Free Lunch Audiobook By Rex Ogle cover art

Free Lunch

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Free Lunch

By: Rex Ogle
Narrated by: Ramon De Ocampo
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About this listen

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
Biographies Education & Learning Growing Up Growing Up & Facts of Life School & Education Nonfiction Heartfelt

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)

What listeners say about Free Lunch

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Heartwarming Story Excellent Narration Thought-provoking Story Well-written Story Effective Voice Changes
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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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Grown-up, sad/emotional, beautiful

I haven't enjoyed such a well-written book in years. I cried a lot. Such a talented author.

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the narrative was amazing

This story really guided you through the perspective of a child trying to do better than his parents and living in poverty and the feelings this bring out. It's my favorite read of 2024

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The content.

The truth and transparency touched on the life many of us do not see or are conscious of. The struggles of the poor are sad.

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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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My boys loves this story!


My boys, ages nine and twelve, enjoy this book very much. While there is some profanity throughout the storyline, it serves as a reality check for the kids, helping them understand that everyone faces their own struggles. This perspective has been valuable for their young minds. I highly recommend this book to anyone open-minded about the stories and language used, as it reflects the reality of life for some children. This book provides a meaningful and thought-provoking experience.

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Thankful for this book

As a middle school teacher and someone who works with at-risk youth in the summer, this book hit me hard. It has given me even more compassion for kids like Rex and their families. I think everyone needs to read this book!

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Great story and great narration!

I love this story and you will too. Its totally relatable, written and read very well. A lot of sad moments but a lot of triumphant moments. This story should be a part of a class case study.. enjoy!!

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