Paul's Work Odyssey describes the abject poverty of the Depression in rural Wisconsin in the 1930s. Isolated in an oppressive religious community, Paul escapes with his family from the frying pan into the fire by moving to a remote farming community in Michigan.

Superimposed on his struggles are the World War II years, the Korean War and his early marriage. Being drafted into the army gives Paul his first glimpse of personal freedom. From there, studying at the University of Michigan and teaching are his engines of growth.

Disillusioned with the dependence of the Bay City, Michigan, schools on the vagaries of the auto industry, he leaves his administrative post there and migrates to the North Shore of Chicago. After gaining experience in Wilmette and Glencoe he accepts the position of superintendent of schools in Highland Park. Consistent with the mores of the late twentieth century, he divorces his first wife and marries again, successful in his second attempt.

Along the way, Paul pushes a school bus off the railroad tracks, sees his schools named as exemplary by the U.S. Office of Education, and attends the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention.

Fired, at the age of 8 from his first job hoeing weeds in a nursery, Paul learned about the depression the hard way. Using his education he helped hundreds of children, parents and teachers identify their assets and goals. He and his wife live in the Chicago area near their children and grand-children.