“Laughing All the Way to the Bank” by Michael W. Rickard II is a compelling, humorous, and insightful memoir that delves into the life of a former attorney who turned to bank robbery. The narrative chronicles his journey from being a seemingly successful lawyer to a convicted felon, and his subsequent time spent in prison. The book explores his struggles, self-discovery, and eventual transformation as he navigates through the harsh realities of the criminal justice system.
Plot Summary:
The story kicks off with Rickard reflecting on his days as an attorney. Despite his professional success, he found himself in dire financial straits due to mounting debt and poor decisions. Faced with overwhelming pressure, he made the fateful decision to rob banks—a decision that would change the course of his life forever.
Caught and convicted, Rickard was sentenced to three years in federal prison, which he refers to as “Con College.” The author uses humor and wit to describe the trials and tribulations he faced behind bars, including navigating the dangerous and unpredictable prison hierarchy, learning to survive in a place where weakness is exploited, and the unusual camaraderie he found with fellow inmates.
Despite the grim setting, Rickard’s memoir is peppered with comical anecdotes and reflections, making it an engaging read. He narrates the absurdities of prison life, from dealing with eccentric inmates to the bizarre realities of prison bureaucracy. His keen observations about the flaws in the prison system and the lack of rehabilitation programs add depth to the story, making it not just a personal memoir, but also a critique of the penal system.
Themes and Analysis:
One of the central themes of the book is transformation. Rickard’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and adapt. He enters prison with a sense of bitterness and defeat but emerges with a newfound sense of self and purpose. The memoir also highlights the importance of humor as a coping mechanism. Rickard’s ability to find comedy in even the bleakest of circumstances is what sets this book apart from typical prison memoirs.
Additionally, the book touches on themes of redemption and second chances. Rickard does not shy away from acknowledging his mistakes and the harm he caused to others. Yet, he also emphasizes that people are not defined solely by their worst actions. His journey through “Con College” serves as a period of reflection and growth, ultimately leading him to rebuild his life post-incarceration.
Writing Style:
Rickard’s writing style is conversational and approachable, making it easy for readers to connect with his story. His use of humor is both a strength and a differentiator, as it brings levity to a narrative that could otherwise be somber. This blend of humor and raw honesty gives the book a unique voice, allowing readers to empathize with Rickard’s plight while also being entertained.
The author’s legal background is evident in his detailed descriptions of the criminal justice system, but he manages to present these complexities in a way that is accessible to readers without a legal background. His insights into the prison system’s failures are thought-provoking and add an additional layer to the memoir.
Review:
“Laughing All the Way to the Bank” has received praise for its candid portrayal of life behind bars and its humorous take on a dark period in the author’s life. Readers appreciate Rickard’s honesty, his willingness to take responsibility for his actions, and his ability to find humor in even the most challenging situations. The book has been lauded as both an entertaining read and a poignant reminder of the importance of redemption and self-forgiveness.
Critics have highlighted the book’s ability to shed light on the flaws in the prison system without coming across as preachy. Rickard’s use of humor has been particularly noted as a standout feature, with many praising his ability to make readers laugh while still conveying the seriousness of his experiences.
Conclusion:
“Laughing All the Way to the Bank” is more than just a prison memoir—it is a story of survival, transformation, and the resilience of the human spirit. Michael W. Rickard II’s journey from lawyer to felon to author is an inspiring tale of redemption. His use of humor to cope with the challenges he faced is a reminder that even in the darkest times, laughter can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.
Read the Full Novel Here
About the Author:
Michael W. Rickard II is a former attorney turned writer who has authored several books, including Wrestling’s Greatest Moments. After serving his prison sentence, Rickard pursued his passion for writing and earned a Bachelor’s degree in English literature and writing, with a minor in film studies, from Buffalo State College. He is currently working towards his Master’s degree in English. Residing near Buffalo, New York, Rickard enjoys a quiet life with his three-legged cat, Chester. His experiences and unique perspective lend authenticity and depth to his writing, making his memoir a must-read for anyone interested in stories of personal growth and redemption.
