"We weren't wealthy, we weren't poor - we just were. We never wanted for anything, except maybe more time together...."
When Eddie was 12 years old, all he wanted for Christmas was a bike. Although his life had gotten harder - and money tighter - since his father died and the family bakery closed, Eddie dreamed that somehow his mother would find a way to have his dream bike gleaming beside their modest Christmas tree that magical morning.
What he got from her instead was a sweater. "A stupid, handmade, ugly sweater" that young Eddie left in a crumpled ball in the corner of his room.
Scarred deeply by the realization that kids don't always get what they want, and too young to understand that he already owned life's most valuable treasures, that Christmas morning was the beginning of Eddie's dark and painful journey on the road to manhood.
It will take wrestling with himself, his faith, and his family - and the guidance of a mysterious neighbor named Russell - to help Eddie find his path through the storm clouds of life and finally see the real significance of that simple gift his mother had crafted by hand with love in her heart.
Based on a deeply personal true story, The Christmas Sweater is a warm and poignant tale of family, faith, and forgiveness that offers us a glimpse of our own lives - while also making us question if we really know what's most important in them.
©2008 Mercury Radio Arts Inc.; (P)2008 Simon & Schuster
"Very Rewarding Listen"
This was great!
If you enjoy Glenn Beck on the radio, then you'll appreciate the fact this book was read by Glenn himself. The narration is perfect. I was glued to his story till the very end.
I'm not the type to write a review, but, I feel this book has given me something. So, in the simple act of giving back I felt compelled to write a little something nice. My way of saying thanks.
I don't think I'll ever forget this book.
"Powerful Story"
Second Chances
The message of Hope and Redemption.
His character vocalizations. Having watched Glenn Beck's FNC program I felt like I got to really know the basis of his passion in this book.
The surprise ending and Glen's vulnerability to write about the painful events in his own life and share them.
"Just really enjoyed listening to it this December"
Hard to say.... if I'd read it at a different time of the year, it'd probably be mid to high favorites range. Listening to it in December, it was near the top! Just the kind of story I wanted to hear to remind me about the real spirit of Christmas.
I had to stop listening for a few days after one chapter's close devastated me.
This is the first Glenn Beck performance / book I've listened to.
I could have! I listen on my commute, so it helps me pass the time and stay awake. :)
I would say Beck's voice added very much to the experience. He's quite theatrical!
"A Heartfelt, Touching Story"
Despite what you may or may not feel about Glenn Beck, you should still read this book. I again, bought this book because it was on The New York Times Best Sellers List. At the time I didn't even know who Glenn Beck was.
This was the most heartfelt, touching story I have read in years. It teaches what is important in life. I related to the story, as I have those items from long ago that you just can't place a monetary value on.
Although Glenn Beck may be "out there" politically, you really should put aside your misgivings and read the story. He is an excellent writer. I don't agree with his politics, but I WILL read more stories of his.
"Life Changing"
I am giving EVERYone I know a copy of this for Christmas. You'll need two boxes of tissues as Glenn takes you by the hand and leads you through a life changing story of hope lost and faith found, then brings you full-circle to what truly matters and how to have it. This is a story that will become a time honored tradition in our home. Bravo!
"Full of Life Lessons"
If you love God, Country and traditional values, Listen to this one with your children. Keep the kleenex nearby, and perhaps a notepad for any thoughts as you listen. Thank You Gren Beck for sharing this wonderful story, so appropriate for EVERY DAY LIVING!!! Bravo!
"Tears in Your Eye and Warmth in Your Heart"
I am not usually emotionally moved by a book but 'The Christmas Sweater' brought tears to my eyes in several places. It is based on the life of radio and tv talk show host, Glenn Beck but liberals, don't let this turn you away - there is no political agenda or bent to this book. Rather, tt is a story of how a young boy learns the richness of life is not based on money and who he he is not based on what he can buy. I hope that this book triggers in you the same feelings it caused in me - to appreciate whoever we are and appreciate the wonderful things that life provides us - even life does not give you the material things you may crave. The story is based around Christmas but it is a story for all seasons...it will bring a tear to your eye and warmth in your heart.
"The Christmas Sweater"
Glen did a great job telling the story. However, it was ok, but it was not that great. Some have compared this to The Shack. NO IT IS NOT. It is what it is. You might enjoy it more than me. I got very tired of a defiant sassy boy. I am glad I finished it but I was about to turn it off. I do not think I would recomment it to my friends.
"Bravo"
What a great lesson. I was a kid just as he describes, and until I listened to this book at 40 years old I had no idea why I was so angry as a boy. Now I understand that when my father left us when I was eight I felt ripped off jipped out of a dad. I was pissed off at everyone, ungrateful to everyone around me, I refused to see all people were doing. Today I can close that chapter with understanding. Glen from the bottom of my heart I am grateful for your journey.
"Dont Miss ths one"
You will laugh, you will cry, and you will be blessed. This is going to be a classic in my way of seeing it.