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Fifteen Feet Tall
Abandoned into an orphanage in the middle of the night, a two-year-old boy became File #61249600—the official identity of a child marked by institutionalisation, extreme displacement, rejection, challenge, failure, resilience, persistence, and, ultimately, self-realisation.
Set against the backdrop and soundtrack of suburban South Australia, this is a story filled with colourful characters, misadventure, heartbreak, and tragedy—culminating in the remarkable success of a man who refused to give up on himself when so many others had.
Fast-paced and deeply engaging, with rare insight drawn from his own state department file, Warren Rankine shares his life’s journey with vulnerability, humour, and raw, unflinching reflection.
Others may have put him on a path. Ultimately, he forged his own.
Set against the backdrop and soundtrack of suburban South Australia, this is a story filled with colourful characters, misadventure, heartbreak, and tragedy—culminating in the remarkable success of a man who refused to give up on himself when so many others had.
Fast-paced and deeply engaging, with rare insight drawn from his own state department file, Warren Rankine shares his life’s journey with vulnerability, humour, and raw, unflinching reflection.
Others may have put him on a path. Ultimately, he forged his own.
372 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 23, 2026
To read this book having gone to high school with Warren is to feel time fold in on itself. I remember the boy he was—the quick wit, the spark in his eyes, the resilience that we saw only as confidence back then. Now, through these pages, I see the truth beneath those moments: the turmoil he carried silently, the storms he weathered before any of us ever knew him. The book made me relive those shared hallways, but through a sharper, more vulnerable lens.
And then there is the strange, almost surreal feeling of seeing myself woven into his story—a passing moment in his long, difficult journey. He renders those shared memories with humour, tenderness, and an honesty. It felt like looking into a mirror that reflected not just my own past, but the hidden chapters of a friend I thought I knew.
And then there is the strange, almost surreal feeling of seeing myself woven into his story—a passing moment in his long, difficult journey. He renders those shared memories with humour, tenderness, and an honesty. It felt like looking into a mirror that reflected not just my own past, but the hidden chapters of a friend I thought I knew.
January 21, 2026
I picked this book up expecting a hard-to-read, depressing memoir. I definitely didn’t expect to race through it. I was wrong on both counts.
This is a tough childhood and adulthood story told with genuine honesty, warmth, and a surprising amount of humour. Despite the subject matter, it never asks for sympathy or slips into melodrama. Warren just tells his story clearly and lets it land naturally — and boy it lands hard and well. He forces you to feel almost every raw emotion a human can have including love, hate, friendship, betrayal, kindness, despair, regret, injustice and triumph. The creation of this work is as profound a tribute to the author, as it is to his wife and family, despite neither outcome being intended.
The writing is dry, pitiless, and stolidly unpretentious. The story is rich with surprises and (somehow) balances rogue with respect. Warren is as hard on himself as he is on others as he tries, fails and succeeds in a world that too often fixates on systems to the exclusion of understanding and compassion. While reading, I laughed, cried, and often found myself re-thinking right and wrong, reflecting on how thoughtlessly we damage one another, and on how we cope or otherwise with damage done to ourselves.
This is a very readable, very human book. Moving without being depressing, honest without being bitter — and it stays with you. I highly recommend it.
This is a tough childhood and adulthood story told with genuine honesty, warmth, and a surprising amount of humour. Despite the subject matter, it never asks for sympathy or slips into melodrama. Warren just tells his story clearly and lets it land naturally — and boy it lands hard and well. He forces you to feel almost every raw emotion a human can have including love, hate, friendship, betrayal, kindness, despair, regret, injustice and triumph. The creation of this work is as profound a tribute to the author, as it is to his wife and family, despite neither outcome being intended.
The writing is dry, pitiless, and stolidly unpretentious. The story is rich with surprises and (somehow) balances rogue with respect. Warren is as hard on himself as he is on others as he tries, fails and succeeds in a world that too often fixates on systems to the exclusion of understanding and compassion. While reading, I laughed, cried, and often found myself re-thinking right and wrong, reflecting on how thoughtlessly we damage one another, and on how we cope or otherwise with damage done to ourselves.
This is a very readable, very human book. Moving without being depressing, honest without being bitter — and it stays with you. I highly recommend it.
January 21, 2026
What a journey through life!
An eye opening story of life’s highs and lows.
Being from the western suburbs of Adelaide I had an affinity with this book.
Having taught in high schools for twenty years and then running a business employing cabinet makers and training apprentices for twenty five years, I have seen more than most. I can tell you that many with similar circumstances and experiences to Warren’s do not succeed.
What an enjoyable and rewarding read!
Earl Scott
An eye opening story of life’s highs and lows.
Being from the western suburbs of Adelaide I had an affinity with this book.
Having taught in high schools for twenty years and then running a business employing cabinet makers and training apprentices for twenty five years, I have seen more than most. I can tell you that many with similar circumstances and experiences to Warren’s do not succeed.
What an enjoyable and rewarding read!
Earl Scott
January 21, 2026
This was a great insight into the author's journey in life.
At some parts nostalgic and for the most inspirational - the adventures, characters and life lessons jump out of the pages.
I really enjoyed taking a 'peep' into the life lessons and growth of a seemingly ordinary person.
One can definitely see this story adapt into more than just pages in a novel...
At some parts nostalgic and for the most inspirational - the adventures, characters and life lessons jump out of the pages.
I really enjoyed taking a 'peep' into the life lessons and growth of a seemingly ordinary person.
One can definitely see this story adapt into more than just pages in a novel...
January 21, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyed learning about Warren’s story and all the challenges he faced in his childhood. Even though I’ve known Waz for many years it was eye opening to learn of his upbringing and encouraging to know that despite all his adversity he has a beautiful family that he adores and has provided them with many things he had to go without. Importantly developed a successful business that our company has supported for many years in which he has remained loyal and become a good friend. Def worth the read👍
February 5, 2026
Despite my past 25 years of professional experience working in the South Australian Courts System and dealing with South Australia's "unspoken side of society" on a daily basis—regularly encountering alleged and convicted murderers, rapists, paedophiles, members of organised crime syndicates, and enduring exposure to gruesome evidence and heart-wrenching victim impact statements that would affect even the most hardened professional—this remarkable book still managed to captivate me completely and hold my attention from beginning to end. At the age of 53, this is actually the very first book I have ever read from start to finish in its entirety.
This captivating and compelling book encompasses the true Australian example of the saying "it's not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog." This in-depth, heart-on-the-sleeve recollection and intimate portrayal of Warren's journey through life, starting from his earliest recollection of being abandoned at night in an orphanage where a two-year-old boy became nothing more than File #61249600—an identity marked by institutionalisation, displacement, rejection, numerous challenges, repeated failures, remarkable resilience, unwavering persistence, and ultimately, profound self-realisation—draws the reader in completely. This powerful narrative features memorable characters, various misadventures, profound heartbreak, and genuine tragedy along the way. It culminates in the inspiring success story of a man who maintained steadfast faith in himself and his abilities even when others around him had long since dismissed him and written him off.
This captivating and compelling book encompasses the true Australian example of the saying "it's not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog." This in-depth, heart-on-the-sleeve recollection and intimate portrayal of Warren's journey through life, starting from his earliest recollection of being abandoned at night in an orphanage where a two-year-old boy became nothing more than File #61249600—an identity marked by institutionalisation, displacement, rejection, numerous challenges, repeated failures, remarkable resilience, unwavering persistence, and ultimately, profound self-realisation—draws the reader in completely. This powerful narrative features memorable characters, various misadventures, profound heartbreak, and genuine tragedy along the way. It culminates in the inspiring success story of a man who maintained steadfast faith in himself and his abilities even when others around him had long since dismissed him and written him off.
March 30, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall is a well written, clear and easy read. Overall, I enjoyed reading it. Of course, the realities of abandonment of a two-year-old, separation from family and culture, his mother’s disfunction and father’s disfunction, and the subsequent battles that he had to endure, were uncomfortable reading.
As a white, middle-class woman, I have to remind myself that what I have here is an opportunity to appreciate a very different perspective. As someone who wants to hear more First Nations voices, I have read many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors, and this is very different. Warren's book is an unusual perspective that deserves an audience.
I feel sorry about all the losses that he experienced. I also feel that the whole (persisting) process of colonising Australia was largely responsible for so much of his suffering. However, I recognise that Warren has his own reasons for not placing any blame, and has taken a stance of just taking responsibility for the cards that he was dealt in his life. Something that he said when he came to our local bookshop was, "I could have been born to the Queen, and who would want to be Prince Andrew now?" His humour comes through in the book.
To his credit, he has done an amazing job of writing a book, creating a great life, a thriving family and a future full of promise. He demonstrates his resilient spirit repeatedly.
I was glad that I met him in person as he radiates a warmth and generosity of spirit that I didn't think was as evident in his book. The other thing that he expressed in his presentation, which I did not read in his book, was that ‘the system pushed hard’ on him, not encouraging him but repressing him, and that suppression made him more determined to create a successful life, independently, without drugs, without crime and full of love.
I feel that Warren has so much more depth to reveal in his writing than is represented in his book. Some of the last 40 pages (such a small part) allude to so much more personal discovery and journey than his words express, so far. I look forward to his next book.
As a white, middle-class woman, I have to remind myself that what I have here is an opportunity to appreciate a very different perspective. As someone who wants to hear more First Nations voices, I have read many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors, and this is very different. Warren's book is an unusual perspective that deserves an audience.
I feel sorry about all the losses that he experienced. I also feel that the whole (persisting) process of colonising Australia was largely responsible for so much of his suffering. However, I recognise that Warren has his own reasons for not placing any blame, and has taken a stance of just taking responsibility for the cards that he was dealt in his life. Something that he said when he came to our local bookshop was, "I could have been born to the Queen, and who would want to be Prince Andrew now?" His humour comes through in the book.
To his credit, he has done an amazing job of writing a book, creating a great life, a thriving family and a future full of promise. He demonstrates his resilient spirit repeatedly.
I was glad that I met him in person as he radiates a warmth and generosity of spirit that I didn't think was as evident in his book. The other thing that he expressed in his presentation, which I did not read in his book, was that ‘the system pushed hard’ on him, not encouraging him but repressing him, and that suppression made him more determined to create a successful life, independently, without drugs, without crime and full of love.
I feel that Warren has so much more depth to reveal in his writing than is represented in his book. Some of the last 40 pages (such a small part) allude to so much more personal discovery and journey than his words express, so far. I look forward to his next book.
January 21, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall sits squarely in the gritty, working-class drama of Australia’s suburbs. Much like Trent Dalton’s Boy Swallows Universe, the author takes you on a deep dive into teenage angst, confusion and poor judgement. Running with the wild boys (and a few wild girls) finds the protagonist on the wrong side of the law, more than once. Some of the characters cleave into view, just dripping with trouble, create it and disappear like wayward comets. Somehow, along the way, Warren finds his sensible center (plenty of poor examples in his orbit, to be sure). A mixture of grit and bloody-mindedness seems just enough to overcome youth and inexperience.
The backdrop of 80s Adelaide has plenty to amuse/remind Adelaideans of a certain age -drunken escapades at Lenny’s whorehouse, the Leg Trap Hotel and falling out of the dives in Hindley Street at 3 in the morning will cause more than a few to reflect on their misspent youth.
What stands out is optimism: a sense of winning hope, when plenty of others might despair and curse the World and those around them, Warren marches on. And that theme drives the narrative beyond a boy battling against the world and human frailty - misled and let down by those who ought to help - and leads us to a man with a firm grip on his future, building a life and a family, who he most evidently loves. The book closes out with a man who is clearly grateful for a wife who pushes him to achieve and be a better man. Cracking read. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
The backdrop of 80s Adelaide has plenty to amuse/remind Adelaideans of a certain age -drunken escapades at Lenny’s whorehouse, the Leg Trap Hotel and falling out of the dives in Hindley Street at 3 in the morning will cause more than a few to reflect on their misspent youth.
What stands out is optimism: a sense of winning hope, when plenty of others might despair and curse the World and those around them, Warren marches on. And that theme drives the narrative beyond a boy battling against the world and human frailty - misled and let down by those who ought to help - and leads us to a man with a firm grip on his future, building a life and a family, who he most evidently loves. The book closes out with a man who is clearly grateful for a wife who pushes him to achieve and be a better man. Cracking read. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
May 17, 2026
I absolutely loved this. The first book I’ve felt compelled to read from cover to cover with very little down time in many years.
A remarkable story of how one man has overcome enough adversity in life that would have discouraged most mere mortals. Warren tells his tale naturally in a common vernacular with plenty of emotion and humour that makes this an easy read despite many the many dark times that make up a fair portion of the subject matter.
Starting from a childhood of brutal abandonment and lacking the stability of one single loving home that most of us are truly blessed enough to be able to take for granted. Warren progresses through a troubled although at times very entertaining adolescence into an adult and working life filled with false starts, ups and downs. Despite the disadvantages faced, you never once get the impression of a man that ever failed to believe that he would ultimately prevail and rise above. And through sheer dogged determination and hard work he does ultimately prevail, achieving success in business and life. However I found the touching part is that having read about the triumph of getting to the top in the world of sales then creating his own successful business the impression I was left with was of a man who truly does regard his greatest achievement in life as being the creation of his own loving family unit and his absolute determination to provide them with all of the advantages in life that he was not privy to.
I absolutely recommend everyone to read this book.
A remarkable story of how one man has overcome enough adversity in life that would have discouraged most mere mortals. Warren tells his tale naturally in a common vernacular with plenty of emotion and humour that makes this an easy read despite many the many dark times that make up a fair portion of the subject matter.
Starting from a childhood of brutal abandonment and lacking the stability of one single loving home that most of us are truly blessed enough to be able to take for granted. Warren progresses through a troubled although at times very entertaining adolescence into an adult and working life filled with false starts, ups and downs. Despite the disadvantages faced, you never once get the impression of a man that ever failed to believe that he would ultimately prevail and rise above. And through sheer dogged determination and hard work he does ultimately prevail, achieving success in business and life. However I found the touching part is that having read about the triumph of getting to the top in the world of sales then creating his own successful business the impression I was left with was of a man who truly does regard his greatest achievement in life as being the creation of his own loving family unit and his absolute determination to provide them with all of the advantages in life that he was not privy to.
I absolutely recommend everyone to read this book.
April 22, 2026
Whilst knowing Warren for over 40 years, I was across snippets of his journey firsthand. However, what was revealed to me was someone that had the strength courage to be a better version of himself. The read itself and not from a prolific reader, I found to be with great tempo and articulation that made it an enjoyable and easy read. There were parts of a nostalgia which I looked fondly on. But the awful truth was to reveal itself, that I had not known. This is a story of great humour, despite the immense personal challenges. It is extremely well researched and pulls no punches. I have said to Warren in our second meeting some 20 years later, that I am in awe him. Now knowing the full story and the person that I know now, it just doesn’t seem quite just. A fabulous autobiography that is humorous, heart wrenching and inspirational. Must reading.
January 28, 2026
Warren’s book transported me back to my early days as a social worker with the Dept. The streets and schools mentioned (my stomping ground in the late 70’s), the way of life, the cars, the mischief… I loved Warren’s willingness to be vulnerable , and disclose the good, the bad and the ugly of his early years and youth. For all his risk taking and extraordinary experiences, he’s turned out to be a pretty decent and ethical human being, evidenced by his supportive family and business. Thanks for seeking me out Warren, all these years later, to share your story (and show me your tattoo!)
May 14, 2026
From the moment you start this book, you are drawn into what seems like a story that may be full of despair and heartache. Whilst those exist, the triumph, growth and positivity that come from his journey are heart warming and inspiring. I would recommend this to anyone who feels lost and needs perspective, grounding and hope. In a life full of challenges there remains hope and love in every step, and it keeps you drawn in. I ripped through this in mere hours. It helped me whilst nursing a dislocated knee in hospital.
January 21, 2026
I'm not an avid reader but this story appealed to me, and the book delivered in spades. An enthralling recollection of how Warren overcame a severely disadvantaged childhood to live a happy and fulfilling adult life. It really is an inspirational read for those who feel that life's odds are stacked against them.
Warren's candid telling of the many and varied events that appear to have had him on the verge of a criminal 'career' keep you wondering how he turns it around........
Warren's candid telling of the many and varied events that appear to have had him on the verge of a criminal 'career' keep you wondering how he turns it around........
January 21, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall surprised me. I expected to be emotionally challenged, and of course i was! Surviving a barely functional welfare system is not for the fainthearted! Yet the overwhelming sentiment I was left with was one of resilience and unbreakable spirit. Warrens witty and at times darkly humorous storytelling about wandering around the back streets of Adelaide as an unchecked child and adolescent, cleverly masks the danger that lurked at every turn. Inspiring read.
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January 23, 2026A powerful and inspiring story that demonstrates never giving up matters.
The balance between raw, confronting moments and uplifting, importing reflections is impressive. We can all pause, think and appreciate the strength people can find within themselves.
Rankine's writing is incredibly engaging. It is clear, vivid, and full of heart. The book was impossible to put down. More than just a story to read. It's an experience to live.
The balance between raw, confronting moments and uplifting, importing reflections is impressive. We can all pause, think and appreciate the strength people can find within themselves.
Rankine's writing is incredibly engaging. It is clear, vivid, and full of heart. The book was impossible to put down. More than just a story to read. It's an experience to live.
January 27, 2026
Coming from the industry and having prior knowledge of some of the events, I found the book both interesting and at times entertaining. I wasn’t aware of the formative years, which made the journey more commendable. Highlights the resilience required to keep going and ultimately achieve the success that sees his business continue up to today. Congratulations and good luck with where your journey takes you from this point.
March 11, 2026
This is true to the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. Not many people get to know the gritty bits of ourselves that we push down and don’t talk about. I found myself on a journey of feelings through out reading this. Some things I knew, most I didn’t. But, I loved every moment and felt like I was living it all with you. The courage you have shown to push through and then share it all with the world is inspiring. Amazing read.
April 7, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall is a compelling read and captivates you to read every single word - I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want to miss any part!
It’s a very honest and courageous memoir and a huge credit to Warren for capturing and sharing his life story in an engaging way.
Sad stories and recollections but it demonstrates amazing resilience and determination.
Definitely the most captivating read I’ve had in a long time.
It’s a very honest and courageous memoir and a huge credit to Warren for capturing and sharing his life story in an engaging way.
Sad stories and recollections but it demonstrates amazing resilience and determination.
Definitely the most captivating read I’ve had in a long time.
January 21, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall is a raw, unflinching memoir that chronicles the life of Warren Rankine, a man who rose from the shadows of the South Australian State Care System to become a success with his own Business. The book is a deeply personal exploration of displacement, and the sheer force of human will.
January 21, 2026
15 Feet Tall felt like Warren sitting across from me at the golf club telling his life story over a beer. No sugar-coating no preaching just an honest account of what he’s been through. What stood out most was his resilience, his work ethic, and how strongly he’s committed to his family. It’s a genuine, easy read that leaves you with a lot of respect for the man.
January 21, 2026
I'm a person that doesn't read books but 'Fifteen Feet Tall' had me hooked from the very first page. Confronting, captivating, controversial and polished!
Growing up in the same era as the book is set in also provided a wonderful trip down memory lane. A personal story with a human touch.
I absolutely would recommend.
Growing up in the same era as the book is set in also provided a wonderful trip down memory lane. A personal story with a human touch.
I absolutely would recommend.
January 21, 2026
A wonderful book that has all the feels! You’ll cry, laugh & probably cry again. I am in disbelief at how a young innocent boy had to endure such a complex & unstable childhood, but in awe at how Warren the teenager & adult found a way to overcome the social & emotional challenges that were thrown at him. Very enjoyable, a great read.
January 22, 2026
Fifteen Feet Tall is a powerful and honest book about Warren Rankine’s life growing up in care. It shows the struggles he faced and how he stayed strong through it all. The story is emotional, real, and inspiring. A meaningful read that helps you understand resilience and hope.
Truly proud of you, Warren.
Truly proud of you, Warren.
January 22, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed Fifteen Feet Tall. The book is set in my home city (Adelaide).
The author and I frequented the same suburbs, pubs and nightclubs without ever crossing paths. It is a cracking read and I can't recommend it highly enough.
Get yourself a copy and enjoy a real page-turner story.
5 stars!
The author and I frequented the same suburbs, pubs and nightclubs without ever crossing paths. It is a cracking read and I can't recommend it highly enough.
Get yourself a copy and enjoy a real page-turner story.
5 stars!
January 22, 2026
Warren Rankine has written a compelling narrative of his life growing up in care. The government records he has used to provide information and evidence of his experiences as a child and teenager add another layer to his story.
He doesn't pull any punches and his honesty evokes plenty of emotions.
He doesn't pull any punches and his honesty evokes plenty of emotions.
January 22, 2026
A really raw and revealing autobiography which challenges the Australian cultural heritage surrounding not only indigenous Australians but also other kids with economic difficulties. A classic example of self made success through effort but importantly, contribution. This book could help other young people with challenges. Well done Warren Rankine!
Would recommend
Would recommend
March 15, 2026
WOW. An absolutely incredible story! It had me hooked after the first few document inserts. I felt so connected to the story from Warren featuring as a young boy on the front cover, the photo galleries and the documents were so interesting! I left like I was snooping on something I shouldn’t be. This is 100% a book worth reading!
May 13, 2026
Wow. I just finished Fifteen Feet Tall, and I am honestly struggling to find the right words. As someone growing up in a small town in Scotland in the 80’s, reading Warren’s memoir hit incredibly close to home. It is easily one of the most raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring books I have ever picked up.
January 21, 2026
An honest insight into the journey of someone who has succeeded against the odds. Great stories and a great insight into what Aussie life used to be like. Warren is extremely likable and epitomizes strong Aussie character.
A great read!
A great read!
January 21, 2026
Fascinating book about the adversity of the foster system in 70’s and 80’s. An honest retelling of rages to riches. Was even more enthralled by the fact it’s about the city I also grew up in. A must read especially if you’ve ever had anything to do with South Australia.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews