Twice Over a Man - by Orvin T Kimbrough (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Born in East Saint Louis to a drug-addicted mother who died when he was eight years old, author Orvin Kimbrough chronicles his early years through foster care, orphanages, physical and sexual abuse, hunger, and poverty. He could have joined a gang. He could have become a teen father. He could have fallen into drugs and the violence of the streets. He could have ended up in prison. He could have been shot dead.

But he rose above it all to become a prosperous leader in the Saint Louis business and nonprofit communities. Instead of succumbing to life on the streets, Kimbrough sought the one thing that would redeem him from that dismal, expected fate-education. This is the story of a young man who, despite all the forces that worked against him, fiercely determined to make a better life for himself and is resolute about showing others the way.

Review Quotes

"My heart hurt as I read Twice Over a Man and the chapters that candidly and honestly describe the abusive, poverty-ridden childhood of the author. And I was dismayed as the pain and disappointment in my heart and head increased as I read how a child protective system and foster care further did not fulfill their goals as a shield of protection for one child and I asked how many more? My heart was lifted as the resilience, deter- mination and faith of the author provided the springboard to thrive and success. All professionals, from the medical, social work, education and faith field should read Twice Over a Man ... this is real life for too many children, and we must recognize this so they to can thrive."

-Carmen Schulze

Former State Director Missouri Division of Family Services

"Twice Over a Man is more than a memoir-it's a blueprint for transformation. This book is essential for anyone facing personal challenges or at a crossroads. Orvin Kimbrough's journey from a traumatic childhood to a successful leader showcases resilience, determination, and faith in action. What sets this book apart is its practical wisdom, actionable strate- gies and call to prayer. Whether overcoming adversity, seeking inspiration, or navigating life's complexities, this book offers invaluable insights and encouragement. Reading the book will leave you deeply moved and inspired to take control of your own story. It's a powerful reminder that with the right mind- set and through the power of God and perseverance, you can achieve extraordinary things (Ephesians 3:20)."

-David Steward

Founder and Chairman World Wide Technology

"Twice Over a Man is the love letter to the World we didn't know we needed. But Orvin did. By bravely sharing his story, Orvin takes a deep dive into the power of the human spirit's ability to overcome and thrive. The book is perfectly paced, provid- ing a raw look into his childhood, while connecting the reader with how he grew from repeated, harmful experiences, even- tually becoming the CEO of two of the US's most innovative institutions: the United Way of Greater St. Louis and Midwest BankCentre. Orvin's memoir also highlights sweeping and riv- eting connections to historical and current racial justice and economic inequities, providing meaningful insight on how to right these societal wrongs. In the end, Orvin's love letter tells each of us what we need to hear: we can - and must - defeat adversity in order to live a life truly worth living."

-Melanie Scheetz

Executive Director Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition