A Choice to Cherish

by Alan Maki

During a cold Montana Christmas, Alan cuts down and decorates a Christmas tree for himself and his dying grandfather, George. As his present, Alan may choose one of eight keepsakes of his grandfathers. Yet before he can choose, he must read a story George wrote about each keepsake. Through these stories, Alan learns the secrets of his grandfather's life.

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Fiction, Christian Fiction

160 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2000

Reviews

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written by Alan Maki. Mr. Maki was once an English teacher at my junior high school and he is now a Pastor. I first learned about this book after buying a movie starring Mr. Maki called Sidewalk Singer. My interest was peaked and so I sought out all books and media connected with him.
The book itself was a short one--I was able to read it in just one day. It was powerful, although short, and left me wanting to read more written by this man. Although labeled fiction, the characters in the book have true-to-life names and I wonder how much of the book is actually based on truth.
A young Alan finds out that his grandpa is dying and travels to meet him. While there, Alan learns to love his grandpa and comes to know him not only through personal interaction, but through a series of stories that were written by his grandpa. Each story corresponds to an object and after reading the 8 stories, Alan is to choose his gift.
The story is well written and I cried many times while reading it.
The book has earned its spot in my permanent collection.
Bravo, Mr. Maki! I'm so proud of you and proud that you are leading others to Christ.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this book up because i wanted to switch it up and read something different that was Christmas themed. I knew it was going to touch on religion some due to the blurb on the back of the book but did not expect it to be so involved. I realized after the fact that the author is a pastor so I suppose it makes sense why it was so preachy at times. Had it not been I would have given this 4 out of 5 stars. Apparently I did not know what "inspirational romance" meant, but now I do! I still enjoyed the book and it was a quick/heart warming read.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is rare that a book can make me cry and this one did a few times. I do wonder if any of this is based on true life. Dying at 64 is way too young and do hate years of missed opportunity. My only question would be "why can he only choose one gift" are they just going to throw the others away??

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely fantastic. It tugged at my heartstrings how broken families can mend through love and time. I will leave it in the break room at work for someone else to enjoy it as much as I have.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice story for believers!

[Bekah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Christmas book about a family reconciling and a grandson learning about his grandfather. There is a cute romance that develops as well.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

A grandson, his grandfather, a baseball and a reconciliation.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast quick read leaving you with a good feeling at the end.