Above Ground: Resilience to Overcome. Strength to Serve Boldly.

by Allan Francis

Above Ground is the powerful story of a boy who survived unimaginable hardship in Jamaica—abandoned by his mother, abused by his godparents, and so desperate that at eight years old, he lay under a truck waiting for death. But God had other plans.

From a child who didn't know the meaning of "I love you" until age eleven, Allan Francis transformed into a respected U.S. Army combat veteran, earning both the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit during his 22-year military career. His journey from a barefoot boy scavenging for food at drive-in theaters to becoming a Chief Warrant Officer, community leader, and life coach demonstrates that your darkest hole can become your greatest training ground.

Through stories of walking barefoot across cactus paths, learning to read at age eleven, nearly drowning, and ultimately forgiving his mother, Allan shows how faith and belief can lift anyone from their deepest pit. More than a memoir, this book serves as a ladder of hope for anyone stuck in their own hole—whether it's trauma, depression, abuse, or loss.

Above Ground teaches that life offers two below ground or above ground. As long as you're above ground, there's still hope, still a chance to live the life you were meant to live. Through Allan’s raw honesty and hard-won wisdom, readers learn that their current circumstances are not their final destination.

135 pages, Paperback

Published December 13, 2024

Reviews

[Anthony Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Above Ground is unlike any memoir I’ve read. From the opening pages, Allan Francis pulls readers into the raw reality of his childhood in Jamaica, where hunger, loneliness, and abandonment shaped his earliest memories. What makes this book remarkable is not just the pain he endured, but the way he transforms that pain into a source of strength. His description of lying beneath a truck, waiting for death at age eight, is one of the most haunting images I’ve ever read. And yet, that moment becomes the turning point that launches him on a path toward resilience. When Allan later walks across cactus fields barefoot or learns to read at eleven, we don’t just see hardship, We see the training ground for a man who would become a decorated U.S. Army officer. As a reader, I felt as though I was being led out of despair into light with every chapter. This memoir is not only a personal history, but a gift of perspective to anyone struggling with depression, trauma, or hopelessness. It tells you plainly: as long as you’re above ground, there is still hope. I recommend it without hesitation to readers of all ages.

[David Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Above Ground is a message in book form: no matter how deep the hole, you can climb out. Allan’s story begins with unimaginable hardship-abandonment, abuse, hunger, and despair. The scene of him lying under a truck, waiting for it to crush him, is so vivid it nearly stopped my breath. But the story doesn’t end there, and that’s what makes this book powerful. Through faith, mentorship, and sheer determination, Allan rises not just to survive, but to thrive. His voice throughout the book is that of a mentor guiding the reader-always reminding us that our current situation is not permanent. I can’t think of a better book to recommend to people battling depression or loss, because it provides both raw honesty and tangible hope.

[Elissa Greyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think of Above Ground as a ladder built from words. Every chapter feels like another rung, carrying the reader upward from darkness into light. Allan Francis gives us glimpses into his lowest moment abandonment, abuse, hunger, suicidal despair, But never leaves us there. He insists on climbing, and by the end of the book, you realize he’s inviting you to climb too. His transformation into a U.S. Army leader is inspiring, but more inspiring still is the man who forgives, who leads, and who encourages others to heal. This book is not just Allan’s ladder, it is one he built for us, the readers. I would recommend Above Ground to anyone who feels stuck in grief, pain, or hopelessness, because it offers not just inspiration but practical wisdom.

[Elanora Veyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Above Ground through the lens of psychology, I was fascinated by how Allan’s story illustrates concepts of trauma, resilience, and post-traumatic growth. The abandonment and abuse he suffered would typically create long-lasting scars, yet his story demonstrates how adversity, combined with faith and personal determination, can forge extraordinary strength. The act of forgiving his mother is particularly significant, It shows emotional maturity and the ability to reframe trauma into healing. For students of psychology, social work, or counseling, this memoir is more than literature; it is a living case study of survival and growth. I would not hesitate to recommend it in academic settings.

[Valentina Witley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Above Ground is more than a memoir; it is a deeply emotional journey that quietly changes you as you read it. I started the book thinking it would simply be a story of hardship, but Allan Francis carefully layers his past so that each moment of suffering carries a lesson. The image of a child lying under a truck, wishing for death, is haunting. Yet, by the end, we see this same child grow into a decorated soldier who leads others with compassion. I walked away from this book not only admiring Allan’s resilience but also examining my own life. It’s rare that a book teaches you about yourself while telling another’s story-this one does.

[Emma Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most about Allan’s writing is his honesty. He doesn’t dramatize his experiences for pity, nor does he downplay them to appear strong. He speaks plainly about abuse, abandonment, and despair, and in doing so, gives voice to countless others who suffered silently. Above Ground becomes not just his story, but the story of every child who has felt unloved or unwanted. The lesson that no hole is too deep to climb out of is universal. I believe this book will give hope to abuse survivors, students struggling with identity, and anyone who thinks their story is already written. It proves that new chapters can always be created.

[Emily Sharp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose Above Ground for my book club’s monthly read, and it sparked one of the deepest discussions we’ve ever had. Members talked about the resilience of the human spirit, the role of faith in overcoming trauma, and the importance of forgiveness. What surprised many of us was how much Allan’s words applied to our own lives, even though none of us endured what he did. The contrast between Allan’s barefoot childhood in Jamaica and his later role as a U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer amazed us. Everyone agreed that his story forces you to confront your own excuses. This is a book that should be on every book club list, because it inspires reflection, gratitude, and hope.

[Logan Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What moved me most in Above Ground was Allan’s faith. Throughout the book, he points to God’s role in carrying him through his darkest moments. From the time he called out to God under the truck to his eventual life as a leader and coach, his faith is woven into the narrative like an anchor. Many memoirs stop at the point of survival, but Allan goes further, He shows how faith and forgiveness bring true redemption. For readers who believe in God, this book will reaffirm that no situation is too dire for divine intervention. For those who may not, it still offers a universal message of hope and healing.

[George Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Above Ground is one of the most moving memoirs I’ve read in a long time. Allan Francis writes with raw honesty about his painful beginnings, yet never once does the story lose its thread of hope. His survival against abandonment, abuse, and despair is inspiring. The way he transformed into a decorated U.S. Army veteran and later a community leader is proof that we are never defined by our beginnings. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs encouragement to overcome adversity.

[Michelle Chatres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allan Francis's memoir, Above Ground, is a compelling testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the indomitable human spirit. His journey from a childhood of neglect and abuse to a distinguished military career and leadership roles is nothing short of inspirational. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking encouragement and hope in their own struggles.

[Clara Betley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gripped me from the very first page. Allan Francis' story is not just inspiring—it’s soul-stirring. His resilience in the face of childhood abuse and abandonment brought me to tears. The forgiveness he shows at the end is nothing short of divine. I gently recommend this to anyone healing from trauma. Writers, take note-this is how you tell a story with raw honesty and heart.

[Rose Willy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fellow veteran, I was deeply moved by Allan’s journey. He not only served with distinction but rose above an unthinkable beginning. His story is one of strength, service, and redemption. Veterans and civilians alike should read this. It's a testament to what the human spirit can endure-and overcome.

[Chris Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Francis doesn’t flinch. He tells his story with no polish, no performance-just deep, gut-level truth. There’s power in that. His faith doesn’t come off as preachy-it comes through like someone who’s lived every word. I’m giving this to my teenage son, my pastor, and my best friend. Everyone will get something different and valuable from it.

[RB Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the images in this book will stay with me forever: the cactus walk, the silence of abuse, the hunger. But what I’ll remember most is his sense of purpose. You feel it in every line. Reading Above Ground is like being handed a rope when you’re sinking. Allan really have a gift of storytelling, So i truly recommend this book to all book lovers trust me you'll love this book.

[Denise Atorm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Above Ground was a deeply emotional experience. Allan’s strength in the face of unimaginable hardship inspired me. His story reminded me that healing is possible, even from the darkest beginnings. If you’ve ever faced trauma or are helping someone through theirs, this book is a must-read. Writers-take notes on how to write with honesty and grace.

[Lillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Above Ground deeply moved me. Allan’s transformation from a neglected boy in Jamaica to a decorated U.S. Army veteran is truly inspiring. His story reminded me that no matter how dark things get, there’s always a way forward. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys uplifting, real-life stories.

[Edward Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a student, I found this book to be incredibly powerful. Allan Franci's journey shows how education, faith, and perseverance can completely change a person’s life. The part about learning to read at age eleven struck me deeply, reminding me never to take opportunities for granted. I’ll be recommending this memoir to my classmates because it teaches resilience in the most real way possible.

[Charles Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am deeply touched by the courage Allan showed in sharing his story. Above Ground does more than just tell a personal history, it gives readers hope that life can turn around, even from the darkest situations. This is the kind of book that makes you stop complaining about small problems and instead feel grateful for your blessings. I believe every young adult and parent should read this.

[Joshua Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allan’s story proves that survival isn’t just about breathing, it’s about finding purpose. His transition from being a neglected child in Jamaica to becoming a life coach in the U.S. is one of the most inspiring journeys I’ve ever read. If you are feeling stuck in trauma or depression, this book is like having someone hand you a ladder and remind you that climbing out is possible.

[Anna Kathline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Above Ground sparked one of the deepest discussions we’ve had in our group. Allan’s voice is honest, unfiltered, and filled with hope. We were crying, reflecting, and cheering him on. Perfect for book clubs and readers who appreciate real-life transformation. Highly recommended.

[Jonna Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is more than a memoir it’s a manual for survival and forgiveness. I plan to recommend it to my students who are struggling to see a way forward. A must-read for educators, counselors, and anyone who supports young people. Profoundly moving.

[Judith Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a writer, I was blown away by the clarity and emotional depth of Allan’s storytelling. He makes you feel every moment-from sleeping under trucks to receiving medals of honor. Writers: read this to learn what truth on the page looks like. Readers: read this to rediscover hope.

[Kennedy Atom · Rating 5 out of 5]

It broke my heart to know a child could experience such pain, and yet, Allan’s faith and strength shine through. I finished the book grateful-and humbled. This story will make you hold your loved ones closer. I sincerely recommend it to every parent, especially those healing their inner child.

[Maria Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allan’s story shook me to the core. His journey from total abandonment to military honor is one of the most powerful transformations I’ve ever read. His honesty, pain, and perseverance are deeply inspiring. I highly recommend this book to anyone struggling to find purpose. It’s a lifeline in print.

[Alicia Waitley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story will stay with me for a long time. I can’t stop thinking about the little boy under that truck. And the man he became. The message is clear: your past does not define you. Perfect for classrooms, counseling groups, and young readers searching for strength.

[Melody Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading Allan’s journey reminded me why I mentor. This is a story our boys need to hear—a story that says, ‘You are not what happened to you. Put this book in the hands of every young man facing hardship. It’s that important.

[Eleanor Seth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The faith element in this memoir is woven with sincerity and strength. Allan never preaches—he shares. And that makes his testimony even more powerful. Highly recommended for Christian readers, churches, and devotional groups. It renews faith in a very real way.

[Margaret Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allan’s journey felt so personal. I saw my younger self in his struggles. The way he turns pain into purpose is something I won’t forget. I strongly recommend this to foster youth, mentors, and social workers. It’s not just a story-it’s a light.

[Kelly Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way Allan shared his story, balancing brutal honesty with unwavering faith, brought me to tears. His transformation is a testimony to the power of divine purpose. For spiritual readers and memoir lovers-this book is deeply moving and full of soul. A beautiful and healing read.

[Athena Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me why I do what I do. Allan’s life is proof that your worst moment can be the foundation for your greatest mission. Anyone building a platform of purpose-read this book. Writers and speakers, this is a guide in raw authenticity.