Review of Abandoned Not Broken

Post by **Seetha E** » 31 Mar 2025, 10:20

[Following is a volunteer review of "Abandoned Not Broken" by Rob Johnson.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Janie was a single mother of two when she gave birth to Rob on August 15, 1979. Janie's family members were already raising her kids. They did not want to be a part of raising Rob. Gary had left for good, and Janie knew she could not raise Rob. Janie finally abandoned Rob with Miss Pat, Rob's babysitter, who was known to Ms. Hepner, Janie's great-grandmother. As Janie’s intentions were clear, Miss Pat expressed her desire to adopt Rob. The process took a while, but Rob Dunckley was finally Rob Johnson. Pat was a single mother of two when she decided to adopt Rob. Life in a trailer was never easy. Rob narrates his journey through all these years, the ups and downs, the moments of strength and vulnerabilities, the moments that presented choices between succumbing to self-pity or deciding to make the best of what his new life had blessed him with, and so much more.

I am very touched by his gratitude toward his biological parents for deciding to give him up for adoption to ensure he was cared for. His maturity in choosing the right path during his formative years speaks volumes about his character. His love, affection, and respect for Pat (the only woman he considered his mother), mentors, friends, and everyone else with whom he crossed paths is worth emulating. You will read about instances with friends, church members, other mentors, biological family, the family that adopted him, employees, his wonderful wife, and her family.

The way he dealt with different phases of life teaches us several lessons. For example, he emphasizes viewing challenging moments as opportunities to help us become better humans. Readers will agree with Rob when he says that a lot depends on our perspective. I concur with him when he says the motivation to grow while hoping for a better future seldom comes from outside; it has to come from within. Readers will feel encouraged to dream and persevere to realize those dreams. The author talks about subjects like formal education, occupation choices, financial security, and giving back to the community. He also sets the tone for what married life with family should look like. His story encourages introspection.

The photographs throughout the book add value and authenticity to this beautiful read about accepting what cannot be changed and trusting in God for the rest while always being willing to put in 101% effort. I have no negative comments. I rate Abandoned Not Broken by Rob Johnson four out of five stars. The number of errors justifies the reduction of one star. I recommend another round of editing. I would have liked to know more about Pat, Tonia, and Brian.

I appreciate the rawness and simplicity with which Rob narrates deeply personal episodes (good, bad, and ugly). He does not blame any person or situation, and above all, he demonstrates how faith in God and the direction he received in His guidance helped him sail through challenging times. The references within the book, though best suited to followers of Christianity, are not offensive to any other religion or the non-religious population, making it a read for all. This read will particularly help homes or individuals with similar dynamics. I leave you with this excerpt from the book: Only the Strong Survive!

******
Abandoned Not Broken
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Chi Chiu Michael Mak · Post by **Chi Chiu Michael Mak** » 20 Jun 2025, 08:32

Seetha E wrote: ↑31 Mar 2025, 10:20 [Following is a volunteer review of "Abandoned Not Broken" by Rob Johnson.]

4 out of 5 stars
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Janie was a single mother of two when she gave birth to Rob on August 15, 1979. Janie's family members were already raising her kids. They did not want to be a part of raising Rob. Gary had left for good, and Janie knew she could not raise Rob. Janie finally abandoned Rob with Miss Pat, Rob's babysitter, who was known to Ms. Hepner, Janie's great-grandmother. As Janie’s intentions were clear, Miss Pat expressed her desire to adopt Rob. The process took a while, but Rob Dunckley was finally Rob Johnson. Pat was a single mother of two when she decided to adopt Rob. Life in a trailer was never easy. Rob narrates his journey through all these years, the ups and downs, the moments of strength and vulnerabilities, the moments that presented choices between succumbing to self-pity or deciding to make the best of what his new life had blessed him with, and so much more.

I am very touched by his gratitude toward his biological parents for deciding to give him up for adoption to ensure he was cared for. His maturity in choosing the right path during his formative years speaks volumes about his character. His love, affection, and respect for Pat (the only woman he considered his mother), mentors, friends, and everyone else with whom he crossed paths is worth emulating. You will read about instances with friends, church members, other mentors, biological family, the family that adopted him, employees, his wonderful wife, and her family.

The way he dealt with different phases of life teaches us several lessons. For example, he emphasizes viewing challenging moments as opportunities to help us become better humans. Readers will agree with Rob when he says that a lot depends on our perspective. I concur with him when he says the motivation to grow while hoping for a better future seldom comes from outside; it has to come from within. Readers will feel encouraged to dream and persevere to realize those dreams. The author talks about subjects like formal education, occupation choices, financial security, and giving back to the community. He also sets the tone for what married life with family should look like. His story encourages introspection.

The photographs throughout the book add value and authenticity to this beautiful read about accepting what cannot be changed and trusting in God for the rest while always being willing to put in 101% effort. I have no negative comments. I rate Abandoned Not Broken by Rob Johnson four out of five stars. The number of errors justifies the reduction of one star. I recommend another round of editing. I would have liked to know more about Pat, Tonia, and Brian.

I appreciate the rawness and simplicity with which Rob narrates deeply personal episodes (good, bad, and ugly). He does not blame any person or situation, and above all, he demonstrates how faith in God and the direction he received in His guidance helped him sail through challenging times. The references within the book, though best suited to followers of Christianity, are not offensive to any other religion or the non-religious population, making it a read for all. This read will particularly help homes or individuals with similar dynamics. I leave you with this excerpt from the book: Only the Strong Survive!

******
Abandoned Not Broken
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

People who relate to abandonment issues would find Rob to be a good role model. His positivity is very magnetic!