Description
Rex Ogle’s story of starting Year 7 on the free lunch programme is timely, heart-breaking and true.
Reviews
"What an amazing book. I don't think I have been that affected by a book since I read The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas..." — Mary-Brigid Turner, Hodges Figgis Children's Department
"A memoir of Ogle's own childhood, this is a searing look at the lived experience of poverty in America, written with grace, humour and honesty. In 6th grade, Rex's mum signs him up for the free meal programme, much to his embarrassment. But his intelligence and love of learning help him survive his chaotic home life. Highly recommended. Age 13+" — 50 best books of 2019 for children from babies to teens, The Irish Independent
"This book highlights the reality of being poor in the US." — Natasha Harding, The Sun
Awards
Winner — ALA YALSA Award, 2020
Also By: Rex Ogle 
When We Ride: A Novel
Hardback, 2025
Rex Ogle explores bonds of loyalty and friendship and how they’re tested by drugs and violence in this propulsive novel-in-verse
Road Home
Hardback, 2024
This final, essential chapter in Rex Ogle’s memoir trilogy recounts being forced from his home and living on the streets after his conservative father discovered he was gay
Abuela, Don't Forget Me
Paperback, 2024
Rex Ogle’s companion to Free Lunch and Punching Bag weaves humour, heartbreak and hope into life-affirming poems that honour his grandmother’s legacy
Punching Bag
Paperback, 2023
The companion to Rex Ogle’s award-winning Free Lunch (ISBN 978 1 324 01694 6) is a searing account of adolescence in a household torn by domestic violence
Abuela, Don't Forget Me
Hardback, 2022
Rex Ogle’s companion to Free Lunch and Punching Bag weaves humour, heartbreak and hope into life-affirming poems that honor his grandmother’s legacy
