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The Orphaned Anything's: Memoir of a Lesser Known Paperback February 18, 2008
An ¿im up, what more do you want from me?¿ sticker hideously controls the back of Ayden Kosacovor. In his mind what started as a joke is slowly becoming his ¿glorious and underrated mantra Kosacov is alive, and that is about all you can say. In the throws of a mundane and jejune life Ayden is slowly coming to the realization that if all his world is a stage than he wouldn did or did not miss the final scenes. Through an almost ¿accidental¿ suicide attempt and the recovery that soon follows, Ayden learns that there is more to living than just being alive. Finding his way through diverse experiences and people he comes to terms with God, his family, and finally himself. The Orphaned Anything¿s style of writing is in the likes of Dennis Johnson (Jesusd Dave Eggers (A Heartbreaking Work Of Staggering Genius) and yet designed to give life lessons, encouragement, and hope like books by Paulo Coelho (The Alchemist) and Donald Miller (Blue Like Jazz).
- GenresFictionContemporary
Unknown Binding
First published February 18, 2008
8 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Christian
4 books24 followersStephen Christian is an American singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band Anberlin, as well as the vocalist of his acoustic side-project Anchor & Braille.
He founded the non-profit and humanitarian-oriented band Faceless International, and is the founder of Wood Water Records, the home of Anchor & Braille. Christian wrote and self-published the memoir The Orphaned Anything's (2008).
On October 30, 2018, Calvary Church of Clearwater, Florida announced that Christian will assume the role of director of worship and creative arts in January 2019, and on August 26, 2019, Christian announced that he would be the campus pastor for Grace Family Church's South Tampa Campus.
He founded the non-profit and humanitarian-oriented band Faceless International, and is the founder of Wood Water Records, the home of Anchor & Braille. Christian wrote and self-published the memoir The Orphaned Anything's (2008).
On October 30, 2018, Calvary Church of Clearwater, Florida announced that Christian will assume the role of director of worship and creative arts in January 2019, and on August 26, 2019, Christian announced that he would be the campus pastor for Grace Family Church's South Tampa Campus.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 16, 2021
Just to be clear, I was disappointed in Catcher in the Rye. I remember reading it and thinking, "I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't this." And then I read The Orphaned Anything's. THIS is what I expected when I read Catcher in the Rye.
Stephen Christian is the lead singer of one of my favorite bands, Anberlin. When I found out he wrote a book, I immediately ordered it off Amazon. Anberlin's lyrics are poetic and have a way of capturing human emotion that is entirely relatable, wrecking, and beautiful. This book reads like the lyrics of their songs.
The book is essentially written as stream of conscious. Intentionally, the writing is riddled with spelling and punctuation errors. We are reading the journal of Ayden Kosacov, a young man fighting a battle with depression. Ayden manages to be both cynical and hilarious simultaneously. I should maybe be embarrassed to admit this, but I snorted out loud laughing while reading Ayden's suicide note. Although the first half of the book (or so) was heavy, power through! The ending was redemptive and does not leave the reader in a hopeless funk. Rather, the reader is empowered after closing the last page.
I loved this book. If you read Catcher and the Rye and enjoyed it, this is a book for you. If you read Catcher in the Rye and found Holden to be an insufferably whiny, angsty child (*raises hand*), this is also for you.
I'd rate this book a PG-13 for adult themes including mental health, suicide, and references to sex, alcohol, and drugs.
Stephen Christian is the lead singer of one of my favorite bands, Anberlin. When I found out he wrote a book, I immediately ordered it off Amazon. Anberlin's lyrics are poetic and have a way of capturing human emotion that is entirely relatable, wrecking, and beautiful. This book reads like the lyrics of their songs.
The book is essentially written as stream of conscious. Intentionally, the writing is riddled with spelling and punctuation errors. We are reading the journal of Ayden Kosacov, a young man fighting a battle with depression. Ayden manages to be both cynical and hilarious simultaneously. I should maybe be embarrassed to admit this, but I snorted out loud laughing while reading Ayden's suicide note. Although the first half of the book (or so) was heavy, power through! The ending was redemptive and does not leave the reader in a hopeless funk. Rather, the reader is empowered after closing the last page.
I loved this book. If you read Catcher and the Rye and enjoyed it, this is a book for you. If you read Catcher in the Rye and found Holden to be an insufferably whiny, angsty child (*raises hand*), this is also for you.
I'd rate this book a PG-13 for adult themes including mental health, suicide, and references to sex, alcohol, and drugs.
August 6, 2014
Stephen Christian is graced with the ability to touch people's souls. If you read the summary of this book and find that you want to read it, I can promise you that your soul will be touched.
I love Anberlin mainly for their incredible lyrics, so I don't find it surprising at all that I love a book written by the same man who pens those lyrics. The Orphaned Anything's is written pretty much in pure stream-of-consciousness style, which I probably could not stand from any other writer but Stephen Christian, who wrote my favorite song of all time that also includes a gorgeous and heart-ripping stream-of-consciousness ending - (*fin). If I know my time line correctly, this book was published around the time Anberlin's album Cities came out. You can see a lot of the same themes run through this book and Cities, a sort of man vs. himself mentality. I'm not entirely sure where I'm going with this train of thought, but I do know that if you love one you'll love the other, and I don't mind shamelessly broadcasting Stephen Christian's work in any medium.
I love Anberlin mainly for their incredible lyrics, so I don't find it surprising at all that I love a book written by the same man who pens those lyrics. The Orphaned Anything's is written pretty much in pure stream-of-consciousness style, which I probably could not stand from any other writer but Stephen Christian, who wrote my favorite song of all time that also includes a gorgeous and heart-ripping stream-of-consciousness ending - (*fin). If I know my time line correctly, this book was published around the time Anberlin's album Cities came out. You can see a lot of the same themes run through this book and Cities, a sort of man vs. himself mentality. I'm not entirely sure where I'm going with this train of thought, but I do know that if you love one you'll love the other, and I don't mind shamelessly broadcasting Stephen Christian's work in any medium.
August 13, 2009
Depressing at first but redemptive by the end. It is not pretentious, and it is obvious that it wasn't written to sell Anberlin. Stephen Christian's book reads like a journal we all have at some point wished we could keep. He preaches through the story of a very relatable boy and his feelings of worthlessness and failure and anger and rejection, weaving together a rather surprising little story. He veers into philosophy at times much like Dave Eggers. It feels appropriate here. It is a book designed to make you think, and maybe even change a little. I highly recommend it.
October 11, 2013
This book was life changing. It is very philosophical and sarcastic.
July 13, 2018
This writing in this book deserves all the stars it can get, but I gave the book only four stars for a reason I'll explain at the end of my review.
I originally picked up this book because Stephen Christian, the author, is also the lead singer in my favorite band Anberlin. The lyrics he writes for Anberlin's songs are so exquisite and beautiful, and that same writing style comes across in this book as well.
The Orphaned Anythings is essentially a journal that chronicles a small part of Ayden Kosacov's life as he struggles to find meaning or purpose in his day-to-day activities. It is funny, witty, heartbreaking, artistic, philosophical, and beautiful. I think all of us can relate to Ayden in one way or another because of how raw and honest his thoughts and descriptions are throughout this story.
Although this is a rather short novel, it is full of so much emotion. It also is abundant with quotable lines that I just want to hang on my walls. I really can't explain the kind of impact this book had on me, but I can guarantee this is a book I will be purchasing and reading again and again.
The reason I docked a star is for the very apparent lack of editing. This book is written entirely in lowercase letters, which is unique and adds to its idea of being a journal, and this wouldn't bother me at all if it was the only nonconventional decision. But on top of no capital letters there were rampant misspellings all throughout the book, wrong words being used in place of the obviously intended words, apostrophes where there should be none (note the title) and no apostrophes where there should be some, other egregious punctuation mistakes, and many other writing and editing errors that are too minute to list. As an editor, I was not only bothered but also downright distracted by the visual presentation of the book. Even one quick round through an editor would have fixed over 95% of the errors and made for a more seamless reading experience. So I am subtracting a star for how distracting it is to read this book, but this subtracted star in no way impacts the masterful writing displayed on every page of the story.
Overall, this book can be described in one word that doesn't quite do it justice: beautiful.
You can read this review and more on my blog: Storeys of Stories
I originally picked up this book because Stephen Christian, the author, is also the lead singer in my favorite band Anberlin. The lyrics he writes for Anberlin's songs are so exquisite and beautiful, and that same writing style comes across in this book as well.
The Orphaned Anythings is essentially a journal that chronicles a small part of Ayden Kosacov's life as he struggles to find meaning or purpose in his day-to-day activities. It is funny, witty, heartbreaking, artistic, philosophical, and beautiful. I think all of us can relate to Ayden in one way or another because of how raw and honest his thoughts and descriptions are throughout this story.
Although this is a rather short novel, it is full of so much emotion. It also is abundant with quotable lines that I just want to hang on my walls. I really can't explain the kind of impact this book had on me, but I can guarantee this is a book I will be purchasing and reading again and again.
The reason I docked a star is for the very apparent lack of editing. This book is written entirely in lowercase letters, which is unique and adds to its idea of being a journal, and this wouldn't bother me at all if it was the only nonconventional decision. But on top of no capital letters there were rampant misspellings all throughout the book, wrong words being used in place of the obviously intended words, apostrophes where there should be none (note the title) and no apostrophes where there should be some, other egregious punctuation mistakes, and many other writing and editing errors that are too minute to list. As an editor, I was not only bothered but also downright distracted by the visual presentation of the book. Even one quick round through an editor would have fixed over 95% of the errors and made for a more seamless reading experience. So I am subtracting a star for how distracting it is to read this book, but this subtracted star in no way impacts the masterful writing displayed on every page of the story.
Overall, this book can be described in one word that doesn't quite do it justice: beautiful.
You can read this review and more on my blog: Storeys of Stories
October 3, 2022
If I wasn't a fan of Anberlin, I wouldn't have read it. The overall message is nice, but the set-up and pacing make it hard to get into the story and suspend disbelief. The writing is casual, but I wonder at times how intentional that is.
It reminded me a lot of It's Kind of a Funny Story, or TPOBAW, but I enjoyed those more.
It reminded me a lot of It's Kind of a Funny Story, or TPOBAW, but I enjoyed those more.
November 2, 2017
Here are some actual quotes from this actual book that actually got published (misused words all included):
"i hate when she, or any girl for that matter, says "love ya" because you don't know if she says that to everyone of if she is trying to get you to say "i love you too", thus pushing the level of the relationship to an all time newly awkward level."
and
"she's a fairly attractive girl with a larger nose, smaller breasts, and as of late i have noticed she always appears sweaty or oily, especially on her back...i have psychologically diagnosed her, and my expert advice is that she has an old maid/senior year college instinct that makes girls long for a non-superficial, committed, high hope of someday tying the knot relationship. i have deducted this because she is consistently quoting and rambling off the list of all her friends that are getting married."
Just.........wow........
"i hate when she, or any girl for that matter, says "love ya" because you don't know if she says that to everyone of if she is trying to get you to say "i love you too", thus pushing the level of the relationship to an all time newly awkward level."
and
"she's a fairly attractive girl with a larger nose, smaller breasts, and as of late i have noticed she always appears sweaty or oily, especially on her back...i have psychologically diagnosed her, and my expert advice is that she has an old maid/senior year college instinct that makes girls long for a non-superficial, committed, high hope of someday tying the knot relationship. i have deducted this because she is consistently quoting and rambling off the list of all her friends that are getting married."
Just.........wow........
January 13, 2020
This book was written by the singer of one of my top 3 favorite bands, Anberlin. It’s interesting seeing the connections and similarities to the album that was made around the time this book was written. (The album is called Cities and I would definitely recommend this band).
I could tell 5 pages in that this would have been my favorite book when I was in high school. It’s very unique and strangely written but it gave me all of the feels all the same.
I could tell 5 pages in that this would have been my favorite book when I was in high school. It’s very unique and strangely written but it gave me all of the feels all the same.
January 2, 2023
I originally picked this up because I'm a huge fan of author Stephen Christian's band, Anberlin. The grammar and spelling was hard to get used to as it's intentionally written badly, but once I was able to get passed that, I really enjoyed the story a lot. It's the type of story that makes a lasting impression and really makes you think.
December 9, 2019
A great first book. Love this dude and hope he writes more!
March 10, 2012
It was difficult to get past the seemingly-illiterate style of writing (no capitalization, rampant misspellings), but I persevered. The story is about a Lost Young Man who drifts into suicide, spends time in a mental hospital, and ultimately finds purpose and meaning in life. I wondered about his situation: he was not happy in life, but what he thought to be true (about God, about his father) turned out to be false. How do you reach someone drowning in wrong thinking with the truth?
Also, I thought this was a fervent yet impractical way to approach life: "you need to do what makes you come alive. and when others see your ardor, the entire world will concede to your passion.' Those who live by such advice will be waiting a long time for the world's concession!
I identified with the protagonist's propensity to think too much, but I was ultimately grateful that I have never been in such a directionless, purposeless state.
Also, I thought this was a fervent yet impractical way to approach life: "you need to do what makes you come alive. and when others see your ardor, the entire world will concede to your passion.' Those who live by such advice will be waiting a long time for the world's concession!
I identified with the protagonist's propensity to think too much, but I was ultimately grateful that I have never been in such a directionless, purposeless state.
September 21, 2011
(might be small spoiler)
i just re-read this last night, not being able to sleep after finishing another book, i picked this up and just read it, and didn't stop. Written by Stephen Christian the lead singer of Anberlin and his side project Anchor and Braille. it's an inspiring read tough at times 'cause of what the main character Ayden goes through and thinks. how he was feeling lost with no where to go, and almost ended it, but but in the end it all works out. it's really inspiring and moving. it gives hope and healing, just like all of Anberlin's songs. i highly suggest reading this, you can read it in a sitting 'cause it's pretty short so it wont take you but an afternoon, and you'll get a lovely read too.
i just re-read this last night, not being able to sleep after finishing another book, i picked this up and just read it, and didn't stop. Written by Stephen Christian the lead singer of Anberlin and his side project Anchor and Braille. it's an inspiring read tough at times 'cause of what the main character Ayden goes through and thinks. how he was feeling lost with no where to go, and almost ended it, but but in the end it all works out. it's really inspiring and moving. it gives hope and healing, just like all of Anberlin's songs. i highly suggest reading this, you can read it in a sitting 'cause it's pretty short so it wont take you but an afternoon, and you'll get a lovely read too.
March 19, 2015
I enjoyed Christian's raw, uninhibited writing through this book. He is seemingly very skilled at creating a dreary, ambiguous environment and mood. I did feel as if it was especially difficult to relate to the protagonist. There really wasn't enough to draw me into the character and make me feel as though I really cared about what happened to him. My biggest issue with the book, however, was the lack of editing. There were several careless spelling and grammar mistakes that made this a hard read for me. That may have been intended, but it added no value to the book from my perspective.
January 19, 2011
A short novel by Stephen Christian. Excellent short read about the battle of depression and hopelessness that a young man faces, and how he eventually finds hope through a suicide attempt and recovery from that attempt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2008
I loved this book, it is a memoir and it is definitley unique. The main character says some things that really hit me. It was a cool book and the only reason I bought it is because the author is the lead singer of one of my favorite bands Anberlin. I am so glad I did!
September 25, 2011
I started out thinking that I would not like this book at all, seeing as I hate stream of conscious-type writing, but the story ending up being so fascinating. I think that it was very well written and left me pondering a lot. It's a hard story, but there are fantastic lessons in it!
August 14, 2012
really great book! personally i think the beginning isn't that good, but it gets really good fast.
even though it isn't about adolescence/a really "coming of age book," i think all youths should read this book, because it really has that sense of finding yourself.
even though it isn't about adolescence/a really "coming of age book," i think all youths should read this book, because it really has that sense of finding yourself.
October 28, 2014
Amazing read. It was extremely relatable. In many ways every person is Ayden at some point in their lives. Beautifully and uniquely written in terms of style and grammatical choice. So much love for this book. It makes you want to change, to be better.
March 16, 2021
So I read this book about 5 years ago, and I will tell you it still stuck with me. I read it because it was my exes favorite book. So I read it so we could talk about it. And even though we’re not together anymore, this book still makes me so happy and I wish I could re read it for the first time!
August 6, 2020
The author bio boasts “I have no literary degree” and boy can you tell. Pseudo-inspirational edgelord man boy “outside the lines,” yet cliche, writing. Underlying misogyny. Christian, but in a cool, covert way.
I was waiting for it to get good, but unfortunately that never happened.
I was waiting for it to get good, but unfortunately that never happened.
September 22, 2022
3.75 ⭐️
This book has its own soundtrack and it’s fucking great!
I would say that this one is really hard to read, I don’t appreciate the writing style but at the same time I think it’s pretty unique
I loved the first half and I thought that the second half it’s okay
This book has its own soundtrack and it’s fucking great!
I would say that this one is really hard to read, I don’t appreciate the writing style but at the same time I think it’s pretty unique
I loved the first half and I thought that the second half it’s okay
September 21, 2011
Stephen Christian is my favorite lyricist & the lyrical quality he has carried over into this novel. I loved the narration, plot & everything about it. Best five hours of my life.
January 8, 2012
Super enjoyable tale written by the lead singer of Anberlin.
October 20, 2015
Love this book! One of my all times faves.
August 16, 2016
This book is absolutely perfect.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews