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)

Mixed feelings-Depends who's calling?

What did you love best about The First Phone Call from Heaven?

I had mixed feelings about this one. I wasn't sure if it was going to encourage me or throw me in a state of despair. We've all lost someone right?I found the story heartwarming at times, and then conversely puzzling at others. It wasn't the storyline I found puzzling..it was my feelings.Its cleverly done Mitch Albom takes the reader through that journey . In the end I felt.... peace.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The pilot..his journey

Have you listened to any of Mitch Albom’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes,Very well

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Not an extreme reaction, but it was thought provoking

Any additional comments?

I gave the book to someone who lost her husband of 54 years , almost a year ago...
It seemed to help.

Another good from Mitch Albom

What did you love best about The First Phone Call from Heaven?

I love Mitch Albom's books and I was not disappointent by First Call from Heaven. It was thought provoking and moving. Having the book read by Mr. Albom added a special touch as I knew that the expressions and tone of voice were what he intended. I very much enjoyed listening to the book!

Interesting plot

This was a different book. Interesting twists and surprises. But I did think the ending was satisfactory. Interesting how easy it is to get caught in something we really want to believe

not like the other Mitch Albom's...

I think this is the last book I recommend from him to a friend. too long for the story.

Books

I have read all of your books and enjoy them all thank you very much.

An interesting switch to a storline of faith

Would you try another book from Mitch Albom and/or Mitch Albom?

I would. I enjoyed both the narration and the story

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

It wasn't my story to tell and I was satisfied with it. I don't think I would change anything.

Which scene was your favorite?

I can't state this without spoiling the story for others. As a writer, I dislike when people give away spoilers, so I'll only say when the truth unravels and we see the benefit the act has given the townspeople.

Was The First Phone Call from Heaven worth the listening time?

It was. At first I wasn't sure about it, but as the story gained momentum, I became engrossed in it.

Any additional comments?

It's a good story. I would recommend it to people who can keep an open mind.

Intriguing, engaging, reflective

This is a well narrated and beautiful story that pulls you in with plausibility, doubt, curiosity and yearning. Enjoy!

Excellent. A real heart warmer & mind twister

Well written and impossible to stop listening to. You will never be bored or distracted.

Great story

This was a great story with believable characters and an amazingly believable storyline. Narration was very good.

Loved this book

The story was impeccable! It kept o my interest the whole way through. It certainly makes you think.