The grandson of a slave who was freed by Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, George Dawson lived quite a life!
When George is twelve hard times force George's family to send him (as the oldest child) to live and work on a neighboring farm. Though his parents and extended family continue to encourage and nurture him as best they can, the poverty that engulfs them prevent George from having the opportunity to go to school to get an education. In spite of these hardships, George goes on to live an incredible and fulfilled life in which he travels across the United States, to Mexico and Canada, helps build levies along the Mississippi River, learns a number of different trades, and ultimately returns to school and learns to read at the age of 98.
This is a incredibly uplifting read that will put a smile on your face and make you thankful for all that you have. Best of all, George reminds us that "Life is so good … and its getting better all the time!"
Ambookgeek's Blog 
I'm so glad you posted about this! I heard a story about this man on NPR a few weeks ago, but I was driving and couldn't write any of the info down. By the time I thought to check on it later that day, I had forgotten the names of the subject and the authors.Just checked and it's available at the library. I'll be reserving it. Thanks!