Angela's Ashes, Frank McCourt's tragic tale of how one man triumphed over adversity and found happiness in the new world, is a compelling story that has touched thousands of readers. It's a Long Way From Penny Apples is another view of the Irish experience, another man's journey out of grinding poverty. There are many ways to confront tragedy and hard times. Some families fall apart, leaving individuals to find their own way out of despair. Poverty and its ills ruin countless lives. But not every family gives in to de-feat. Sometimes a family can come to-gether and use all their talents to bring themselves to a better place. Bill Cullen was lucky enough to have such a family. Born and bred in the rough slums of Summerhill in Dublin, Bill was one of fourteen children. From the age of six he sold whatever was needed on the street, be it fruit, flowers, newspapers, Christmas decorations, or football colors, and helped put food on the table for his family. Bill finished school at thirteen to go on the street full-time and in the ensuing years grew into a consummate salesman who eventually became one of the richest men in Ireland. It's a Long Way from Penny Apples is nothing less than a modern day Hortatio Alger story, told with humor and love.