Monica

Leave out personal religious and political beliefs.

No.

She did not focus on the title of the book. What draws the reader to the book is the title and the promise of hearing a story of angels and life after death from a medical doctor's perspective. She focused instead on her personal accomplishments here on earth. We learn mostly that she is highly educated, well traveled, a world class athlete, and of course a perfect mother.

I just finished the book, and was so disappointed. I purchased it because I lost my sister recently and wanted something uplifting.
I was surprised to discover there is very little in this book about death, heaven, and angels.

The book is mostly comprised of Dr. Neil's narcissistic rantings about her accomplishments in life (beginning in childhood) and religious/political beliefs.
It's almost like reading someone's journal. She seems to be ego tripping all over herself throughout the book. By halfway through the book, I'm thinking, OK, we get it, you are a brilliant, highly educated, cultured, world class athlete, all the while being the perfect parent.

It's ironic that she says she embraces "finding joy" every day in her life. I "find" that hard to believe if her book is any indication. The entire book is bleak, depressing, and dark, even when she is describing what should be a happy experience.

I'm a religious person, and even I grew tired of the constant interjection of her torturous and redundant perspective on religion and faith. There are countless numbers of quotes and readings from the bible. One might start to wonder if she was using them as filler.

Despite all of the good doctors success in life, the reader will likely get the strong impression that Dr. Neil feels like she has endured many injustices throughout her life.

Welcome to life here on earth Dr. Neil!

I didn't like Joe Mantegna's style of performance/reading. There seemed to be a lot of unnecessary cursing. Don't get me wrong, I can talk like a truck driver at times, but this just seemed excessive and contrived.

No.

Not, sure, but I just didn't like his style of performance. I like Joe Mantegna as an actor, but he did not do well with this book in my opinion.

I liked the character Mattie Sullivan.

If you consider being bored to sleep as a way to be "hypnotized" this book may be helpful.

Overall the book is well written. Some sections of the book toward the end are a bit far fetched, but non the less keep the readers interest.
There are many sections that should come with a warning for mature readers only, as it could be upsetting for some people.
One does get a glimpse into the seedy side of life.

A phenominal work of fiction.