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BROKEN BOY: Trying to figure out life
BROKEN BOY – TRYING TO FIGURE OUT LIFE
by Fabian Arnold
Broken Boy is a raw look back at the lessons I’ve learned through my own struggles with mental health, the setbacks that nearly broke me, and the small victories that kept me going. This book isn’t just my story; it’s a collection of insights, reflections, and lessons inspired by other books, documentaries, and speeches that helped me find shortcuts along the way. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, out of place, or unsure of how to keep moving forward.
Whether you’re searching for meaning, trying to overcome your past, or simply hoping to build a life that finally feels like your own, Broken Boy is here to guide you. Think of it as a summary of everything I’ve gathered on this journey called life—a guide to help you find strength, face your fears, and create a future that feels true to you. Sometimes, the answers we need are already within us; we just have to go through the tough stuff to bring them to light.
"Life is like a rollercoaster filled with ups and downs and as soon as we learn to enjoy the ride we can find the true purpose in life. The only thing about life is that we cant just buy another ticket when it's over. So f*ck it, and live."
Since childhood, I always felt like something was a bit “off” in my head, like I was on the outside, watching life go by without quite fitting in. In my head I felt broken. As I grew older, life threw plenty of curveballs my way—depression, heartbreak and the constant pressure to fit in. I never really knew what I wanted, and for a long time, I was just trying to find my place. After successful studies as as an insurance merchant, I went to Australia and eventually found myself drawn into a new life as a model, actor, and writer, now navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood.
Hope it helps! - Fabs.
by Fabian Arnold
Broken Boy is a raw look back at the lessons I’ve learned through my own struggles with mental health, the setbacks that nearly broke me, and the small victories that kept me going. This book isn’t just my story; it’s a collection of insights, reflections, and lessons inspired by other books, documentaries, and speeches that helped me find shortcuts along the way. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, out of place, or unsure of how to keep moving forward.
Whether you’re searching for meaning, trying to overcome your past, or simply hoping to build a life that finally feels like your own, Broken Boy is here to guide you. Think of it as a summary of everything I’ve gathered on this journey called life—a guide to help you find strength, face your fears, and create a future that feels true to you. Sometimes, the answers we need are already within us; we just have to go through the tough stuff to bring them to light.
"Life is like a rollercoaster filled with ups and downs and as soon as we learn to enjoy the ride we can find the true purpose in life. The only thing about life is that we cant just buy another ticket when it's over. So f*ck it, and live."
Since childhood, I always felt like something was a bit “off” in my head, like I was on the outside, watching life go by without quite fitting in. In my head I felt broken. As I grew older, life threw plenty of curveballs my way—depression, heartbreak and the constant pressure to fit in. I never really knew what I wanted, and for a long time, I was just trying to find my place. After successful studies as as an insurance merchant, I went to Australia and eventually found myself drawn into a new life as a model, actor, and writer, now navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood.
Hope it helps! - Fabs.
246 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2024
13 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
February 10, 2025
Fabian Arnold’s memoir, "Broken Boy," is a breathtaking exploration of vulnerability, honesty, and resilience that invites readers into the heart of his journey. As a longtime follower of Arnold’s career, I was eagerly curious about the man behind the striking photographs and magnetic presence. What I found in these pages exceeded my expectations and deepened my understanding of his upbringing and the close connections he shares with his family.
Arnold’s writing is refreshingly transparent, allowing readers to witness the raw emotions and challenges he faced along the way. He does not shy away from discussing the doubts and insecurities that accompanied his rise in the modeling world. Instead, he embraces them, transforming moments of vulnerability into powerful lessons for his audience. This commitment to honesty sets "Broken Boy" apart from the typical celebrity memoir, as it reveals a multi-dimensional figure who is more than just a social media influencer; he is a person on a quest for meaning and growth.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is Arnold’s candid account of his life in school and suffering, as so many young people do: the degradation of not feeling accepted by his peers and how that became an element to address in his definition of success. He takes us through the early struggles of his career, sharing insights that resonate deeply with anyone who has pursued their dreams. His sacrifices and the lessons learned along the way paint a vivid picture of the dedication required to thrive in such a competitive industry. For those of us who have admired him for years, it is enlightening to understand the motivations behind his adventures and how they shaped his perspective on life.
The format of the book enhances the experience, especially in the final section titled "Questionnaire for Yourself." Here, Arnold invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, creating a personal connection that feels both intimate and empowering. His sincere desire to make a difference in people's lives shines through, making it clear that "Broken Boy" is not just a memoir but a call to introspection and growth.
If there is one wish I have, it is for more photographs to accompany the text—images that reflect the artistry of his modeling career and the evolution of his persona. However, this small desire does not overshadow the profound impact of his words. I initially picked up the book out of curiosity, drawn in by Arnold’s captivating physical presence, but I closed it feeling inspired and introspective.
In "Broken Boy," Fabian Arnold has crafted a narrative that is both relatable and thought-provoking. It is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the importance of sharing our stories. I wholeheartedly recommend this memoir to anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the model while also reflecting on their own life’s journey.
Arnold’s writing is refreshingly transparent, allowing readers to witness the raw emotions and challenges he faced along the way. He does not shy away from discussing the doubts and insecurities that accompanied his rise in the modeling world. Instead, he embraces them, transforming moments of vulnerability into powerful lessons for his audience. This commitment to honesty sets "Broken Boy" apart from the typical celebrity memoir, as it reveals a multi-dimensional figure who is more than just a social media influencer; he is a person on a quest for meaning and growth.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is Arnold’s candid account of his life in school and suffering, as so many young people do: the degradation of not feeling accepted by his peers and how that became an element to address in his definition of success. He takes us through the early struggles of his career, sharing insights that resonate deeply with anyone who has pursued their dreams. His sacrifices and the lessons learned along the way paint a vivid picture of the dedication required to thrive in such a competitive industry. For those of us who have admired him for years, it is enlightening to understand the motivations behind his adventures and how they shaped his perspective on life.
The format of the book enhances the experience, especially in the final section titled "Questionnaire for Yourself." Here, Arnold invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, creating a personal connection that feels both intimate and empowering. His sincere desire to make a difference in people's lives shines through, making it clear that "Broken Boy" is not just a memoir but a call to introspection and growth.
If there is one wish I have, it is for more photographs to accompany the text—images that reflect the artistry of his modeling career and the evolution of his persona. However, this small desire does not overshadow the profound impact of his words. I initially picked up the book out of curiosity, drawn in by Arnold’s captivating physical presence, but I closed it feeling inspired and introspective.
In "Broken Boy," Fabian Arnold has crafted a narrative that is both relatable and thought-provoking. It is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the importance of sharing our stories. I wholeheartedly recommend this memoir to anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the model while also reflecting on their own life’s journey.
January 17, 2026
Broken Boy by Fabian Arnold is a book about a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the path toward achieving one’s dreams.
This book touched me deeply because I saw so much of myself in Fabian’s story. While reading, I often felt that his experiences reflected my own childhood, especially the pain of feeling rejected and misunderstood. I remember trying to approach other children at school, only to have no one want to play or talk to me. I was constantly alone; they would run away from me. Even teachers—who should have protected and supported me—laughed instead of helping, simply because my parents were not rich. My father worked in construction, and my mother was a housewife. In the 1980s, the way of thinking was very different.
Reading these moments in the book was deeply emotional because they brought back memories I had rarely put into words. Arnold captures that loneliness and confusion with honesty and clarity, without exaggeration.
What makes Broken Boy so impactful is how real it feels. The emotions are raw and vulnerable, and the story shows how deeply childhood rejection can affect a person. At the same time, the book carries an important message about resilience, survival, and the strength it takes to keep going despite being hurt.
This book is not just a story—it is a voice for those who felt invisible, different, or broken at a young age. I believe many readers who experienced exclusion or bullying will feel seen and understood through this book.
I would highly recommend Broken Boy to anyone who values emotional truth, empathy, and stories that help us understand the lasting impact of childhood experiences.
This book touched me deeply because I saw so much of myself in Fabian’s story. While reading, I often felt that his experiences reflected my own childhood, especially the pain of feeling rejected and misunderstood. I remember trying to approach other children at school, only to have no one want to play or talk to me. I was constantly alone; they would run away from me. Even teachers—who should have protected and supported me—laughed instead of helping, simply because my parents were not rich. My father worked in construction, and my mother was a housewife. In the 1980s, the way of thinking was very different.
Reading these moments in the book was deeply emotional because they brought back memories I had rarely put into words. Arnold captures that loneliness and confusion with honesty and clarity, without exaggeration.
What makes Broken Boy so impactful is how real it feels. The emotions are raw and vulnerable, and the story shows how deeply childhood rejection can affect a person. At the same time, the book carries an important message about resilience, survival, and the strength it takes to keep going despite being hurt.
This book is not just a story—it is a voice for those who felt invisible, different, or broken at a young age. I believe many readers who experienced exclusion or bullying will feel seen and understood through this book.
I would highly recommend Broken Boy to anyone who values emotional truth, empathy, and stories that help us understand the lasting impact of childhood experiences.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews