Customer Reviews

These Eyes: The Autobiography of A Once-Notorious “Po’ Bad Boy”

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Johnny, These Eyes is a really great and excellent book because like when you were going through all those things it was like I was there with you. Especially that part about when you went to Mt. Meigs, and when that evil man burst your thighs. I wish he could have been there on that cold ground and felt your pain. I just took a moment to say a prayer for you. I know it was hard back then but I really felt sorry for you when you didn't have any clothes and had to eat out of garbage cans. That's when I cried for you the most. But when I read about when your mother died my eyes were red all night like fire. But if I could have just jumped into the book I would have given you a big fifth grader hug because I love you very much with them pretty green eyes. I pray that God bless you more than He already has... From your best friend Ashley Lewis 10 years old... The end!

The book "These Eyes" was very inspirational for my nine-year-old son Benjamin and me. I attended one of his seminars at (Christian Community Church) on December 20th, 2002 after reading the book twice. Listening to him I realized that threatening to send my son off to reformatory school because of his impulsive actions would be a big mistake. That it would only make him worse. With this information coming directly from Johnny, someone who has experienced this first hand I know it's fact. Also by reading "These Eyes" I was very emotionally touched by the things society would put an eight-year-old through, whether it was back in the day down south or 2003 up north, all the horrible things he had to see, hear, and experience at such an early age. I was very sadden deeply at the many struggles of life he had to face at such early stages of his life. The book has taught me to be more appreciative and grateful of my own childhood years, and for those of my 3 and 9 year olds. My son was eight years old when I purchased the book and to read about an eight-year-old child going through what Johnny went through was very touching. I am very grateful to the Lord for letting me get to know Johnny and become part of his life. He indeed is a very special person. I also thank the Lord for sparing his life and for him reaching back out to help other people. May God forever keep him as well as bless him in all that he does.

I was in your class with mrs. murphy and I just want to say that I understand what you have gone through. I grew up differnt but also the same. I wasnt treated badly by other people but my own father. I am now in school and I too have over came alot. I honestly feel that anyone can accomplish their dreams if they work hard at it. Hell, you know we was not born with a silver spoon in our mouths but look at where we are today and I think that it is by the grace of God that you and I are here today to tell our stories. I also had abuse,not only physical but emotional.I had to raise myself. It was hard for a 14 yr old white girl to make it through without parents, but I'll tell you one thing my parents taught me, I will learn from their mistakes and I will one day be a wonderful mother.

Dear Johnny,
Your book is not only enlightening, and revealing of the historical south during tumultuous times, but it ties in to the way troubled youth grew up in the south, and the obstacles they had to overcome. You had a second chance, and have made your life a role model to those who feel there is no hope. You turned your life around to help others, what better way to pay tribute to those who loved you and guided you through trouble times.
M Murphy Ed.D
Director of Shelton State Community College Wellness Center.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Mr. Bodley depicts a young man challenged by life lessons far too engaging for his age. He is overcome by obstacles uncontrolled by him, yet as time passes with insights and encouragement from an outsider, he's faced with choices to make. Choices to change his lifes path forever. Mr. Bodley will open eyes to any one who engages in this read. He has a magnificent way with words, to bring an un-saturated life event to paper. I give this book a well deserved ***** stars. His work makes it hard to look at any young person and not wonder "What is lurking behind those beautiful eyes looking at me"? If you have sons or daughters, this is a book that should be read by them and yourself, surely it will be a conversation to partake in. It is highly recommended.