by Dr. Len Fellez Ed.D. (Author)
From the gritty sugar plantations of Waialua, Hawaii, to the administrative halls of Seattle’s top
schools, Dr. Len Fellez’s memoir, Against All Odds, tells the compelling story of a man who
defied expectations at every turn. Born in the Kalakaua Housing projects and facing personal
and societal challenges, Fellez’s life journey is a testament to the power of resilience, grit, and
the will to succeed.Growing up in the racial tensions of 1950s Hawaii, young Len experienced prejudice, bullying,
and countless hurdles. Yet, through determination and an unwavering belief in fairness, he rose
from a “trouble-making rascal” to a nationally recognized educator and author, impacting over
30,000 students throughout his career. With raw honesty, Dr. Fellez reflects on his life’s most
pivotal moments: encounters with racism, brushes with crime, and his transformation from an
aspiring football star to a dedicated teacher, coach, and principal.
schools, Dr. Len Fellez’s memoir, Against All Odds, tells the compelling story of a man who
defied expectations at every turn. Born in the Kalakaua Housing projects and facing personal
and societal challenges, Fellez’s life journey is a testament to the power of resilience, grit, and
the will to succeed.Growing up in the racial tensions of 1950s Hawaii, young Len experienced prejudice, bullying,
and countless hurdles. Yet, through determination and an unwavering belief in fairness, he rose
from a “trouble-making rascal” to a nationally recognized educator and author, impacting over
30,000 students throughout his career. With raw honesty, Dr. Fellez reflects on his life’s most
pivotal moments: encounters with racism, brushes with crime, and his transformation from an
aspiring football star to a dedicated teacher, coach, and principal.
Set against the backdrop of Hawaii’s evolving culture and politics—from plantation life to the
post-statehood rise of tourism—Against All Odds gives readers a front-row seat to the hidden
parts of Hawaiian life that tourists rarely see. Alongside personal tales of courage and love, the
memoir also explores systemic racism, organized crime, and the transformative power of
education.
If you’re seeking an inspiring, unconventional life story of a man who broke the rules,
helped thousands of students, and had one hell of a ride along the way, Against All Odds
is a memoir you won’t want to miss.
