Albom's first nonfiction book since Tuesdays with Morrie, Have a Little Faith begins with an unusual request: an 82-year-old rabbi from Albom's old hometown asks him to deliver his eulogy. Feeling unworthy, Albom insists on understanding the man better, which throws him back into a world of faith he'd left years ago.
Meanwhile, closer to his current home, Albom becomes involved with a Detroit pastor - a reformed drug dealer and convict - who preaches to the poor and homeless in a decaying church with a hole in its roof.
Moving between their worlds, Christian and Jewish, African-American and white, impoverished and well-to-do, Albom observes how these very different men employ faith similarly in fighting for survival: the older, suburban rabbi embracing it as death approaches; the younger, inner-city pastor relying on it to keep himself and his church afloat.
As America struggles with hard times and people turn more to their beliefs, Albom and the two men of God explore issues that perplex modern man: how to endure when difficult things happen; what heaven is; intermarriage; forgiveness; doubting God; and the importance of faith in trying times. Although the texts, prayers, and histories are different, Albom begins to recognize a striking unity between the two worlds - and indeed, between beliefs everywhere.
In the end, as the rabbi nears death and a harsh winter threatens the pastor's wobbly church, Albom sadly fulfills the rabbi's last request and writes the eulogy. And he finally understands what both men had been teaching all along: the profound comfort of believing in something bigger than yourself.
©2009 Mitch Albom, Inc.; (P)2009 Hyperion
"Fantastic Read!"
Mitch Albom does it again! I love Mitch Albom's books because they always make me think. In his easy-going style he raises some though provoking questions. You do not have to be a religious person to enjoy this.
"Worth your listen"
I have READ Mr. Albom's three previous little books; I eagerly awaited this one to read. When it appeared on the Audible site, I decided to try to LISTEN, and glad I did.
His narration means, of course, that I get to hear what he wants me to hear, the nuances he wants me to experience. This is not an interpretation of a work by a reader/narrator - This is the book from the mouth of the writer. Wonderful.
To read the words of the Rabbi singing would not have in any way approached what I instantly got from Mr. Albom, in fact, doing some of the singing.
Incredible listening experience. Somewhere online (you can find it) are a number of interviews with the Rabbi, including his last message to his congregation. I only got there, I only heard them, as a result of this audio book that gave me the curiosity to seek it out.
Highly recommended.
"Beautifully written"
I listened to this book the week leading up to Christmas and I have to say, I could not have picked a better time. It really made me think... it reminded me, as I sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic due to holiday shopping, just what the holidays are REALLY about. As good as Tuesdays with Morrie was, the time you'll spend here with "The Reb" will touch your heart and never let go.
I've read everything Mitch Albom has ever written and this is, by far, my favorite!
"Wonderful!"
This was my first exposure to one of Mitch Albom's books. I am thankful to have done so!
The message is great and one that we need to constantly remind ourselves. I couldn't stop listening to it, partly because he does a great job in telling the story.
I think you can get more of it by listening to Albom read it through this audiobook, because he expresses the characters through tone and accent that adds a deeper element to the story. Fantastic job, Mitch! I will now be sharing with family and friends and checking out the rest of your books!
"Everyone should read this book!"
This was the first Audio book I have ever "read" and I'm afraid I might have been spoiled. I can't imagine just reading this book instead of having Mitch Albom read it to me. The heart he puts into sharing this story is remarkable and extremely inspiring. The message is one that everyone should experience. We tell everyone we talk to that this book is a must-read, or better yet, a must-listen!
"Great book-easy listen!"
I have read all of Mitch Albom's novels. He is a great writer and I always find a message in the story. I enjoyed this book, not as well as "Five people.." and "Tuesdays wih Morrie". It is an easy listen and the narration was good. I think he always tells a great story and everyone learns something about life. His books are ones you can read again and hear things that you missed the first time. I would recommend this, especially to Albom fans!
"Can I give it 10 stars?"
What a GREAT book! I love his work and dedication to the people he touches!
"Mitch has done it again!"
Captures life's true meanings. Well told in audio!