From Homelessness to Published Novelist: A True Story

When we think about resilience, few stories rival that of John Graham, author of Running As Fast As I Can. Graham graduated from college without direction, training, or guidance, which led him through a winding path of eight career detours and constant moves. For years, he felt helpless, alone, and uncertain of his purpose.

But his life changed when he and his wife committed to helping others in need, founding Good Samaritan Home. Through giving back, Graham found both his calling and his place in the world.

John Graham’s Journey: From Career Restarts to Finding Purpose

Before becoming a published novelist, John Graham worked as:

• Door-to-door salesman

• Children’s home counselor

• Substitute teacher

• Truck driver

• Fireman

• Building contractor

• Minister

• Journalist

Each restart brought him closer to the wisdom he now carries—what he calls developing calloused hands and a tender heart.

At age 75, after nearly 200 rejections, John Graham finally published his debut novel, proving it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

Listen my interview with John Graham here:

Running As Fast As I Can: A Story of Survival and Redemption

In John Graham’s novel Running As Fast As I Can, readers meet Daniel Robinson, a boy born into poverty in Pittsburgh’s mill slums. Abused by his father, neglected by his mother, and later exploited by a pastor who takes him in, Daniel spends years on the run—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

The novel captures Daniel’s harrowing journey through:

• The hippie drug culture of 1960s San Francisco

• Racial violence in Cleveland and Detroit

• The tragic shootings at Kent State

Through all of this, Daniel seeks love, healing, and a place to belong.

John Graham: A Testament to Second Chances

If you loved Where the Crawdads Sing, A Little Life, or Forrest Gump, then John Graham’s Running As Fast As I Can is a must-read.

Kirkus Reviews praised it as an “often profound historical novel” and awarded it their “GET IT!” verdict.

This novel is more than a story—it’s an exploration of overcoming childhood abuse, confronting systemic injustice, and finding hope against all odds.

From homelessness to published author, John Graham proves that second, third, and even fourth chances are often what it takes to reach our goals. His life and novel both remind us that redemption, forgiveness, and purpose can be found even in the most difficult of circumstances.