Baltimore Ravens' Michael Oher On Inspiring New Book 'I Beat The Odds'

Michael Oher, the Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle who had his inspiring story and football career told in the critically acclaimed movie The Blind Side , stopped by to talk about his book I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness to The Blind Side and Beyond.

Looking back on how he went from being a homeless child in Memphis to playing in the NFL, Michael talks about the goals he had for himself in order to break out of the cycle of poverty, addiction, and hopelessness that trapped his family for so long. He recounts poignant stories growing up in the projects and running from child services and foster care over and over again in search of some familiarity. Eventually he grasped onto football as his ticket out of the madness and worked hard to make his dream into a reality.

But Oher also knew he would not be successful alone. With his adoptive family, the Touhys, and other influential people in mind, he describes the absolute necessity of seeking out positive role models and good friends who share the same values to achieve one's dreams. Sharing untold stories of heartache, determination, courage, and love, I Beat the Odds is an incredibly rousing tale of one young man's quest to achieve the American dream.

I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness to The Blind Side and Beyond is available in stores now. You can meet Michael in person at a book signing at Barnes & Noble 5th Avenue (at 46th street) today, Wednesday, February 9 at 12:30pm.