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Life Is Magic: My Inspiring Journey from Tragedy to Self-Discovery
“Jon Dorenbos is a magical person. Life Is Magic shows how we can all choose happiness in the face of overwhelming odds.” —Ellen DeGeneres
An extraordinary and empowering story of resilience, forgiveness, and living a life of purpose in the face of unfathomable obstacles.
You might recognize him as an NFL All-Pro or as an elite magician who made the finals of America’s Got Talent and regularly appears on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. But Jon Dorenbos says that what he does is not who he is. Who he is is someone forced, at the most tender of ages, to coach himself into turning tragedy to triumph.
One morning in August 1992, when Jon was twelve years old and living a seemingly idyllic childhood in suburban Seattle, he woke up for baseball camp. His dad waved good-bye. Later that day, Jon heard the news: his father had murdered his mother in the family’s three-car garage. In an instant, his life had shattered. He’d been essentially orphaned.
Thrust into foster care while his father stood trial for murder, Jon struggled. Left to himself, he discovered an unlikely escape performing magic tricks. If you found a way to alter your reality after your dad—your hero—killed your mom, wouldn’t you cling to it too? Then came football, which provided a release for all of Jon’s pent-up anger. Together, magic and football saved him, leading to fourteen NFL seasons on the gridiron and raucous sleight-of-hand performances to packed houses across the globe.
In 2017, after being traded to the New Orleans Saints, Jon was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition. He had a choice: break down, or—as he’d long by now taught himself—bounce back. “Talk to yourself, don’t listen to yourself,” Dorenbos advises for those moments when the inner voice of self-doubt screams.
In Life Is Magic, Dorenbos draws a road map for how to shut that voice up by choosing happiness. At his darkest times, he writes, he’s learned lessons of love, forgiveness, and perseverance. His story is poignant and powerful, told by a charismatic and optimistic man who has overcome life-or-death challenges with grace, persistence, a childlike sense of wonder...and jaw-dropping card tricks.
An extraordinary and empowering story of resilience, forgiveness, and living a life of purpose in the face of unfathomable obstacles.
You might recognize him as an NFL All-Pro or as an elite magician who made the finals of America’s Got Talent and regularly appears on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. But Jon Dorenbos says that what he does is not who he is. Who he is is someone forced, at the most tender of ages, to coach himself into turning tragedy to triumph.
One morning in August 1992, when Jon was twelve years old and living a seemingly idyllic childhood in suburban Seattle, he woke up for baseball camp. His dad waved good-bye. Later that day, Jon heard the news: his father had murdered his mother in the family’s three-car garage. In an instant, his life had shattered. He’d been essentially orphaned.
Thrust into foster care while his father stood trial for murder, Jon struggled. Left to himself, he discovered an unlikely escape performing magic tricks. If you found a way to alter your reality after your dad—your hero—killed your mom, wouldn’t you cling to it too? Then came football, which provided a release for all of Jon’s pent-up anger. Together, magic and football saved him, leading to fourteen NFL seasons on the gridiron and raucous sleight-of-hand performances to packed houses across the globe.
In 2017, after being traded to the New Orleans Saints, Jon was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition. He had a choice: break down, or—as he’d long by now taught himself—bounce back. “Talk to yourself, don’t listen to yourself,” Dorenbos advises for those moments when the inner voice of self-doubt screams.
In Life Is Magic, Dorenbos draws a road map for how to shut that voice up by choosing happiness. At his darkest times, he writes, he’s learned lessons of love, forgiveness, and perseverance. His story is poignant and powerful, told by a charismatic and optimistic man who has overcome life-or-death challenges with grace, persistence, a childlike sense of wonder...and jaw-dropping card tricks.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2019
185 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
December 12, 2019
A very powerful memoir narrated brilliantly by Jon himself, overcoming so much hardship in his younger years and also in adulthood. I have a ton of respect for him now after reading Life Is Magic. I listened to the audiobook on BookBeat UK, which was great quality and learning more about his AGT experience and his professional career in NFL. Recommended!
November 21, 2019
While it was great to go through memory lane with many of Jon's middle and high school experiences, but ultimately I loved learning a valuable lesson about forgiveness and perseverance. This book was a wonderful reminder of why and how we can overcome even the most difficult situations. After recently experiencing the loss of my brother, this book was a solace in my grieving process. We can all do hard things. We can all forgive and we can all get better.
Lastly, it was a great read because I could hear Jon's distinctive voice and inflection. That is a bonus of knowing the author.
Lastly, it was a great read because I could hear Jon's distinctive voice and inflection. That is a bonus of knowing the author.
November 12, 2019
Fantastic story! I was crying and laughing and sometimes in the same sentence. Jon’s story is not his life. He spends every waking moment creating his life with each thoughtful and exacting decision. He creates love, fosters passion and a zest for life that has made him a guy everyone wants to be around. When you finish this book you will want to be his friend!!
December 10, 2019
I love this guy! I saw him on AGT doing his magic. I'm not a fan of magic but he had so much personality doing it and it was fantastic. Plus, being from Philly, I loved that he was an Eagle. Now, his personalty astounds me after having his father kill his mother when he was 12. I have to admit that I skipped most of the magic so that's the only reason I gave it 4 stars.
December 21, 2019
Book 84 of 2019
I don't have enough words to share how amazing this book is. I first heard Jon Dorenbos' story when he was on the stage of America's Got Talent. He quickly became someone to admire when you hear the story of how at the age of 12, he became a makeshift orphan as his father went to prison for killing his mother. Not only did magic save his life, but he became an NFL-long-snapper for 14 seasons. His road to happiness and joy was paved through forgiveness, and it is amazing to hear someone talk about emotional self-awareness in such a raw and powerful way. I cannot recommend this book enough -- everyone should take the time to soak in this powerful and honest message. I also had the added bonus of listening to the audiobook, and I am a massive fan of individuals reading their own memoirs. It makes the story that more much powerful and personal to the listener.
Easily one of the best books of 2019, and one of the top five I have personally read this year.
I don't have enough words to share how amazing this book is. I first heard Jon Dorenbos' story when he was on the stage of America's Got Talent. He quickly became someone to admire when you hear the story of how at the age of 12, he became a makeshift orphan as his father went to prison for killing his mother. Not only did magic save his life, but he became an NFL-long-snapper for 14 seasons. His road to happiness and joy was paved through forgiveness, and it is amazing to hear someone talk about emotional self-awareness in such a raw and powerful way. I cannot recommend this book enough -- everyone should take the time to soak in this powerful and honest message. I also had the added bonus of listening to the audiobook, and I am a massive fan of individuals reading their own memoirs. It makes the story that more much powerful and personal to the listener.
Easily one of the best books of 2019, and one of the top five I have personally read this year.
November 23, 2019
What a great story this is. Great reminder of how defeating self can bring so much peace to one's heart. Thank you Kind of the great reminders of what gratitude can do for us if
When we remind ourselves, WE ALIVE! Thank you for being you .I lost my mother at the age of 14 to the disease of alcoholism and I chose to be a victim of that until I found myself in a 12_step program years later. I am grateful we alive!
When we remind ourselves, WE ALIVE! Thank you for being you .I lost my mother at the age of 14 to the disease of alcoholism and I chose to be a victim of that until I found myself in a 12_step program years later. I am grateful we alive!
March 27, 2025
5 Rating. Loved category.
So Jon was the keynote speaker at my work conference that I just came back from and I was so blown away by his magic and life story. Talk about being inspirational. So I wanted to read more about his life story.
If you love the Philadelphia Eagles and the city, this book is a must for you. 🪽Mad props to the people of Philadelphia for truly demonstrating brotherly love. When people slow clapped as Jon left the restaurant after his surgery, it was truly touching. 🥲
Really admired his strength and determination to overcome his life’s toughest challenges including his father murdering his mother at age 12, going through trial, transitioning without both parents, counseling to overcome his dark days, grit to beat the odds of making the NFL, career ending heart surgery, perfecting magic as his escape, Golden Bell & finalist on America’s Got Talent, and to ultimately finding peace and forgiveness of his father. All of these built him to be who is he today: wonderful husband, father, and performer/speaker.
Jon is such a wonderful human being with positive attitude and someone you immediately want to hang out with. I felt this both after seeing his performance/speech at the conference and reading his book.
Loved all the angels that were part of his journey from his aunt, grandparents, aunt, counselor, heart surgeon, and the city of Philadelphia. Funny how a shocking and unexpected (and unwanted) event such as him being traded to the Saints would save his life after discovering his heart condition (failed physical). Truly a “saint” was sent his way so that he can “breeze” (Drew Brees walked by his locker with a revelation) through life once again.
“He who has a Why to live for can bear almost any How." Freidrich Nietzche
“It's good to have an end to journey towards but it's the journey that matters, in the end." Ursula K. Le Guin
“Man is even ready to suffer, on the condition, to be sure, that his suffering has a meaning." Victor Frankl
"When one door of happiness closes, another opens. But often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the ones that has been opened for us." Helen Keller
"Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light" JK Rowling
“Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong” Jon D
“The servant leader shares power, puts the needs of others first and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible.” Jon D
“You’re my Super Bowl, babe.” Jon D to his wife ❤️🥺
So Jon was the keynote speaker at my work conference that I just came back from and I was so blown away by his magic and life story. Talk about being inspirational. So I wanted to read more about his life story.
If you love the Philadelphia Eagles and the city, this book is a must for you. 🪽Mad props to the people of Philadelphia for truly demonstrating brotherly love. When people slow clapped as Jon left the restaurant after his surgery, it was truly touching. 🥲
Really admired his strength and determination to overcome his life’s toughest challenges including his father murdering his mother at age 12, going through trial, transitioning without both parents, counseling to overcome his dark days, grit to beat the odds of making the NFL, career ending heart surgery, perfecting magic as his escape, Golden Bell & finalist on America’s Got Talent, and to ultimately finding peace and forgiveness of his father. All of these built him to be who is he today: wonderful husband, father, and performer/speaker.
Jon is such a wonderful human being with positive attitude and someone you immediately want to hang out with. I felt this both after seeing his performance/speech at the conference and reading his book.
Loved all the angels that were part of his journey from his aunt, grandparents, aunt, counselor, heart surgeon, and the city of Philadelphia. Funny how a shocking and unexpected (and unwanted) event such as him being traded to the Saints would save his life after discovering his heart condition (failed physical). Truly a “saint” was sent his way so that he can “breeze” (Drew Brees walked by his locker with a revelation) through life once again.
“He who has a Why to live for can bear almost any How." Freidrich Nietzche
“It's good to have an end to journey towards but it's the journey that matters, in the end." Ursula K. Le Guin
“Man is even ready to suffer, on the condition, to be sure, that his suffering has a meaning." Victor Frankl
"When one door of happiness closes, another opens. But often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the ones that has been opened for us." Helen Keller
"Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light" JK Rowling
“Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong” Jon D
“The servant leader shares power, puts the needs of others first and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible.” Jon D
“You’re my Super Bowl, babe.” Jon D to his wife ❤️🥺
January 11, 2020
Being a Philadelphia Eagles fan, of course I knew Jon Dorenbos’ story... I thought I did. He was a popular football player..did a lot for children’s charities..nominated for the Walter Payton award..was a finalist on America’s Got Talent..a serious cardiac condition was discovered during a physical exam after a trade with the Saints. I did not know about his childhood or how his mother was murdered by his father. That is not a spoiler because because Jon tells his story in the preface of the book. His personal story is remarkable but how Jon handled (and handles) the insurmountable is inspirational. The preface tells the facts of his life story. The book tells his story of survival. Every chapter starts with a quote. These quotes set the tone of each part of Jon’s life and how he responded to each crisis. He became fascinated with magic. Magic became his escape and he divested his energy into something positive..something he enjoyed. Football became his physical outlet. Dorenbos states his story is one of magic, football and forgiveness..always remembering that happiness is a choice, as is self-pity. I have read and re-read pages 82-83. Everyone needs a Coach Hay..and an optimistic spirit..and the hard work needed to achieve goals..and a little magic.
May 2, 2023
My dad bought this book for me. It wasn’t terrible, and I appreciate the themes surrounding forgiveness. But I did have to skim the football sections.
November 26, 2019
Very inspiring and page turning read. I typically don't love self-help type books but I think the sentiments expressed in this book can help almost any individual. I met Jon socially early on in his time in Philly, my husband had emergency aortic valve surgery with Dr. Bavaria the same year as Jon and I dealt adversity early in life so the book particularly hit on many notes.
There is a bit of winner's bias in this book (being an NFL player affords you an incredible support network, resources to advance your dreams, etc.) as there is in many self-help books, but despite that, incorporating the mindset espoused in this book will help many people either from a personal perspective (shunning victimhood and fighting the negative voices in your mind) or the altruistic perspective(spreading positivity in the world). It is the kind of book that you put down and say, "I can do even better for my self and my community".
There is a bit of winner's bias in this book (being an NFL player affords you an incredible support network, resources to advance your dreams, etc.) as there is in many self-help books, but despite that, incorporating the mindset espoused in this book will help many people either from a personal perspective (shunning victimhood and fighting the negative voices in your mind) or the altruistic perspective(spreading positivity in the world). It is the kind of book that you put down and say, "I can do even better for my self and my community".
December 16, 2019
I finished this book Saturday night and days later I can’t stop hearing the gems of motivation and inspiration repeating in my head. What an unbelievably inspirational human being! Even if you don’t love football or magic, I promise every single person can love and benefit from Jon Dorenbos’ words and life story.
A special thanks for the story about him visiting Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and the young girl who was the recipient of his kindness and his “showing up”. I was a kid at CHOP a long time ago and had a similar experience (with Willie Mays) and it meant the world to me. It also helped my Dad feel more comfortable in a hospital because he hated hospitals. Thanks again, Jon Dorenbos. Life is Magic is a wonderful example of choosing happiness even when it’s not the easiest choice. #iGotYou #LifeIsMagic #ReadMoreBooks #OrListenMore #Audible #GoBIRDS #EAGLES
A special thanks for the story about him visiting Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and the young girl who was the recipient of his kindness and his “showing up”. I was a kid at CHOP a long time ago and had a similar experience (with Willie Mays) and it meant the world to me. It also helped my Dad feel more comfortable in a hospital because he hated hospitals. Thanks again, Jon Dorenbos. Life is Magic is a wonderful example of choosing happiness even when it’s not the easiest choice. #iGotYou #LifeIsMagic #ReadMoreBooks #OrListenMore #Audible #GoBIRDS #EAGLES
November 22, 2019
Awesome book
My name is JOE and I’m at grateful recovering alcoholic. This book is an inspiration to me that no matter what path our lives take us, God always has our back. There has never been an absence of God in my life, I just shut him out. Today, I too have signs from my father, who passed away in 2015, and others that I looked up to that are gone. Thank you John for sharing your experience strength and hope. Acceptance and forgiveness… The keys to happiness. God bless
My name is JOE and I’m at grateful recovering alcoholic. This book is an inspiration to me that no matter what path our lives take us, God always has our back. There has never been an absence of God in my life, I just shut him out. Today, I too have signs from my father, who passed away in 2015, and others that I looked up to that are gone. Thank you John for sharing your experience strength and hope. Acceptance and forgiveness… The keys to happiness. God bless
February 4, 2020
Picked up this book for my autobiography challenge A to Z, because it was on display in the library. Had no idea who Dorenbos was, but what a pleasant surprise.
To sum, Jon’s story is about forgiveness. Forgiveness of his dad killing his mom when he was 12. It was the crux of who he is, but it was not focus of the book. The book was about hard work and finding an identity as a result of broken childhood by a haunted memory. This book was a light read, with many moments of warmth.
While this was an athlete’s book, but it was much more. The book was done well to portrait Jon as a human being more than any other identities. I am glad I didn’t know who he was before reading the book.
However after reading the book, I did do some extended lookup. He was the veteran long snapper at Eagles, and was released year before Eagles won Super Bowl. He also was on America Got Talent, and frequent guest on Ellen.
Dorenbos spoke highly of Big Red. Very timely finish since Andy Reid just won super bowl with Chiefs.
To sum, Jon’s story is about forgiveness. Forgiveness of his dad killing his mom when he was 12. It was the crux of who he is, but it was not focus of the book. The book was about hard work and finding an identity as a result of broken childhood by a haunted memory. This book was a light read, with many moments of warmth.
While this was an athlete’s book, but it was much more. The book was done well to portrait Jon as a human being more than any other identities. I am glad I didn’t know who he was before reading the book.
However after reading the book, I did do some extended lookup. He was the veteran long snapper at Eagles, and was released year before Eagles won Super Bowl. He also was on America Got Talent, and frequent guest on Ellen.
Dorenbos spoke highly of Big Red. Very timely finish since Andy Reid just won super bowl with Chiefs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2020
Jon spoke at Omaha’s Young Professionals Summit in March right before Covid. He did a tremendous job at captivating the audience. 8 months later I’m at a bookstore in Philadelphia and see he’s among the local book stand. He played football in Philly.
The book was better than his performance. He is authentic and by the end of 200+ pages, I feel like I know him. He’s a friend. I can predict his behavior. His message on forgiveness and inner human strength is a good reminder. We are a lot stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Thanks Jon for your story — it’s needed especially in 2020!
The book was better than his performance. He is authentic and by the end of 200+ pages, I feel like I know him. He’s a friend. I can predict his behavior. His message on forgiveness and inner human strength is a good reminder. We are a lot stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Thanks Jon for your story — it’s needed especially in 2020!
December 29, 2025
4.2/5 stars, audiobook.
Got a real kick out of reading this! The author came to a lecture and presented his story (complete with magic) and absolutely blew us away! Far and away the best motivational speaker I’ve ever seen in my life, the book was much of the same spiel plus a few extra tidbits.
What an incredible story and man. If you ever get the chance to see him speak, I could not recommend it more highly.
Got a real kick out of reading this! The author came to a lecture and presented his story (complete with magic) and absolutely blew us away! Far and away the best motivational speaker I’ve ever seen in my life, the book was much of the same spiel plus a few extra tidbits.
What an incredible story and man. If you ever get the chance to see him speak, I could not recommend it more highly.
May 14, 2024
Wow! What a powerful story and so beautifully written. I ugly cried, I laughed out loud, and was rooting for Jon wholeheartedly the entire time. When I finished the book, I cried a bit more from joy and just wanted to give Jon and his entire family a huge hug.
July 1, 2021
What an emotional story!! I absolutely love this book. Joe Dorenbos is an amazing man who took his tragedies and turned them into a positive one.
November 24, 2019
Amazing, inspiring, a genuinely nice person. I’ve heard Jon’s story throughout his America’s Got Talent run and seeing him perform magic live, but to read the words written in this book blew me away. I laughed and I cried and despite hitting a rough patch in my own life this year this book has truly made me believe that everything will be ok. Once you start reading you cannot put it down.
August 15, 2021
Very inspiring! Jon’s perspective on life, tactics to shift your approach to circumstances to stay positive and find joy are spot on, practical, and clearly proven in his life. A page-turner. Read the whole book in 2 days.
October 22, 2025
Amazing story, told with heart and genuine passion. An inspiring story, despite an unthinkable childhood trauma.
November 7, 2019
What an amazing human.
January 23, 2022
Discounted | Uplifting and interesting | I knew only about Dorenbos' magic before starting this, so there was a lot that was new to me. I didn't agree with his outlook on everything, of course. I've had a lot of surgeries, a lot of long recoveries and physical therapy and etc. If a patient I didn't know tried to motivate me to be as active in recuperation as they were being by arriving in my hospital room and telling me I look terrible, it would be the opposite of encouraging. Not everyone responds to things the same way, and that's ok. And the "pushing through physical pain" concept of sports injuries is ridiculous. That said, I enjoyed this a lot and mentioned it to people while listening several times. It's a good positive read, which is always nice.
May 23, 2020
Never had a book make me laugh and cry like this one did!
May 4, 2023
Life is Magic: My Inspiring Journey from Tragedy to Self-Discovery is a memoir by Jon Dorenbos. Though I am a football fan, the Philadelphia Eagles are not my team, I do not have the schedule to accommodate NFL Red Zone Sundays, and I have no ties to the Eastern Seaboard. I am not a magic or network television fan; therefore, the Dorenbos story was unfamiliar to me until Jon made an appearance on one the podcasts I casually enjoy. After his appearance, his memoir sounded interesting and I needed a beach-read, so here we are.
For the unfamiliar (e.g. those who do not watch America's Got Talent or Ellen), Jon was the victim of a persons crime when, at 12-years-old, his father killed his mother in their family home. His father later turned himself in, was found guilty, and served a prison sentence. Jon lived with family members, became a professional long snapper (predominantly for the Philadelphia Eagles), and is a professional magician and speaker. Late in his NFL career, Jon received a scary and life-threatening medical diagnosis involving his damaged aorta, and he had to medically retire and seek treatment for the problem.
That's the story Life is Magic tells. And at the risk of sounding like a sanctimonious jerk, though structurally this memoir was effective, it suffered in nearly every other aspect. The most glaring aspects were pacing, diction, and the overall salience of the experience.
The opening chapters are captivating, introspective, and seem to be more of "Jon's Message" instead of just "Jon". The latter half of the book is just Jon, and it's an absolute slog. Much of this is a result of subject matter; the first third of the book is about tragedy whereas the second and third are magic and football (mostly football). Part of the slog is because of diction. Jon seriously employees the following phrases: hoochie mama, freakin', playa (i.e. player...not beach), bimbo, "get it on", "bros for life", "...how freakin' rock-star is that?", "hells, yes", tight, "baddest muthafucka", "...dug it...", and sick (not referring to an ailment).
I think Jon's Jon-isms were absent in the first third of the memoir because he had a high-order language, one borrowed from therapy and familial support, by which to understand his circumstances and his personal growth. After that...all bets are off. The writing in the second half of the memoir was absolutely exhausting, and it was short on valuable lessons for the reader.
In addition to the diction issue described above, Jon is a name-dropper in the purest sense of the term, so his claims come off as somewhat phony and righteous. Furthermore, the references to his spouse become bizarrely sentimental, and their frequency, when combined with the frequent allusions to his mother's murder, make for a bizarre combination. As does a casual reference to punching holes in personal property as if that degree of physical aggression is so commonplace. In all, it's exhausting.
While I feel my criticisms are valid, the book is captivating in the opening chapters, and Jon's perseverance and various experiences are inherently interesting. That said, when a memoir written by a person born in 1980 includes reference to self-discovery, a close reader ought to wonder what the remaining 35 years have in store for them. And while Jon received a private jet trip to receive the heart surgery he needed, one must wonder what the takeaway is for those of us without that recent.
(2.5 stars, if it matters. I can't give less than that considering the context.)
For the unfamiliar (e.g. those who do not watch America's Got Talent or Ellen), Jon was the victim of a persons crime when, at 12-years-old, his father killed his mother in their family home. His father later turned himself in, was found guilty, and served a prison sentence. Jon lived with family members, became a professional long snapper (predominantly for the Philadelphia Eagles), and is a professional magician and speaker. Late in his NFL career, Jon received a scary and life-threatening medical diagnosis involving his damaged aorta, and he had to medically retire and seek treatment for the problem.
That's the story Life is Magic tells. And at the risk of sounding like a sanctimonious jerk, though structurally this memoir was effective, it suffered in nearly every other aspect. The most glaring aspects were pacing, diction, and the overall salience of the experience.
The opening chapters are captivating, introspective, and seem to be more of "Jon's Message" instead of just "Jon". The latter half of the book is just Jon, and it's an absolute slog. Much of this is a result of subject matter; the first third of the book is about tragedy whereas the second and third are magic and football (mostly football). Part of the slog is because of diction. Jon seriously employees the following phrases: hoochie mama, freakin', playa (i.e. player...not beach), bimbo, "get it on", "bros for life", "...how freakin' rock-star is that?", "hells, yes", tight, "baddest muthafucka", "...dug it...", and sick (not referring to an ailment).
I think Jon's Jon-isms were absent in the first third of the memoir because he had a high-order language, one borrowed from therapy and familial support, by which to understand his circumstances and his personal growth. After that...all bets are off. The writing in the second half of the memoir was absolutely exhausting, and it was short on valuable lessons for the reader.
In addition to the diction issue described above, Jon is a name-dropper in the purest sense of the term, so his claims come off as somewhat phony and righteous. Furthermore, the references to his spouse become bizarrely sentimental, and their frequency, when combined with the frequent allusions to his mother's murder, make for a bizarre combination. As does a casual reference to punching holes in personal property as if that degree of physical aggression is so commonplace. In all, it's exhausting.
While I feel my criticisms are valid, the book is captivating in the opening chapters, and Jon's perseverance and various experiences are inherently interesting. That said, when a memoir written by a person born in 1980 includes reference to self-discovery, a close reader ought to wonder what the remaining 35 years have in store for them. And while Jon received a private jet trip to receive the heart surgery he needed, one must wonder what the takeaway is for those of us without that recent.
(2.5 stars, if it matters. I can't give less than that considering the context.)
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November 10, 2021Life is Magic by Jon Dorenbos is an autobiography about his road to happiness and finding himself after the loss of his mother and father. This book is very much a self-help book, to learn different techniques on how to cope with loss, and find who you are. Jon’s dad killed his mom in their garage with a hammer in the midst of an argument. His dad turned himself in the next day, but Jon then testified against his dad in court. Learning how to deal with the loss of both of his parents, the hatred he had towards his dad, along the media/publicity was a lot to handle for a twelve-year-old boy. Jon found that magic helped him escape from those feelings and grow as a person. He grew to not hate his dad, only to be upset with him for the damage he had done. Jon also played as a long snapper for the Philadelphia Eagles and the New Orleans Saints. Throughout the book, he says the statement “talk to yourself, don’t listen to yourself” (Dorenbos 44). This quote means that instead of listening to the negative thoughts in your head talk to yourself positively. He says that this phrase helped him on the field a lot.
This book shows that one person's actions can affect tons of people, negatively or positively.So no matter what we should always watch to make sure we are doing the right thing. Because we don’t know what other people are going through or what they are thinking. Treat people the way you want to be treated. On page 63 a quote that really stuck out was “Don’t care what people say/ Follow just your own way/ Don’t give up, don’t give up/ To return, to return to innocence” (Dorenbos 63). After the murder a lot of people talk about Jon and his family, coming up with theories and such. Learning to not care what people say/ think was a big step for him. The returning to innocence part refers to Jon and how he lost his innocence because of his dad killing his mom. He went through something kids his age shouldn’t have to go through.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes self-help books. Adults of any age and older teens are perfect for this book. Or anyone who Is trying to learn different coping mechanisms. Jon has a lot to say about keeping a positive mindset, and your outlook on life.
This book shows that one person's actions can affect tons of people, negatively or positively.So no matter what we should always watch to make sure we are doing the right thing. Because we don’t know what other people are going through or what they are thinking. Treat people the way you want to be treated. On page 63 a quote that really stuck out was “Don’t care what people say/ Follow just your own way/ Don’t give up, don’t give up/ To return, to return to innocence” (Dorenbos 63). After the murder a lot of people talk about Jon and his family, coming up with theories and such. Learning to not care what people say/ think was a big step for him. The returning to innocence part refers to Jon and how he lost his innocence because of his dad killing his mom. He went through something kids his age shouldn’t have to go through.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes self-help books. Adults of any age and older teens are perfect for this book. Or anyone who Is trying to learn different coping mechanisms. Jon has a lot to say about keeping a positive mindset, and your outlook on life.
January 8, 2020
I discovered Jon after his performance on the show America's Got Talent and was blown away by his incredible magic. In a performance in one of the later rounds, he briefly talked about his childhood and I quickly became interested in his story. He regularly appears on The Ellen Degeneres show which I've seen every episode with him. It's truly incredible the positive attitude and how this, magician, and former NFL players has turned his life around. In this book, he talks about the tragic events that happened in his childhood, truly horrible stuff. Jon writes about how he went from "Tragedy to Self-Discovery" and one of the main factors was he became obsessed with magic and doing magic tricks. At the young age of 12 Jon was already beginning to practice his magic and viewed it as an escape from the horrible world he was living in. Jon also found football, it was a release for him of his built-up anger. Jon went on to have a long NFL career, something you don't see very much in such a physically demanding sport. Jon had used magic and football to help him keep on going forward after his tragic past. In 2017 Jons life took another turn. He was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition which would be devastating news for most people but this isn't a regular person. Jon chose to keep his head up and keep fighting in his dark times as he had before. It amazes me the positive attitude he's been able to have throughout all he has been through and he is a truly incredible man.
February 28, 2020
***SPOILER ALERT***
What can I say about this incredible story? Jon Dorenbos has lived quite the life, tragedy and triumph. My aunt who lives in Alaska sent me this book for Christmas and though I am not typically a fan of autobiographies, this was an amazing book. At 12, Jon's life changed forever when his father murdered his mother. He used magic to cope with his loss. He also played football as a long snapper and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles where he played for over 10 seasons. He was then traded to the New Orleans Saints, a move which saved his life. You see, during the physical, doctors found an abnormality: and aortic aneurysm needing immediate heart surgery. If he had stayed in Philadelphia he would have faced a certain death, most likely dying on the field during a game before the ambulance could even reach him. Jon got through all of this heartache through positive thinking and through the love of his family. This book touched me. I loved it so much. Prior to reading it, I only knew Jon Dorenbos as a magician and a contestant on America's Got Talent where he made it to the finals, by the way. After reading his story, I have so much love and respect for him. What a truly blessed soul. I want to live the way Jon Dorenbos lives.
What can I say about this incredible story? Jon Dorenbos has lived quite the life, tragedy and triumph. My aunt who lives in Alaska sent me this book for Christmas and though I am not typically a fan of autobiographies, this was an amazing book. At 12, Jon's life changed forever when his father murdered his mother. He used magic to cope with his loss. He also played football as a long snapper and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles where he played for over 10 seasons. He was then traded to the New Orleans Saints, a move which saved his life. You see, during the physical, doctors found an abnormality: and aortic aneurysm needing immediate heart surgery. If he had stayed in Philadelphia he would have faced a certain death, most likely dying on the field during a game before the ambulance could even reach him. Jon got through all of this heartache through positive thinking and through the love of his family. This book touched me. I loved it so much. Prior to reading it, I only knew Jon Dorenbos as a magician and a contestant on America's Got Talent where he made it to the finals, by the way. After reading his story, I have so much love and respect for him. What a truly blessed soul. I want to live the way Jon Dorenbos lives.
January 21, 2020
As an Eagles fan, I loved watching Jon's run on AGT. I was saddened to see him traded to the Saints, but then horrified that we could lose him altogether when the news broke about his heart condition. I was THRILLED when Lurie announced that he would be getting his Super Bowl LII ring with the rest of the team - it was WELL deserved! But everything I knew about the player and his history only scratched the surface of what he shares in this memoir.
Jon Dorenbos is an inspiration. There's really no better way to put it. To hear the story of a man who has been through so much in his lifetime, yet still comes out with a positive attitude that radiates through his whole being? Well, it makes you want to strive to be a better person yourself.
His easy-going, fireside chat style of sharing his story had me bawling at one moment and then laughing out loud the next. And through it all, I smiled. And I thought about how I could take just a fraction of his methods and apply them to my own life. If we all did that, even just a little bit, then this world would be a better place.
I'm proud to be a fan of this man!
Jon Dorenbos is an inspiration. There's really no better way to put it. To hear the story of a man who has been through so much in his lifetime, yet still comes out with a positive attitude that radiates through his whole being? Well, it makes you want to strive to be a better person yourself.
His easy-going, fireside chat style of sharing his story had me bawling at one moment and then laughing out loud the next. And through it all, I smiled. And I thought about how I could take just a fraction of his methods and apply them to my own life. If we all did that, even just a little bit, then this world would be a better place.
I'm proud to be a fan of this man!
August 6, 2022
This is an autobiography on positivity, although it starts with a terrible tragedy. When Jon Dorenbos was 12 years old, his father killed his mother and his life instantly changed. His father was jailed and suddenly Jon became technically an orphan. He had to go through years of mental therapy in order to get over this shocking event. This is how he described his childhood after that massive incident: Everywhere I went, I felt I was wearing a sign that blared MY DAD KILLED MY MOM
However, despite his difficult childhood, this guy was full of positivity throughout his life. He managed to get in terms with his destiny and faced life with the outmost optimism. He became a professional NFL player and a magician who reached the finals in American Got Talent. If you type his name in Youtube, you will immediately recognize the positivity in his face and voice.
If you are feeling that your luck is bad, or circumstances did not help you in life, think again. There is always a good side and a bad side to every situation. This book makes you appreciate that no matter how difficult a situation is, there is always a positive side in it.
Not a bad read
However, despite his difficult childhood, this guy was full of positivity throughout his life. He managed to get in terms with his destiny and faced life with the outmost optimism. He became a professional NFL player and a magician who reached the finals in American Got Talent. If you type his name in Youtube, you will immediately recognize the positivity in his face and voice.
If you are feeling that your luck is bad, or circumstances did not help you in life, think again. There is always a good side and a bad side to every situation. This book makes you appreciate that no matter how difficult a situation is, there is always a positive side in it.
Not a bad read
February 19, 2020
It's amazing what the old phrase "mind over matter" can accomplish! This biographical account of Jon Dorenbos life from age 12 to present is inspirational and motivating. His positive outlook on life is admirable. Time and time again I'd read an event in his life and listen to him describe how he wasn't going to let it get him down, and he didn't. In a world where we tend to blame others for our circumstance, Jon Dorenbos is a breath of fresh air. His appreciation for others and what he has in his life is commendable.
Recommended: Anyone interested in the topics of upsetting family tragedies, perseverance, the power of therapy, forgiveness, magic, Ellen D, and football
Grades 7+ could handle the reading level. Content of mom's murder may be too tough for less mature readers. Otherwise completely inspirational and appropriate.
Recommended: Anyone interested in the topics of upsetting family tragedies, perseverance, the power of therapy, forgiveness, magic, Ellen D, and football
Grades 7+ could handle the reading level. Content of mom's murder may be too tough for less mature readers. Otherwise completely inspirational and appropriate.
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