Meet the Author
John “Sonny” Robinson was born and raised on Solomons Island, close to the Chesapeake Bay in southern Maryland. He had loving parents who spent their lives working on the water with other family members to earn a living. After graduating from high school, he was accepted into the Apprentice School in Newport News, Virginia, where he spent many years studying nuclear reactor design. He worked his way up to the position of waterfront material superintendent, with the responsibility for scheduling and distribution of all material when and where it was needed during construction. After forty-two years of service, he retired and wrote for Pleasant Living magazine prior to publishing his first book, Morning on Solomons.
Details
Formats: Paperback, eBook
ISBN Paperback: 978-1-966369-67-7
ISBN eBook: 978-1-966369-69-1
Pages: 64
Release date: 10/20/2026
Endorsements
“John Sonny Robinson’s The Tragedy of the Lost Colony is a gripping and heartfelt exploration of one of history’s great mysteries . . . the fate of the Roanoke settlers. With a strong focus on the human experience, the book follows Herbert Cooper, a young and determined farmer, as he embarks on a journey to the New World. Through his eyes, readers are drawn into the struggles, hopes, and challenges faced by the settlers as they attempt to build a new life in an unfamiliar land.
“The story captures the sense of adventure and optimism that fueled the settlers, even as they faced countless obstacles. From the excitement of setting sail to the harsh realities of their survival, the book offers a vivid portrayal of their journey. His relationship with Susan, a fellow settler, adds a touching layer to the story, giving readers an emotional connection to the larger events unfolding. Their bond brings warmth and humanity to the story, making the eventual hardships all the more moving. The author’s writing brings the setting and characters to life with rich details that transport readers to the late 1500s. The descriptions of life aboard the ships, the daily routines of the settlers, and the interactions with Native American tribes are vividly drawn, making it easy to imagine the sights, sounds, and emotions of the time. The book’s depiction of the settlers’ efforts to adapt to their environment is both fascinating and engaging. Showing the strength and determination of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
“One of the strengths of the book is how it blends historical fact with a sense of imagination. Real events are woven into the story alongside fictional elements, creating an experience that feels both grounded and full of possibility. The author does an excellent job of making the history accessible and relatable, ensuring that readers can connect with the past on a personal level. The themes of resilience, hope, and the clash of cultures are deeply woven into the story, giving it a sense of depth and relevance. The settlers’ struggles to survive and their encounters with Native American tribes highlight the challenges of understanding and cooperation in unfamiliar territory. These elements add layers to the book, making it more than just a story about survival. It becomes a reflection on human nature and the complexities of exploring new frontiers. John Sonny’s book is a captivating and emotional journey into a forgotten chapter of history. It succeeds in bringing the past to life in a way that feels immediate and real, with its strong characters of history. It succeeds in bringing the past to life in a way that feels immediate with readers who enjoy history, adventure, and stories of human perseverance. It’s a story that stays with you, reminding us of the courage and sacrifices of those who dared to dream of a new world. We wish the author the best of luck with publication.”
— Bill Quinlan, author of Recollections of Life and Times
