Critics' Opinion:
Readers' rating:
Published Nov 2009
320 pages
Genre: Literary Fiction
Publication Information
Extremely successful executive, Lou Suffern is always overstretched, immune to the holiday spirit that delights everyone around him. The classic workaholic who never has a moment to spare, he is always multitasking while shortchanging his devoted wife and their adorable children. And ever since he started competing for a big promotion, he has barely seen his family at all.
One frigid morning in an uncharacteristic burst of generosity, he buys a cup of coffee for Gabe, a homeless man huddled outside his office building. Inspired by his own unexpected act of kindness, Lou decides to prolong his charitable streak and contrives to get Gabe a job in his company's mailroom. But when Gabe begins to meddle in Lou's life, the helping hand appears to be a serious mistake. Gabe seems to know more about Lou than Lou does about himself, and, perhaps more disturbingly, Gabe always seems to be in two places at once.
With Lou's personal and professional fates at important crossroads and Christmas looming, Gabe resorts to some unorthodox methods to show his stubborn patron what truly matters and how precious the gift of time is. But can he help him fix what's broken before it's too late?
"Ahern's an accomplished storyteller, and her writing chops elevate this far above the normal holiday fare. There’s magic, but it’s not campy, and the sentiment is real." - Publishers Weekly
"Ahern has a way with character, but her penchant for the supernatural—angels, ghosts, djà vu—works against the weight of her story." - Kirkus Reviews
"A moving tale ...The Gift weaves magical elements into modern-day setting, and will certainly appeal to readers looking for a touching supernatural tearjerker." - Booklist
"[A] holiday treat ... This clever twist on the guardian angel story will appeal to Ahern's fans and lovers of holiday fiction." - Library Journal
This information about The Gift was first featured
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Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Cecelia Ahern, author of the international bestsellers, PS, I Love You; Love, Rosie; and If You Could See Me Now, is the daughter of Ireland's former prime minister, known as the Taoiseach (pronounced TEE-shock), Bertie Ahern.
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