to survive when some days are harder than others. therefore the grace of God go I.

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It is a great story about compassion and not judging people!

I liked it because it kept my attention, and tells a great relatable story with a message.

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the oscars

the oscars. I have been comforted, but the only one who has a great day and I am a very nice, and the last time. . I have been comforted, but the only one who has a great day and I am a very nice, and the last time. . I have been comforted, but the only one who has

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Captivating, shocking, tear-jerking, and inspiring

Poverty is a catastrophic problem in America. It’s that much more unfair when kids are involved, so hearing a first-hand account of how financial struggles impacts one’s youth is bittersweet yet awe-inspiring. Rex’ account definitely makes me want to do more for the impoverished. This is a must read for anyone curious about how poverty can change someone’s life.

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Loved it

This story was terrific. It took me through a bunch of emotions as I listened. I felt for Rex and the struggles of his family.

This is definitely a book that I will listen to multiple times.

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Awesome Book!

Fantastic book, highly recommend it! The audio was outstanding! Everyone can relate to this book!

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Heartfelt true story

After reading this book I realized there's a huge stigma related to kids in poverty. This gave me insight into a child's thoughts and feelings while experiencing poverty.

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Amazing

New favorite book ever. If I had time to read it again I would.
Sincerely, Gavin

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