78 pages • 2 hours read
A Chance in the World
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Book Brief
272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New England • 1970s-1980s
2012
Thomas Nelson
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
A Chance in the World is Steve Pemberton's 2012 memoir that follows his journey to uncover his past and understand his identity, focusing on his life in foster care and the struggles he faces with abusive guardians, his quest for family connections, and his eventual self-acceptance and commitment to helping others. The book examines themes of abuse, systemic inequities, and the impact of racism.
Inspirational
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
9,405 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Steve Pemberton’s A Chance in the World receives commendation for its inspirational narrative and emotional depth. Critics appreciate Pemberton's resilience and articulate storytelling. Some note that while the account is gripping, the writing can be overly sentimental. The memoir serves as a profound testament to the human spirit's endurance.
Who Should Read A Chance in the World?
A reader who would enjoy A Chance in the World by Steve Pemberton is one interested in inspirational, true-life stories of overcoming adversity. Fans of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls or Educated by Tara Westover will appreciate Pemberton’s tale of resilience and determination against the odds.
9,405 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Betty and Willie Robinson
Betty and Willie Robinson
Steve’s abusive foster parents who hinder his happiness and growth during his childhood, representing the flaws in the foster care system.
Kenny Pemberton
Kenny Pemberton
Steve’s biological father and a promising boxer whose life was marked by tragedy; his absence and legacy profoundly impact Steve’s quest for self-discovery.
Marian Klakowicz
Marian Klakowicz
Steve’s mother, whose troubled life and decisions contribute to Steve’s journey through the foster care system and his efforts to understand his roots.
Mrs. Levin
Mrs. Levin
A compassionate Jewish woman who recognizes Steve's love for reading and provides him books, influencing his path toward education and exploration.
Tonya
Tonya
Steve’s wife, whose joyful and accepting nature provides support and understanding, allowing Steve to confront his past and build a future with her.
Steve Pemberton, the author of A Chance in the World, was the first person in his biological family to graduate from college, earning his degree from Boston College.
A Chance in the World was adapted into a film in 2017, providing a visual narrative of Steve Pemberton's life story and inspiring audiences with its uplifting message.
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Steve Pemberton has been recognized not only as an author but also as a motivational speaker and advocate for diversity and inclusion, using his experiences to inspire change in organizations across the United States.
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272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New England • 1970s-1980s
2012
Thomas Nelson
Adult
14+ years
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