Pictured: Mitchell Epstein with Jeron Thomas, one of the young men who inspired him to write Mr. Lucky: My Unexpected Journey to Success.

A retired entrepreneur and avid philanthropist, Mitchell Epstein decided to release his first published book, Mr. Lucky: My Unexpected Journey to Success, with 100% of its proceeds given to local charities. By donating the sales of his book, he hopes to support scholarships for less fortunate children and families in the community by choosing educational beneficiaries: Forty Carrots Family Center, Children First, V Foundation - Pediatric Cancer, New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art & Design and Delta Sigma Pi - Business fraternity. 

While mentoring two local men, young and homeless at the time, Epstein became inspired to write about his life’s stories and challenges through the perspective of  the fictional “Mr. Lucky." His viewpoint–presented in an entertaining and easy-to-read format–enabled him to take what a former associate called “the stupidest idea” ever, and ultimately build the foundation for a business that was so successful, it allowed him to retire at age  47. 

“How would you describe losing your house to a fire? Being held up at gunpoint? Falling off the roof face-first? You probably wouldn’t choose the word lucky, but I did!" shares Epstein. "I was inspired to share a perspective that will help others become more prosperous and feel more joyful." Whether just starting a career, launching a business or simply seeking greater satisfactions in everyday life, the Sarasotan author hopes his book will inspire young readers and prospective scholars during this holiday season, and beyond.

"Trying to make sense of failure, loss, love and the unexpected paths that open to us, is a worthy and honorable endeavor, one that Mitchell has undertaken to serve those less fortunate," says Rosanne Cash, multiple Grammy Award winning musician and author in a review.  

Pictured: Mitchell Epstein with Jeron Thomas, one of the young men who inspired him to write Mr. Lucky: My Unexpected Journey to Success.

The book is available now on Amazon and will be in local bookstores soon.