Damaged Goods

by John Colbert

270 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2025

Reviews

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Damaged Goods by John Colbert—especially as someone who hasn’t experienced the loss of a parent—but I’m so glad I picked it up. Colbert explores grief, loss, and the strange, uncomfortable, and sometimes hilarious ways we try to move forward. It’s both deeply emotional and unexpectedly funny.

To me, the best books are the ones that make you laugh, maybe tear up a little (okay, sob), and then laugh again—while leaving you with something meaningful to carry with you. Even though I haven’t yet gone through the loss of a parent or close loved one, I still found this book incredibly moving—and I’m grateful I read it before I have to. It reminded me to nurture the relationships with my family and to hold on a little tighter while I still can.

I wholeheartedly recommend picking up Damaged Goods and experiencing it for yourself, no matter where you are in life.

[Patricia Torres-Burd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devoured this wonderfully written grief journey. John takes us through his family’s loss and how the dealt with tragedy, sorrow and yes- humor.
Even if grief is not part of your life, you will so enjoy this author.
Can’t recommend this enough!

Life is short and we should embrace those we love. This book gives you a peek into a wonderful father and the legacy he leaves behind.

[Cat Layne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every second of reading this book. Funny, sad, honest and heartwarming at the same time. As my parents get older (yes, I’m lucky enough to still have both my parents), I sometimes get crippling anxiety about when they will die. I don’t know how I’m going to live without them. But this book gave me a sense of peace that I will somehow be able to figure it out. It felt like a prep guide on how to deal with the what will be the most dreadful experience in my life. This book may be extremely helpful to those who have already lost a parent but it was also extremely helpful to me, who still have both of mine. Thanks John ❤️

[Chris Weidman · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Colbert’s Damaged Goods book will resonate with many because it finds a way to let us all know we should take a step back, focus on what matters and find space to make our limited time here count. He blends humor, emotion and stories to make it all real, raw and impactful. Whether you’ve experienced deep personal loss or not (yet), his book will make you think about what you can do differently today to live without regrets and say ‘yes’ to that next offer to grab a drink, see a game or go for a walk with a loved one or friend.

[Christina Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cried, laughed, absolutely incredible work of a personal experience.