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Dead Giveaway: The Rescue, Hamburgers, White Folks, and Instant Celebrity . . . What You Saw on TV Doesn’t Begin to Tell the Story . . .
“Bro, I knew something was wrong when a little pretty white girl ran into a black man’s arms … Dead giveaway.” It was a quote that launched a thousand Internet memes. Charles Ramsey became one of America’s most unlikely celebrities — from dishwasher to international fame in one afternoon. In this book he tells his outrageous story, a roller coaster account of his life before, during, and after the dramatic rescue of three kidnapped women in Cleveland. Global news media declared him a hero. Well-wishers mobbed him. The Internet made him a viral sensation. It couldn’t have happened to a less likely guy. Now, read how it all went down. Ramsey was in the wrong place at the right time when he answered a young woman’s cry for help, kicked in his neighbor’s locked front door, and got her the hell out of there—leading to the astonishing rescue of three young women—Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight—who had been missing for a decade . Reporters and TV cameras flocked to a neighborhood—and a man—they otherwise would have ignored. Ramsey was ready, with plenty to say. In this book Ramsey walks us step-by-step through the day of the rescue and talks about living right next door to Ariel Castro—outwardly charming, secretly a monster . He tells about life before the rescue—growing up a privileged black kid in a white suburb, seeking out trouble over and over, getting kicked out of school, selling drugs, going to prison, and ultimately finding work as a dishwasher and landing by chance on gritty Seymour Avenue. And he shares what it’s like to become an instant celebrity, when suddenly everybody wants a piece of you . (For example, he learned the hard way that when a big TV network flies you to New York City for an interview, that doesn’t mean they also bought you a ticket back home to Cleveland!) This is a wild, eye-opening tale told with a sharp sense of humor.
166 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2014
11 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 28, 2016
This is one of the funniest autobiographies I've ever read, and it's in the top 5 for all-time funny true-crime stories. You must read this one. The author goes over his whole life, with many horrible decisions and lessons learned the hard way, and explains how he happened to be living next to Ariel Castro on the day Amanda Berry needed help escaping. This guy is totally real and gives you all his opinions right between the eyes -- the very reason he will probably never be president -- although I agree with him completely that Fire Marshall Bill would make a really exciting Secretary of Agriculture. This is the kind of book you need to re-read every couple of years when you need cheering up. Not only is the book funny, but he reminds me that people can change for the better and commit to living good lives no matter how stupid they have been in the past. More power to him.
June 20, 2014
A very interesting story. A man who has seemingly made every wrong decision possible in his life. Maybe that's why he ended up on that porch. Maybe the "right decision" person would have walked on by and minded their own business. Charles Ramsey makes the wrong decision and gets involved in someone else's business, and helps to save the three girls. For those of you making remarks about his political rant at the end, lighten up. Take it with a grain of salt. No one, not even Charles Ramsey, would actually appoint Snoop Dogg to Attorney General. Everyone is entitled to their political opinions, so let him have his.
I hope Charles can live a peaceful life making more "right decisions" in his own way.
I hope Charles can live a peaceful life making more "right decisions" in his own way.
May 5, 2014
Ramsey was blessed with numerous opportunities, but he threw them away. His political views were simply stated near the beginning of the book. Not impressed with his political rant of several pages near the end of the book.
March 6, 2015
This is a short autobiography on Charles Ramsey, who became an instant celebrity for his role in rescuing Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight, who had been kidnapped and held captive by Ariel Castro for a decade. He busted down Castro's door after he heard one of the women cry for help. That would have been noteworthy enough, but his responses to media queries gained him even more fans, and fame. For example: “Bro, I knew something was wrong when a little pretty white girl ran into a black man's arms . . . dead giveaway.” Ramsey, who had been a neighbor of Castro's and had no inkling as to what was going on in that house, gives his side of the story of that fateful May 2013 day and the aftermath. Ramsey also talks about his life, growing up in an upper middle class family, and his penchant for troublemaking. That's putting it mildly. I get the impression that Ramsey is a very smart man who, as a youth, alas, did not have that intelligence steered in the right direction. His youthful hijinks -- many aimed at getting back at his domineering father -- range from eyebrow raising to downright dangerous. Those who are easily offended may not want to read this. Ramsey doesn't pull punches in regards to his past transgressions, which includes charges of domestic violence, drug dealing and a couple terms in jail before he straightened up. The book is written in Ramsey's voice, which includes a lot of language. However, if you don't mind a different, pull-no-punches sort of read, it is a very engaging story. Not sure I always agreed with Ramsey's conclusions on some points, but he strikes me as honest, and this book is straight from him, the story told in his words.
June 12, 2019
I’ve watched his interviews countless times. Heroes come in all different forms!
January 28, 2023
An unlikely hero. You might be familiar with the names Amanda Berry, Gina De Jesus, and Michelle Knight, the three girls that were locked in a house for 10 years by a man named Ariel Castro. I know at least 2 of the girls have written their own book if you want to know more about the crime. This is the guy that heard them yelling for help in the house next door and kicked the door in to rescue them. I was amazed at the picture of the houses and how close they were and yet no one knew there were children trapped in the house. He became an instant celebrity with more than 15 minutes of fame. Did you know that those morning shows on tv pay for your way there, but you are on your own finding your way back home? That is just one of the funny things this guy comes up with. Anyway, the book dwells little on the actual crime. The author has his own story to tell and he does it with a great sense of humor and a liberal use of the F word! (Thought I'd throw that in just in case you are offended by it). Seems his entire mission in life since he was a boy is to see how much trouble he can get into. This was a quick read as it is a short book, and you can't put it down because you want to see what he is going to do next!
April 12, 2015
I wanted to give this book more stars, mainly because it is a real hoot. Also, living in and around the places and times he writes about made it personally interesting. But he just cut it down when he went on his silly tea party political rant at the end. I still admire the old toothless ceramic engineer.
July 22, 2014
I really enjoyed it. Granted, I downloaded the sample before buying it so I knew what I was getting. I do agree thought, about 1/2 to 2/3 has nothing to do with the kidnappings. I still enjoyed it though. Yes, the language and insight is foul and vulgar but he warns about that early on.
May 23, 2014
Just a disaster. But there's more to the story: http://www.clevescene.com/cleveland/c...
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January 7, 2025Book Review: Dead Giveaway: The Rescue, Hamburgers, White Folks, and Instant Celebrity . . . What You Saw on TV Doesn’t Begin to Tell the Story . . . by Charles Ramsey and Randy Nyerges
Dead Giveaway offers a unique perspective on the sensational rescue of Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight from Ariel Castro, as told through the eyes of Charles Ramsey, the man who became an unexpected hero in the aftermath of their harrowing ordeal. Known for his candid and often humorous responses during media interviews, Ramsey provides a rich and unfiltered narrative that captures not only the rescue itself but also his life leading up to that moment.
The book begins with the dramatic recounting of how Ramsey broke down Castro's door after hearing one of the women calling for help, a moment that catapulted him into the spotlight. However, what unfolds is much more than just a thrilling rescue story; it is also an examination of Ramsey's past, which includes a troubled youth in an upper-middle-class family, marked by troublemaking and various serious issues like domestic violence, drug dealing, and imprisonment.
Ramsey's authenticity shines through in his writing, as he narrates his experiences with a frankness that is both refreshing and raw. His voice is unmistakably genuine, and the narrative feels personal, allowing readers to connect with his struggles and triumphs on a deeper level. While this unfiltered approach offers an engaging reading experience, it's important to note that the content includes raw language and themes that may not be suitable for sensitive readers.
The book carefully balances the extraordinary circumstances of the rescue with Ramsey's own story, revealing how the two intertwine. It reflects on the complexities of instant celebrity and the often-unseen realities that lie beneath the headlines. As readers navigate through Ramsey's life, they gain insight into the challenges he faced, the mistakes he made, and the lessons he learned along the way.
Overall, Dead Giveaway is a captivating account that transcends the sensationalism of the media coverage surrounding the rescue, providing a more nuanced understanding of Charles Ramsey as a person. His journey from a troubled past to becoming a national figure is compelling and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those interested in the human stories behind headlines.
Dead Giveaway offers a unique perspective on the sensational rescue of Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight from Ariel Castro, as told through the eyes of Charles Ramsey, the man who became an unexpected hero in the aftermath of their harrowing ordeal. Known for his candid and often humorous responses during media interviews, Ramsey provides a rich and unfiltered narrative that captures not only the rescue itself but also his life leading up to that moment.
The book begins with the dramatic recounting of how Ramsey broke down Castro's door after hearing one of the women calling for help, a moment that catapulted him into the spotlight. However, what unfolds is much more than just a thrilling rescue story; it is also an examination of Ramsey's past, which includes a troubled youth in an upper-middle-class family, marked by troublemaking and various serious issues like domestic violence, drug dealing, and imprisonment.
Ramsey's authenticity shines through in his writing, as he narrates his experiences with a frankness that is both refreshing and raw. His voice is unmistakably genuine, and the narrative feels personal, allowing readers to connect with his struggles and triumphs on a deeper level. While this unfiltered approach offers an engaging reading experience, it's important to note that the content includes raw language and themes that may not be suitable for sensitive readers.
The book carefully balances the extraordinary circumstances of the rescue with Ramsey's own story, revealing how the two intertwine. It reflects on the complexities of instant celebrity and the often-unseen realities that lie beneath the headlines. As readers navigate through Ramsey's life, they gain insight into the challenges he faced, the mistakes he made, and the lessons he learned along the way.
Overall, Dead Giveaway is a captivating account that transcends the sensationalism of the media coverage surrounding the rescue, providing a more nuanced understanding of Charles Ramsey as a person. His journey from a troubled past to becoming a national figure is compelling and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those interested in the human stories behind headlines.
January 16, 2018
"How ridiculous can you be?"..."Oh, that's just stupid!"..."Aw, what a cool dude."... "He said what?!"... "He did whaat?!"..."Poor thing!"
Those were a few of many phrases I said aloud as I laughed, cried, got angry, and laughed again, while reading Charles (Chuck) Ramsey's story. A coined hero, Chuck was a key player in the rescue of three women who were kidnapped 11 years ago, on Cleveland, Ohio's west side. Chuck tells his story in a way that only HE could; rough around the edges, insanely outlandish, plain, and honest!
I went on a mental and emotional rollercoaster ride; Chuck's antics blindsided me with irritation, and tears filled with laughter, as he accounts the chain of events in his life before, during, and after the rescue of Michelle Knight, Gina DeJesus, and Amanda Berry.
There are a lot of words that many use to describe this read, and Chuck makes no apologies about his delivery. It "satisfies" so many sensations that I can't help but call it entertaining! I must add that you'll be surprised by Chuck's colorful background, and journey. This book reminds us that as humans, we have multiple facets, flaws, and great things about us.
While he's so called an "unlikely" or "unusual" one, I'm proud to simply call Chuck an AMERICAN Hero!
Those were a few of many phrases I said aloud as I laughed, cried, got angry, and laughed again, while reading Charles (Chuck) Ramsey's story. A coined hero, Chuck was a key player in the rescue of three women who were kidnapped 11 years ago, on Cleveland, Ohio's west side. Chuck tells his story in a way that only HE could; rough around the edges, insanely outlandish, plain, and honest!
I went on a mental and emotional rollercoaster ride; Chuck's antics blindsided me with irritation, and tears filled with laughter, as he accounts the chain of events in his life before, during, and after the rescue of Michelle Knight, Gina DeJesus, and Amanda Berry.
There are a lot of words that many use to describe this read, and Chuck makes no apologies about his delivery. It "satisfies" so many sensations that I can't help but call it entertaining! I must add that you'll be surprised by Chuck's colorful background, and journey. This book reminds us that as humans, we have multiple facets, flaws, and great things about us.
While he's so called an "unlikely" or "unusual" one, I'm proud to simply call Chuck an AMERICAN Hero!
May 17, 2024
Hmmm? It was interesting to get the view of the man who kicked in the door to the infamous Cleveland house. But...my impression of him was not good as far as his younger years were concerned. He did grow up in a dysfunctional, though fairly wealthy, home, but he struck me as lazy and undisciplined. And his parents were enablers. Apparently, he did straighten out his life and what he did was definitely heroic. I also did not know why the chapter on politics was included; that really has nothing to do with the story. That really pulled down my score, because I kind of think that may have been the emphasis Randy Nyerges, the author and former Senate staff member, was looking for.
March 1, 2025
As a Cleveland Native and as someone who lived not even a mile away from where this took place, it still baffles me that these young women were so close, and no one knew they were there.
I met the man when he debuted the book. My son at the time was not even a year old and latched on to him like they were friends.
Amazing man. I hope, wherever he is, he's living his best life.
I met the man when he debuted the book. My son at the time was not even a year old and latched on to him like they were friends.
Amazing man. I hope, wherever he is, he's living his best life.
June 21, 2017
Better than I expected...
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July 31, 2020Straight talking hero describes his before heroic deed and after. Sugar coats NOTHING.
April 13, 2021
Laugh-out-loud funny, sincere, and intriguing. Written by an American hero.
May 8, 2015
If rough language offends you...skip this book.
While I didn't appreciate some of the language and felt a lot of it could have been ****, my husband felt "that's the way men on the street talk."
My husband grew up near the neighborhood. When we got married, we lived a little further but still traversed the neighborhood regularly and later I worked in the area. Sometimes the story bogged down with names and conversations, however if you are at all interested in the story of the three kidnapped girls (now women)and their escape that day, it is an interesting read.
The too bad part is that Mr. Ramsey apparently had such potential and didn't use it. On the other hand, had he lived his life differently, he probably wouldn't have been there that day.
Two years later it's interesting to "look back." Quick read at 162 pages.
While I didn't appreciate some of the language and felt a lot of it could have been ****, my husband felt "that's the way men on the street talk."
My husband grew up near the neighborhood. When we got married, we lived a little further but still traversed the neighborhood regularly and later I worked in the area. Sometimes the story bogged down with names and conversations, however if you are at all interested in the story of the three kidnapped girls (now women)and their escape that day, it is an interesting read.
The too bad part is that Mr. Ramsey apparently had such potential and didn't use it. On the other hand, had he lived his life differently, he probably wouldn't have been there that day.
Two years later it's interesting to "look back." Quick read at 162 pages.
April 8, 2015
Easy, quick read. I liked his honesty, though there has to be some exaggeration as to the amount of money his father kept supplying him with as he continued to screw up while a teenager. Ramsey claims, it was just so his dad could keep him out of the house, but it's hard to think any man could be that dumb. Plus his dad liked money so much, I can't believe he'd be letting his son take and take.
Anyway, Ramsey is very likable and is trying to bring attention to the problem of spousal abuse, which he himself was guilty of in the past.
He is surprisingly very right wing, which of course I disagree with.
Anyway, Ramsey is very likable and is trying to bring attention to the problem of spousal abuse, which he himself was guilty of in the past.
He is surprisingly very right wing, which of course I disagree with.
May 21, 2014
I purchased this book after reading Michelle Knight's book and because the reviews said this book was really funny? I did laugh a couple of times, but at the great honestly this guy had. He did not hold anything back. He was quite a character but most of the book was spent detailing the sorry choices he made in his life. It was entertaining but it left me kinda empty. I think it was just written as an opportunistic money grab.
July 25, 2014
Ok, being from Cleveland I had to read this one, but....
Story is mostly about how CR messed up his whole life--and he thought everything he did wrong was funny. I give him credit for doing the right thing (for once!) and sincerely hope that he makes it from now on. I kind of skipped through most of the horrible language and some of his rants, but his views on who he would appoint as cabinet members if elected president were very interesting. Overall, I'm glad I got this one from my library.
Story is mostly about how CR messed up his whole life--and he thought everything he did wrong was funny. I give him credit for doing the right thing (for once!) and sincerely hope that he makes it from now on. I kind of skipped through most of the horrible language and some of his rants, but his views on who he would appoint as cabinet members if elected president were very interesting. Overall, I'm glad I got this one from my library.
August 9, 2014
Charles Ramsey is the Cleveland man who heard Amanda Berry screaming for help and broke down the front door, initiating the rescue of Amanda along with her daughter, Gina deJesus and Michelle Knight.
This is Charles' perspective, along with his history, opinions about politics (you'll definitely be surprised) and getting involved in an altercation in on a street that lives by the "mind your own" code.
This is Charles' perspective, along with his history, opinions about politics (you'll definitely be surprised) and getting involved in an altercation in on a street that lives by the "mind your own" code.
June 5, 2014
Funny
I purchased this book after reading Michelle knights story of her horrific kidnapping. Charles Ramsey is brutally honest about everything. I enjoyed reading about his life and how he saved Amanda Berry, Gina Dejesus and Michelle knight.
I purchased this book after reading Michelle knights story of her horrific kidnapping. Charles Ramsey is brutally honest about everything. I enjoyed reading about his life and how he saved Amanda Berry, Gina Dejesus and Michelle knight.
January 11, 2015
A surprisingly good book! It was witty, interesting, and kept me turning pages chapter after chapter. In Dead Giveaway, Charles Ramsey shares the story of how a horrible event one day in Cleveland led to his heroic action and his unlikely fame. Well written and insightful...
May 18, 2014
I prefer to read books that don't have the F & N words in every sentence.
July 13, 2014
He is a hero in his own right, its interesting to read his perspective!
May 24, 2014
I was hoping to read more about the rescue, and less about his childhood and political rants. I did enjoy his honesty, though.
July 11, 2014
Charles Ramsey tells it like it is in a mixture of humor and wisdom. Quick read.
September 3, 2014
Got this as a giveaway from Librarything. Way more F-bombs than I want to read, but it was interesting to hear of his life, before and after the dramatic rescue of the women in Cleveland.
April 29, 2015
Wow! Charles Ramsey has had a heck of a life!
October 13, 2015
This guy gets it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews