The Ultimate Gift: A Novel – The Timeless Tale of a Young Man’s Journey Toward Discovering the True Gift of Life

The story tells us about Jason Stevens who receives a large cardboard box as an inheritance from his great uncle Red. The other beneficiaries receive their portion of the multibillion-dollar state, but for Jason was different, and that make him upset. The large cardboard box contained step by step instructions for one year, so he is led through several tasks designed to make him a better person. Red, though, noticed in Jason “some spark of something in him, he is hoping they can capture and fan into a flame”. From learning the value of hard work to understanding the importance of giving, Jason's journey takes him on a path of self-discovery and personal growth. I really enjoyed reading this book, it helped me reflect on the way I live my life and also helped me change my vision of how to live.

This book has a great message and was such a joy to read. I enjoyed the characters and appreciate reflecting on each of the gifts. Very inspiring!

My mother-in-law and I watched the movie during Christmas years before I knew it was based upon a series of novels. When I saw this book offered on OHFB, I decided to see how well it related to the movie, but I would also keep an open mind about the differences should they present themselves. The biggest difference between the two was the perspective in which the entirety of the story was told. While the movie was able to focus on all of the characters in depth, this book followed Jason's journey from Theodore Hamilton's point-of-view.Even though Mr. Hamilton was the guide or narrator of the story, Jason Stevens and his journey to complete the twelve tasks over the course of a year were the primary focus. He's a spoiled young man who hasn't had to do much in order to make ends meet. In order to save his life and help him make something of himself, his great-uncle's last wish directed Jason's stubbornness toward the tasks of learning the simple truths and pleasures life has to offer. There was as much to learn about Red and Theo as there was about Jason. Since the story was written from Theo's perspective, we're privy to his thoughts most of the time. Red offered his thoughts in video-taped messages that were played at the beginning of each session with the lawyer and at the end of Jason's journey, should he make it.The book was a fairly quick read once the chain of events were set in motion by Red's death. Monthly tasks were covered within one or two chapters. Unfortunately, there was a bit of repetition a few chapters about how much of a great guy Red was to Theo and how at any time the process can be stopped if Theo wasn't satisfied with Jason's performance in the goals. Even had I not seen the movie beforehand, I still would be frustrated that I wasn't able to see more of Jason's transformation from the surly, spoiled kid into a more mature adult within the book. There's so much emphasis on the journey and the lessons that to not see more of the transformation was a letdown in some ways for me.Overall, the book was a light, inspirational read. It was especially fitting for reading during the Christmas season. Though it lacked more depth in a few areas, it presented good cases for honesty, hard work, love and giving that aren't forgotten in our busy world. The message came home without a lot of over-the-top sappy stuff that some books use to move the story along. If you're looking for a decent delivery of some good messages, please pick up a copy of this book and share it with those you love.

Easy read, excellent lessons that help trigger gratitude. Read in 2 days…. this book should be included as part of the US English curriculum in high school!

First off, it is important to note that I never give anything top star(or a perfect 10), because I believe it to be important that nothing appear 'perfected,' or without room for improvement. This, however, is so great, it deserves as many stars as one could give. Not many people give respect to what they have in life, so most keep 'looking' for more THINGS to bring them happiness, when the true GIFTS in your life come from giving yourself to the world you live in, and appreciating all you already have. To achieve WEALTH in your life, one must be willing to sacrifice a little, love alot, give alot, and be grateful for WHAT YOU HAVE! This book is a fantastic medium for teaching one the true WEALTH one can acquire in one's life, and how to be happy with yourself! I gave a bunch of these books to others I knew who were struggling in their life, and they saw things much different after reading it. I first got a copy when i was in a desperate struggle to see my purpose. My grandmother sent me a copy, and I, too, see things much clearer now, but I had to open myself up to be TAUGHT! I use to believe that I would win the lottery and would be happily set for life, with no worries, and could give more to other with that money. I now realize that money won't bring that, and that I already have everything I need to bring myself and others true happiness. This book has so much to offer! Please, open yourself to GREATER THINGS! P.S. Just got back from the movie, out 3-9-07, and it was just a fantastic adaptation to the novel. Get the book, see the movie, and you will walk with a new sense of purpose. If you want more inspiration after that, get the new dvd THE SECRET, and the book collection CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD(more of a religious tone). Hope you find happiness! BE TRUE!

Quick read. Very warm story with valuable lessons within. Highly recommend to anyone. *warning* may elicit emotional responses. haha ha.