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Based on a True StoryRide the waves of feelings as Andy Junior shares his powerfully emotional experiences with his family of limited means and the crushing moment his childhood was abruptly interrupted. Discover the fear and heartache of abandonment thrust upon two very young and innocent brothers when they were placed in the care of the Polish community of nuns at the St. Joseph Home for Boys in 1960. From the eyes of a frightened youngster, Andy details the captivating events of his journey and the challenges he endured during his five years at the orphanage.
Though sadness prevailed during Andy's earliest encounters within the orphanage, he maintained an abundance of humor and stole opportunities for fun and adventure whenever possible. If anybody knew how to stay on the wrong side of the nuns throughout his earlier years in "the dungeon," he most assuredly was found guilty far too often. Pity the poor priest who had to sit through Andy's litany of sins shared during his First Confession. |
The PERFECT Gift
for YOU or YOUR LOVED ONES!!!
for YOU or YOUR LOVED ONES!!!
"Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys" is a fabulous book to enjoy while snuggled into a couch or relaxing on you porch or back deck as you sip your favorite drink. Allow Andy Junior to help you escape into the past as he faces his inevitable challenges and relishes in causing trouble with his never-ending shenanigans.
Get your favorite Orphanage Book to help you enjoy 2022 to its fullest!!!
Overall Amazon Rating:
4.8 of 5.0 Stars with 123 ratings!
89% (109 of 123) rated 5 stars!
(Data current as of October 01, 2022)
4.8 of 5.0 Stars with 123 ratings!
89% (109 of 123) rated 5 stars!
(Data current as of October 01, 2022)
AUDIOBOOK
Brand New Release!!!
Available Now!!!
Brand New Release!!!
Available Now!!!
To learn more and to listen to a 5-minute "Sample" and the "Introduction" of the brand new audiobook, narrated by Zach Ault, click the button below.
Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys
While Andy Junior shares his emotional roller coaster of the deep sadness and fun times during his days in the orphanage between 1960 and 1965, you will benefit from the opportunity to learn from the lessons he reveals throughout this true story. Discover how a scared and sometimes troublesome lad finds his true self among the other 49 boys cared for by the Polish nuns. Be forewarned: keep a box of tissues handy for the tears of sadness and laughter!!!
Andy Junior after his
first birthday in 1955. |
Mama is holding Vickie in 1959. Archie is standing next to the dog, Nicky, who was given to Andy Junior, on the far right, as a gift on his first birthday.
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Andy Junior in 4th grade at St. Stanislaus Kostka school in 1963.
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Introduction to "Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys"
Life often offers disruptive challenges disguised as opportunities, or is it the other way around? Sometimes, it is difficult to tell, especially as a child. Many years can pass before the truth eventually reveals itself.
The adventures upon which you are about to embark are those of a young lad who knew very little of the world around him at a time when his family life abruptly changed forevermore. Born on the bitterly cold night of February 16, 1954, in Jackson, Michigan, Andy Skrzynski, Jr. began his journey under the care of a loving mother and a strict but hard-working father of Polish descent. As the family continued to grow, they lived within the primitive confines of a tiny three-room Quonset home with no indoor plumbing.
At only five years of age, Andy Junior learned his parents were getting divorced, sentencing him and his brother to an unwanted life in an orphanage with 50 boys. His heart and spirit had been shattered. Using an outhouse with frigid wooden seats in the winter and sleeping in one bedroom with the entire family, including Tata, Mama, Little Brother, and Baby Sister was not the most desirable of conditions. Even so, the thought of being dropped off at an orphanage absolutely horrified him.
Being placed in the care of nuns, dressed in white and deep brown habits that made them look more like disgruntled penguins than humans, frightened him worse than any of the witches from the fairy tales he had heard. What could he possibly have done in his short life to deserve being abandoned and having to face a horde of strange boys, who most certainly would taunt and tease him and his little brother?
Discover how this scared, young lad survived his five eye-opening years at the St. Joseph Home for Boys, molding him into the man he would become.
The adventures upon which you are about to embark are those of a young lad who knew very little of the world around him at a time when his family life abruptly changed forevermore. Born on the bitterly cold night of February 16, 1954, in Jackson, Michigan, Andy Skrzynski, Jr. began his journey under the care of a loving mother and a strict but hard-working father of Polish descent. As the family continued to grow, they lived within the primitive confines of a tiny three-room Quonset home with no indoor plumbing.
At only five years of age, Andy Junior learned his parents were getting divorced, sentencing him and his brother to an unwanted life in an orphanage with 50 boys. His heart and spirit had been shattered. Using an outhouse with frigid wooden seats in the winter and sleeping in one bedroom with the entire family, including Tata, Mama, Little Brother, and Baby Sister was not the most desirable of conditions. Even so, the thought of being dropped off at an orphanage absolutely horrified him.
Being placed in the care of nuns, dressed in white and deep brown habits that made them look more like disgruntled penguins than humans, frightened him worse than any of the witches from the fairy tales he had heard. What could he possibly have done in his short life to deserve being abandoned and having to face a horde of strange boys, who most certainly would taunt and tease him and his little brother?
Discover how this scared, young lad survived his five eye-opening years at the St. Joseph Home for Boys, molding him into the man he would become.
A Book for All Ages !
Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys presents a true story enjoyed by a wide range of ages! The emotional childhood journey provides a wealth of hope and lessons about life, whether a first grader is hearing Andy Junior's escapades from a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or teacher, whether a young teenager is intrigued by the plentiful adventures, or whether an elderly man or woman relates to the post-depression era challenges and surroundings described within the pages.
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Get a Taste of What You Will Find Inside the Story
Pictures of the Earliest Book Arrivals and Happy Owners
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Record-Breaking Book Signings !!!
The first book signings which were held at the Book Cottage in the hometown of Jackson, Michigan, where the St. Joseph Home for Boys existed, broke significant records! The attendance and number of books sold exceeded that of any other prior signing event, including those previously held at the city's central library in existence since 1906! Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 restrictions, enthusiasm remained exceptionally strong. Due to such demand from the amazing people from the Jackson area, two separate book signings were conducted over 11 hours total. The resulting non-stop lines sometimes extending out the front door with 165 attendees and 227 books sold! I also gifted and/or donated 21 additional books.
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Sampling of Amazon Reviews and General Reactions
"Orphan Andy's story is heartbreaking, heartwarming - but those shenanigans! I was up till 3:45 a.m. finishing Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys. Andy took me on his life journey through a difficult time in his childhood years as an orphan. I was right there feeling his pain, heartbreak, and during his shenanigans. I laughed, I got teary-eyed, and I knew there must have been more, I wanted more. But, the way he ended the book was absolutely superb. What an amazing storyteller. A must read. Thank you, Andy Skrzynski for writing your story." --Chrissy D. (07/01/20)
"Not all stories have to be big...sometimes the small stories are the ones that affect us the most. This is one of those. Andy Skrzynski's book, Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys, is a memoir that surpasses that genre. It is a brutally honest, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming telling of the years he and his younger brother spent in a Catholic orphanage following the break-up of his parents' marriage. The book is not a plea for pity, but rather gives notice that we can surmount the bleakest days and use those experiences to grow and advance. There is no sugar-coating here and so the honesty becomes the book's anchor." --Nancy Rinke Ozturk (11/01/20)
"A memorable read. Just finished the book last night...the author gives us a look into his life as a young child faced with incredible challenges. Sent to live at an orphanage at a young age with his brother, he takes us along for the ride as he navigates a life completely foreign to him. You experience incredible empathy for this young boy as he describes his young life. He takes on this adversity head on and goes on to shape his life into a success story. This book is very well written and the author's style seems to put you in the heart of the action...good and bad. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would like to thank the author for sharing his story. Well done!" --greyheadmargo (08/11/20)
"Emotional. As I read this book, I could feel the pain of the two boys. Certain scenes are still etched in my mind. I read it as a teacher and I made a lot of connections to students I have taught that have experienced the feelings of abandonment. When I think of the number of years that the boys stayed there, it is upsetting to me. Read it and you will find some joy, some sorrow, and a whole lot of grit and resilience." --Maridee Ryan (06/12/20)
"A must read! If you are like me and love reading about others, you will want to read Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys. Reading about others has been a passion for my entire life and this book doesn't disappoint. Andy has a fun style of writing and you feel like you are part of going back in time to what he has written about. There are a lot of funny moments, but since it is real life, there are also some poignant sad life changing moments too. Andy and his little brother end up at the St. Joseph Home for Boys when his parents separate and decide to divorce. He counts himself lucky as he and his brother still get to spend some weekends with his baby Sister and their Father. Being separated from their parents for 5 years at a young age, is life altering. Andy comes out of it with a true appreciation for the experience at the orphanage under the Felician Sisters, and says it, "helped mold me into the man I am today." If you love stories of real people you will love Andy's story. Buy it now, you won't be sorry." --Paula Schertz (08/19/20)
"An inspiring story of triumphant over tragedy. Any parent of young children would benefit from reading this story of a young boy living a challenging life and the questions in his mind, never answered, and how he coped. I could relate and I laughed, cried and was amazed with his resiliency to figure out a way to succeed in spite of the hardships." --Jeannette Davis (08/10/20)
"My heartstrings were tugged by Skrzynski's moving childhood memoir, especially the chapters dealing with the five years he and his younger brother spend in a Midwestern orphanage run by Polish Catholic nuns. This story has it all: humor, pathos, an unsolved mystery, adventure and striving. Through the pages of this book I have met someone with a First Confession tale that rivals my own. I hope the author will consider including a map in future editions so his readers will appreciate the length of his daily hike to and from school in fourth and fifth grades." --K. Krentz (05/31/20)
"A must read! Outstanding story. My husband and I both read the book and really enjoyed the humor and the emotional journey of a young boy's experience in an orphanage. The life lessons there, were a real testament to what a well accomplished man he became. We highly recommend this book to all ages. Looking forward to Andy's next book." --Diane Haskett (07/26/20)
"I never really knew what life in an orphanage was like. I never realized the hardships my friend went through before meeting him in the 6th grade. This was a very informative account of his life in the orphanage 5 days a week while his dad worked. For him to go through this and come out the responsible adult he is, is quite amazing. I like the fact that he doesn't dwell on the rigid rules of the orphanage and shows a mischievous side also. As a great author should, he makes you laugh, cry, think and empathize. I highly recommend this book not only for friends but for anyone who has always wondered what it was like to be sequestered in an orphanage. I think you will find it not only enjoyable but eye-opening. Totally had the wrong view of what went on there. Enjoyable read!" --jj (07/12/20)
"Impossible to put this book down! Great book and a truly inspiring story. It is an easy read that brought back memories I had long forgotten about growing up Catholic in a midwestern town. His ability to capture the voice of a young boy at different stages is extraordinary. I laughed and I cried, and I did not want the story to end!" --Barbara Brown (06/12/20)
"Good read that makes you think, have compassion, and root for Andy. I highly recommend this book as it tells the story through the eyes of a little boy trying to figure out this scary time in his life. You feel the fear, confusion, and thoughts churning in his head. It gave me a better insight into my own mother's life being put into foster care as a little girl. Well done Andy. This book will hold your interest and root for the two little boys to find family love." --Deb Adkins (08/14/20)
"Excellent book to read is Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys. This book is wonderful! I would recommend this book for everyone to read. As an educator I appreciated the historical perspective combined with a touching life story. The story of Andy's challenges and his desire to succeed had me reading far into the night. Often as individuals we miss out on getting to really know people, whether adult or child. This story shows how one boy's struggles far exceeded my expectations. Excellent reading!" --Jeanine (05/21/20)
"Want to read an excellent book? This is the one for you! Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys by Andy Skrzynski was one of the best books that I have read in a very long time. I normally have to read a couple of chapters before I decide to continue, but this book had me from the very first page. I'm not going to write a long review of Andy Skrzynski's book, because I want you to order this book as soon as you read this. Get to it! You won't be disappointed." --C. Condon (08/10/20)
"What a delightful true story about a young boy and his little brother. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put it down. It made me laugh and it made me cry! It's an amazing story by an even more amazing author!" --GmaKrn (08/15/20)
"Love, tears, and laughter all wrapped up in this beautiful personal narrative. I really enjoyed this coming of age story. It is a book about overcoming challenges and finding a way to deal with things that are out of your control. The chapters will have you crying and laughing out loud. I highly recommend this story." --D Guthard (08/15/20)
"Enduring life in an orphanage in the 1960s. This book is amazing. Written from the perspective of a young boy growing up with more heartbreak than his little heart deserved, being raised and taught by stern nuns for a few years, he took the lemons and turned them into lemonade. Although the nuns could seem cruel by today's standards they truly loved all the boys and tried to instill good work ethics, good morals, and give them something to aspire to. Would Andy ever turn into a man with all the values the nuns could hope, or prayed for? Great, easy read of memories that may bring back a few of your own of a simpler time and the hardships Andy endured, in and out of the orphanage." --jobra0 (05/30/20)
"Have you ever wondered what life in a Catholic orphanage was like? Andy did a great job sharing his experience and memories of living in the St. Joseph Home for Boys. His descriptions of life there and attending the local Catholic schools brought back memories of my days of Catholic school, and of living in Jackson in the 1960s. The writing is touching and entertaining without being sappy." --Betty (06/04/20)
"Birds of a feather! Loved this book. I grew up with Andy in Jackson, Mi and went to the same elementary school St Stans. I can relate to his experiences and tales growing up while we both attended the same elementary school. Great read, sad for him, but fun reliving old memories. Thanks for the rehashing of my, our childhood memories." --Anthony Konieczki (Tony K) (08/16/2020)
MANY FOLLOWERS' GENERAL REACTIONS TO THE MANUSCRIPT:
"The conclusion is beautiful (if I may use such a cliched word), and I feel privileged to have been allowed into your life and the tender parts of your most formative years. Your humility is a gift to those of us you encourage and instruct. ...I deeply admire your perseverance to mend your relationships with your siblings. And, I respect you for not abandoning your reliance on the Lord as you traversed many difficulties over the years. Bravo, Andy, Bravo!!!" --Patti S. (05/13/20)
"Just finished reading Andy's new book. I found it very well written and informative about his time in the orphanage. I highly recommend this book to anyone who might want to reconnect with past memories, relationships or experiences that shaped their life. Andy's book should be of special value to those interested in child advocacy, school counselors, elementary teachers as well as anyone else who was ever in an orphanage or attended Catholic schools." --Dan Z. (07/12/20)
"I'm so enjoying my book. I thought I'd just read a chapter last night, ended up reading eight! I'm trying to get to bed before 3 am. This is not helping!" --Susan K. (05/27/20)
"Andy, you have a rare talent for taking your readers right to the edge and then just like that you stop the story. We hang there suspended until you get the book completed. As it is I don't know if I am to wish for more of your tantalizing chapters or hope the book is printed soon! You are quite the author and it is a blessing to be part of the crew introduced to your saga! I will be sorry to see it end." --Darcy D. (03/20/20)
"I am planning to buy 12 copies!!!" [ Since that time, the number grew to 21 copies of the book at the upcoming Book Signing for family members ] --Linda B. (12/14/19)
"This book is going to be a healing for so many who have had bad experiences and has come out the other side whole again!!!" --Gwen C. (02/01/20)
"For those that are reading the excerpts of Andy's forthcoming book. He is an amazing writer and author. This book will open a door into the orphanage life that no one has ever written before. Tell your friends and relatives about Andy's site. Cry a little, laugh a little and learn a little. Also thank Andy for this great gift he is giving all of us." --Marvin B. (02/01/20)
"This has been one of the most interesting stories that I have read! I've had a lot of laughter and been through a lot of Kleenex reading your excerpts Andy... ...I can tell you when we get this book we will never let it down!" --Mary B. (02/22/20)
"I'm thinking this book should be required reading for at least all of Jackson area schools. Maybe I will buy a few extra copies and donate them to the libraries." --Kathy S. (02/01/20)
"Andy you need to keep writing because you have a wonderful way with words and you get to my heart with every word I read. You are a master of the English language." --Phyllis M. (07/05.20)
"You are so gifted Andy. Don't ever stop writing!" --Cathy R. (02/22/20)
"This is amazing. I admire your strength Andy. Seems that you have an interesting story that many people are waiting to read." --Jenny H. (11/13/19)
"It is a hard book to put down. I was awake on and off all night reading. I cannot imagine living through this. I am not done yet but you are a very good story teller." --Pamela Coleman S. (11/05/20)
"I can't remember ever reading anything that has kept my interest in reading like your story of your life at the Orphanage. I look forward to reading each Chapter." --Jean L. (02/21/20)
"I would recommend your orphanage book to early teens on up, and your trilogy to late teens on up. You have a real knack for your writing. Your love for humanity shows in all of your writing." --Suzanne K. (11/05/20)
"I truly enjoy every installment. So many emotions and I can almost taste and smell the Coney Island hot dogs. Yummm." --Suzanne K. (11/26/19)
"I can't wait for your book to come out. I so love reading all these stories. Like I have said before, you're an amazing writer." --Tammy H. (12/06/19)
"You are Truly Inspiring. I enjoy each new Chapter. Keep up the writing." --Joan G. (12/11/19)
"Once you start this awesome childhood story of his real life, you're hooked." --Joan G. (02/22/20)
"You had me at the first few chapters. I love your writing style and I am always waiting for the next excerpt." --Jane W. (11/27/19)
"I felt so many emotions while reading this. It is expressed so genuine and beautiful." --Jeanne L. (11/26/19)
"I really love your writing style. You have a wonderful way with words." --Gail P. (03/19/20)
"I very much enjoy reading your story. Love your way with words, keeps me interested and can't wait to read more." --Flora L. (12/11/19)
"Andy, you bring back so many memories of OLD JACKSON that it is enjoyable to read your memories. More power to you." --Duane V. (11/15/19)
"Andy, your writing about your life is great! I'm really involved in what happened in your life. Thanks for the opportunity! Can't wait for the whole book!" --Katrina W. (11/15/19)
"I have read many Chapters of what you have written so well. I would love to be able to show off your work." --Marlania R. (12/14/19)
"Andy, you leave me just waiting to be able to read more of your story! Can't wait until you finish it so I can have my own book!" --Mary B. (11/26/19)
"Yes I want this book bad." --Dawn K. (02/01/20)
"Love your way with words & descriptions." --Gail M. (12/11/19)
"Heartbreaking but so well told." --Stephanie N. (11/26/19)
"Your story of your youth has touched my heart." --Patricia B. (11/26/19)
"Awesome." --Clair S. (11/27/19)
"I'm really enjoying your writing. What a nice treat for us!" --Lori S. (11/27/19)
"So interesting & well written!!" --Gail M. (11/24/19)
"Sounds like a great adventure." --Donna R. (11/27/19)
"Thanks for the read Andy. We boys were all so much alike and mischievous. Love this!" --Tony K. (11/27/19)
"Am looking forward to buy your book & its history of what life was all about for a youngster in your day." --Dennis B. (11/27/19)
"You are providing a peek behind the door [of the orphanage] for many of us." --Betty C. (12/11/19)
"Not all stories have to be big...sometimes the small stories are the ones that affect us the most. This is one of those. Andy Skrzynski's book, Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys, is a memoir that surpasses that genre. It is a brutally honest, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming telling of the years he and his younger brother spent in a Catholic orphanage following the break-up of his parents' marriage. The book is not a plea for pity, but rather gives notice that we can surmount the bleakest days and use those experiences to grow and advance. There is no sugar-coating here and so the honesty becomes the book's anchor." --Nancy Rinke Ozturk (11/01/20)
"A memorable read. Just finished the book last night...the author gives us a look into his life as a young child faced with incredible challenges. Sent to live at an orphanage at a young age with his brother, he takes us along for the ride as he navigates a life completely foreign to him. You experience incredible empathy for this young boy as he describes his young life. He takes on this adversity head on and goes on to shape his life into a success story. This book is very well written and the author's style seems to put you in the heart of the action...good and bad. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would like to thank the author for sharing his story. Well done!" --greyheadmargo (08/11/20)
"Emotional. As I read this book, I could feel the pain of the two boys. Certain scenes are still etched in my mind. I read it as a teacher and I made a lot of connections to students I have taught that have experienced the feelings of abandonment. When I think of the number of years that the boys stayed there, it is upsetting to me. Read it and you will find some joy, some sorrow, and a whole lot of grit and resilience." --Maridee Ryan (06/12/20)
"A must read! If you are like me and love reading about others, you will want to read Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys. Reading about others has been a passion for my entire life and this book doesn't disappoint. Andy has a fun style of writing and you feel like you are part of going back in time to what he has written about. There are a lot of funny moments, but since it is real life, there are also some poignant sad life changing moments too. Andy and his little brother end up at the St. Joseph Home for Boys when his parents separate and decide to divorce. He counts himself lucky as he and his brother still get to spend some weekends with his baby Sister and their Father. Being separated from their parents for 5 years at a young age, is life altering. Andy comes out of it with a true appreciation for the experience at the orphanage under the Felician Sisters, and says it, "helped mold me into the man I am today." If you love stories of real people you will love Andy's story. Buy it now, you won't be sorry." --Paula Schertz (08/19/20)
"An inspiring story of triumphant over tragedy. Any parent of young children would benefit from reading this story of a young boy living a challenging life and the questions in his mind, never answered, and how he coped. I could relate and I laughed, cried and was amazed with his resiliency to figure out a way to succeed in spite of the hardships." --Jeannette Davis (08/10/20)
"My heartstrings were tugged by Skrzynski's moving childhood memoir, especially the chapters dealing with the five years he and his younger brother spend in a Midwestern orphanage run by Polish Catholic nuns. This story has it all: humor, pathos, an unsolved mystery, adventure and striving. Through the pages of this book I have met someone with a First Confession tale that rivals my own. I hope the author will consider including a map in future editions so his readers will appreciate the length of his daily hike to and from school in fourth and fifth grades." --K. Krentz (05/31/20)
"A must read! Outstanding story. My husband and I both read the book and really enjoyed the humor and the emotional journey of a young boy's experience in an orphanage. The life lessons there, were a real testament to what a well accomplished man he became. We highly recommend this book to all ages. Looking forward to Andy's next book." --Diane Haskett (07/26/20)
"I never really knew what life in an orphanage was like. I never realized the hardships my friend went through before meeting him in the 6th grade. This was a very informative account of his life in the orphanage 5 days a week while his dad worked. For him to go through this and come out the responsible adult he is, is quite amazing. I like the fact that he doesn't dwell on the rigid rules of the orphanage and shows a mischievous side also. As a great author should, he makes you laugh, cry, think and empathize. I highly recommend this book not only for friends but for anyone who has always wondered what it was like to be sequestered in an orphanage. I think you will find it not only enjoyable but eye-opening. Totally had the wrong view of what went on there. Enjoyable read!" --jj (07/12/20)
"Impossible to put this book down! Great book and a truly inspiring story. It is an easy read that brought back memories I had long forgotten about growing up Catholic in a midwestern town. His ability to capture the voice of a young boy at different stages is extraordinary. I laughed and I cried, and I did not want the story to end!" --Barbara Brown (06/12/20)
"Good read that makes you think, have compassion, and root for Andy. I highly recommend this book as it tells the story through the eyes of a little boy trying to figure out this scary time in his life. You feel the fear, confusion, and thoughts churning in his head. It gave me a better insight into my own mother's life being put into foster care as a little girl. Well done Andy. This book will hold your interest and root for the two little boys to find family love." --Deb Adkins (08/14/20)
"Excellent book to read is Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys. This book is wonderful! I would recommend this book for everyone to read. As an educator I appreciated the historical perspective combined with a touching life story. The story of Andy's challenges and his desire to succeed had me reading far into the night. Often as individuals we miss out on getting to really know people, whether adult or child. This story shows how one boy's struggles far exceeded my expectations. Excellent reading!" --Jeanine (05/21/20)
"Want to read an excellent book? This is the one for you! Andy and the St. Joseph Home for Boys by Andy Skrzynski was one of the best books that I have read in a very long time. I normally have to read a couple of chapters before I decide to continue, but this book had me from the very first page. I'm not going to write a long review of Andy Skrzynski's book, because I want you to order this book as soon as you read this. Get to it! You won't be disappointed." --C. Condon (08/10/20)
"What a delightful true story about a young boy and his little brother. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put it down. It made me laugh and it made me cry! It's an amazing story by an even more amazing author!" --GmaKrn (08/15/20)
"Love, tears, and laughter all wrapped up in this beautiful personal narrative. I really enjoyed this coming of age story. It is a book about overcoming challenges and finding a way to deal with things that are out of your control. The chapters will have you crying and laughing out loud. I highly recommend this story." --D Guthard (08/15/20)
"Enduring life in an orphanage in the 1960s. This book is amazing. Written from the perspective of a young boy growing up with more heartbreak than his little heart deserved, being raised and taught by stern nuns for a few years, he took the lemons and turned them into lemonade. Although the nuns could seem cruel by today's standards they truly loved all the boys and tried to instill good work ethics, good morals, and give them something to aspire to. Would Andy ever turn into a man with all the values the nuns could hope, or prayed for? Great, easy read of memories that may bring back a few of your own of a simpler time and the hardships Andy endured, in and out of the orphanage." --jobra0 (05/30/20)
"Have you ever wondered what life in a Catholic orphanage was like? Andy did a great job sharing his experience and memories of living in the St. Joseph Home for Boys. His descriptions of life there and attending the local Catholic schools brought back memories of my days of Catholic school, and of living in Jackson in the 1960s. The writing is touching and entertaining without being sappy." --Betty (06/04/20)
"Birds of a feather! Loved this book. I grew up with Andy in Jackson, Mi and went to the same elementary school St Stans. I can relate to his experiences and tales growing up while we both attended the same elementary school. Great read, sad for him, but fun reliving old memories. Thanks for the rehashing of my, our childhood memories." --Anthony Konieczki (Tony K) (08/16/2020)
MANY FOLLOWERS' GENERAL REACTIONS TO THE MANUSCRIPT:
"The conclusion is beautiful (if I may use such a cliched word), and I feel privileged to have been allowed into your life and the tender parts of your most formative years. Your humility is a gift to those of us you encourage and instruct. ...I deeply admire your perseverance to mend your relationships with your siblings. And, I respect you for not abandoning your reliance on the Lord as you traversed many difficulties over the years. Bravo, Andy, Bravo!!!" --Patti S. (05/13/20)
"Just finished reading Andy's new book. I found it very well written and informative about his time in the orphanage. I highly recommend this book to anyone who might want to reconnect with past memories, relationships or experiences that shaped their life. Andy's book should be of special value to those interested in child advocacy, school counselors, elementary teachers as well as anyone else who was ever in an orphanage or attended Catholic schools." --Dan Z. (07/12/20)
"I'm so enjoying my book. I thought I'd just read a chapter last night, ended up reading eight! I'm trying to get to bed before 3 am. This is not helping!" --Susan K. (05/27/20)
"Andy, you have a rare talent for taking your readers right to the edge and then just like that you stop the story. We hang there suspended until you get the book completed. As it is I don't know if I am to wish for more of your tantalizing chapters or hope the book is printed soon! You are quite the author and it is a blessing to be part of the crew introduced to your saga! I will be sorry to see it end." --Darcy D. (03/20/20)
"I am planning to buy 12 copies!!!" [ Since that time, the number grew to 21 copies of the book at the upcoming Book Signing for family members ] --Linda B. (12/14/19)
"This book is going to be a healing for so many who have had bad experiences and has come out the other side whole again!!!" --Gwen C. (02/01/20)
"For those that are reading the excerpts of Andy's forthcoming book. He is an amazing writer and author. This book will open a door into the orphanage life that no one has ever written before. Tell your friends and relatives about Andy's site. Cry a little, laugh a little and learn a little. Also thank Andy for this great gift he is giving all of us." --Marvin B. (02/01/20)
"This has been one of the most interesting stories that I have read! I've had a lot of laughter and been through a lot of Kleenex reading your excerpts Andy... ...I can tell you when we get this book we will never let it down!" --Mary B. (02/22/20)
"I'm thinking this book should be required reading for at least all of Jackson area schools. Maybe I will buy a few extra copies and donate them to the libraries." --Kathy S. (02/01/20)
"Andy you need to keep writing because you have a wonderful way with words and you get to my heart with every word I read. You are a master of the English language." --Phyllis M. (07/05.20)
"You are so gifted Andy. Don't ever stop writing!" --Cathy R. (02/22/20)
"This is amazing. I admire your strength Andy. Seems that you have an interesting story that many people are waiting to read." --Jenny H. (11/13/19)
"It is a hard book to put down. I was awake on and off all night reading. I cannot imagine living through this. I am not done yet but you are a very good story teller." --Pamela Coleman S. (11/05/20)
"I can't remember ever reading anything that has kept my interest in reading like your story of your life at the Orphanage. I look forward to reading each Chapter." --Jean L. (02/21/20)
"I would recommend your orphanage book to early teens on up, and your trilogy to late teens on up. You have a real knack for your writing. Your love for humanity shows in all of your writing." --Suzanne K. (11/05/20)
"I truly enjoy every installment. So many emotions and I can almost taste and smell the Coney Island hot dogs. Yummm." --Suzanne K. (11/26/19)
"I can't wait for your book to come out. I so love reading all these stories. Like I have said before, you're an amazing writer." --Tammy H. (12/06/19)
"You are Truly Inspiring. I enjoy each new Chapter. Keep up the writing." --Joan G. (12/11/19)
"Once you start this awesome childhood story of his real life, you're hooked." --Joan G. (02/22/20)
"You had me at the first few chapters. I love your writing style and I am always waiting for the next excerpt." --Jane W. (11/27/19)
"I felt so many emotions while reading this. It is expressed so genuine and beautiful." --Jeanne L. (11/26/19)
"I really love your writing style. You have a wonderful way with words." --Gail P. (03/19/20)
"I very much enjoy reading your story. Love your way with words, keeps me interested and can't wait to read more." --Flora L. (12/11/19)
"Andy, you bring back so many memories of OLD JACKSON that it is enjoyable to read your memories. More power to you." --Duane V. (11/15/19)
"Andy, your writing about your life is great! I'm really involved in what happened in your life. Thanks for the opportunity! Can't wait for the whole book!" --Katrina W. (11/15/19)
"I have read many Chapters of what you have written so well. I would love to be able to show off your work." --Marlania R. (12/14/19)
"Andy, you leave me just waiting to be able to read more of your story! Can't wait until you finish it so I can have my own book!" --Mary B. (11/26/19)
"Yes I want this book bad." --Dawn K. (02/01/20)
"Love your way with words & descriptions." --Gail M. (12/11/19)
"Heartbreaking but so well told." --Stephanie N. (11/26/19)
"Your story of your youth has touched my heart." --Patricia B. (11/26/19)
"Awesome." --Clair S. (11/27/19)
"I'm really enjoying your writing. What a nice treat for us!" --Lori S. (11/27/19)
"So interesting & well written!!" --Gail M. (11/24/19)
"Sounds like a great adventure." --Donna R. (11/27/19)
"Thanks for the read Andy. We boys were all so much alike and mischievous. Love this!" --Tony K. (11/27/19)
"Am looking forward to buy your book & its history of what life was all about for a youngster in your day." --Dennis B. (11/27/19)
"You are providing a peek behind the door [of the orphanage] for many of us." --Betty C. (12/11/19)