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A Dream Too Big: The Story of an Improbable Journey from Compton to Oxford
In this inspiring and provocative memoir about a young black man, Caylin Moore tells the against-all-odds story of his rise from racial injustice and cruel poverty in gang-ridden Los Angeles to academic success at the University of Oxford, with hope as his compass. A Dream to Big is for readers who want to … When Caylin Louis Moore was a young child, his mother gathered her three young children and fled an abusive marriage, landing in poverty in a heavily policed, gang-ridden community. When Moore’s mother suffered from health complications and a devastating experience in the hospital and his father was sentenced to life imprisonment, Moore was forced to enter adulthood prematurely. His hope was fueled by embracing his mother's steely faith in a brighter future. Moore skirted the gangs, the police, and the violence endemic to Compton to excel as a student and athlete, eventually reaching the pinnacles of academic achievement as a Rhodes Scholar. Moore's eye-opening, against-all-odds story reveals that there is no such thing as a dream too big .
240 pages, Hardcover
Published June 4, 2019
39 people are currently reading
1251 people want to read
About the author
Caylin Louis Moore
1 book25 followersCaylin Louis Moore is the author of A Dream Too Big: The Story of An Improbable Journey from Compton to Oxford, which has been featured by Good Morning America, Home and Family, ABC News, NBC LA, and the 700 Club amongst others. Caylin grew up in the Compton, Carson, and South Central Los Angeles area of California. After undergraduate studies at Texas Christian University, he went on to become a 2017 Rhodes Scholar. Caylin is a recent graduate of the University of Oxford in England where he earned his master’s degree. Caylin aspires to become a university professor, and is currently applying to doctoral programs in sociology. He dreams of researching and affecting the urban sociological issues that inform the story of his exodus from an impoverished background and a gang-ridden community. His eye-opening, inspirational story proves that, contrary to what others told him on his journey, there is no such thing as a dream too big. Caylin and his wife, Paola, have one daughter, Mia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 7, 2022
When Caylin Moore was six years old, his mother fled an abusive marriage and moved back with her family in Compton, Los Angeles. Their situation became worse when his mum suffered from a serious heart problem, she could no longer work, and his father was sentenced to life in prison for killing his girlfriend.
Caylin had to grow up fast, and he was only nine when the police frisked him walking home from school. He dedicated himself to helping his mother and siblings, being true to his faith, doing well at school, being an athlete and making the world a better place.
Caylin’s childhood wasn’t easy, he went hungry, and the only way he could bathe was using cold water and a bucket, initially he shared a mattress with his mum, sister and brother and lying awake at night they could hear helicopters flying overhead, gunshots and rats and cockroaches crawling around in the walls of the derelict building.
Caylin studied hard, he listened to advice, he applied for every scholarship he could find, Caylin presented himself in person, and asked if they could help him, and he didn’t care if the receptionist laughed at him or a fellow student looked down at him for mopping floors.
I received a copy of A Dream Too Big by Caylin Louis Moore from NetGalley and Nelson Books in exchange for an honest review. His memoir is an uplifting and inspirational read, Caylin fought against poverty, oppression, injustice and prejudice, to be awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University. Every teenage boy needs to read this book, a true coming of age story and every high school library should have a copy. Five big stars from me and I wonder what Caylin will achieve next?
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Caylin had to grow up fast, and he was only nine when the police frisked him walking home from school. He dedicated himself to helping his mother and siblings, being true to his faith, doing well at school, being an athlete and making the world a better place.
Caylin’s childhood wasn’t easy, he went hungry, and the only way he could bathe was using cold water and a bucket, initially he shared a mattress with his mum, sister and brother and lying awake at night they could hear helicopters flying overhead, gunshots and rats and cockroaches crawling around in the walls of the derelict building.
Caylin studied hard, he listened to advice, he applied for every scholarship he could find, Caylin presented himself in person, and asked if they could help him, and he didn’t care if the receptionist laughed at him or a fellow student looked down at him for mopping floors.
I received a copy of A Dream Too Big by Caylin Louis Moore from NetGalley and Nelson Books in exchange for an honest review. His memoir is an uplifting and inspirational read, Caylin fought against poverty, oppression, injustice and prejudice, to be awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University. Every teenage boy needs to read this book, a true coming of age story and every high school library should have a copy. Five big stars from me and I wonder what Caylin will achieve next?
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
June 17, 2020
I originally picked this book up because the author was a fellow classmate of mine at Marist College. I wasn’t personally close with him but around campus he always seemed to be super studious, athletic and the type of guy that everyone wanted to be friends with.
From the very first page I was truly inspired by his determination to make a better life for himself, his friends, his family and the community where he grew up in Compton. This book teaches you that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you can beat the standard, because with hard work and faith in yourself you too can become a “rose that grew from concrete.”
From the very first page I was truly inspired by his determination to make a better life for himself, his friends, his family and the community where he grew up in Compton. This book teaches you that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you can beat the standard, because with hard work and faith in yourself you too can become a “rose that grew from concrete.”
May 7, 2019
Guys this novel is an autobiography/biography that really hits home. This young man went through EVERYTHING and remained motivated, determined without letting his faith waiver. Anyone who reads this can relate to his story or can become educated on his story. Regardless, by the end of this novel you will feel touched. The raw emotions that he poured into every page is felt throughout the whole story. I’m trying to summarize without spoiling it but gosh. I’m just so in awe.
My favorite part was when you mentioned the song “ I Can” by Nas. Man it felt like a bucket of cold water was splashed on me when I read that. I forgot all about that song but I know that it made me work harder as a child. I’m bringing this song back and I’m going to teach it to all of my little cousins, nieces, nephews, everybody. I’m also going out to buy another notebook so that I can have a book of wisdom as well. I have to learn to listen instead of always talking.
“The path god gives you is about how god believes in you” - Caylin Moore
I am in absolute awe. Caylin, you are a true gift from god. I’m a 22 year old, psych major and this book has impacted my life greatly in the last 24 hours. I’m so excited to see what it does for our young black men and the community. I want to also give a shoutout to your Mama, Chase and Mi. All of you are incredibly strong and inspiring. Congratulations on your marriage and your baby girl love. Thank you for this advanced copy of your life❤️
August 8, 2019
Captivating. Emotional. Inspirational. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
June 13, 2019
Understanding. As a 60 year old white woman who has raised 2 children and all that entails, Caylin Moore's words gave me a perspective I hadn't had before. I gained an understanding that made me question myself, asking what can I do?
This story demonstrates strength in faith. This kind of faith has no boundaries. It gives one hope and without hope you die on the vine.
This book was a blessing. I can't wait for the sequel. Well done!
This story demonstrates strength in faith. This kind of faith has no boundaries. It gives one hope and without hope you die on the vine.
This book was a blessing. I can't wait for the sequel. Well done!
August 23, 2020
Last night I watched Hamilton with my sons for like the 5th time. We can’t get enough of the story and the music and the talent. Then I sat down and finished reading this book.
There’s a song in Hamilton called “Wait for It” that kept popping into my head as I read this book. This line reminded me so much of Caylin:
“Death doesn't discriminate
Between the sinners and the saints
It takes and it takes and it takes
And we keep living anyway.
We rise and we fall and we break
And we make our mistakes.
And if there's a reason I'm still alive
When everyone who loves me has died
I'm willing to wait for it.
I am the one thing in life I can control
I am inimitable I am an original”
“A Dream Too Big” is the story of Caylin Louis Moore, a bright and driven young student athlete from Compton. Willing to work hard and wait for his break. He was raised by his educated, hard working single mom, his dad away in prison for murder, and learned early to work hard, push through, and have faith. He knew hunger, poverty, and racism.
But he’s also known hope. He was given opportunities to rise up and he took them.
“I knew I’d need every tool I could grab to affect the intractable generation to generation pattern of poverty and hopelessness that has plagued inner city neighborhoods for so long. I was determined to write a new story that would serve as an example to the next generation, a roadmap for others in my community to use in breaking their own cycles.”
Despite push back from teachers and family, he worked to gain an education. He used football as a tool to further that education and go on to college - first at a small college than on to TCU. But even that wasn't without hurdles and disappointment. He pushed to gain scholarships, internships, and odd jobs to give him edge to gain more knowledge. He avoided parties and drinking and drugs.
“My personal drive was always fueled by hunger. Hunger for love, for safety and security.”
But he didn’t stop with his own success. He wanted to go back to the hood to show the other kids its doable. It’s possible. To let them know he has experienced all they have and he nows whats' possible.
He cofounded the Texas Christian University student organization TCU Spark (strong players reaching kids) and speaks across the US at universities, prisons, gangs to help give back and encourage others that they have the ability to change the world. This is an incredible, empowering inspirational story that is absolutely worth a read.
Thank you to @TLCbooktours @thomasnelson @caylinlmoore for sharing this book with me to read & review
There’s a song in Hamilton called “Wait for It” that kept popping into my head as I read this book. This line reminded me so much of Caylin:
“Death doesn't discriminate
Between the sinners and the saints
It takes and it takes and it takes
And we keep living anyway.
We rise and we fall and we break
And we make our mistakes.
And if there's a reason I'm still alive
When everyone who loves me has died
I'm willing to wait for it.
I am the one thing in life I can control
I am inimitable I am an original”
“A Dream Too Big” is the story of Caylin Louis Moore, a bright and driven young student athlete from Compton. Willing to work hard and wait for his break. He was raised by his educated, hard working single mom, his dad away in prison for murder, and learned early to work hard, push through, and have faith. He knew hunger, poverty, and racism.
But he’s also known hope. He was given opportunities to rise up and he took them.
“I knew I’d need every tool I could grab to affect the intractable generation to generation pattern of poverty and hopelessness that has plagued inner city neighborhoods for so long. I was determined to write a new story that would serve as an example to the next generation, a roadmap for others in my community to use in breaking their own cycles.”
Despite push back from teachers and family, he worked to gain an education. He used football as a tool to further that education and go on to college - first at a small college than on to TCU. But even that wasn't without hurdles and disappointment. He pushed to gain scholarships, internships, and odd jobs to give him edge to gain more knowledge. He avoided parties and drinking and drugs.
“My personal drive was always fueled by hunger. Hunger for love, for safety and security.”
But he didn’t stop with his own success. He wanted to go back to the hood to show the other kids its doable. It’s possible. To let them know he has experienced all they have and he nows whats' possible.
He cofounded the Texas Christian University student organization TCU Spark (strong players reaching kids) and speaks across the US at universities, prisons, gangs to help give back and encourage others that they have the ability to change the world. This is an incredible, empowering inspirational story that is absolutely worth a read.
Thank you to @TLCbooktours @thomasnelson @caylinlmoore for sharing this book with me to read & review
January 26, 2021
This book gives the reader a clear picture of the problem of systemic poverty in the inner city, while at the same time inspiring the reader with the author's determination and hope. I enjoyed the author's reading of the book, although he was not a particularly good reader. I felt like I was listening to the reading of a person who had never been read to...which made me sad. Caylin's determination amidst incredible hardship filled me with admiration. His determination to inspire youngsters growing up in the hood was also inspiring. And then there was his strong testimony of his faith...
February 20, 2020
Just finished this amazing book by @caylinlmoore and I am just floored by his story. This man came from the ghettos of Compton to becoming a 2017 Rhodes Scholar. The dedication that he showed is a true testament to power of education. If you only read one book this year make it this one, then share it with everyone that you know especially the children in your life. This is a story to be shared and celebrated. Thank you @caylinlmoore
September 2, 2020
Moving, motivational, inspiring, and against all odds story that everyone should read. thank you Caylin for sharing your story and inspiring others.
July 29, 2019
I went to TCU as did my husband, generations ago it feels like. My husband watches TCU football with fervor now, while I still ignore it. He heard about Caylin Moore and wanted to read his book. H spoke so highly of it I had to read it, too. It's inspiring. From Compton, CA, to Rhodes Scholar is quite a trip. Caylin is a cute guy who has a big smile and a way with words and so serious, too. He works hard, he deserves what he earns. He is religious and thankful.
The book has a pleasant type face and is beautifully produced and a joy to read. This sounds a goofy but I read a lot and I hate squinting at ugly type faces, I hate cheap paper, and poor production. Caylin's book deserves this good presentation.
I went to TCU during the 1960s when Willie Morris was a rising star in literature and a Rhodes Scholar. One of my journalism professors was a friend and Willie spoke -- and drank too much -- at a dinner I attended. He was a brilliant white boy from Yazoo, Mississippi, who flamed out. I never lived up to my potential (or what I considered my potential). I wish I could live to see what Caylin does with his talent and opportunities. God bless.
The book has a pleasant type face and is beautifully produced and a joy to read. This sounds a goofy but I read a lot and I hate squinting at ugly type faces, I hate cheap paper, and poor production. Caylin's book deserves this good presentation.
I went to TCU during the 1960s when Willie Morris was a rising star in literature and a Rhodes Scholar. One of my journalism professors was a friend and Willie spoke -- and drank too much -- at a dinner I attended. He was a brilliant white boy from Yazoo, Mississippi, who flamed out. I never lived up to my potential (or what I considered my potential). I wish I could live to see what Caylin does with his talent and opportunities. God bless.
August 27, 2020
Caylin Louis Moore is an exemplary standard of the American dream. I felt his hunger pains when his refrigerator was empty, and I felt his dejection when he had to switch neighborhoods and reconsider his football prospects. Moore's pursuance of academic excellence from winning 2nd place at his elementary school spelling bee made me mentally root for his success throughout the read.
June 21, 2019
The author wrote a memoir that perfectly captured the triumphs and setbacks of their life. It was easy to empathize with the author due to the raw writing.
February 29, 2020
I wanted to read this book because I liked the subtitle; I knew that a young man who went from Compton to Oxford had to be exceptional. He is—exceptionally ambitious, hard-working, disciplined, intelligent, proud, and religious. I expected to be inspired by the book, but I didn’t expect to be both entertained and annoyed by it. I was entertained by the references to Southern California geographical locations with which I’m familiar. I was surprised that Moore described Fontana, a town not far from the towns (Claremont and Pomona) where I have lived for almost forty years, as a place with little or no racism since I was told (and saw some evidence) that it was one of the more racist towns east of L.A. One person called it Fontucky, which amused me since I’m from Kentucky. I also enjoyed being reminded that rapper Snoop Dogg lived (and maybe still does) in the Pomona-Claremont area. But most interesting was a reference to a school where I briefly worked during the summer of 1974. Then 32nd Street School, which is near USC, was a very bad elementary school (I worked as a teacher’s aide there). Now apparently it is a magnet junior high school. What annoyed me about Moore’s story is how trifling his adult family members seem to be. He did not explain, and I can’t understand how his family (aunts, uncles, cousins, his mother) could live together in his grandmother’s house and not be able to afford electricity, hot water, and working faucets, as well as enough food to feed him and his two siblings. Were they on drugs? Why was his mother, a lawyer, unable to either pay to improve her mother’s home or buy/rent her own home? I paid a lawyer $300 an hour a couple of years ago; he was a white man, but even black lawyers usually make more money than professors. Obviously, these adults mismanaged money, buying cars when they had no decent place to live, dressing better than they should (have these people never heard of Goodwill?), paying for gold-tipped dreads. Equally obvious, the children needed to work once they were teens; if they can travel miles to special schools, they can also travel to Beverly Hills or Bel Air to work for Miss Anne and Mr. Charlie on weekends or during the summer, starting at fourteen, as I did in the Chicago area during the sixties. Once they were sixteen, they could find multiple jobs in fast food restaurants or grocery stores. Education is important, but the adults set very bad examples by not working harder to be sure that the children were raised in a safe, clean environment. I was inspired by Caylin Moore but not by his mother, grandmother, and the other adults living in that dilapidated, unsafe house in Compton. What was wrong with them?
August 11, 2020
I started out thinking I’ve heard this story before. The author quickly pulled me into the very real struggles of navigating the streets of Compton. How most of his childhood he slept four to a bed and went hungry more days than not. Just walking to school safely took street strategy and skill.
I love the role his mom played in setting the example in education, supporting him and setting very high expectations.
He dedicates himself to using his love of academics and talent for football as a path out of the hood. He overcame economic challenges, even having to work as a janitor in college at one point. He was determined to set a roadmap and example of what is possible for other kids to follow including his brother and sister.
My heart was full of hope after reading his story of determination, faith and resilience. His journey that defied all odds, that eventually led him to Oxford and becoming a Rhode Scholar, is proof there is no dream too big.
One of my favorite quotes: “There might not be metal bars or orange jumpsuit, but we keep ourselves locked in the prison of other peoples expectations.”
Thank you to TLC Tours for the complimentary copy.
I love the role his mom played in setting the example in education, supporting him and setting very high expectations.
He dedicates himself to using his love of academics and talent for football as a path out of the hood. He overcame economic challenges, even having to work as a janitor in college at one point. He was determined to set a roadmap and example of what is possible for other kids to follow including his brother and sister.
My heart was full of hope after reading his story of determination, faith and resilience. His journey that defied all odds, that eventually led him to Oxford and becoming a Rhode Scholar, is proof there is no dream too big.
One of my favorite quotes: “There might not be metal bars or orange jumpsuit, but we keep ourselves locked in the prison of other peoples expectations.”
Thank you to TLC Tours for the complimentary copy.
June 4, 2019
A Dream Too Big is a thoughtful and inspiring read.
Caylin Louis Moore takes you on a journey through the hardships of growing up in the underserved community of Compton. He had to contend with the dangers of gang violence while consciously choosing to pursue his dreams of education and football. Moore doesn’t shy away from providing the details of a very tough childhood. He shares with you a story of his survival and his drive to succeed due to the support of his mother, educators, coaches as well as his faith.
Moore illustrates how the system doesn’t currently work for the people who need it most. He knows that a change needs to happen but rather than giving up he provides hope. Moore believes that by more and more people lifting each other up and providing role models who exemplify alternate paths it will help spark that change in his and other underserved communities.
Caylin Louis Moore takes you on a journey through the hardships of growing up in the underserved community of Compton. He had to contend with the dangers of gang violence while consciously choosing to pursue his dreams of education and football. Moore doesn’t shy away from providing the details of a very tough childhood. He shares with you a story of his survival and his drive to succeed due to the support of his mother, educators, coaches as well as his faith.
Moore illustrates how the system doesn’t currently work for the people who need it most. He knows that a change needs to happen but rather than giving up he provides hope. Moore believes that by more and more people lifting each other up and providing role models who exemplify alternate paths it will help spark that change in his and other underserved communities.
November 30, 2021
i had the honor in listening to this author when he came to give a speech at my job. he has such a way with words and strong passion for reaching his dreams. that passion doesn’t end with his own dreams, it’s just the beginning. his passion drives him to reach out to the communities in need and plant that same seed of passion for other kids who were just like him.
this book retells Caylin’s struggles, triumphs, losses, and hope that he endured as a kid growing up in Compton to a man who has won a place as a Rhodes Scholar. truly and amazing guy and wonderful story. he wasn’t anything but his authentic self and that’s what really captivates you and draws you into his bubble.
he is a “rose that grew from concrete”. stunning story!!
this book retells Caylin’s struggles, triumphs, losses, and hope that he endured as a kid growing up in Compton to a man who has won a place as a Rhodes Scholar. truly and amazing guy and wonderful story. he wasn’t anything but his authentic self and that’s what really captivates you and draws you into his bubble.
he is a “rose that grew from concrete”. stunning story!!
May 11, 2019
Wow. Caylin Louis Moore is a remarkable young man whose story should be read by EVERYONE.
He tells his story through his replies to eight questions from his Rhodes Scholar interview. Few people would be able to relate to the environment he grew up in and the obstacles he had to overcome to make his dream a reality. His story shows what is attainable when we refuse to "keep ourselves locked in the prison of other people's expectations" and thereby allow ourselves to "dream dreams that are too big".
This is a 5 star read because how could this inspiring story to be anything else.
He tells his story through his replies to eight questions from his Rhodes Scholar interview. Few people would be able to relate to the environment he grew up in and the obstacles he had to overcome to make his dream a reality. His story shows what is attainable when we refuse to "keep ourselves locked in the prison of other people's expectations" and thereby allow ourselves to "dream dreams that are too big".
This is a 5 star read because how could this inspiring story to be anything else.
June 23, 2019
5 stars
I wish I could rate this book higher than 5 stars! This is a phenomenal memoir of a very determined young man who defied all odds to make it out of the ghetto to become a Rhodes scholar. Caylin is simply an outstanding and astonishing man. The sheer grit and fortitude Caylin has exhibited throughout his life is inspiring. This book needs to be required reading for every student, rich, poor, young and old.
This book grabbed my attention from the first page and never let go. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #ADreamTooBIg #NetGalley
I wish I could rate this book higher than 5 stars! This is a phenomenal memoir of a very determined young man who defied all odds to make it out of the ghetto to become a Rhodes scholar. Caylin is simply an outstanding and astonishing man. The sheer grit and fortitude Caylin has exhibited throughout his life is inspiring. This book needs to be required reading for every student, rich, poor, young and old.
This book grabbed my attention from the first page and never let go. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #ADreamTooBIg #NetGalley
August 28, 2019
Thanks to Caylin Louis Moore for signing my copy at BEA 2019!
This book is Moore giving us his life story, from growing up in Compton amidst the crack epidemic, to trying to make his way through college while a part of the football team, to successfully finding his voice in public policy and getting a Rhodes Scholarship to go to Oxford. It's a gripping and powerful tale, Moore's got a great voice, and he combines his personal refusal to give up on his dreams with the harsh reality that many cannot realize their dreams because of systemic policy failure that is letting many black folk down. A great memoir. Recommend.
This book is Moore giving us his life story, from growing up in Compton amidst the crack epidemic, to trying to make his way through college while a part of the football team, to successfully finding his voice in public policy and getting a Rhodes Scholarship to go to Oxford. It's a gripping and powerful tale, Moore's got a great voice, and he combines his personal refusal to give up on his dreams with the harsh reality that many cannot realize their dreams because of systemic policy failure that is letting many black folk down. A great memoir. Recommend.
February 25, 2020
If you like autobiographies, and uplifting and inspiring stories, do yourself a favor and read A Dream Too Big by Caylin Louis Moore. His improbable story of going from Compton to Marist College to University of Bristol (as a Fullbright Scholarship recipient) to TCU to Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar his improbable. His journey is incredulous, and one that Caylin Louis Moore tells from his soul - he owns every step of it, and he wouldn't be the man he is today without every step along the way. I'm amazed by everything he overcame, but his never-ending hope, his deep faith in God, and his constant choice to give back in whatever way he can.
October 6, 2019
Compelling. It makes me wonder how important the very early years must be since he moved to Compton about age 6. How much did that influence his ability to latch onto and utilize any small positive event?
His mother was a powerful influence in his life...and the challenges she endured and overcame could be a book in itself.
This goes beyond "football is the way out" but football is a part of the story. He was able to take very few inspirational times and weave them into a standard for himself that made this story. And his faith is a bedrock through it all.
His mother was a powerful influence in his life...and the challenges she endured and overcame could be a book in itself.
This goes beyond "football is the way out" but football is a part of the story. He was able to take very few inspirational times and weave them into a standard for himself that made this story. And his faith is a bedrock through it all.
March 9, 2020
Good Lessons Learned
The autobiography is not only a detailed look into Moore’s life, but it also is a siren song for hope, the main theme of his life story. His lessons become our lessons as we see the fruits of his struggles. Thank you for the excellent lessons you gave us and for instilling hope that perhaps change for the better is on the horizon. Personally, in this time of such strife and political turmoil in our nation, I have more hope after reading the book that change really will come. I hope that truth and goodness will prevail.
The autobiography is not only a detailed look into Moore’s life, but it also is a siren song for hope, the main theme of his life story. His lessons become our lessons as we see the fruits of his struggles. Thank you for the excellent lessons you gave us and for instilling hope that perhaps change for the better is on the horizon. Personally, in this time of such strife and political turmoil in our nation, I have more hope after reading the book that change really will come. I hope that truth and goodness will prevail.
December 20, 2019
The story “A Dream Too Big”, based on true events, tells the life of the author, Caylin Louis Moore. This is a story of going from riches to rags and back too riches. It was not easy for young Caylin to grow up in the hood, but he made it to the top by working hard and persevering. His story is inspirational and encourages me to work hard to make it to my goals in life. This is a good book for anyone who has big dreams.
October 15, 2025
4.5 A book of HOPE, dreams, hard work and Faith despite all odds and turns. Opportunities taken with pride and determination. A curious mind appreciated in Compton and beyond. Mr Moore also exhibits how correct choices can make a difference when trying to overcome poverty and adversity.
Some editing would have made the book less repetitive but perhaps some points were repeated for emphasis. I found if distracting.
Overall good read should be in every urban middle and high school library.
Some editing would have made the book less repetitive but perhaps some points were repeated for emphasis. I found if distracting.
Overall good read should be in every urban middle and high school library.
June 29, 2019
A powerful story of one man's fight to lift up and compose a life of great achievement, against impossible odds. I bit didactic at times and directive, but I found it inspiring to read of his passion, his faith, and his drive to be a beacon of hope for his community and beyond. Making the world a better place. What a lovely antidote to men like DT.
October 27, 2019
A phenomenal book of inspiration to drive anyone forward and reminder of what's important in life. I had the pleasure of meeting and hearing Caylin speak and was in awe of his drive and determination. This book elaborates even more and should be in the hands of everyone reminding us on how we can be a change and follow dreams. I highlighted so many quotes and was deeply touched by passages.
June 20, 2020
Thanks to Nelson Books for a copy of this book and to Caylin Louis Moore for signing my copy at BEA 2019!
This is a really great memoir showcasing themes of struggle, resilience, and perseverance. Caylin's storytelling is phenomenal and I really enjoyed following his journey from childhood. Highly recommend!
This is a really great memoir showcasing themes of struggle, resilience, and perseverance. Caylin's storytelling is phenomenal and I really enjoyed following his journey from childhood. Highly recommend!
February 17, 2021
what an amazing young man! he went against all odds to wind up a rhodes scholar!!! his grandmother and many others were against him, but he worked hard, got up early, kept his 2 younger siblings going and succeeded!! he has tons of gumption and motivation -- we can all be inspired to reach our goals by his story!
June 6, 2019
A Must Read
All parents and teachers should read this journey shared by Caylin Moore. Once I started reading it, I had to finish it. His faith, guidance of his Mother & mentors has is inspiring.
All parents and teachers should read this journey shared by Caylin Moore. Once I started reading it, I had to finish it. His faith, guidance of his Mother & mentors has is inspiring.
September 23, 2019
Very inspiring. The first half of the book is intense and compelling. The only reason I rated it this low is because the second half of the book is much more superficial and covers a lot of ground with insufficient detail.
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