The First Phone Call from Heaven

A Novel

By: Mitch Albom

Narrated by: Mitch Albom

Length: 7 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

The First Phone Call from Heaven tells the story of a small town on Lake Michigan that gets worldwide attention when its citizens start receiving phone calls from the afterlife. Is it the greatest miracle ever or a massive hoax? Sully Harding, a grief-stricken single father, is determined to find out. An allegory about the power of belief - and a page-turner that will touch your soul - Albom's masterful storytelling has never been so moving and unexpected.

Readers of The Five People You Meet in Heaven will recognize the warmth and emotion so redolent of Albom's writing, and those who haven't yet enjoyed the power of his storytelling will thrill at the discovery of one of the best-loved writers of our time.

©2013 ASOP, Inc. (P)2013 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

"The author narrates the ensuing confusion and controversy, as well as the varying viewpoints of those who believe in the messages from the dead and those who don't. Albom portrays each individual's reaction with genuine compassion. Amid the excitement and bewilderment, he's still able to keep Harding's voice familiar and deferential. Albom uses a soothing, quiet voice--fitting and purposeful--for each phone call from the unknown. Sound effects such as a phone ringing, a doorbell, and a sudden knocking sound are all effective in achieving such a thought-provoking and inspiring story." ( AudioFile)

Predictably Suspenseful!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

You know there will be a twist before you listen to the first page. The author sets the pace and mixes the various plots masterfully.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The Sheriff because he seemed the most realistic in the various plots.

What about Mitch Albom’s performance did you like?

Excellent narration.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

It keep me interested. I knew the ending would be similar to what happened, but I enjoyed the suspense until I got there.

Any additional comments?

Good book. Enjoy.

Really Good

I was surprised that it ended as well as it did. I was very turned off by the story toward the end, but then he gripped me back into the story with just the last 15 minutes left.

A little predictable but feel-good

Between ghost stories and thrillers I like to throw in a book that reminds me that they aren't all stuck between worlds. It also made feel however, that I would be saddened by getting that call. Mixed emotions but that is what you expect from Mitch Albom. I also love that fact that he read the book and you could feel the importance of the words he chose in the tone of his voice.

Another masterpiece.

I find myself torn, unable to decide whether I love the fictional work of Mitch Albom better or the true life inspiration stories. either way this was yet another of his gems

Definitely a Mitch Albom novel!

Like most of his works, this one focuses on the character's relationships and their faith. There was a lot of talk about Alexander Graham Bell, which I was not expecting. However, Albom was true to his style and I ended the book feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

Wonderful

This was a very interesting story. I've always loved Mitch Albom's writing and feel he is one of the best narrators around. He has a speacial way of creating feel good stories. They are always a joy to listen to and read.

FANTASTIC

kept me listening!! great story. exciting narrator. I will be reading all of Albon's books

Heartwarming

The only review i can think of is summed up in the authors very last paragraph, and i wont ruin the book. It was a sweet story that warmed my heart and created wonder. I totally enjoyed this book

Pretty good

I enjoyed this book. It’s not one of Mitch’s best, but it was very good. Looking forward to reading more of his books.

Wonderful Book

I love Mitch Alboms books. This one, added the possibility of heaven reaching down. The best part for me was finding out who caused the phone calls and why. How, when the full truth is known, forgiveness can happen. I also love that Mr. Albom performs his own books. That tells me that the inflections and main points will be performed where the writer intends them to be, and the characters will be who he wants them to be. Wonderful Book!