The Ultimate Gift

A student brought this book to my attention years ago. I lost my copy during my retirement move. Had to purchase another just to have.

This is an enjoyable easy read that draws on into the story all the while sharing the most important aspects of living a full life.

My mother-in-law and I watched the movie during Christmas years before I knew it was based upon a series of novels. When I saw this book offered on OHFB, I decided to see how well it related to the movie, but I would also keep an open mind about the differences should they present themselves. The biggest difference between the two was the perspective in which the entirety of the story was told. While the movie was able to focus on all of the characters in depth, this book followed Jason's journey from Theodore Hamilton's point-of-view.Even though Mr. Hamilton was the guide or narrator of the story, Jason Stevens and his journey to complete the twelve tasks over the course of a year were the primary focus. He's a spoiled young man who hasn't had to do much in order to make ends meet. In order to save his life and help him make something of himself, his great-uncle's last wish directed Jason's stubbornness toward the tasks of learning the simple truths and pleasures life has to offer. There was as much to learn about Red and Theo as there was about Jason. Since the story was written from Theo's perspective, we're privy to his thoughts most of the time. Red offered his thoughts in video-taped messages that were played at the beginning of each session with the lawyer and at the end of Jason's journey, should he make it.The book was a fairly quick read once the chain of events were set in motion by Red's death. Monthly tasks were covered within one or two chapters. Unfortunately, there was a bit of repetition a few chapters about how much of a great guy Red was to Theo and how at any time the process can be stopped if Theo wasn't satisfied with Jason's performance in the goals. Even had I not seen the movie beforehand, I still would be frustrated that I wasn't able to see more of Jason's transformation from the surly, spoiled kid into a more mature adult within the book. There's so much emphasis on the journey and the lessons that to not see more of the transformation was a letdown in some ways for me.Overall, the book was a light, inspirational read. It was especially fitting for reading during the Christmas season. Though it lacked more depth in a few areas, it presented good cases for honesty, hard work, love and giving that aren't forgotten in our busy world. The message came home without a lot of over-the-top sappy stuff that some books use to move the story along. If you're looking for a decent delivery of some good messages, please pick up a copy of this book and share it with those you love.

This book is an easy read that teaches a beautiful lesson. I would recommend reading it. I hope you enjoy it as well.

I bought the book light this book and the Travelers gift as a white elephant gift! I have given this set to many many people. This is wonderful book.

First off, it is important to note that I never give anything top star(or a perfect 10), because I believe it to be important that nothing appear 'perfected,' or without room for improvement. This, however, is so great, it deserves as many stars as one could give. Not many people give respect to what they have in life, so most keep 'looking' for more THINGS to bring them happiness, when the true GIFTS in your life come from giving yourself to the world you live in, and appreciating all you already have. To achieve WEALTH in your life, one must be willing to sacrifice a little, love alot, give alot, and be grateful for WHAT YOU HAVE! This book is a fantastic medium for teaching one the true WEALTH one can acquire in one's life, and how to be happy with yourself! I gave a bunch of these books to others I knew who were struggling in their life, and they saw things much different after reading it. I first got a copy when i was in a desperate struggle to see my purpose. My grandmother sent me a copy, and I, too, see things much clearer now, but I had to open myself up to be TAUGHT! I use to believe that I would win the lottery and would be happily set for life, with no worries, and could give more to other with that money. I now realize that money won't bring that, and that I already have everything I need to bring myself and others true happiness. This book has so much to offer! Please, open yourself to GREATER THINGS! P.S. Just got back from the movie, out 3-9-07, and it was just a fantastic adaptation to the novel. Get the book, see the movie, and you will walk with a new sense of purpose. If you want more inspiration after that, get the new dvd THE SECRET, and the book collection CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD(more of a religious tone). Hope you find happiness! BE TRUE!

If I had to choose one word to describe this book, it would be hokey. Campy and cliché would work as well. Although, somewhat well-written (it did keep my interest for the most part), it was rather predictable. I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes. To say more, I have to get into the details. Read on if you don't mind being spoiled.Spoilers ahead.So the deal is Jason has to complete a task every month to the lawyer's satisfaction. He has to learn about 12 gifts that will make him a better person, the first being work. Am I really supposed to believe that a spoiled rich kid is going to go to some guy's ranch and work for a month and come back a changed man? Say we accept the premise, and this month of hard labor changes him. The later challenges aren't really all that challenging. He might as well have just told him to pay attention to the people around him. Multiple times he's sent to observe and come back and report about what he's learned. So because he saw someone laughing, he's realized the gift of laughter? Um... okay.I think the idea for this story was interesting, but it wasn't executed in the best manner. I would have liked to have seen more experiences (like helping out at the boys' home). I also would have preferred to read it from Jason's point of view instead of the lawyer's. I think we could have had a richer story from that point of view, and it would have been less campy. It also could have been longer and more involved.

A very nice book. One must read it. It is far more than those self help books.

Really enjoyed this. Can't believe I hadn't known about it before. Really recommend it for a nice story to keep you on the path.

Very thought provoking bookThe Ultimate Gift is a must read for everyoneLiving life based on the 12 gifts will lead to a joyous m, successful fun filled life

Pour améliorer mon anglais quoi de mieux qu'un livre en "VO", couverture style vieillot, un livre à découvrir pour se perfectionner

Okay, it may not be the greatest piece of literature with a surprise ending, but it is one to re-read many times until the message becomes a lifetime task and perspective. What matters most in life is the relationships we develop, and the people we love become fellow travelers with us through life. We spend too much time in selfish pursuits and gaining things, but what is most important is that our lives become centered in the interests of others, and loving them more than ourselves. This book can be a tool in helping us in formulating a loving and caring worldview filled with compassion for others, and in the end having a feeling of a life well lived.