What do you think?
Rate this book
Wishman: Kindness, Close Calls and the Magic of Making Wishes Come True
The story drops into Frank's sad and difficult childhood - a childhood that was not his, but the byproduct of his mother’s whims. Constantly on the move and frequently hungry and homeless, doing without was the norm. Along his journey, glimmers of kindness from strangers were extended from communities he landed in - a meal or shelter when there was neither in sight. Each of these moments of generosity laid the path for Frank to walk and to choose a life of giving - to his country and then his community. His choices eventually led to several brushes with death and a chance meeting with a dying child - all of which answered a question we all face. Why am I here?
About the
Frank continues to carry the torch of giving back, traveling the world speaking about philanthropy and social responsibility, "Everyone Can Be A Hero". He resides in Prescott, Arizona with the love of his life, Kitty.
About the
Frank continues to carry the torch of giving back, traveling the world speaking about philanthropy and social responsibility, "Everyone Can Be A Hero". He resides in Prescott, Arizona with the love of his life, Kitty.
Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2016
19 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 19, 2021
Interesting autobiography of the man who started the Make-A-Wish foundation. As parents of a Wish Child, we are grateful to Frank Shankwitz for his compassion for children who are facing life-threatening illnesses.
October 9, 2020
Uplifting story
This is really an incredible story of 1 man who questioned his purpose and lived a life that helped so many. He created a foundation that helped grant over 350,000 wishes to dying children.
This is really an incredible story of 1 man who questioned his purpose and lived a life that helped so many. He created a foundation that helped grant over 350,000 wishes to dying children.
January 24, 2017
An amazing, inspiring and uplifting story about one man destined to create Make-A-Wish.
Wow. What a story… what a life!!
"Someday, when you have something to give to somebody, make sure you do." This life lesson was given to a young Frank Shankwitz from a man who became his mentor.
In fact, throughout his very difficult childhood and while overcoming tremendous hardships as an adult, Frank was often lifted by the kindness and generosity of others. At every turn, when he needed it the most, help seemed to come from someone and from somewhere unexpectedly. It's as if Frank Shankwitz was being guided by Providence to walk the path of the Wishman.
And indeed, he was.
But it was the compassion and generosity he'd witnessed by strangers joining together to make a difference in another little boy’s life that made Frank's destiny clear to him. Shortly following that boy’s death, Frank knew deep in his soul why he was here. "I listened to my soul, which continually led me right back to my heart, where the answer had always been." In that moment, Frank began a 36-year journey granting the wishes of more than 350,000 kids with life threatening medical conditions… and counting.
Thank you Frank for sharing your inspiring story… and thank you for all you have done for the Wish Kids!!
Matt Gersper
Founder, Happy Living
www.happyliving.com
Wow. What a story… what a life!!
"Someday, when you have something to give to somebody, make sure you do." This life lesson was given to a young Frank Shankwitz from a man who became his mentor.
In fact, throughout his very difficult childhood and while overcoming tremendous hardships as an adult, Frank was often lifted by the kindness and generosity of others. At every turn, when he needed it the most, help seemed to come from someone and from somewhere unexpectedly. It's as if Frank Shankwitz was being guided by Providence to walk the path of the Wishman.
And indeed, he was.
But it was the compassion and generosity he'd witnessed by strangers joining together to make a difference in another little boy’s life that made Frank's destiny clear to him. Shortly following that boy’s death, Frank knew deep in his soul why he was here. "I listened to my soul, which continually led me right back to my heart, where the answer had always been." In that moment, Frank began a 36-year journey granting the wishes of more than 350,000 kids with life threatening medical conditions… and counting.
Thank you Frank for sharing your inspiring story… and thank you for all you have done for the Wish Kids!!
Matt Gersper
Founder, Happy Living
www.happyliving.com
January 26, 2021
Very Touching
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Franks life and how he-with help started the Make a Wish Foundation. There are some graphic details of things he has witnessed over the years but they all made him who he is today. Some grammar or spelling errors but they didn’t take away from the story. I would have loved more detail and a few more photos but he shared what he thought was needed or enough. He seems like a man you would want in your life as a friend. A worthy read especially since it is all true.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Franks life and how he-with help started the Make a Wish Foundation. There are some graphic details of things he has witnessed over the years but they all made him who he is today. Some grammar or spelling errors but they didn’t take away from the story. I would have loved more detail and a few more photos but he shared what he thought was needed or enough. He seems like a man you would want in your life as a friend. A worthy read especially since it is all true.
March 10, 2020
Make-a-Wish
I will admit I watched the movie first but only because I was completely unaware that this book even existed. They blend so nicely with each other and bring fresh emotion to the forefront. It is a wonderfully easy read about the life of the man who has brought so much joy to so many and touched their lives through his one act. It really shows the many sides of the man.
I will admit I watched the movie first but only because I was completely unaware that this book even existed. They blend so nicely with each other and bring fresh emotion to the forefront. It is a wonderfully easy read about the life of the man who has brought so much joy to so many and touched their lives through his one act. It really shows the many sides of the man.
May 8, 2020
Amazing man!!!!
I had watched the movie , "Wish Man" first and was curious to read more about Frank Shankwitz. The movie did not do Mr Shankwitz justice. He is an extraordinary man. After reading this wonderful and heartfelt telling of a strong and detetmined man, I discovered the movie didn't get a lot of facts right.
I had watched the movie , "Wish Man" first and was curious to read more about Frank Shankwitz. The movie did not do Mr Shankwitz justice. He is an extraordinary man. After reading this wonderful and heartfelt telling of a strong and detetmined man, I discovered the movie didn't get a lot of facts right.
September 10, 2017
Book Club Choice
This book was chosen by a dear friend that was hosting our September book club. I was hesitant to read it but I am so glad I did. An inspiring and humble read which I highly recommend. You won't be sorry!
This book was chosen by a dear friend that was hosting our September book club. I was hesitant to read it but I am so glad I did. An inspiring and humble read which I highly recommend. You won't be sorry!
February 17, 2019
4.5 stars - I loved this story of Frank’s life and the events that led him to start the Make-a-Wish Foundation. I would have loved to read more stories of wishes granted; looking forward to the movie!
January 5, 2020
Try not to cry...
January 10, 2020
Amazing story about this man and his life!
October 30, 2023
Amazing story
Started reading the book this morning. Couldn't put it down except to wipe the tears from my eyes. An amazing human being.
Started reading the book this morning. Couldn't put it down except to wipe the tears from my eyes. An amazing human being.
October 9, 2018
Inspiring
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews