7 Little Johnstons

7 Little Johnstons is an engaging family documentary-style reality television series that first premiered on the TLC network in 2013. The show primarily revolves around the Johnston family, consisting of Trent and Amber, their biological children Jonah and Elizabeth, and their adopted children Anna, Alex, and Emma. In case you wonder what sets this family apart, the answer lies in their unique genetics - every member of the family has achondroplasia, a common type of dwarfism.

The show, thus, provides an intimate, real-life glimpse into the lives and challenges faced by individuals with achondroplasia. Despite their physical stature, the Johnston family manages to navigate the world with a healthy dose of positivity, resilience, and a can-do attitude that is infectious and inspiring.

The family patriarch, Trent Johnston, is an assertive man who, despite occasional adversities, is motivated to give the best life possible to his family and children. Trent’s wife, Amber, is a self-proclaimed mama bear. She is in equal parts loving and no-nonsense, which creates a nurturing yet disciplined environment for her children to grow up in.

Equally interesting are the children who bring a fresh dynamic to the show. Each child is unique with a distinct personality that adds richness to the family narrative. From Jonah, the eldest, stepping into adulthood, to Elizabeth navigating high school social dynamics, and the youngest, Emma, displaying a spirited personality.

In addition to exploring the lives of the family members, the show presents an honest depiction of the challenges individuals with achondroplasia face. From health complications and social alienation to adapting a standard-size world to suit their daily needs like driving or even reaching for a light switch, the 7 Little Johnstons do not shy away from exposing these intricate details of their lives. It’s particularly heartwarming to see how the family adjusts to their life. Equally, the show does not try to elicit sympathy but instead, it encourages understanding and acceptance, thus subtly raising awareness about dwarfism and breaking standard stereotypes.

That said, the series doesn’t solely focus on achondroplasia. It delves deep into relatable family matters: parenting adolescents, dealing with the typical ups and downs of family life, and fostering sibling relationships. Further, the series sheds light on the challenges and joys of adoption – a facet that adds another layer of complexity and interest to the show as three of the five children were adopted from different parts of the world: Russia, South Korea, and China.

The Johnston family is located in rural Georgia, where they live in a charming farmhouse that they have functionally adapted to suit their unique needs. The viewers are made privy to their lives within this home, their interactions outside it with the larger community, trips to the grocery store, doctors’ visits, and annual vacations.

In essence, 7 Little Johnstons is not just a reality show. It is a heartwarming family journey that keeps you hooked with its wholesome blend of humor, warmth, trials and celebrations, highs and lows, and, above all, real-life moments. The Johnston family with their unconditional love for each other and their determination to live their lives to the fullest - 'the average way and the right way,' to quote Trent Johnston - lends a compelling narrative to the show, making it worth the watch.

The series, up until now, has successfully aired for multiple seasons, each season presenting a new chapter from the lives of the Johnston family. As viewers, one can't help but build a bond with the family members and stand by them as they journey through life, battling each adversity with strength and a wide grin. This connection coupled with its casual slice-of-life storytelling format has made 7 Little Johnstons an alluring viewing experience for many across the globe.

In conclusion, 7 Little Johnstons is a valuable addition to the genre of reality television. Its focus on the lives of a unique family, relatable family dynamics, and an overt message of acceptance and perseverance firmly establishes it as a must-watch.