Book Review: Free Lunch by Rex Ogle
Free Lunch by Rex Ogle captured my attention instantly—not just for its gripping title but for the raw honesty of its content. The story revolves around an 11-year-old boy navigating the choppy waters of sixth grade while grappling with poverty and the realities of life in a wealthy school district. As someone who fondly remembers the trepidation of middle school—where fitting in felt like a life-or-death situation—this narrative immediately struck a chord with me.
Ogle skillfully magnifies the disparity of class through Rex’s experience with the free lunch program. Imagine standing in a cafeteria line amidst classmates who have it all while trying to explain to a hard-of-hearing lunch lady why you’re on that program. The embarrassment is palpable, evoking memories of countless moments where I felt different or out of place. Ogle’s portrayal of this deficiency resonates deeply, making Rex’s struggles not just about hunger but about longing for acceptance.
The book doesn’t shy away from heavy themes—violence at home, economic struggle, and the pervasive bullying that comes with being "different." But woven through the hardship is a thread of resilience and hope. Rex is not just a victim of circumstance; he’s a survivor, and his journey is peppered with small, grace-filled moments that buoy his spirit. His relationship with his younger brother and the love he receives from his grandmother serve as emotional anchors, reminding us of the importance of family amidst chaos.
Ogle’s writing style is captivating—it mimics the voice of a sixth grader with an almost childlike simplicity yet harbors profound insights that resonate with readers of all ages. The pacing is brisk, pulling you through Rex’s ups and downs with ease. I found myself racing through pages, eager to see how he would cope with each new challenge, heart pounding as I cheered him on silently from the sidelines of my reading nook.
One particularly memorable line that stayed with me was when Rex reflects on his longing for normalcy, stating: “Hunger is always with you, even if you hide it well.” This simple yet powerful observation encapsulates the core of the human experience we often overlook—the emotional hunger that grips us during our childhood while we seek validation and belonging.
I wholeheartedly recommend Free Lunch to young adults, educators, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of childhood poverty. It’s an essential read, especially for those in middle school, as it pushes for empathy and understanding of the children who face economic adversity. I believe readers will walk away with a newfound respect for the resilience of young minds like Rex’s and perhaps a bit more awareness of the invisible battles others are facing.
In reading this memoir, I felt both heartbroken and empowered. Ogle’s story is an important testament to survival in the face of overwhelming odds, and I came away not just educated but also inspired by young Rex’s relentless spirit. Ultimately, Free Lunch is not just a story about hardship—it’s a beautiful narrative of hope, community, and the pursuit of dignity.
You can find Free Lunch here >>