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The Boy Who Carried Bricks - A True Story
Abandoned by his father, neglected by his mother, shuttled between foster homes and a boys ranch, a young African-American man refuses to succumb to the fate that the world says should be his. Told by the man who lived it.
192 pages, Paperback
First published March 17, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 5, 2019
Despite the cover, this is not a kids' or YA book. The Boy Who Carried Bricks is Alton Carter's gritty yet ultimately hopeful memoir of growing up in central Oklahoma in a family so dysfunctional and violent he had to run away to survive.
Carter's account is unflinching but he also gives kind recognition to all who helped him when his family wouldn't or couldn't. In particular, readers will appreciate how sports teams can be very meaningful communities for young athletes.
Highly recommended.
Carter's account is unflinching but he also gives kind recognition to all who helped him when his family wouldn't or couldn't. In particular, readers will appreciate how sports teams can be very meaningful communities for young athletes.
Highly recommended.
August 6, 2024
Mayyy be biast because I got to meet the author aNd his dog*, but this was SO powerful and I think you (yes you) need to read it!
*he visits schools all over OK, so I got lucky bc I live only 2 hrs away from his hometown
*he visits schools all over OK, so I got lucky bc I live only 2 hrs away from his hometown
May 27, 2015
EVERY teacher should read this book AND anyone who works with children. It was recommended to my by a great friend. Alton should not have endured many of things he had to live through! I wish there was an easy answer to fixing "the system". He mentions several times in the book that an act of kindness by many unknowing people got him through all the terrible things in his life. While reading I thought back to several of the kids in my class, did I do enough for them as a teacher? Could I have done more? Will I try to do better in the future? YES!!
February 1, 2018
Heartbreaking but inspirational story. Hard to read but needs to be.
March 14, 2015
I decided to buy this book because I live in the same town as the author and have met him a couple of times. Seeing who he is in the community today I would have never guessed what a terrible childhood he had. I am just amazed at all he has overcome and wish him continued success in the future. The book is easy to read and the author spares no details. I think if it gets into the right hands it could certainly make a positive difference in some peoples lives which is the ultimate goal of the author. I wish him success in this goal as well!
July 13, 2022
Heartbreaking story of a young boy born into a family brought low by poverty, alcohol and drug abuse, and physical abuse. Yet even from a young age, Alton Carter knew there was a better life out there if he would work hard enough to reach it, so he endured the abuse and hunger and other unspeakable hardships, but he made it thanks to foster parents he was finally placed with. He was the first in his family to graduate high school and then college. Now he works to help other kids from unfortunate circumstances to have a better life and a better future.
Here’s his own recommendation:
“I wanted it to inspire teachers to strive to be the best they possibly could be and to know that they have an opportunity to give kids a chance to believe in themselves – even the seemingly most hopeless of children.”
“I wanted DHS personnel to read it and understand the importance of their roles as protectors of our youngest citizens. . . - and the importance of finding safe places for children and always being on alert for a child in trouble or danger.”
“I wanted children who are being or have been abused to read it and know they can become whatever they dare to dream. I wanted young people blessed with good families and all they need to appreciate what they have and be willing to share with those less fortunate.”
Here’s his own recommendation:
“I wanted it to inspire teachers to strive to be the best they possibly could be and to know that they have an opportunity to give kids a chance to believe in themselves – even the seemingly most hopeless of children.”
“I wanted DHS personnel to read it and understand the importance of their roles as protectors of our youngest citizens. . . - and the importance of finding safe places for children and always being on alert for a child in trouble or danger.”
“I wanted children who are being or have been abused to read it and know they can become whatever they dare to dream. I wanted young people blessed with good families and all they need to appreciate what they have and be willing to share with those less fortunate.”
November 9, 2024
Started and finished this book today and I’ve been rocked. There were definitely tears and wide eyes and moments where I had to pause in either grief or just smile so so big. Alton’s story is such a powerful story of holding onto hope, teaching about individual dignity, personal responsibility, hard work, not giving up, and the impact of showing up. For me as a future teacher it is an incredibly inspiring charge and reminder to never give up on students, that a caring adult can make a great deal of difference in helping a child believe in themselves. It is also a reminder that children are so much stronger than we give them credit for. Awesome awesome book.
February 25, 2021
TW for child abuse. Moving and touching memoir and a must read for any teacher or social worker. Alton’s positivity through hardship and his faith in Good Samaritans is so inspiring ❤️
August 27, 2025
I stumbled across Alton’s second book “Aging Out” at the library during a give away event. I saw there was a prequel to it, so I checked out this book before I started the second. Alton was spot on with his memoir. I enjoyed his cycle of his writing. He brushed on very hard topics, but was able to tell them without too much exhaustive unnecessary rambling. He told of good things, that to “regular people” wouldn’t think anything of it, but to him meant the world. I cried for Alton, smiled for Alton, and celebrated for Alton. It is because of his mindset and love and support from others who weren’t his family that he got out of a toxic situation before it would ruin his life. Props to Alton and I look forward to reading the rest of his books. Congratulations on achieving the unachievable that resided with your family. You are now of legendary status!
May 4, 2015
This book is special as it was written by a friend and a person who has overcome more obstacles imaginable. He was supposed to be one of those that fell through the cracks and ended up dead or in jail. His story is inspirational and gives hope to others
This book has a roller coaster of emotions, happy, sad, angry, helpless and happiness at the ending as that is the best part.
This book has a roller coaster of emotions, happy, sad, angry, helpless and happiness at the ending as that is the best part.
June 7, 2015
Inspirational, heart-wrenching, and insightful, this true story of perseverance and positivity will captivate mature readers. A great book for educators to read as well.
December 8, 2015
My daughter's entire school is reading this so I wanted to read it as well. I couldn't put it down!! Heart wrenching and honest...
July 19, 2017
This book was recommended by a friend who knows the author through their church, and all of the events in the book took place less than 70 miles from where we grew up. It was shocking to read about such horrible abuse in his home, but as we all know, that unfortunately happens all over the country, and all over the world. What was so distressing and disheartening was the way it was overlooked by DHS for so many years, and how many of the places Alton was sent to get away from that life were actually just as abusive. Again, you hear stories, but to read his firsthand account of this and know it all happened so close to home really made it seem worse to me. While much of the book recounts the abuse & the torment he went through, Alton also makes sure to point out those angels who were there to help him, and who gave him hope that all was not lost. It was thanks to that hope that he was able to pull himself out of the cycle of addiction & abuse that he grew up in, and make his life into something to be proud of.
I would definitely recommend this book, but there are a few editing issues every now & then, so heads up if that bothers you. Nothing major, just an occasional "worse" instead of "worst," and "conscious" instead of "conscience," that sort of thing. It's fairly rare, so it doesn't make the book unreadable or anything. As the author himself says, hopefully no matter what your circumstances, you should be able to get something from this book. Maybe you realize those kind words you thought about saying really would make a difference, maybe you decide to foster, maybe you decide to give someone with a rough history a chance, maybe you have that history and you need hope. This book can give you that.
I would definitely recommend this book, but there are a few editing issues every now & then, so heads up if that bothers you. Nothing major, just an occasional "worse" instead of "worst," and "conscious" instead of "conscience," that sort of thing. It's fairly rare, so it doesn't make the book unreadable or anything. As the author himself says, hopefully no matter what your circumstances, you should be able to get something from this book. Maybe you realize those kind words you thought about saying really would make a difference, maybe you decide to foster, maybe you decide to give someone with a rough history a chance, maybe you have that history and you need hope. This book can give you that.
April 29, 2020
Nothing fancy, just a straightforward memoir of growing up black in the Oklahoma foster care system, and all the grit, heartache, abuse, disappointment, hope, and redemption that entails.
I love the metaphor Carter uses to introduce his story, that of searching for “breadcrumbs of hope” throughout his life. He closes the book with the observation that the bricks he was forced to carry as punishment in his youth were repurposed into a driveway. As an adult, he stands on top of the bricks, a victorious overcomer who held on to hope and didn’t lose faith in humanity, even though he had every reason to do so.
His own great hope is fulfilled in this work: that his message would provide something valuable to all readers. He writes, “I wanted it to inspire teachers to strive to be the best they possibly could be and to know that they have an opportunity to give kids a chance to believe in themselves - even the seemingly most hopeless of children. I wanted DHS personnel to read it and understand the importance of their role as protectors of our youngest citizens, the importance of continually striving to improve our social and foster care programs - and the importance of finding safe places for children and always being on alert for a child in trouble or danger. I wanted children who are being or have been abused to read it and know they can become whatever they dare to dream. I wanted young people blessed with good families and all they need to appreciate what they have and be willing to share with those less fortunate… I wanted anyone who read my book to find something in it that would inspire them to do whatever they could to make this world a better place.”
Well done, Alton. You succeeded.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2023
Alton Carter's autobiography of his early life was not a story soon to be forgotten; nor should it be.
The question it raised in my mind is, why do some individuals who are born into horrific circumstances manage to rise above them, while others who show such promise when young eventually sink into the same destructive and tragic behaviors?
In reading Alton's story, you cannot help but be saddened, even horrified, by how many events in his young life continually slapped him down. Yet over and over he mentions something inside of himself that even he cannot explain. But that something keeps him determined to have a life free of alcoholism, drugs, crime, and continual defeatism.
There were people along the way who exhibited kindness and caring and a true Christian attitude, plus the one person in his own family who gave him a positive role model, his grandfather.
There was a pivotal point, even before Alton was well into his teens when he discovered a crucial truth about himself: he was becoming more comfortable in abusive situations than healthy ones.
When he realized that had to change, he started down the road that led to the victorious and happy future that would become his.
The question it raised in my mind is, why do some individuals who are born into horrific circumstances manage to rise above them, while others who show such promise when young eventually sink into the same destructive and tragic behaviors?
In reading Alton's story, you cannot help but be saddened, even horrified, by how many events in his young life continually slapped him down. Yet over and over he mentions something inside of himself that even he cannot explain. But that something keeps him determined to have a life free of alcoholism, drugs, crime, and continual defeatism.
There were people along the way who exhibited kindness and caring and a true Christian attitude, plus the one person in his own family who gave him a positive role model, his grandfather.
There was a pivotal point, even before Alton was well into his teens when he discovered a crucial truth about himself: he was becoming more comfortable in abusive situations than healthy ones.
When he realized that had to change, he started down the road that led to the victorious and happy future that would become his.
May 22, 2025
I heard Alton Carter speak at an event sponsored by the Friends of the Tulsa City-County Libraries. He is a dynamic speaker. I immediately knew I wanted to read his books as well. Although they are for middle grade and young readers, I am an eclectic reader and enjoy books for all ages. I also enjoy sharing books with a young friend who is an avid reader. I delight in recommending books to her.
The Boy Who Carried Bricks is Alton Carter’s story of abandonment, neglect, fear, hunger, and ultimately hope and success. Carter lived in many foster homes, a boys’ ranch, and youth shelters. His story is one of heartbreak. It is also a story of survival and triumph. In his darkest moments, Carter found that good people would reach out to him and provide help.
Parents and children alike should read The Boy Who Carried Bricks. In the story, Carter does not hold back on the bad things that happened to him or his own response in acting out when he thought the world was against him. Ultimately, the good wins out, especially as adults who enter his life offer him stability, comfort, and safety.
The Boy Who Carried Bricks is Alton Carter’s story of abandonment, neglect, fear, hunger, and ultimately hope and success. Carter lived in many foster homes, a boys’ ranch, and youth shelters. His story is one of heartbreak. It is also a story of survival and triumph. In his darkest moments, Carter found that good people would reach out to him and provide help.
Parents and children alike should read The Boy Who Carried Bricks. In the story, Carter does not hold back on the bad things that happened to him or his own response in acting out when he thought the world was against him. Ultimately, the good wins out, especially as adults who enter his life offer him stability, comfort, and safety.
July 6, 2017
If I could have given 6 stars I would have. This is an inspirational story of a boy who went through the foster care system in Oklahoma in the not so distant past. Despite a horrific homelife, and many brutal experiences in the system, he had a goal to have a nice life and to be someone some day. He taught himself to respond positively in many negative circumstances and took advantage of the mentors who came in and out of his life.
The chapters are short, the writing is descriptive without being overwhelmingly sad. I couldn't put this down and finished it in one day. But before I finished, I ordered the sequel from Amazon. You'll find a copy in two places at the Duncan Public Library: One in Young Adult nonfiction; one in Adult nonfiction. Read it--you won't be sorry.
The chapters are short, the writing is descriptive without being overwhelmingly sad. I couldn't put this down and finished it in one day. But before I finished, I ordered the sequel from Amazon. You'll find a copy in two places at the Duncan Public Library: One in Young Adult nonfiction; one in Adult nonfiction. Read it--you won't be sorry.
May 10, 2018
WOW! What a powerful window into the lives of some of our students and our power as teachers to shine a little light into their harsh lives. My hope is that every teacher will read this book as reminder of what some kids are dealing with. I hope that every child living through similar circumstances will read this book and be inspired to continue to work hard and not lose hope. I hope that every child that has a great home life will read this book and be reminded to be grateful and kind to their fellow classmates. You never know what battles others have battled and are still battling.
I went to school with the author, and it breaks my heart to know that he was suffering and I didn’t have any idea what he was gonna no through. I’m extremely proud of him.
I went to school with the author, and it breaks my heart to know that he was suffering and I didn’t have any idea what he was gonna no through. I’m extremely proud of him.
January 8, 2019
This book is very interesting from page 1 all the way through. It tells the story of Alton Carter, a black born in 1970 to a dysfunctional, one-parent, impoverished family in which crime, drugs, and jail time was not unknown, and was occasionally abusive, especially at the hands of one particular uncle. From an early age, Alton Carter, for reasons he may not understand, and unlike the rest of his family, wanted something better for himself.
In a straight-forward manner, Alton tells us the story of his childhood, the ups and the downs. It is an insightful and penetrating insight into a life as it exists "on the other side" for all too many impoverished Oklahoma youths.
In a straight-forward manner, Alton tells us the story of his childhood, the ups and the downs. It is an insightful and penetrating insight into a life as it exists "on the other side" for all too many impoverished Oklahoma youths.
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December 16, 2020I really appreciate the way this memoir was written and how it makes me think about its contents. The author describes a number of the difficult situations he endured with frankness and framed with hope. The way he portrays the helpers in his life was inspiring, as was the way he was able to overcome the challenging background he survived. There are some difficult descriptions that you may want to be aware of if considering this book for a young person. I feel the author did a great job of helping raise awareness of the difficulties that stem from abuse while also highlighting the value of good people in multiple settings.
July 13, 2020
Realistic and Inspiring
As a CASA (court appointed special advocate) who volunteers to work with kids in foster care, this book was very meaningful and helpful to me. For much of the author’s early years he fled from an abusive and unstable family and bounced from foster family and institutions and back to foster families. Finally through the interventions of a number of caring adults, he turned his life around. I won’t go into the details so as not to spoil the ending for future readers.
As a CASA (court appointed special advocate) who volunteers to work with kids in foster care, this book was very meaningful and helpful to me. For much of the author’s early years he fled from an abusive and unstable family and bounced from foster family and institutions and back to foster families. Finally through the interventions of a number of caring adults, he turned his life around. I won’t go into the details so as not to spoil the ending for future readers.
July 18, 2017
I read this book in two settings and was mortified at not only the home experience of Alton and his siblings but the sad situation of some of the DHS placements he endured. This book will bring awareness to the need for loving foster homes and more than anything, for social change. I am so glad I took the time to read this and recommend it to readers from middle school through adult.
July 23, 2017
An inspirational true story that is tough to read at times because of how much hardship is portrayed. At times, I was moved to tears. I wish this book were a bit more polished and literary, but it was still excellent. This book is relevant to me because it takes place in my home state of Oklahoma, and the author is going to speak to my school district.
November 25, 2018
I do not recommend for kids (was in the kids section of the library)—it is mostly vivid description of the abuse he suffered as a child, with a few positive role model stories. However anyone working with kids could greatly benefit from reading his accounts of the various adults in his life, especially how the helped and how they failed him.
May 17, 2019
His life was sad, but unfortunately kids live like this today. His story can encourage and change lives. Every person who works with children should read this book and be inspired to do whatever they can to love a child. Give them hope and empower them to change their own circumstances. Show them the real love of Jesus.
February 11, 2018
This book will stay with you long after you close the pages. It is a story of heartbreakingly sad abuse and neglect. But more than that, it is a story of hope and resilience. It is a testament to the author's faith and strength.
September 24, 2018
Inspiring book for any educator who works with children who have had trauma in their lives. An important read to remember that no matter what we have the ability to inspire, to motivate and to build solid relationships because sometimes we are all that someone has.
December 28, 2018
I had the pleasure of hearing Alton Carter speak at a conference a few years back. Alton is an inspiration, plain and simple. I'm so glad that I read this book about his life - as heartbreaking as it was - and that he is continuing to do good in this world and in the community we both call home.
September 24, 2019
I could not put this book down. I bought it at the OK Book Festival and met the author last weekend. I love how honest and inspiring this book is. His obstacles were not easy to overcome but I admire his determination. I can’t wait to dig in to Aging Out.
May 24, 2020
Powerful
This book is a very powerful book recounting a life of abuse and neglect. It is also a very powerful book showing that good things can come from bad situations. You have the power to decide how you will react to the circumstances you are put in.
This book is a very powerful book recounting a life of abuse and neglect. It is also a very powerful book showing that good things can come from bad situations. You have the power to decide how you will react to the circumstances you are put in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews