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David Ponder esta de vuelta. Esta vez, el destino de la Humanidad esta en sus manos.
Esta es la ultima oportunidad de la humanidad. Siglos de ambicion, orgullo y odio han lanzado a la humanidad al desastre, y la han alejado de su proposito original. Solo existe una solucion para reposicionar la brujula y volver el navio a su curso, y consiste de dos palabras.
El tiempo se acaba y depende de David Ponder y de un reparto de las mejores y mas brillantes mentes de la historia hallar la solucion antes de que sea demasiado tarde. ?El problema? Solo tienen cinco oportunidades para encontrar la respuesta.
Los lectores se encontraron con David Ponder en "El" r"egalo del viajero." Ahora, en "La cumbre final," Andrews combina una narrativa fascinante con una asombrosa historia para mostrarnos la unica cosa que debemos hacer cuando no sabemos que hacer.
Esta es la ultima oportunidad de la humanidad. Siglos de ambicion, orgullo y odio han lanzado a la humanidad al desastre, y la han alejado de su proposito original. Solo existe una solucion para reposicionar la brujula y volver el navio a su curso, y consiste de dos palabras.
El tiempo se acaba y depende de David Ponder y de un reparto de las mejores y mas brillantes mentes de la historia hallar la solucion antes de que sea demasiado tarde. ?El problema? Solo tienen cinco oportunidades para encontrar la respuesta.
Los lectores se encontraron con David Ponder en "El" r"egalo del viajero." Ahora, en "La cumbre final," Andrews combina una narrativa fascinante con una asombrosa historia para mostrarnos la unica cosa que debemos hacer cuando no sabemos que hacer.
168 pages, Paperback
First published February 26, 2011
67 people are currently reading
1014 people want to read
About the author
Andy Andrews
117 books1,090 followers~ Hailed by a New York Times writer as a "modern-day Will Rogers who has quietly become one of the most influential people in America."
~ Spoken at the request of four different U.S. Presidents
~ Every single minute a book by Andy Andrews is sold somewhere in the world!
~ New York Times Bestselling Author of The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift
Source:
http://www.andyandrews.com/
~ Spoken at the request of four different U.S. Presidents
~ Every single minute a book by Andy Andrews is sold somewhere in the world!
~ New York Times Bestselling Author of The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift
Source:
http://www.andyandrews.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
August 25, 2016
It does seem that all the good self-help/inspirational books convey their message through telling a story, and this book was no exception. Lots of highlights, helpfully bunched together by theme.
This book may cause me to pick up a few biographies (which I don't usually read).
______________________
Tact is a human trait needed only by those who hesitate to tell the truth.
In the Valley of the Shadow of Death we are allowed to think and brood. We experience loneliness and gain humility. We learn to focus our thoughts on others and not weep for ourselves. Then and only then do we gain glorious perspective. And perspective brings calm. Calm leads to clear thinking, which yields ideas. And from ideas, we get answers.
It is direction, the specific direction in which we journey, not intention, that determines destination.
It is the first task of a leader, to keep hope alive.
Hope is the captain of courage and the author of success. For the person whose hope remains unshaken has within them the power to do miracles. Hope sees what is invisible, feels what is intangible, and achieves what most consider impossible.
If your very purpose has yet to be fulfilled, that is proof that the most important part of your life remains ahead of you.
By virtue of the fact that you still draw breath, there is more to come. There is more laughter and learning, more victories. There is more.
In seeking wisdom, thou art wise; in imagining that thou hast attained it, thou art a fool.
Young people know the rules. Old people know the exceptions.
I feel that I gain a great deal of wisdom by simply remaining silent.
It is the domain of scholarship to speak, the advantage of wisdom to listen.
Wisdom is our understanding of how life works and our sense of humour when it doesn't,
That boldness, that assured air - it is strange to me that sometimes a person has to be a little careless with his life in order to keep it.
I believe that courage only appears - seemingly spontaneously - when we care very deeply about something or someone. It is at that moment when we take risks that are unimaginable in any other context.
If one asks bad questions, one's mind descends to a state in which we work to furnish bad answers.
Exerting self-discipline is merely a process by which you remember what you really want. Can you make yourself do something you don't particularly want to do in order to get a result you would like to have?
If you are not that kind of person, you must become another kind.
You can learn to control how you think. If you don't control how you think, you cannot control how you act. Self-discipline is the bridge between what you are and what you wish to become. And unless you change how you think and how you act, you will always be what you are. (vertical tension)
Self-discipline is an act of investment. It requires us to invest today's actions for tomorrow's results.
If we build character, our reputations will take care of themselves.
"And you know what happens to people of value, don't you? They gain opportunities; they get help; they receive job offers. Why? Because they did something when they didn't know what to do."
This book may cause me to pick up a few biographies (which I don't usually read).
______________________
Tact is a human trait needed only by those who hesitate to tell the truth.
In the Valley of the Shadow of Death we are allowed to think and brood. We experience loneliness and gain humility. We learn to focus our thoughts on others and not weep for ourselves. Then and only then do we gain glorious perspective. And perspective brings calm. Calm leads to clear thinking, which yields ideas. And from ideas, we get answers.
It is direction, the specific direction in which we journey, not intention, that determines destination.
It is the first task of a leader, to keep hope alive.
Hope is the captain of courage and the author of success. For the person whose hope remains unshaken has within them the power to do miracles. Hope sees what is invisible, feels what is intangible, and achieves what most consider impossible.
If your very purpose has yet to be fulfilled, that is proof that the most important part of your life remains ahead of you.
By virtue of the fact that you still draw breath, there is more to come. There is more laughter and learning, more victories. There is more.
In seeking wisdom, thou art wise; in imagining that thou hast attained it, thou art a fool.
Young people know the rules. Old people know the exceptions.
I feel that I gain a great deal of wisdom by simply remaining silent.
It is the domain of scholarship to speak, the advantage of wisdom to listen.
Wisdom is our understanding of how life works and our sense of humour when it doesn't,
That boldness, that assured air - it is strange to me that sometimes a person has to be a little careless with his life in order to keep it.
I believe that courage only appears - seemingly spontaneously - when we care very deeply about something or someone. It is at that moment when we take risks that are unimaginable in any other context.
If one asks bad questions, one's mind descends to a state in which we work to furnish bad answers.
Exerting self-discipline is merely a process by which you remember what you really want. Can you make yourself do something you don't particularly want to do in order to get a result you would like to have?
If you are not that kind of person, you must become another kind.
You can learn to control how you think. If you don't control how you think, you cannot control how you act. Self-discipline is the bridge between what you are and what you wish to become. And unless you change how you think and how you act, you will always be what you are. (vertical tension)
Self-discipline is an act of investment. It requires us to invest today's actions for tomorrow's results.
If we build character, our reputations will take care of themselves.
"And you know what happens to people of value, don't you? They gain opportunities; they get help; they receive job offers. Why? Because they did something when they didn't know what to do."
April 11, 2011
Christian fiction with allegorical as well as overt spiritual messages has always been a favorite of mine. As is mentioned in Fred Lygrand’s book, Glaen, the best way to hold readers’ attention with non-fiction concepts is to mix in a bit of tension-meets-resolution narrative. Authors C.S. Lewis and John Bunyan were masters of this genre, deftly blending compelling stories with timeless truths. Jesus Christ himself used storytelling to convey many of his lessons.
In The Final Summit, Andy Andews attempts to continue this tradition, just as he presented in his previous work, The Traveler’s Gift. While other readers (such as PGA Champion Hal Sutton) may compare him to the likes of C.S. Lewis, I unfortunately cannot make that leap. While many of the concepts that Andrews presents are timeless, true, helpful and proven to be effective, I found his execution to be very lacking. Andrews’ writing is weak, lacks credibility and never prompted me to suspend disbelief during his fantastical storyline.
The issue that was most disconcerting was the overall theme of the book. Andrews posits that the world is going down the drain faster than we ever would believe, and to solve this problem, we must be the ones to do something about it. And while I agree the human race is frequently the cause of suffering in the world, I do not believe we are the only solution to this problem. Yes, I agree that we must do something to make the world a better place, but it is not up to us completely save it. Only Jesus Christ can do that. Ultimately, only the power of God will justly deal with all the ills of the universe. We are participants in the divine nature (II Peter 1:4), but we do not hold sway over it as much as the characters of The Final Summit.
Andrews offers quote after quotable quote, stringing them together with cameos of many historical figures. I found the book (as well as its predecessor The Traveler’s Gift) to be the kind of thing you’d find in a Joel Osteen or Tony Robbins program. For the most part it’s harmless, with many philosophies that are true and good, but in the end it’s a string of adages and platitudes (p.187).
I cannot say that Andrews’ work is necessarily to be avoided—I’m sure there are some young readers (especially history students) who would benefit from the messages and historical tales shared in his works. Just so many far superior writers could be enjoyed instead. Stick with C.S. Lewis, Bunyan, or even better—the Holy Bible for the best in spiritual inspiration. Writers of Christian fiction and allegory can produce classic and quality writing. I’m sorry to say that I didn’t find Andy Andrews to be one of those authors.
In The Final Summit, Andy Andews attempts to continue this tradition, just as he presented in his previous work, The Traveler’s Gift. While other readers (such as PGA Champion Hal Sutton) may compare him to the likes of C.S. Lewis, I unfortunately cannot make that leap. While many of the concepts that Andrews presents are timeless, true, helpful and proven to be effective, I found his execution to be very lacking. Andrews’ writing is weak, lacks credibility and never prompted me to suspend disbelief during his fantastical storyline.
The issue that was most disconcerting was the overall theme of the book. Andrews posits that the world is going down the drain faster than we ever would believe, and to solve this problem, we must be the ones to do something about it. And while I agree the human race is frequently the cause of suffering in the world, I do not believe we are the only solution to this problem. Yes, I agree that we must do something to make the world a better place, but it is not up to us completely save it. Only Jesus Christ can do that. Ultimately, only the power of God will justly deal with all the ills of the universe. We are participants in the divine nature (II Peter 1:4), but we do not hold sway over it as much as the characters of The Final Summit.
Andrews offers quote after quotable quote, stringing them together with cameos of many historical figures. I found the book (as well as its predecessor The Traveler’s Gift) to be the kind of thing you’d find in a Joel Osteen or Tony Robbins program. For the most part it’s harmless, with many philosophies that are true and good, but in the end it’s a string of adages and platitudes (p.187).
I cannot say that Andrews’ work is necessarily to be avoided—I’m sure there are some young readers (especially history students) who would benefit from the messages and historical tales shared in his works. Just so many far superior writers could be enjoyed instead. Stick with C.S. Lewis, Bunyan, or even better—the Holy Bible for the best in spiritual inspiration. Writers of Christian fiction and allegory can produce classic and quality writing. I’m sorry to say that I didn’t find Andy Andrews to be one of those authors.
January 6, 2015
I feel a little emotional as I write this. I do realize that I might be a bit of an odd book reader, and being brought to tears by literature is something that happens to me often, but I did very much appreciate this book. Andy Andrews seems to have taken all the genres I generally avoid (Christian, self-help and historical) and meshed them into an extraordinary tale. Now when I say I avoid these three genres, it is not because I don't like them so much as it is a case of I have never bothered with them because I know what I do like. And I do like most genres.
I must admit that I expected to not like this one. I stay away from Christian fiction because I am rather arrogant when it comes to doctrine and I have little patience for doctrine pushers. Andy does not preach though. And yet after reading this book I feel like I have just attended a rather successful conference of some sort. It has left me smiling.
To put it simply, The Final Summit is about David Ponder who has been summoned by the archangel Gabriel to find a solution to the problems of the world. With the help of many historical figures (Churchill, Lincoln, Edison, Joan of Arc) he sets out to figure out the answer. the story is presented simply and is straightforward in it's wisdom and insight. Everything that was discussed seemed to "count" on a very real level, and I am still reeling from the incredible and historically accurate (but relatively unknown) story of Eric Erikson and his wife Ingrid. I cried through the entire passage.
It's definitely worth a read for anyone who likes to read about history in an informal manner as well as for anyone who likes motivational and inspiring texts.
I am humbled by how much I enjoyed this book. There is something very lovely about writing with such innocence.
I must admit that I expected to not like this one. I stay away from Christian fiction because I am rather arrogant when it comes to doctrine and I have little patience for doctrine pushers. Andy does not preach though. And yet after reading this book I feel like I have just attended a rather successful conference of some sort. It has left me smiling.
To put it simply, The Final Summit is about David Ponder who has been summoned by the archangel Gabriel to find a solution to the problems of the world. With the help of many historical figures (Churchill, Lincoln, Edison, Joan of Arc) he sets out to figure out the answer. the story is presented simply and is straightforward in it's wisdom and insight. Everything that was discussed seemed to "count" on a very real level, and I am still reeling from the incredible and historically accurate (but relatively unknown) story of Eric Erikson and his wife Ingrid. I cried through the entire passage.
It's definitely worth a read for anyone who likes to read about history in an informal manner as well as for anyone who likes motivational and inspiring texts.
I am humbled by how much I enjoyed this book. There is something very lovely about writing with such innocence.
September 3, 2012
Never having read one of the author’s works, I began this one with a hesitant and preconceived expectation this would be an agonizingly dry chore. Little did I know that by the end of the first paragraph, page 1, the author would have my rapt attention for the duration of the main character’s quest to identify the one universal commitment to save humanity from extinction.
Already in what should be his golden years, David Ponder, an accomplished and successful business man, finds himself unable to climb from the deep void left by the death of his lifelong partner; his wife Ellen. While contemplating the unthinkable, he is convinced by divine intervention to join hundreds of history’s greatest leaders tasked with finding the one Decision that will save the world from complete destruction. With the sands of time running out, David and his fellow “travelers” commence a journey to sift through and identify the most essential from a list of powerful principles that have guided the decision-making of great leaders throughout history.
In a short 224 pages, the author’s story instilled in this reader a suspenseful search for that which implemented in real life, would surely change the course of humankind. Andy Andrews packs an intense thought-provoking journey like none other I've read before.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Already in what should be his golden years, David Ponder, an accomplished and successful business man, finds himself unable to climb from the deep void left by the death of his lifelong partner; his wife Ellen. While contemplating the unthinkable, he is convinced by divine intervention to join hundreds of history’s greatest leaders tasked with finding the one Decision that will save the world from complete destruction. With the sands of time running out, David and his fellow “travelers” commence a journey to sift through and identify the most essential from a list of powerful principles that have guided the decision-making of great leaders throughout history.
In a short 224 pages, the author’s story instilled in this reader a suspenseful search for that which implemented in real life, would surely change the course of humankind. Andy Andrews packs an intense thought-provoking journey like none other I've read before.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
May 18, 2022
Although not quite as interesting and gripping as its prequel, “The Traveler’s Gift”, this book had a lot of interesting historical facts that I had never heard of before. It was also filled with a lot of motivational lines and words of wisdom. The plot was somewhat lacking, but it was interesting and very educational.
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Circumstances are rulers of the weak.”
“Perspective brings calm. Calm leads to clear thinking. Clear thinking yields ideas. And from ideas, we get answers.”
“The more sand that has fallen from the hourglass of our lives, the clearer we should be able to see through it.”
“If you want good answers in your life, you must ask good questions.”
“An example of a bad question from my own life would be ‘Why can’t I solve this problem between these people?’ You see, when I asked that question, my mind began to think about all my deficiencies… Now, on the other hand, if I can manage to ask myself a good question, a question like, ‘What is the best way to solve this problem between these people?’ At that moment, my mind goes to work on solutions. I have set my subconscious to think of best possibilities, and because of it, I am happier and more productive.”
“The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking with which we created them.”
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Circumstances are rulers of the weak.”
“Perspective brings calm. Calm leads to clear thinking. Clear thinking yields ideas. And from ideas, we get answers.”
“The more sand that has fallen from the hourglass of our lives, the clearer we should be able to see through it.”
“If you want good answers in your life, you must ask good questions.”
“An example of a bad question from my own life would be ‘Why can’t I solve this problem between these people?’ You see, when I asked that question, my mind began to think about all my deficiencies… Now, on the other hand, if I can manage to ask myself a good question, a question like, ‘What is the best way to solve this problem between these people?’ At that moment, my mind goes to work on solutions. I have set my subconscious to think of best possibilities, and because of it, I am happier and more productive.”
“The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking with which we created them.”
August 28, 2024
If you liked The Traveler’s Summit, you’ll like this book-they’re the same!
August 25, 2011
I am normally a fan of Andy Andrews, but I was very disappointed with his newest book.
David Ponder, the hero of Andrew's The Traveler's Gift, is now in his 70s and has recently lost his wife. While struggling with his grief and contemplating living life alone, David receives a visit from the Archangel Gabriel. The angel whisks him away to a final summit to determine the fate of mankind. David and many key figures from American and world history are tasked to determine what people must do to restore mankind to a successful path. Ponder, along with characters like Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Joan of Arc, King David talk through the important aspects of human character and how they impact the course of human history.
It sounds like an interesting plot, I was disappointed by threes issues I found in the story.
First, most of the story takes place at the summit, so it is the story of the meeting between David Ponder and the other historic characters. It's all conversation and no action, which made it less interesting to me than Andrew's other books.
Second, the author reuses a lot of the same stories, key principles, and even wording from The Traveler's Gift. If you've already read that book (or even some of Andrew's other books) you've already read parts of this one.
Third, I was really disappointed in the content and the conclusions reached by David Ponder, Abraham Lincoln, King David and the other characters. I expected this to be a Christian book and it really wasn't. God is clear in the Bible that He is not planning to end mankind in the same way as the flood. The book also alludes to an earlier, more advanced civilization but the author doesn't really complete the portion of the story, nor explain how it fits into human history or the teachings of the Bible. Most disappointing of all was that the characters offer answers that are in line with humanistic rather than Christian thought, and their conclusions don't even fit with what we know of the characters.
My teenage kids and I listened to this as an audio book, and all of us were almost yelling at the characters to come up with better answers. For example, King David claims that being disciplined is the answer to mankind's problems. Not only does the David in the book come off as a negative, arrogant character, but the real King David would have been the very first to understand and teach that following God rather than relying on our own abilities is the only answer.
Very disappointing, particularly from this author. :(
David Ponder, the hero of Andrew's The Traveler's Gift, is now in his 70s and has recently lost his wife. While struggling with his grief and contemplating living life alone, David receives a visit from the Archangel Gabriel. The angel whisks him away to a final summit to determine the fate of mankind. David and many key figures from American and world history are tasked to determine what people must do to restore mankind to a successful path. Ponder, along with characters like Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Joan of Arc, King David talk through the important aspects of human character and how they impact the course of human history.
It sounds like an interesting plot, I was disappointed by threes issues I found in the story.
First, most of the story takes place at the summit, so it is the story of the meeting between David Ponder and the other historic characters. It's all conversation and no action, which made it less interesting to me than Andrew's other books.
Second, the author reuses a lot of the same stories, key principles, and even wording from The Traveler's Gift. If you've already read that book (or even some of Andrew's other books) you've already read parts of this one.
Third, I was really disappointed in the content and the conclusions reached by David Ponder, Abraham Lincoln, King David and the other characters. I expected this to be a Christian book and it really wasn't. God is clear in the Bible that He is not planning to end mankind in the same way as the flood. The book also alludes to an earlier, more advanced civilization but the author doesn't really complete the portion of the story, nor explain how it fits into human history or the teachings of the Bible. Most disappointing of all was that the characters offer answers that are in line with humanistic rather than Christian thought, and their conclusions don't even fit with what we know of the characters.
My teenage kids and I listened to this as an audio book, and all of us were almost yelling at the characters to come up with better answers. For example, King David claims that being disciplined is the answer to mankind's problems. Not only does the David in the book come off as a negative, arrogant character, but the real King David would have been the very first to understand and teach that following God rather than relying on our own abilities is the only answer.
Very disappointing, particularly from this author. :(
January 24, 2015
Inspirational fiction? Sounded interesting so I randomly pulled the book off the library shelf.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It's pretty well written and an interesting premise. Time travel and a meeting with a bunch of cool historical folks (Joan of Ark and Winston Churchill were my favs) and how to save the world with Two Words. Wow
I enjoyed this book a lot. It's pretty well written and an interesting premise. Time travel and a meeting with a bunch of cool historical folks (Joan of Ark and Winston Churchill were my favs) and how to save the world with Two Words. Wow
February 23, 2012
Loved this book -- and liked the first book about David Ponder, "The Travelers Gift."
October 20, 2023
To those people who act like they want to save the humanity,
You don't want to save the humanity or the people. You only want to save the world. Make the world a better place is nothing but a corporate agenda where you basically want to save the earth resources while you push the people to sell their souls to the devil. I mean even though 'selling soul to the devil' isn't really the right phrase. Devil is just a worm who belongs under the feet of Adam, and it really doesn't have any power over your soul or anything. It's just your fear of your own words that play in your brain that's all. But anyway just for the sake of speaking, I mention this 'selling soul' part.
But that's really it.
You don't want to save souls. You want to save your diamond mines. You gold mines. You gas mines and coal mines. You want to save your currency. You systematically cause inflation, raise tax and product price, and then you take time to increase the salaries of people after four to five months, sometimes years. You harvest your profit during those months where people are still living on their old salary.
Your harvesting time is coming to an end.
Your systematic 'giveaway' to your own cult families and your nieces and sons will not work anymore as 'drops'.
TIME FOR YOUR REAL DROP IS COMING TO GET YOU.
YOU HAVE BEEN FOOLED BY YOUR LIAR LORDS ALL THESE TIMES.
THE ONLY THING YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN FOR IS TO BE THE 'PEAK' IN THIS WORLD, SO THAT YOU CAN BE THE 'DROP' FOR THE BELEIVERS IN THE NEXT WORLD. THAT'S WHAT YOU ARE CHOSEN FOR. YOU KNOW, AFTER ALL, SOMEONE'S GOTTA FALL IN THE NEXT WORLD SO THAT THE BELEIVERS CAN RISE, RIGHT?
I'm basically parroting your words.
Get ready to face the end.
Your magics are falling.
You don't want to save the humanity or the people. You only want to save the world. Make the world a better place is nothing but a corporate agenda where you basically want to save the earth resources while you push the people to sell their souls to the devil. I mean even though 'selling soul to the devil' isn't really the right phrase. Devil is just a worm who belongs under the feet of Adam, and it really doesn't have any power over your soul or anything. It's just your fear of your own words that play in your brain that's all. But anyway just for the sake of speaking, I mention this 'selling soul' part.
But that's really it.
You don't want to save souls. You want to save your diamond mines. You gold mines. You gas mines and coal mines. You want to save your currency. You systematically cause inflation, raise tax and product price, and then you take time to increase the salaries of people after four to five months, sometimes years. You harvest your profit during those months where people are still living on their old salary.
Your harvesting time is coming to an end.
Your systematic 'giveaway' to your own cult families and your nieces and sons will not work anymore as 'drops'.
TIME FOR YOUR REAL DROP IS COMING TO GET YOU.
YOU HAVE BEEN FOOLED BY YOUR LIAR LORDS ALL THESE TIMES.
THE ONLY THING YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN FOR IS TO BE THE 'PEAK' IN THIS WORLD, SO THAT YOU CAN BE THE 'DROP' FOR THE BELEIVERS IN THE NEXT WORLD. THAT'S WHAT YOU ARE CHOSEN FOR. YOU KNOW, AFTER ALL, SOMEONE'S GOTTA FALL IN THE NEXT WORLD SO THAT THE BELEIVERS CAN RISE, RIGHT?
I'm basically parroting your words.
Get ready to face the end.
Your magics are falling.
April 5, 2019
History and suspense combine to make you forget time when you enter The Final Summit.
I could have closed the door, crawled up on my bed, and read this book all night. I had to discipline myself to read just a chapter or two at a time. The first chapter was a bit slow for me. I kept thinking that a businessman would enjoy it. I changed my mind when the Archangel Gabriel appeared. The protagonist, David Ponder, is a successful businessman around seventy years old. The antagonist is time itself embodied in an hourglass.
At the Final Summit, Gabriel poses a question which must be answered correctly before the sands of humanity's time run out. David Ponder meets with a number of historical figures, both well-known and obscure, to solve the complex problem with just two words. Two words that will change the course of humanity.
Along the way, Mr. Andrews weaves in some fascinating, little known, historical narrative that I enjoyed immensely. The story was so well-written, I cannot wait to read his previous book, The Traveler's Gift.
Five Stars!
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
I could have closed the door, crawled up on my bed, and read this book all night. I had to discipline myself to read just a chapter or two at a time. The first chapter was a bit slow for me. I kept thinking that a businessman would enjoy it. I changed my mind when the Archangel Gabriel appeared. The protagonist, David Ponder, is a successful businessman around seventy years old. The antagonist is time itself embodied in an hourglass.
At the Final Summit, Gabriel poses a question which must be answered correctly before the sands of humanity's time run out. David Ponder meets with a number of historical figures, both well-known and obscure, to solve the complex problem with just two words. Two words that will change the course of humanity.
Along the way, Mr. Andrews weaves in some fascinating, little known, historical narrative that I enjoyed immensely. The story was so well-written, I cannot wait to read his previous book, The Traveler's Gift.
Five Stars!
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
October 18, 2017
I'll start with the positives. First, I really enjoyed the history in this. The author did a great job of bringing the famous characters to life while remaining true to real history. I especially enjoyed learning about Eric Erickson and his role in World War II because I had never heard of him before. I also felt the writing itself was well done and the ideas discussed in the book are all important and able to inspire you to be a better person (for me, the idea of self discipline even when we are having a hard time emotionally was an especially important reminder to me at this time in my life).
There were some things I didn't like about the book. First, the pacing was really slow. Nothing really happened except characters talking and the tension that was supposed to be there (that they wouldn't find the answer) didn't really add tension because you knew they would find the answer the entire time you were reading the book. It also felt that the fictional parts of the book only made the book longer without adding a lot. Simply writing the history part of the story and making it a nonfiction book would have actually kept my interest better. I also didn't like the way the book portrayed heaven and angels and God, because they felt uncaring and it bothered me they would put these characters on a deadline the way they did for something so important. I know he did it for the story's sake, but it still bothered me.
There were some things I didn't like about the book. First, the pacing was really slow. Nothing really happened except characters talking and the tension that was supposed to be there (that they wouldn't find the answer) didn't really add tension because you knew they would find the answer the entire time you were reading the book. It also felt that the fictional parts of the book only made the book longer without adding a lot. Simply writing the history part of the story and making it a nonfiction book would have actually kept my interest better. I also didn't like the way the book portrayed heaven and angels and God, because they felt uncaring and it bothered me they would put these characters on a deadline the way they did for something so important. I know he did it for the story's sake, but it still bothered me.
October 6, 2017
“‘Here is your clue, David Ponder: In a path of perfection that has existed since the second day, your Earth revolves 366 times during one orbit of the sun. Earth is exactly 366 percent larger than your moon. Conversely, your moon takes 27.32 days to orbit the Earth and is exactly 27.32 percent of the Earth’s size. Your moon is 400 times closer to the Earth than it is your sun and exactly 400 times smaller than the sun. As the moon turns, the speed of the lunar equator, by the way, is precisely 400 kilometers per hour.’
Gabriel paused, then moved again toward the door, which was opening wide to meet him. Before he crossed the threshold; however, he turned, glanced around the room, and said, ‘What are the chances of that?’”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 I loved everything about this book. A dear friend knew my great admiration of Andy’s writing and got me this signed copy as a birthday gift. I’ve cherished it for years, but something told me to hold back until the time was right to read it. Now was finally the time. I’ve often looked over his inscription: Persist. I needed this book and that word in this season. The timing of what we DO is everything, isn’t it?
Gabriel paused, then moved again toward the door, which was opening wide to meet him. Before he crossed the threshold; however, he turned, glanced around the room, and said, ‘What are the chances of that?’”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 I loved everything about this book. A dear friend knew my great admiration of Andy’s writing and got me this signed copy as a birthday gift. I’ve cherished it for years, but something told me to hold back until the time was right to read it. Now was finally the time. I’ve often looked over his inscription: Persist. I needed this book and that word in this season. The timing of what we DO is everything, isn’t it?
June 18, 2013
In reviewing The Final Summit, I feel that I need a few caveats. For one thing, I have not read the first book, although I never got the feeling that one needs to have read the first in order to understand the sequel, since this one reviews the seven decisions. For another, I understand that this is intended to be a motivational work rather than a novel or a strict work of fiction, but I am going to review it as a work of literature. I read somewhere that good ideas and tales are often destroyed by authors focusing too much on making a point and not enough on the story, and this book feels like an excellent example of that to me. That does mean that some of my criticisms could probably be answered by saying “but it’s not a novel!” or “it’s Christian!”, but I think most transcend the “purpose” of the book and concern the writing itself.
The first word that comes to mind when trying to describe this book is boring; I was not engaged on any level with this. On a basic level I just don’t like his style, which is a subjective complaint, but the problem goes beyond that. The introduction failed to entice me to read on; the hook was non-existent. The first chapter needs to sell the book, it needs to scream “HEY, READ ME!” but, unless there is some tie-in with the first novel that I missed, the introduction is almost completely irrelevant to the rest of the book and leads with two characters that never again make an appearance. What makes this worse is that the premise is unique and interesting enough that it could have easily been transformed into a great hook, even while keeping the introduction based around the security guard. Maybe Carl sees someone going up the elevator and he swears that it is Winston Churchill or any of the other historical figures invoked by the author. Maybe an odd-looking man who signs in as “Gabriel” enters the building and, for a second, the deeply-religious Carl could have sworn that he spotted a pair of wings. Yes, I know that Gabriel doesn’t need to ride an elevator, but it’s just an idea off the top of my head. My point is that little development and creativity could have easily given the introduction more punch.
That is the overarching problem with this book: it is a great premise that went nowhere. The book, where a bunch of people sit around and discuss the state of the world, is less exciting than it sounds. I don’t mean that entirely as sarcasm either; if done right, I don’t mind a work where a lot of time is spent waxing philosophical. Unless it is a textbook, however, something needs to happen every now and then and such a unique idea begs to be developed. It is interesting that these people happen to be the “greats” of history, but the characters turn out weak, shallow, and one-dimensional. For the most part, they don’t sound like the figures that they are supposed to be, they sound like the author performing a divine ventriloquist act. They could be anyone, or a thousand clones of Andrews, and it would be the same novel; the “historical figure” setting becomes little more than a gimmick. Furthermore, I find some of the individuals he picks as “great” historical figures to be a serious stretch of the word. It is not my intention to call out anyone particular and reveal my biases, but I feel safe in saying that most readers will find at least one or two names among the hundred or so that are mentioned to be undeserving of sitting with the rest.
I also found much of the discussion to be shallow. Things are good or bad, right or wrong, righteous or evil. It’s one thing to have good and evil in a novel; it’s another to sit around discussing philosophy and the nature of the world in black and white terms, even in a “Christian” book. The author has no compunction about having his characters sit around and talk through ideas, so there is no excuse not to address some deeper, more difficult questions, particularly considering how the final answer, “do something”, could be easily abused. Tied to this absolutism is how the author, at times, comes off as arrogant, particularly near the end. This is likely due to a mix of the subject matter (after all, he claims to know what history’s greatest minds would do and say to save humanity) and sloppy writing. For example, at one point, Andrews writes “Churchill’s oration was typical of him. The words were formed beautifully and enunciated with passion. […] The Prime Minister’s ability to communicate was beyond extraordinary.” This is a perfect example of what can go wrong when a writer tells something instead of shows something. Since the speech to which the paragraph refers is not a quote from Churchill (as Andrews makes clear after the tale), the way this is written makes it sound like the author is giving himself a pat on the back for his own “ability to communicate” that is “beyond extraordinary” (never mind the purple prose). Now, I am guessing that Andrews meant to convey that the manner in which he was speaking, rather than his actual words (which are, of course, the author’s), were what was exceptional, but it does not read that way on first pass.
I don’t want to be entirely negative because, honestly, this work as a whole is just not my thing and it seems unfair for me to sit back and be judgmental. If this book helps people or gets them to expand their minds, then that is great. For me to give less than two stars to a book would denote it, in my mind, to be irredeemable garbage, and that is not the case here. It makes some good points, has a unique premise, and gets you thinking about things that you may not have otherwise. The execution, however, just does not work for me. From a literary perspective, I would skip this one but, if you do decide to pick it up (it is, if nothing else, a quick read), I suggest lowering your expectations.
The first word that comes to mind when trying to describe this book is boring; I was not engaged on any level with this. On a basic level I just don’t like his style, which is a subjective complaint, but the problem goes beyond that. The introduction failed to entice me to read on; the hook was non-existent. The first chapter needs to sell the book, it needs to scream “HEY, READ ME!” but, unless there is some tie-in with the first novel that I missed, the introduction is almost completely irrelevant to the rest of the book and leads with two characters that never again make an appearance. What makes this worse is that the premise is unique and interesting enough that it could have easily been transformed into a great hook, even while keeping the introduction based around the security guard. Maybe Carl sees someone going up the elevator and he swears that it is Winston Churchill or any of the other historical figures invoked by the author. Maybe an odd-looking man who signs in as “Gabriel” enters the building and, for a second, the deeply-religious Carl could have sworn that he spotted a pair of wings. Yes, I know that Gabriel doesn’t need to ride an elevator, but it’s just an idea off the top of my head. My point is that little development and creativity could have easily given the introduction more punch.
That is the overarching problem with this book: it is a great premise that went nowhere. The book, where a bunch of people sit around and discuss the state of the world, is less exciting than it sounds. I don’t mean that entirely as sarcasm either; if done right, I don’t mind a work where a lot of time is spent waxing philosophical. Unless it is a textbook, however, something needs to happen every now and then and such a unique idea begs to be developed. It is interesting that these people happen to be the “greats” of history, but the characters turn out weak, shallow, and one-dimensional. For the most part, they don’t sound like the figures that they are supposed to be, they sound like the author performing a divine ventriloquist act. They could be anyone, or a thousand clones of Andrews, and it would be the same novel; the “historical figure” setting becomes little more than a gimmick. Furthermore, I find some of the individuals he picks as “great” historical figures to be a serious stretch of the word. It is not my intention to call out anyone particular and reveal my biases, but I feel safe in saying that most readers will find at least one or two names among the hundred or so that are mentioned to be undeserving of sitting with the rest.
I also found much of the discussion to be shallow. Things are good or bad, right or wrong, righteous or evil. It’s one thing to have good and evil in a novel; it’s another to sit around discussing philosophy and the nature of the world in black and white terms, even in a “Christian” book. The author has no compunction about having his characters sit around and talk through ideas, so there is no excuse not to address some deeper, more difficult questions, particularly considering how the final answer, “do something”, could be easily abused. Tied to this absolutism is how the author, at times, comes off as arrogant, particularly near the end. This is likely due to a mix of the subject matter (after all, he claims to know what history’s greatest minds would do and say to save humanity) and sloppy writing. For example, at one point, Andrews writes “Churchill’s oration was typical of him. The words were formed beautifully and enunciated with passion. […] The Prime Minister’s ability to communicate was beyond extraordinary.” This is a perfect example of what can go wrong when a writer tells something instead of shows something. Since the speech to which the paragraph refers is not a quote from Churchill (as Andrews makes clear after the tale), the way this is written makes it sound like the author is giving himself a pat on the back for his own “ability to communicate” that is “beyond extraordinary” (never mind the purple prose). Now, I am guessing that Andrews meant to convey that the manner in which he was speaking, rather than his actual words (which are, of course, the author’s), were what was exceptional, but it does not read that way on first pass.
I don’t want to be entirely negative because, honestly, this work as a whole is just not my thing and it seems unfair for me to sit back and be judgmental. If this book helps people or gets them to expand their minds, then that is great. For me to give less than two stars to a book would denote it, in my mind, to be irredeemable garbage, and that is not the case here. It makes some good points, has a unique premise, and gets you thinking about things that you may not have otherwise. The execution, however, just does not work for me. From a literary perspective, I would skip this one but, if you do decide to pick it up (it is, if nothing else, a quick read), I suggest lowering your expectations.
October 12, 2017
The approach of the book is a pretty unique one. Writer Andy Andrews has taken the approach of conveying some of the most beautiful messages needed to lead a good life but has said these in the form of a wonderful story. Though the book is a non fiction one it has elements of a novel and keeps the reader engaged till the very end to get the very answer of the one principle that will save humanity. The only downside may be the ending, which could have been a little better in terms of opening up to the ever building suspense throughout the book. Other than that this was a sheer brilliance from Andy Andrews!
August 23, 2024
This is the sequel to the book The Traveler’s Gift. I loved both books! Both are inspirational stories about gaining success in life, and, in the second book, restoring humanity. The way in which the stories are told make them fun to read while reminding you about ‘virtues’ that are important in your life to make it better/happier and the impact that can have on others. In both books, as some added enjoyment, bits of history (well and lesser known) facts/people are incorporated. These books are fast reads; I highly recommend both!
March 24, 2020
Great book! It is about a man who meet lots of people from history at a summit conference. They discuss lots of values that the world has lost and come up with a two word answer that can get the world back on track. It is interesting to see heros from History talk and debating with each other about modern problems. I loved learning about people in history especially about Eric Ericson and how he played a key role in ending WWII. Self-discipline and building character are very important values.
March 27, 2020
Wow! I mean WOW! Simple magnificent. I’ve had the privilege of reading several book by Andy Andrews and this one is another exceptional journey of splendor. What a wonderful treasure. This book, The Final Summit, is a masterful piece of words of wisdom. A trilling joyride to surly take you on a gamut of emotions. Simply excellent. You’ll not be disappointed on this roller coaster journey. Bravo, BRAVO!
July 7, 2023
This was just so ridiculous. First, the premise of putting historically strong personalities into one room and having them so easily agree with each other is just absurd. And the "answer" to Gabriel's questions is too ambiguous. Those on the wrong side of history were "doing something"... just not for the good of mankind. They were loading ships with kidnapped people, herding people into gas chambers, bombing churches, etc. Nothing in this book was profound or even particularly interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2024
Sequel to The Traveler's Gift.
David Ponder is given the opportunity to examine the accumulated wisdom of the past in order to determine the future of mankind.
He, with the help of other "Travelers" must find the answer to the question “What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?”
David Ponder is given the opportunity to examine the accumulated wisdom of the past in order to determine the future of mankind.
He, with the help of other "Travelers" must find the answer to the question “What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
Interested book, as author describes a story which opens with an angelic visit to a man from our time, who shared a dire message with the man, in hopes of stirring an answer to keep humanity from imploding against itself. Well-written, with historical and spiritual insights, as the race is set to incover truths before time expires.
Read
January 12, 2021This Final Summit is a great literary work by an author that has a gift. He has one of the skills that is so unique, he can express and communicate difficult and complex ideas in a very understandable way with minimal words. Kind of like one of my favorites, Abraham Lincoln.
March 16, 2024
For the third time this year I have come an absolute must read book!! And it is only March!! This book made me think, consider crying, laugh out loud, AND want to do something!! Please. Read this book.
July 9, 2017
Do something
September 13, 2017
Solid read but not as entertaining and enlightening as The Travelers Gift and The Noticer
February 5, 2018
Another awesome read by Andy. Its about the importance of taking action...we always have a choice.
June 16, 2018
It seemed to drag a bit, but it's an interesting story with a some laugh out loud moments.
March 15, 2019
Just what I needed
This book was just what I needed when I needed it. Of course, that’s how God works. It all comes down to those two words...
This book was just what I needed when I needed it. Of course, that’s how God works. It all comes down to those two words...
July 17, 2019
A pleasing sequel to The Traveler's Gift
February 15, 2020
I listened to this one on audio and continue to enjoy Andrews’ books best that way. His voice is perfect for his content. So well written and thoroughly enjoyable, as always.
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