Life Is Magic

An Extraordinary True Story of Trauma and Transformation

By: Jon Dorenbos, Larry Platt

Narrated by: Jon Dorenbos

Length: 6 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

“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 true story of resilience, forgiveness, and living a life of purpose in the face of unfathomable obstacles.

You may know him as an NFL All-Pro or as a world-class magician who made the finals of America’s Got Talent, but Jon Dorenbos says that what he does is not who he is. He is someone who coached himself, at the most tender of ages, to turn tragedy to triumph.

One morning in August 1992, when Jon was 12 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 essentially been 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 his pent-up anger. Together, magic and football saved him, leading to 14 NFL seasons on the gridiron and raucous sleight-of-hand performances to packed houses across the globe.

In 2017, he was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition leaving him with a choice. To either break down or - as he’d by now long taught himself - bounce back.

“Life Is Magic shows how we can all choose happiness in the face of overwhelming odds” (Ellen DeGeneres) and provides a road map for overcoming even the darkest of times. Jon’s 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.

©2019 Jon Dorenbos (P)2019 Simon & Schuster

Great listen

Amazing story full of highs and lows and every emotion that goes with it but above all a story about perseverance and a love of life

listen and enjoy

A true listen and enjoy book. John can certainly help you get it if you are up to the journey.

Inspirational

I did not know Jon Dorenbos before I chose this book but I am glad to know him now. Not just for football fans. This book, his story will entertain and inspire you. very touching look at someone else's life and how people cope. Highly recommend.

Great man with a great story

I loved this book and didn't want to stop once I started it. This is a great roadmap for how to live an inspired life.

Amazing

What an incredible story from such awful circumstances. I cried, laughed & was overwhelmed with gut wrenching situations. Being a huge football fan & RN, I was able to learn more about the NFL & MD’s. I enjoyed learning what happens behind the scenes & how us as fans need to continue to embrace all the players. God Bless to The Dorenbos family & much happiness to you all. Such an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing.

Magical

One of the absolute best books I’ve come across in seven years on audible. If you’re not touched, entertained and inspired by this book you don’t have a soul. Go Birds!

Fantastically Inpiring

When I first saw Jon on AGT, I sensed strongly that there was something special, kind and thoughtful about this man.....along with being amazed with his magic. Didn’t know his story then and I’m sure it would have explained my gut feelings at the time. I’m so happy I found this book, which brought me to tears many times, but also made me smile and say thank you Lord for all you do for us all, even when we don’t realize He’s there. Jon, your friend was right, you should be a motivational speaker, which you are through your magic. This book has inspired me to look at life differently.....to stop listening to myself and start talking! Bless you and your precious family and know without a doubt your Mom is SO PROUD! This is a MUST READ!

Relentless positivity

If you’ve experienced some adversity in your life, listen to Jon read his book to you. He’s experienced terrible adversity and channeled it into becoming one of the most positive people I’ve ever heard of.

Inspiring, loved every word!

It made me laugh, it made me cry... lots of crying! What an inspiring story of forgiveness and positivity. On my list of all time favorites.

Great listen

John's story is sad but the lessons he passes on from his hardships are inspiring.