Once A Hobo : The Autobiography of Monte Holm

by Dennis L. Clay, Monte Holm

In 1930, during the Depression, a 13-year-old boy was forced from his home and became a hobo. The entire country was in dire straits. There was no work, no money, and very little food. Many people hit the road to find employment of any kind - but few were as young as Monte Holm. These young people joined an army of young men and women - common folk as well as, skilled tradesmen, engineers, lawyers, bankers - that rode the rails, traveling from state to state, seeking work. Hunger and danger were their constant companions. This yongster became a man at a very tender age. Dennis Clay and Monte Holm have collaborated to produce this intriguing story of one man's struggle to attain a victorious life.

353 pages, Hardcover

First published September 18, 1999

Reviews

[Mark Herbkersman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book! I was given this by a friend in North Idaho when I was out recently. It tells the story of Monte, who went basically from a rough childhood, to riding the rails as a hobo for many years, to a point of settling down and building a successful business. His writing is captivating and kept me turning the pages to find out what was coming next. It is a big book, filled with letters and other testimonial materials in the back 1/3 of the book. It is printed hardcover the size of a school science book. It is a wonderful book to bring a smile to your evenings!

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congratulations to entrepreneur extraordinaire Monte Holm and author Dennis Clay for their successful collaboration. Monte Holm has led a difficult and inspiring life and the way he tells his story is wonderful. His unique sense of humor shines through on every page. The series of letters that Monte has written to poke fun, in a friendly way, at various officials, were especially funny.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much. It is very well written and inforamative. I especially liked it because Monte Holm lived in Moses Lake and we knew him. He had a hard life and lifted himself above poverty to be a very wealthy and generous man.

[Rodger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the best stories I've ever read! Uncle Monte had quite an interesting life to put it lightly...

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed thos walk through history seeing the Great Depression from an unlikely perspective. Last book I read with dad... sparked many memories... reflections and discussions.

[Kendal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The life of hobo is always intense.