Fermin-a mischievous and lighthearted boy-grows up in a land locked away from time. High in the Andes Mountain, higher than Machu Picchu, and nearly as primitive, he soon learns that interdependency and self-sufficiency are key to life itself.

Laugh and learn as you see what happens when this little boy sneaks his best friend-a little goat-into the house. See how the school bully forces Fermin to learn to use his small size and speed to his advantage. Result? Fermin's new motto: Nothing is impossible. Difficult? Yes! Impossible? No!

Devoid of television, electronics, and other distractions, Fermin learns the REAL rules of life. Rule #1: The Strong Survive, the Weak Die . Rule #2: Everyone Must Contribute. Rule #3: You Help Me, I Help You. Rule #4: You Must Stand on Your Own Two Feet . Rule #5: All for One and One for All .

Then there are Mama's rules. Rule #1: Put God First (the only place God fits). Rule #2: Be Prepared (or be embarrassed). Rule #3: Use What You Have (everyone has gifts). Rule #4 Love IS Action (do rather than talk). Rule #5 Choose Well (own your choices).

Lastly, the village knits everyone together tightly with positive peer pressure to 1) Know Your Place, 2) Respect Religion and Education 3) Understand "Eyes are Everywhere" (be the eyes and see the eyes), 4) Celebrate Festivals and Traditions, 5) Show Up (for weddings, funerals, and life).

Armed with the REAL rules of life-communication, compassion, and genuine caring-he comes to America with three dollars, NO English, and a pocket full of dreams.

Fermin sets out to make his own dreams come true by helping others. In the process, he unites the local Hispanic/Latino community with the greater population to make life better for all.

Whether you want to learn the secrets to a meaningful and powerful life, or you want to understand and embrace the Hispanic/Latino culture, or you want to be inspired by an "against the odds" story-this book is for you. Enjoy and pass it forward.