The Home For Friendless Children is an unforgettable memoir of Rob Olson, brought to life by his wife, C. L. Olsen. Born in the 1950s, Rob’s early years were marked by hardship, abandonment, and survival. His father left when Rob was very young, and he and his siblings grew up starving in the isolated mountains of Pennsylvania. With an alcoholic mother and no stable home, their childhood was filled with turmoil, until eviction forced them to move on.

Rob and his siblings found themselves living above a bar for a time and later, enduring years of abuse and neglect in an orphanage. Despite these harsh conditions, young Robbie found moments of solace, whether it was retreating into the woods to dream, working on rocket plans, or taking on odd jobs. He clung to the hope of a better future, bolstered by rare acts of kindness that sparked a determination to rise above his circumstances. As his siblings spiraled into darker paths, Rob stayed focused, ultimately managing to finish school and even attend college, an extraordinary achievement given the obstacles he faced.

I absolutely loved this book. It’s the kind of story you can’t put down. The pacing is even, with short, digestible chapters that make for a quick but profound read. I was amazed by how much I learned in such a short time, as Rob’s adventures are as educational as they are captivating. From his early rocket experiments to perilous adventures at sea, the narrative is packed with both heart-stopping challenges and triumphant successes.

Rob’s resilience, his unyielding hope, and his ability to forgive, even in the face of unimaginable adversity, make this memoir not only gripping but inspiring. It’s a testament to turning tragedy into triumph. This book paints a beautiful portrait of a boy who, despite being unwanted and overlooked, never lost sight of his dreams. The emotional depth is staggering, evoking both tears of sorrow and joy as you follow Rob’s journey.

The inclusion of photographs adds a rich visual layer to the book, bringing the people and places of Rob’s past to life. They provide a real sense of time and place, further immersing the reader in this incredible true story.

The Home For Friendless Children is a powerful memoir about overcoming the worst of circumstances and holding onto hope. It’s an inspiring read and one that leaves a lasting impression.

Pages: 217 | ASIN : B09725JSM4