Famous as "Dr. Carl" on the hit TV show Survivor Africa, Carl Bilancione had a family secret that was never revealed to viewers: While he was being filmed in Africa, his father--identified by law enforcement as part of the Genovese crime family--was serving time in prison.

Carl broke free from a tradition of crime and violence. He worked his way through college and dental school, served in the US Navy, treated patients in Lewisburg Penitentiary, was team dentist for the NBA's Orlando Magic basketball team, appeared on television and in film, and became a renowned wildlife photographer.

With courage and integrity, he overcame the obstacles and rose to every challenge. Along the way, he had memorable encounters with Shaquille O'Neal, Roger Maris, Kelly Ripa, George Steinbrenner, Herschel Walker, Nicole Kidman, Roger Clemens, Howard Stern, Derek Jeter, Robert Duvall, Wade Boggs and many others.

MY RISE FROM THE WISEGUYS is more than the captivating memoir of a successful man who pursues life with passion and optimism. Carl Bilancione's unique story is one that will inspire others and illustrate that "It's not where you came from, but where you are going."

Written with Troy Soos, whose books have been praised by the New York Times, USA Today, Sports Illustrated and Publishers Weekly.