Chicken Soup for the Soul

Those who don't like these types of books have major challenges to overcome. Cynics etc, don't even bother. However, if you want to feed your soul and keep on the path toward a positive life, this is one of the best books - still by far! I've seen, listen, lunched and laughed with MVH, and it was because of the success of the Chicken Soup books. He is a master communicator of uplifting stories - but more than that he inspires you with actual ideas, (not just 'feel good' emotions). That is why he and Jack's books work so well.

What is interesting to me is what they have in common with Horatio Alger, as his books - novels of rags to riches - were very much like the effect one has reading a Chicken Soup book. Not only uplifting, (all Alger's book with uplifting and very powerful in that way), but Alger always explained in his novels HOW a person was successful, (even down to the math), and these were more than principles, but examples that someone could duplicate in a different business and move forward, succeed and prosper. Hansen does the same in his books, and I would recommend you read all the books by all of these authors.

I just found a very nice set of great reprinted Alger books, (I'll leave you with a few). All in all, Hansen, Canfield, Alder, they are all great, inspiring, and what we need to read in this negative, cynical world.

Young Captain Jack: The Son of a Soldier

The Young Bank Messenger: A Classic Rags to Riches Story!

Slow and Sure: The Story of Paul Hoffman the Young Street-Merchant

Randy of the River: The Adventures of a Young Deckhand

Phil the Fiddler: A Classic Rags to Riches Story!

Paul the Peddler: The Fortunes of a Young Street Merchant

Paul Prescott's Charge: A Classic Rags to Riches Story!

The item was described in good condition, but I was a little disappointed. Although the book was very economical, I thought it was a bit faded and this should have been noted on the description.

I picked up this book based largely on the fact that it is a #1 NY Times Bestseller and that it has received rave reviews. My impression after reading it is that the book on the whole is not worthy of its stature as one of the bestselling books in the past 2 decades. Some of the stories are good, and some do evoke emotions. But the ultra-short length of the stories makes them seem (again, over all) more superficial than stories of greater length. It's difficult to convey a compelling feeling or thought (which, by their very nature, need some context) in one or two pages. But some of the stories are good and I'd recommend others to pick up this book. Just keep your expectations in check.

I personally think is a classic. Does really warm your soul and is heart warming, even if it sounds cliche. One of the most inspirational books I have read.

Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield is a book that will nourish you from the inside. There are over a hundred wonderful stories based on true testimonies of good and loving people. These touching stories give you renewed faith in the world. These wonderful tales will touch your heart.