This is the against-all-odds story of Peter Norris, the son of one of Australia’s most wanted criminals, and his struggle to escape his father’s shadow.
Born into a life of crime, Peter’s earliest memories are shaped by the chaos of his father’s criminal exploits. Torn from home to home and running from heist to heist, his childhood was marked by violence, betrayal, and upheaval.
In this compelling memoir, Peter exposes the truth of his turbulent upbringing. As the youngest son of Clarence “Clarry” Norris, a notorious bank robber, Peter recounts the powerful love and loyalty that bound him to his father, creating a profound inner struggle between the allure of the underworld and the desire for normalcy.
Faced with a heart-wrenching decision at just 12 years old, Peter had to choose between following his father’s criminal path or seizing a lifeline. The memoir moves from the underbelly of 1970s Sydney to the outskirts of Melbourne, highlighting a troubling chapter in Australian history when Peter and other innocent children were sent to abusive institutions.
Ultimately, Peter rises from the ruins of his troubled past, embarking on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and growth. He defies the odds to become a successful CEO, world-class athlete, and motivational speaker.
The Bank Robber’s Boy is the unfiltered account of innocence on the edge of law and a young boy’s unyielding determination to overcome his past.
‘Extraordinary, shows how one man can defy his destiny – not despite the odds, but because of them.’
‘A powerful testament to resilience, hope, and one man’s determination to break free from the shadows of his past.’
Goodreads –
Such an amazing book. An easy 5/5. This was the perfect read for me right now. I’m sure it will help others rise above their circumstances and rewrite their stories too.
Rowan MacDonald – Goodreads –
This is one of those powerful books that has the potential to change lives and help others rise above their circumstances and rewrite their stories. It was the perfect read for me during a time I felt up against the world and void of hope.
The Bank Robber’s Boy is an inspiring story of resilience and overcoming adversity. An unflinching tale about forgiveness, beating the odds, and the power of human spirit. The ending was a great reminder that our past doesn’t have to dictate our future.
A well-written book that will stay with me. One of the best I’ve read this year.
Denise Tannock –
‘This is an interesting true crime type of story.’
Gabriella McGrath –
‘Gripping, sad and full of hope.’
Andrew Elson –
I could not put this book down. The way Peter wrote his story was incredible. I felt like I was there.
Emma Lennon –
An insightful view into the life of a criminal’s kid.
Susan –
‘4.5 – this was a great autobiography. Peter manages to convey the trauma and displacement of his early childhood but also the love and togetherness he experienced within his family.’
Leah Hogarth –
‘Our book club read this book and loved it. Well written and a real touching and heart breaking story.’
Amazon Review –
‘I absolutely loved this book. I will be honest and say there was a time I thought it was going to take a dark turn, but it didn’t. Whilst I found the whole book unforgettable, the Kmart part in particular is something I still discuss with others who’ve read it.’
Gen Hassall –
‘Great book. Hard to put down. It takes you on a wild ride. It shows you a world going on around us we don’t see and a broken system that is hurting kids. But ultimately it’s a love story between father and son, a Dad that gave what he could as best as he could with no money or grounding love of his own, making the ultimate sacrifice to set his son free and his son making different choices and putting voice to that fierce bond and making good in the world.’
Cheryl –
‘Well what a wonderful story of love and family, even if dad’s a criminal. Peter’s love for his dad continues under the most extraordinary circumstances. He learned from the best and made excellent choices in the end. I loved the story Peter.’
DK –
‘I loved the honest account of what it was like to be the son of a man often on the run. And to hear about the strong family bonds.’
Sheree Spiteri –
‘Hooked from the first page until the last! This book had me crying, laughing and honestly captivated. I couldn’t put it down and have not stopped talking about it in every conversation I have. It’s brave, raw and at times hard to believe. But the power of choice is something we all face every day!’
Hab –
‘Fantastic book for anyone to read! Written beautifully, a read that I would recommend to everyone.’
Janice Mardling –
‘What a story! Couldn’t put it down, always wondering what could possibly be next. Highly recommend!’
Kelly –
It was a good read. Love true stories