Stories from the Otto Bin Empire

A collection of inspirational and heartwarming stories about friendship, community, and finding family in the unlikeliest of places...

Families come in all shapes and sizes.

In these six captivating short stories, meet some members of the Otto Bin Empire – the homeless men and women who gather down by the docks.

Adam, the teenage runaway, who has just one goal: to stay lost. Until life offers him a second chance.

Oskar, the elderly Polish immigrant, who to outsiders cuts a lonely figure. But every afternoon, at the giant chessboard in the park, Oskar becomes a star.

The poet Reginald, who claims he just wants to observe. Then he meets young Sally – and the scruffy kelpie who hangs around the bins – and is inspired in ways he'd never imagined.

Johnny, the generous, charismatic, habitual criminal, who is finally determined to turn his life around – if only he can stay out of jail.

Benny, the Big Issue vendor with a heart of gold, who loves nothing more than helping others.

And finally Madge, the much-loved Otto Bin matriarch. Her past has always been shrouded in secrecy, but now she's ready to share her story...

Tragedy and betrayal, sacrifice and salvation, redemption and hope are all on display in this inspiring collection from master storyteller Judy Nunn.