Book Review: “Heaven is for Real”

Special to the Herald-Guide

July 14, 2011 at 11:39 am  | Mobile Reader | Print 

Ashley Folse

“Heaven is for Real,” written by Todd Burpo, tells the story of his young son who took a trip to heaven and back. Burpo, a pastor, describes their family’s journey through Nebraska in which they balanced prayer and the well-being of their children. After surviving a life-saving surgery, 4-year-old Colton spends the next few months telling his family about his experiences in heaven. His family does not know what to believe, but when Colton begins telling stories of events that happened before his birth, they know all is true. Years later, Burpo decided to write “Heaven is for Real” to give others inspiration. Colton proudly titled the book.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Heaven is for Real.” Burpo did an excellent job including small Bible excerpts into his story, while still holding my attention throughout Colton’s journey. I would recommend this book to any age or reading level. “Heaven is for Real” brings strength to the faithful and makes the faithless take note.

Ashley Folse is a junior in the academically gifted program at Hahnville High. She enjoys talented theatre, cross country and volunteering in the community.

Editor’s note: Book reviews are published weekly during the summer in agreement with Hahnville High School gifted English teacher Deborah Unger in conjunction with the Brown Foundation Service Learning Program.