Bible Reference(1,963)
Bible Studies(1,541)
Biblical Studies(1,670)
Biography(2,661)
Business & Careers(243)
Catholic(283)
Children(2,112)
Christian Living(11,270)
Church & Pastoral(2,333)
Church History(714)
Closeouts(3,499)
Commentaries(2,129)
Devotionals(5,274)
Family(6,011)
Fiction(24,214)
Gift Books(490)
Other Languages(14)
Personal Growth(8,221)
Aging(80)
Emotional Issues(871)
Health & Fitness(499)
Health Concerns(160)
Humor(149)
Inspirational(1,718)
Men's Issues(534)
Recovery(341)
Relationships(1,146)
Women's Issues(1,479)
Philosophy(47)
Prophecy & End Times(920)
Theology(2,471)
Shop Now At Christianbook.com
Shop Inspirational or
Choose a Category
- Academic
- Accompaniment Tracks
- Advent
- Adventures in Odyssey ™
- Audiobooks
- Bible Accessories
- Bible Covers
- Bible Studies & Curriculum
- Bibles
- Blooming Bargains
- Books
- Catholic
- Children
- Christian Living
- Christmas
- Church & Pastoral
- Church Supplies
- Closeouts
- Clothing & Accessories
- Crafts & Recreation
- DVDs
- Download
- Easter
- Education
- Fall
- Family
- Father's Day
- Fiction
- Focus Magazines
- Focus Resource
- Focus Reviewed
- Focus on the Family
- Gift & Home
- Graduation
- Homeschool
- MP3 Music Downloads
- Mother's Day
- Music
- New Release
- Patriotic
- Pre-Order
- Radio Theatre
- Slightly Imperfect
- Software
- Spanish
- Spring
- Subscriptions
- Sunday School
- Teens
- Thanksgiving
- VBS
- Videos
- Winter
- eBooks
Customer Reviews for Thomas Nelson Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Thomas Nelson Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Heaven Is for Real is the true story of Colton Burpo, the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who, during emergency surgery, slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. Told by his father, but often in Colton's own words, the disarmingly simple message is heaven is a real place, Jesus really loves children, and be ready, there is a coming last battle.
Average Customer Rating:
(21 Reviews) 21
Rating Snapshot (21 reviews)
5 stars
13
4 stars
4
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
0
19 out of 2190%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Review 1 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Date:August 14, 2012
serenecsl
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
You might have believed for years but sometimes it takes a heartfelt, real account of an encounter with Jesus and a glimpse of heaven to remind you of what lies ahead. This book was just that: a true story of a boy who went to heaven and came back. But its so much more than that, it calls for what it means to have childlike faith, it calls for trust in the One above. It inspires and certainly gives us hope for the future that God has prepared for each and every one of His children.
To be honest, it took me awhile to really get into this book because I was trying to figure out the narrative structure and when things would happen. But as soon as I stopped doing that and allowed the story to bring me wherever it wanted to and for the Spirit to teach me what He wanted to through it, I enjoyed it thoroughly. To hear about heaven and Jesus from a young boy is amazing. It makes me want to have childlike faith all over again and reminds me of how much Jesus loves the children. This book isn't just about the future that awaits us but is about God's love. The details and events that are written in this book are there for a purpose, they all tie in to speak of how much God cares and that He truly knows what we are going through though we might think otherwise. A lot of things Colton (the boy) tells of heaven are biblically sound and expands on the vague descriptions.
Overall, it is a very good read and I would highly recommend it to anyone. Whether you have childlike faith or not, this book would be an encouragement to every heart. You will be blessed.
*I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. All opinions expressed are of my own.*
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 2 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Heaven a place to be!
Date:May 7, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Most of the book is about what happened to Todd after his experience in heaven and during his long, painful recovery. I bought many copies and gave them to family and friends, urging them to read it as I believe it has the power to transform lives.
"Heaven is for Real" is a a heartwarming, simple, and surprisingly biblical glimpse into a little four year old boy's journey into Heaven. Colton Burpo was four year's old when he found himself at death's door. simply-told story of the greatest mystery of all!!! It's the story of a 3 year old who had a near death experience. True story. Very inspiring. This is a great thing to see. We are seeing someone who is born with this talent and we get to see her progress with this. I think people get caught up in the "Christian" aspect of it and seem to be negative about Todd.
"Heaven is for Real" is a a heartwarming, simple, and surprisingly biblical glimpse into a little four year old boy's journey into Heaven. Colton Burpo was four year's old when he found himself at death's door. simply-told story of the greatest mystery of all!!! It's the story of a 3 year old who had a near death experience. True story. Very inspiring. This is a great thing to see. We are seeing someone who is born with this talent and we get to see her progress with this. I think people get caught up in the "Christian" aspect of it and seem to be negative about Todd.
This is an easy reading book, that will keep your attention and in awe. I highly recommend The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven.
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 3 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Enjoyable read
Date:April 8, 2012
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
I was intrigued by the description of the book and being a non-Christian myself, I'm curious about how real is the Heaven. Honestly speaking, I have no idea what's in the Heaven, how Jesus looks like, whether how real is Colton's description on Heaven, but it's an enjoyable read to me. Some people may think that Colton actually learn about those things from his father who's a pastor, but regardless he learns that from his father or he really did go to Heaven and come back, after reading this book I do believe that Heaven does exist. Something that I have not expected is there's no old people in Heaven. And I wonder is this Heaven same as the Heaven in Buddhism.
Another thing that I learn from this book is: God always answer our prayer. However some people may complain, why God did not take away Colton, but He took away their child? Weren't they pray too? I doubt Colton's father could answer this but I do believe thing happen for a reason. If it's yours, it yours. It's just like some babies could survive some natural disaster while some other babies could choke to death from drinking milk from the bottle
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Note: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 4 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
This book is so wonderful!
Date:February 21, 2012
That One Girl
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This is the simple story of a little boy's time spent in Heaven while he was hospitalized for an acute illness. Over the course of several months, Colton divulged, in his innocent, childlike way, small details that took his parents' breath away. What he saw is so Biblical that it just might take the reader's breath away, too.
This is one of the very best books I have ever read in terms of its potential to cause change in people's thinking, and give hope to those who have lost loved ones. The report Colton gave of meeting his miscarried sister (whom he had never heard about) is so touching. I wish I could give a copy of this book to every pro-abortion ("pro-choice") advocate. It is going to be my 'go-to' gift for quite a while, I think.
I loved the child's perspective that the book was written from, and the sweet innocence Colton portrayed. His parents did such a commendable job of letting his story be told without tainting it or giving it any slant of their own. Some of Colton's descriptions will stay with me for ever! I love the way he described Jesus' eyes especially.
This book is a very quick read. It is hard to put down once you have begun reading it. I can't think of anyone who wouldn't enjoy this book, even non-believers with an open mind will find much to ponder within the pages. I highly recommend it to all!
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 5 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Date:February 4, 2012
Kathy
Location:milwaukee, wi
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This book has touched my heart and strengthened my faith.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 6 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Bought for Wife
Date:January 17, 2012
mdcurrie
Location:Lawrence, Ks
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
She could not put the book down. I am looking toward reading it. Having had a similar experience when I had a heart attack & went into cardiac arrest 7 times, I am both looking forward to reading the book & kind of nervous about it.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 7 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
This is a wonderful book!
Date:January 5, 2012
Kathie
Location:Pembroke, GA
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Recently my father passed away and my mother had a question concerning heaven. I told her she needed to read this book and it would answer her questions. I let her know that I have always believed there was a heaven but to read about a little boys experience of seeing Jesus and sitting on his lap, and being able to gaze into Jesus' eyes was something she really needed to read about. So I ordered her the book and she promised me that she would read it. She did, and she said she felt so much more at peace knowing that my dad really was in a place where he had no more pain, and would be there waiting for her when it was her time to come. I would and have recommended this book to others.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 8 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Heaven is for Real
Date:December 17, 2011
Val Frania
Location:Wausau, WI
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo is about a little boy who had a near death experience when he was 3 years old. His appendix had ruptured and infection had spread throughout his body. In a casual comment one day just after he had recovered from the life saving operation, he told his parents about how he met Jesus, his grandfather, and many other children who were growing up in heaven.
After he described for his father and mother what they doing in the hospital when he had this experience, his father began asking questions, wanting to find out more about what he else he had to say about his visit to heaven. For a YouTube video of Colton telling of his experience, click here. For another click here.
Most would disbelieve such an experience, yet I still enjoyed reading about what Colton said he had experienced (now 11 years old) regardless whether he actually experienced the things he described. It was a good read. Heaven is for real, believe it or not and it is refreshing to hear of children who desire to spread the good news about heaven, Jesus, and His saving power.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 9 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Deluxe Edition doesn't add much
Date:November 28, 2011
CKKIN
Location:Canada
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
I decided to check out this book because I heard bits and pieces about it from various sources and wanted to read it for myself. There has been quite a bit of buzz about this book, as it is quite an amazing story. The buzz focused on the little boy's journey to heaven and back, but I was glad to see the book didn't focus entirely on this, though it is very the reason for the book. It was also about doubt with God, being flawed as a parent, innocence of children, how our lives take us places we would never expect and how simple theology can be. There were a few things that stick with me, like how Colton was struck with how kind Jesus' eyes were.
However, the book had me thinking many times how it almost reinforces people desire to see rather than just have faith and believe. At one point the author told how after sharing his son's experience a woman who had lost a child asked if Colton had see that child in heaven, desperate to confirm her child was safe. I'm afraid that's mainly what people will get out of the book, the desire to know heaven is real because they hear from an eyewitness, or desire to see for themselves just as Coton did. But the point of faith is to believe in what we do not see; though the book doesn't try to sensationalize Colton's experience, I have no doubt they are just sharing an experience because of how much it has impacted their own lives.
This is the deluxe edition, complete with pictures in the middle, though I'm not sure what else makes it deluxe. The photos don't really add too much to the book, as they are just family photos from different times, not always related to topics covered in the book. Therefore, I don't think there is much point to getting this version rather than the basic edition. It was a book that I thought of many people I could share it with, so the hardcover will allow to it to be pass around and around without as much damage.
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 10 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Beautifully illustrated!
Date:November 26, 2011
Misty
Age:25-34
Gender:female
The book is about a little boy named Colton Burpo who gets really sick and has the chance to visit Heaven. It is supposed to be a true story. There is a grown up version of this book as well. I think it is a very good book to read to children who may have questions about heaven because it explains heaven on a child's level. I however am not sure of it being a "true" story. I did not tell my kids that it was "real" but just read it as a normal book.
The book is beautifully illustrated and is uniquely written from a child for a child. Colton tells of his experiences in first person and comments on things that will be important to kids. A letter to parents is included to guide them in talking to their children about heaven. Scripture along with Q&A section with answers from the Bible are also included in the book.
My kids actually really loved this book. The loved the pictures and my youngest really liked the pictures of the animals.
I received a free copy of this book free from book sneeze and was not required to write a good review but to give my own opinion of the book.
My kids actually really loved this book. The loved the pictures and my youngest really liked the pictures of the animals.
I received a free copy of this book free from book sneeze and was not required to write a good review but to give my own opinion of the book.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 11 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Great book
Date:November 8, 2011
Abby715
Age:Under 18
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
What would you do, if you were driving on the road and your four year old boy starts talking about Angels, Jesus, and going up to Heaven……Well you probably swerve right off the road into a ditch. Could it actually happen were a kid has left his body and gone up to heaven? It has many times, And just that thing happen to the Burpos. Todd Burpo is a Pastor, and Father of four. When Todd’s oldest son Colton ( Three-Four At the time) Starts having serious stomach pains what else is to be done then take him to the emergency room. While there after a strenuous time not know what was wrong, The Doctors finally figure out that Colton’s Appendix has burst. In an emergency Surgery, Colton is finally better but not after visiting heaven.
To me this was a Fanominale book about Colton trip to Heaven. While there he meets Jesus, ( How much better can it get? ) Colton’s Great Grandfather, and His Sister (who was a Miscarriage). He sees things that nobody would have thought that a three year old would even think about. Moreover, the point Colton wants to make in this book is that “Jesus REALLY Loves the Children.” I know you are going to Love this book as much as I have. :)
Abby
This book was given to me to review honestly by Thomas Nelson
This book was given to me to review honestly by Thomas Nelson
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 12 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Cannot deny the story
Date:November 8, 2011
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Heaven Is For Real is a book that has been the talk among many Christians these days. Many Christian bloggers have reviewed this book and have given mixed reviews. Many people in the church have received this book as a genuine experience from a little boy to this is ridiculous.
The book is written by Todd Burpo, who is a pastor, volunteer firefighter, and works for a garage door company. The book begins with many stories that happened to the family that led up to Todd's son, Colton, having an emergency appendectomy. It was during this emergency procedure that Colton began to have a vision of what heaven was. He told his family that he sat in Jesus' lap and even saw visions of a coming war which is described in Revelation.
Colton even talked about seeing his grandfather, named Pop, and a sister that Sonja, Todd's wife, miscarried before Colton was born. As Colton tells his stories, you could sense the disbelief in Todd and even went to the Bible to verify what some of the visions Colton said was true. The book concludes on life ever since that fateful day that Todd and Sonja almost lost their son.
The stories that Todd shares about his families struggles can cause any believer to weep. Especially with the thought of losing a child after his wife's miscarriage. I am grateful to God that Colton made it through his procedure and he is a healthy young man. However, what causes me to be skeptical are the visions Colton saw.
First, Colton said he saw a rainbow horse that Jesus owns. While there are creatures in heaven, I highly doubt Jesus owns a rainbow horse. In fact, Revelation says Jesus will come down on a white horse (Revelation 19:11). Another vision is that Colton had wings, which were not big, and every one in heaven had wings. There has been always been images of people, who go to heaven gaining wings as if they become angels, which is not true. Angels are ministering spirits to serve those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:14) and one day we will judge the angels (1 Corinthians 6:3).
Colton was asked by his father who was on the left side of God, since we know Jesus is at the right hand of God. Colton answered was the angel Gabriel. First of all, if Gabriel was one the left hand of God, then he would be God. Wasn't that the sin Satan committed that caused him to be thrown out of heaven.
Am I denying that what Colton saw actually happened? No, but how many near death experiences have we heard and give us a different picture of heaven then what Scripture gives us? Scripture is the final authority for every believer. In other words, we should always go to the Bible when it comes for spiritual truth. What I have heard from people I have talked to about this book, they are saying that their perspective of heaven has changed because of this book. This is a scary thing because we are saying that the Bible does not give us what we want. In this case, it is a actual picture of heaven from someone who saw it and came back to life.
I think every Christian should read this book with discernment because the Bible gives us a glimpse of what heaven is going to be. Whenever we read books or listen to a sermon, we need to go to the Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to help us test what we have read and heard.
Share this review:
+4points
4of 4voted this as helpful.
Review 13 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Amazingly simple view of heaven
Date:October 31, 2011
bernice
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Most people have heard about the book Heaven is for Real by now, but if you haven't, you need to run to the store, buy the book, and read it. Heaven is for Real tells the story of a four-year old boy (Colton) who made a trip to heaven during an emergency appendectomy. The book is written by Colton's father who describes the event and experience as Colton explains it. Colton describes his experience in heaven little by little over the months after his surgery. The descriptions and the no-nonsense explanations of God, Jesus, and heaven given by a four-year old help the reader to visualize heaven and even catch a glimpse of the things that are most important.
This is a wonderful book, it's inspiring, challenging and really helps you think, but yet it's very simple. The entire purpose of the book is for people to know that "heaven is for real". I think it's also nice to get a better picture of what awaits us. I think that this book can bring a lot of peace to someone facing death or to someone who has recently been left behind by a loved one who is now enjoying the bounties of heaven. Heaven is for real and it's beautiful and joyous and happy.
The simplistic nature of the book telling the story of a four-year old's experience makes it an easy read, but the details of the experience draws the reader in, I couldn't put this book down. At the beginning, I almost thought that there was too much detail, but at the end I was craving to know more. I wish I could sit down with little Colton Burpo and drill him with all kinds of additional questions about his experience in heaven. I love that not only did the book line up closely to some of the things I recall from the Bible, but the author included several Scripture passages throughout the book to further match the story to Biblical descriptions of heaven.
This is a fabulous book that I would recommend to anyone. Life is so much more than what we know living here on earth. There is so much more to the story.
I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze.com book review bloggers program in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I expressed are my own.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 14 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Date:October 30, 2011
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical getting this book. I had heard a lot of comments on it and was looking forward to reading it to see what everyone was talking about. I have read other books similar to this and I have found that the biblical basis behind what the book was saying was a bit dramatized and not a positive book in general.
I was blown away when I read Heaven is for Real. I found out after a few texts that my friend is the youth pastor at the Burpo's church. I read this book and it gave me a whole new outlook on life and heaven. I have never really heard sermons on heaven because some people don't like to hear about it in churches today. This book is phenomenal and one I would suggest everyone read.
If a 4 year old isn't afraid of death, why should adults be?
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 15 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Definitely meets its goal of encouraging us!
Date:October 28, 2011
MRubio
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
(click to see the video)
I originally read this book when I borrowed it from my now ex-fiance.
His mom past it down to him and I heard all the buzz so I checked it out.
The first time around, I was literally a few days into really accepting Christ so reading this book was mind-blowing. My jaw was literally dropping on some parts and I felt very encouraged that I had made the right choice in getting closer to God (especially the part when Colton knows about his other sister). I just could not believe that a little boy knew so many things and not understand the magnitude of his experience. I especially liked when he finally identified the right picture of Jesus.
Now a few months later, I re-read this book with a much more critical perspective (both because now I'm further in my walk in faith and because I now blog about books to help people).
I gotta say, it's different when you've done your research. It didn't give me the "wow" it did the first time around.
I still breezed through it but I had a lot of question marks now.
I read a lot of reviews before I pick out a book to read now and will go out of my way to make sure I'm not reading anything from false prophets.
One person said a very insightful comment by noting that the marketing trick behind this was what's made it such a success. Everyone wants to believe it's from the child's point of view because of the cover (since children are less likely to manipulate because there's innocent). I know that's what I thought initially. I thought it was Colton writing with adults helping him out with the proper grammar but it's pretty much the dad narrating. That's also pretty much how it goes in interviews and Colton seems to have more of a personality in the book than on camera. Here's a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3xItrGOi6Q&feature=related
According to this interview, he doesn't even remember it vividly because of time and I'm sorry but if I felt I met our Lord & Savior, I don't think I'd ever forget that.
Do I feel that this book does its job? Yes. It definitely encourages us and reminds us of why we all follow God. It's also great for new believers who aren't familiar with Scripture (like it was for me then).
Do I think it's being done in the most accurate way? No. I think that the Burpos are genuine but I'm not exactly sure the experience was genuine. God provides us with all the information we need to know in His word and we should get as excited with that as we do with heartwarming tales like this.
This book is tremendously popular because it paints the picture we all imagine but people forget about what has to happen in order for that to be a reality..the Burpos didn't have this experience when everything was picture perfect..it was a hard road. We must remember that part of the story as much as the heaven part.
The only difference between this version and the regular version is there's more pictures, which is kinda cool. I remember thinking the original version was a treat with just a few pages but this one almost has a mini scrapbook going. Overall, a great story with the right intentions.
His mom past it down to him and I heard all the buzz so I checked it out.
The first time around, I was literally a few days into really accepting Christ so reading this book was mind-blowing. My jaw was literally dropping on some parts and I felt very encouraged that I had made the right choice in getting closer to God (especially the part when Colton knows about his other sister). I just could not believe that a little boy knew so many things and not understand the magnitude of his experience. I especially liked when he finally identified the right picture of Jesus.
Now a few months later, I re-read this book with a much more critical perspective (both because now I'm further in my walk in faith and because I now blog about books to help people).
I gotta say, it's different when you've done your research. It didn't give me the "wow" it did the first time around.
I still breezed through it but I had a lot of question marks now.
I read a lot of reviews before I pick out a book to read now and will go out of my way to make sure I'm not reading anything from false prophets.
One person said a very insightful comment by noting that the marketing trick behind this was what's made it such a success. Everyone wants to believe it's from the child's point of view because of the cover (since children are less likely to manipulate because there's innocent). I know that's what I thought initially. I thought it was Colton writing with adults helping him out with the proper grammar but it's pretty much the dad narrating. That's also pretty much how it goes in interviews and Colton seems to have more of a personality in the book than on camera. Here's a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3xItrGOi6Q&feature=related
According to this interview, he doesn't even remember it vividly because of time and I'm sorry but if I felt I met our Lord & Savior, I don't think I'd ever forget that.
Do I feel that this book does its job? Yes. It definitely encourages us and reminds us of why we all follow God. It's also great for new believers who aren't familiar with Scripture (like it was for me then).
Do I think it's being done in the most accurate way? No. I think that the Burpos are genuine but I'm not exactly sure the experience was genuine. God provides us with all the information we need to know in His word and we should get as excited with that as we do with heartwarming tales like this.
This book is tremendously popular because it paints the picture we all imagine but people forget about what has to happen in order for that to be a reality..the Burpos didn't have this experience when everything was picture perfect..it was a hard road. We must remember that part of the story as much as the heaven part.
The only difference between this version and the regular version is there's more pictures, which is kinda cool. I remember thinking the original version was a treat with just a few pages but this one almost has a mini scrapbook going. Overall, a great story with the right intentions.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 16 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Great read! Definitely recommend it.
Date:October 23, 2011
BookFanatic
Location:Minnesota
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I've been wanting to read this book for a while, so I was excited when I finally got to. As most people know, it is about a young boy who goes to heaven while experiencing some health problems, and his experiences while there. It was a little dry in areas, but it was really interesting to see how the story unfolds. The parents don't hear him talking about it until a few months after all of the problems, and the way he describes everything is incredible. It is with childlike simplicity and wonder: how it should be when talking about Jesus. I definitely recommend it, easy and interesting read!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 17 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Heaven IS for Real and So is this Book
Date:October 20, 2011
AMOKArts
Location:Mohrsville, PA
Age:45-54
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
On the my arts ministry blog, I often encourage my readers to “tell a better story.” It’s not about embellishing the story or making something up. It’s about sharing what you have received from God in a way that will spur others to belief and good works. Todd Burpo has done just that in Heaven is for Real.
A lot of Christians, even the strongest ones struggle with doubt. Somewhere in the back of our minds is a voice that questions whether or not we’re wrong. This is especially prevalent in the areas of heaven and life after death. That is a time when we really have to hold on to belief and faith. Well most of us... Colton Burpo doesn’t have to wonder about Heaven or even believe in Heaven. He knows there’s a heaven. He’s been there.
Four year old Colton had a near death experience at the age of four. Afterwards, with no prompting from anyone, he began to describe vivid scenes of heaven, people who have gone before and even a miscarried sister he knew nothing about before the experience. These descriptions lead to one inescapable conclusion, Heaven is for Real.
Colton’s father, Pastor Todd Burpo wrote the book with Lynn Vincent (Same Kind of Different as Me). It’s one of those books, I could have read in one sitting had the pace of life permitted it (it didn’t). Burpo describes the harrowing events surrounding the near loss of his son in great, heart wrenching detail and Colton’s matter-of-fact descriptions of heaven in such a way that the reader almost feels as if he right there hearing it. This is an excellent book that will encourage your faith and place questions in the minds of even the most strident non-believer. I highly encourage you to read this book.
Heaven Is for Real is a great example of a “better story.”
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 18 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
A must read
Date:October 19, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This book has been on my to-read list for some time. I know many people have already reviewed it and there is probably not much left to say that has not already been said but here is my take on the book.
Everyone has his or her own mental image of what they think heaven will be like. Even though none of us can know with certainty exactly how it will be we have formed opinions from our own personal experiences—mostly through church. Religious or not, we are all spiritual beings and there is a hunger deep within to know what lies ahead. For the Christian, we have the blessed hope Jesus left with us that we will not only see Him one day, but will also see our loved ones again. But getting to that point is uncharted territory and there are very few people who claim to have been to heaven and back to tell about it. That is what makes this little boy’s story so interesting.
I started reading this book with high expectations and I was not disappointed. To have the chance to experience what this family learned from God was a blessing to me. Colton told of a loving Father and a wonderful place in the hereafter that will encourage every believer in their walk with God. Colton’s story rang true with me. I believe he experienced what he said. In his simple childish way he revealed some awesome truths that line up perfectly with the word of God. Sometimes we forget that heaven is real, that it is the prize for which we strive. Death is the one experience that we must all partake of alone—no one can do it for us and that is a scary thought for many. But it is nice to have the assurances of a child that God is with us every step of the way and that heaven is indeed a place to look forward to that will surpass our wildest imaginations.
I highly recommend this book for everyone who has not read it. It will change your life.
I highly recommend this book for everyone who has not read it. It will change your life.
I received this complimentary copy from the Thomas Nelson Publishing through their BookSneeze program. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 19 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Didn't love it, but still a good message
Date:October 18, 2011
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Okay, I didn't like this book. I know what your thinking, "But why didn't you like it? I loved it." I think people will either love it or not. One thing I can walk away with from reading this book is a deeper thirst for heaven. I want to dive in more and read God's Word. I want to be so saturated in God's Word that I find myself washed in His goodness until I meet Him on the other side of heaven.
Now, this is the story of a little boy who went under for surgery and a few weeks later begins sharing what he saw while in heaven. Part of me thinks this is one sweet story, but the other part is really skeptical. Lynn Vincent is an AWESOME writer. Yes, I said, AWESOME! She blew me away with, SAME KIND OF DIFFERENT.
Mr. Burpo is a pastor who has a deep faith. I guess I just wanted to hear more about this little boy and his thoughts today. Does he still remember? Praise God for this little boy and his precious life. No doubt, the Lord gave this family a miracle by healing their young son. But seeing wings on people? Some things just didn't line up to what I know to be biblically true. I just have more questions than answers. Maybe that is the whole point. To walk away with a deeper yearning, a wider passion for God's Word. This isn't my home. So, maybe I am to set my sights on heaven and dream of all it is to be.
This book was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 20 for Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Deluxe Edition
Overall Rating:
Devoured in one sitting
Date:October 18, 2011
Flame
Location:Michigan
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Riveting true story of a little boy, Colton & his family as they HAD to put their faith into action. Also, told with humbling honesty is their need to lean on the faith of others as well; during Colton’s life-threatening sickness and surgery. Colton’s story is told by his father, as they re-tell the trip to Heaven that no one knew Colton took; until the information began to unfold in bits and pieces; in unexpected ways and times.
I am sure that some of the experts will rage, and debate whether this story is really true or not and will miss the point. This family’s story is a great reminder that is time to return to that child-like faith that the Bible says that we need to have. As adults , we can be so educated that we lose that very simple, sweet faith; that is so pleasing to God. Colton’s direct, honest, child-like responses are so like what you would expect of a child of his age. They cause the reader to think back to the “First Love” that they had when they first believed. And to check, “where am I in my relationship with God?” Many scriptural references were included in the book as Heaven was revealed as seen through Colton’s eyes.
I am sure that some of the experts will rage, and debate whether this story is really true or not and will miss the point. This family’s story is a great reminder that is time to return to that child-like faith that the Bible says that we need to have. As adults , we can be so educated that we lose that very simple, sweet faith; that is so pleasing to God. Colton’s direct, honest, child-like responses are so like what you would expect of a child of his age. They cause the reader to think back to the “First Love” that they had when they first believed. And to check, “where am I in my relationship with God?” Many scriptural references were included in the book as Heaven was revealed as seen through Colton’s eyes.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.