A recent Newsweek poll reports that 76 percent of Americans believe in heaven. Yet even avid believers have difficulty conjuring up more than vague images of halos, harps, and wispy angels in flowing robes. Anthony DeStefano knew there had to be a more complete, meaningful, and comforting vision of what heaven is like, and A Travel Guide to Heaven is the entertaining and enlightening result. Using the Bible as his guide, the author notes that heaven is not only a spiritual place, but also a physical place, a fabulous "luxury resort" more sumptuous than any on Earth. The residents are real, their bodies transformed into their most perfect selves--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By making a spiritual subject immensely physical, the book provides a picture of amazing places to visit, things to do, luxuries for pampering--not to mention deep, abiding joy. Combining the clarity and logic of C. S. Lewis with a terrific sense of fun and adventure, DeStefano creates a brilliant, reassuring portrait of heaven, a place that has intrigued and puzzled humankind throughout history. With its clear view of the afterlife, A Travel Guide to Heaven might best be compared to James Van Praagh's Talking to Heaven or Betty J. Eadie's Embraced by the Light in its tremendous message of comfort and reassurance.
C.S. Lewis must have come back to life and written this book. As someone who has taught philosophy and theology for over twenty years, I can honestly say that A Travel Guide to Heaven is an extremely rare work in that it combines sacred Scripture, orthodox theology, and a very modern "voice" all in one. It is a highly accessible book that can be understood by anyone. Yet, I found that it is filled with the most subtle and sublime theological passages. Indeed, there are paragraphs in it that stand with those written by the greatest of Christian apologists. I have read some of the negative criticisms of this book, and frankly, the only conclusion that can be drawn is that these people hate Christianity to begin with. Probably they are the very same folks who are condemning the movie, "The Passion." Of course, if you think Christianity is nothing but lies and that heaven is just some "feel-good" invention, then you will obviously be repelled by this book. But that is the only possible reason. For Mr. DeStefano has very obviously penned a classic. I fear that those who are criticizing him know all too well how effective this book actually is, and just can't bear the thought of it being read and loved by so many people.
Something for everyone
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
I was touched and delighted by this beautiful work. This book does more than anything I've ever read to make heaven real and accessible to the average Christian. I loved the logical speculations and imaginative ideas, and I admire Mr. Destefano's attempt to make this book as ecumenical as possible, focusing on what all Christian sects teach in common about the afterlife. Devoid of jargon and full of hope, A Travel Guide to Heaven is something I recommend for anyone who wants to know the basis for Christian optimism.
An uplifting view of Heaven, and a great read, too!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
Wow...I bought this book on a lark, and I'm so glad I did. I've read other books that explore the subject of the afterlife, but none was ever as uplifting as this one. Other books on life after death were always either a little scary or strange. This author doesn't claim to have actually been to Heaven, but instead uses solid research to back up his vision of life after death. After I finished the book, I was left with feelings of hope and security. I can see how it would be comforting for someone who recently lost a loved one, or someone who is struggling with illness themselves. I've already purchased this book for two of my friends--it's the kind of book that, once you read it, you want to share it with others. Overall, a great read!
I'm buying 6 copies...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
I loved this book! It's well written, exciting, comforting, and "down to earth" -- quite a feat for a book about heaven!I lost a close friend recently, and this is just the book I needed to feel a sense of comfort and to ease some of my pain.I will be getting several copies to give to friends who have lost loved ones. It will probably be the best thing they could receive to help them during this tough time.
A must-read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
An extraordinary work that sits directly at the intersection of inspiration and entertainment. In this charming, witty, uplifting work, Anthony DeStefano did for me what 30 years of church couldn't: he made me believe in Heaven. With chapters like "Luxury Accomodations," "Our Tour Guides," and "A Heavenly Makeover," the author of this book paints a picture of the afterlife that's equal parts comforting and edifying.But by far, my favorite chapter is "Do All Dogs go to Heaven?" Having just lost my golden retreiver, my best friend for 13 years, the author's answer ("Of course!") gave me hope that one day I might see him again. Everyone I know is getting a copy of this book for Christmas.
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