I initially went into In the Shadow of Eight expecting Collin Gosselin to reveal more about what was happening behind the scenes, not only to him but to his siblings as well. But Collin himself says it best: It’s not his story to tell. And I gained a tremendous amount of respect for him because of that. I remember when the show first aired. I watched it, and over the years, it became clear that the environment these children were growing up in was far from ideal. But watching something unfold on television and hearing what it felt like through the eyes of a child are two very different things. I finished this book in ONE day. One. Collin tells his story in such a raw, emotional, and genuine way that you feel like you’re living those moments alongside him. There were parts that broke my heart, but also moments that brought me to happy tears—especially the story of the man who showed little Collin kindness and helped him look good to see his dad. From beginning to end, I felt completely immersed in Collin’s journey. His story captures heartbreak, hope, and the small acts of kindness that can change someone’s life. And that jaw-dropping revelation about his age and the center toward the end? I had to sit with that one for a minute. I won’t spoil it. I expected answers about a family I watched on television years ago. Instead, I found the deeply personal story of a little boy who deserved to be heard. This isn’t the story of eight children. It’s Collin’s story. And it’s one worth reading.

I commend Collin on his decision to write this book and tell his truth of what took place in his childhood. I found myself emotional at times and angry at others feeling sick to my stomach listening to the accounts of what he went through. I believe you Collin. I also pray for his healing journey. No child should have endured what he did. Looking back on the show at small things that happened it completely makes so much sense now. What she did to try and break and destroy Collin only empowered him in the end. Collin can’t be silenced anymore and now Kate’s hatred for her own son has been amplified and completely exposed. I hope his siblings read his book, especially Mady. She seemed to be such a prominent extension of her mother and vindictive, evil behavior as well. Karma is patient and personal. To all the friends, teachers, doctors and adults that participated in the cruelty and/or stood by complicit, they will deal with the consequences of their actions as well. I salute Collin for his bravery, resilience and strength.

Amazing. I couldn’t stop listening. This is a must read. Best wishes to you Collin.

well done collin very much enjoyed your side .

You are so brave Colin ! Such a powerful read. As a momma myself, it hurt my heart to hear your story. You deserved so much love ana I am so thankful you eventually found it.

I found Collin to be incredibly transparent, his story is one of great strength. I cried throughout this book because no child, no human being deserves this. Wishing Collin all the success he deserves.

Heartbreakingly honest and so raw. Collin should be so proud of himself for telling his truth in this beautifully written account of his childhood and everything he was put through.

This is an amazing audiobook and to hear Collin narrate it and listening to his story was at times hard to listen to. There were moments I was listening and my heart broke for him and how he was treated. I am thankful Collin got his opportunity to share what he went through with the world. I definitely recommend this audiobook. #teamcollin

So so good, I remember watching the show and not knowing. I am so sorry but I know how proud every one is of you now

I loved this book. Collin was not being sarcastic or hateful or blaming everyone else. He took accountability for what happened. But a small child like he was when all this started is not trying to ruin his family. He was a child and he had no one who stood up for him. No child should have been put through what happened to him. This whole book broke my heart. I stopped watching the show because I couldn’t stand how horrible Kate was to everyone. One of the most hateful people I’ve ever seen. I couldn’t watch it. I hope Collin’s siblings listen to his book while he reads it. It is powerful. I truly hope his siblings reunite with him. I’m sorry but I hope he doesn’t reunite with Kate. She will never admit any wrongdoing and will never love him. She is a wicked woman.

It’s nice to hear him share his perspective and finally take control of his life.

Great listen!

This book was very good and I believe Collin. It was raw real and heartbreaking. Collin you are a true survivor. I wish you the best.

I believe Collin!!

Audiobook is powerful by Collin. Everyone should listen to his story

I had seen so many of the recent interviews so I was unsure if I really needed to listen to the book as well. I was wrong . I could not stop and listened to the whole book in one day. Very well read and written. Go Collin!

Colin did an impeccable job at explaining his experience and how his mother completely defaced his character and publicly humiliated him. She truly is a sick person and I am so sad that this poor child had to go through what he had to go through! He seems like he is a wonderful young man, and he has a beautiful future ahead of him. I pray that God guide him in the right direction and everything that he does and that justice is served for what that very mean woman put her baby through, sharme on her!

Heartbreaking, yet eye opening.

Collin did an amazing job telling his truth, and I believe every word. The book explains everything from the point of view of the child who lived it, and he DID live this. Great job and kudos to Collin, who is NOT a burden to anyone, and who is going to do great things!

I wish you all the best, Collin. Do wonderful things that make you happy!

it was an amazing book I followed them when I was a young kid. I definitely believe what he said.

This was fabulous. It’s so sad to think of what this little boy went through at the hands of an ambitious abusive mother.

I wish he read it a little faster I had to speed it up but very proud of this boy good listen

I believe you Collin 1000%! Everyone needs to read this book.

Well written. Captivating!