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Dream Giver
The Dream Giver
Bestselling author Bruce Wilkinson shows how to identify and overcome the obstacles that keep millions from living the life they were created for. He begins with a compelling modern-day parable about Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. With the help of the Dream Giver, Ordinary begins the hardest and most rewarding journey of his life. Wilkinson gives readers practical, biblical keys to fulfilling their own dream, revealing that there's no limit to what God can accomplish when we choose to pursue the dreams He gives us for His honor.
Are you living your dream— or just living your life?
Welcome to a little story about a very big idea. This compelling modern-day parable tells the story of Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream.
You, too, have been given a Big Dream. One that can change your life. One that the Dream Giver wants you to achieve. Does your Big Dream seem hopelessly out of reach? Are you waiting for something or someone to make your dream happen?
Then you’re ready for The Dream Giver .
Let Bruce Wilkinson show you how to rise above the ordinary, conquer your fears, and overcome the obstacles that keep you from living your Big Dream.
You were made for this. Now it’s time to begin your journey.
Are you living your dream— or just living your life?
Welcome to a little story about a very big idea. This compelling modern-day parable tells the story of Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream.
You, too, have been given a Big Dream. One that can change your life. One that the Dream Giver wants you to achieve. Does your Big Dream seem hopelessly out of reach? Are you waiting for something or someone to make your dream happen?
Then you’re ready for The Dream Giver .
Let Bruce Wilkinson show you how to rise above the ordinary, conquer your fears, and overcome the obstacles that keep you from living your Big Dream.
You were made for this. Now it’s time to begin your journey.
157 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2003
561 people are currently reading
5388 people want to read
About the author
Bruce H. Wilkinson
178 books288 followersBruce Wilkinson is recognized as one of the world's foremost Christian teachers and speakers. But he is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller, The Prayer of Jabez, and other bestsellers including A Life God Rewards, Secrets of the Vine, and The Dream Giver. He is the founder of WorldTeach, a global initiative to train Bible teachers in every nation. Wilkinson also founded Dream for Africa, a humanitarian agency that has taken on AIDS, orphan care and hunger in sub-Saharan Africa. Bruce and his wife, Darlene, have three children and six grandchildren. They live outside Atlanta.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 571 reviews
March 24, 2013
This book changed my life! I cried thru the whole thing because ever since I was a small girl, I just KNEW that I was born for greatness and to make a difference in the world; however, I realized that I had allowed that dream to lie dormant, buried underneath fear and failures. I had settled for a life of mediocrity. but NO MORE! This parable is so easy to read but is filled with wisdom about how to never allow anyone to steal your dream and about the struggles we all face in reaching for that dream….but, dreams really do come true!
February 21, 2009
This book came at a crucial time in my life. It is a quick, simple read, but very profound. I found this information to be helpful in this new season of transition in my life. I learned that fear is just a four letter word and it is time to move with passion to reach my dreams. Yes, I said dreams with an "s", because life is full of many great things to achieve. Just holding to only one dream in life is too limiting. After reading this book I feel liberated from the prison of "ordinary" and that my life is just beginning.
February 5, 2025
I became aware of The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson years ago. A local pastor invited members of his congregation to read and study the book together. A friend eagerly participated because she wanted to discover the Big dream God had for her life. Surprisingly, at the time I had no interest in reading the book.
God knows me well, and how I love books. In the past year, I've read several books by Bruce Wilkinson and enjoyed them all and his style of writing. I believed it was time I read The Dream Giver. I asked the Lord to put the book in my path. A short time later, I came across it at a local thrift store. God is so good to me!
I read the Preface and immediately was hooked. In Part 1 of the book, readers are introduced to Ordinary, a Nobody was the Land of Familiar. Ordinary had a big dream, but in order to fulfill it, he had to leave the Land of Familiar and pursue it. Stories from the Bible are incorporated into the chapters as readers follow Ordinary on his journey to reach the Land of Promise, where he discovered more was awaiting him!
Part I caused me to reflect on what the Dream Giver shared with Nobody. Yes; it's true; the Lord has placed dreams in all of us. I don't want to get to the end of my life wondering if I could have done more with the dream the Lord gave me.
Bruce Wilkinson and others followed the dream the Lord gave them with great success.
I enjoyed reading Part II - The Journey To Your Big Dream. The Lord blessed me with wonderful opportunities throughout my life and some dreams have already come to pass. Do I have a Big dream yet not fulfilled? To be honest, I still don’t know.
I decided to read the book for a second time. Again, I finished without a clear vision of what my Big dream is. That’s okay. My life is not at a standstill. The Lord has blessed me with gifts and talents. Using them gives me joy and fulfillment The Lord is my Guide, and the One I trust to direct my steps to where He desires me to be. My husband and I love to serve the Lord together. Perhaps the Lord will give us a Big dream together. That would be wonderful. God will show us in His time and way!
God knows me well, and how I love books. In the past year, I've read several books by Bruce Wilkinson and enjoyed them all and his style of writing. I believed it was time I read The Dream Giver. I asked the Lord to put the book in my path. A short time later, I came across it at a local thrift store. God is so good to me!
I read the Preface and immediately was hooked. In Part 1 of the book, readers are introduced to Ordinary, a Nobody was the Land of Familiar. Ordinary had a big dream, but in order to fulfill it, he had to leave the Land of Familiar and pursue it. Stories from the Bible are incorporated into the chapters as readers follow Ordinary on his journey to reach the Land of Promise, where he discovered more was awaiting him!
Part I caused me to reflect on what the Dream Giver shared with Nobody. Yes; it's true; the Lord has placed dreams in all of us. I don't want to get to the end of my life wondering if I could have done more with the dream the Lord gave me.
Bruce Wilkinson and others followed the dream the Lord gave them with great success.
I enjoyed reading Part II - The Journey To Your Big Dream. The Lord blessed me with wonderful opportunities throughout my life and some dreams have already come to pass. Do I have a Big dream yet not fulfilled? To be honest, I still don’t know.
I decided to read the book for a second time. Again, I finished without a clear vision of what my Big dream is. That’s okay. My life is not at a standstill. The Lord has blessed me with gifts and talents. Using them gives me joy and fulfillment The Lord is my Guide, and the One I trust to direct my steps to where He desires me to be. My husband and I love to serve the Lord together. Perhaps the Lord will give us a Big dream together. That would be wonderful. God will show us in His time and way!
September 27, 2008
The great thing about parables is that they are non-specific enough that everyone can find herself in one.
When I first read the preface to this book, I was extremely skeptical. The author wanted to be my "Dream Coach," excuse me? 'What a load of inspirational baloney,' I thought. 'This is going to be the cheesiest thing ever.'
But I had a few hours to kill, and the book was thin enough and written in big print, so I gave it a shot.
I think this cheesy little book of inspirational baloney has changed my life.
I am so encouraged, so emboldened, and so convicted by it that I have no choice but to make a choice. There is more to life than what most of us are living, and God placed us here with the precious gift of life for a reason!
I would encourage anyone to read this, and read it with an open mind. Maybe even take a break from reading it to stop and think - and pray - about what God is laying on your heart. You could easily read this entire book in one sitting and blow it off, but I would really encourage you to take some time with it and maybe even read it more than once at different times in your journey.
It's very possible that in a few years' time, I will owe my happiness to this book. Maybe you will too.
When I first read the preface to this book, I was extremely skeptical. The author wanted to be my "Dream Coach," excuse me? 'What a load of inspirational baloney,' I thought. 'This is going to be the cheesiest thing ever.'
But I had a few hours to kill, and the book was thin enough and written in big print, so I gave it a shot.
I think this cheesy little book of inspirational baloney has changed my life.
I am so encouraged, so emboldened, and so convicted by it that I have no choice but to make a choice. There is more to life than what most of us are living, and God placed us here with the precious gift of life for a reason!
I would encourage anyone to read this, and read it with an open mind. Maybe even take a break from reading it to stop and think - and pray - about what God is laying on your heart. You could easily read this entire book in one sitting and blow it off, but I would really encourage you to take some time with it and maybe even read it more than once at different times in your journey.
It's very possible that in a few years' time, I will owe my happiness to this book. Maybe you will too.
July 5, 2016
Absolutely loved this book!! Everyone has a dream. Even if you don't know what your dream is currently, seek after it. It's there! I love how this book shows you how to reach your big dream. I also love how it shows how much God plays a huge role in our dreams and that we need to rely on Him for help along the way.
September 27, 2021
Dit boek is geen literair hoogstandje en de vertaling helpt niet mee (als je ‘you’ met ‘u’ vertaald). Maar los daarvan, daagt het idee van boek wel uit. Droom je nog? En durf je daar nog achteraan te gaan? Ik kan niet mee in elke gedachtegang van de schrijver, maar voor de inspirerende stukken krijgt hij drie sterren.
March 21, 2009
Kind of trite...but should make a great discussion with the kids in class.
August 14, 2012
Best short book I ever read.
March 1, 2015
This book, Dream Giver, The is the second book by Bruce Wilkinson (born 1940) who is the author of the popular book, The Prayer of Jabez Devotional: Breaking Through to the Blessed Life (3 stars). That prayer is based on the passage from the Holy Bible (1Chronicles 4:9-10) that goes like this:
Here in this book he expound it some more: to include dreams in the plan. We all have dreams when we were kids but those dreams are probably dead now. Maybe they are not practical. Maybe they don't make sense anymore. My dream when I was a kid is to be an agriculturist. Then later it was to become a teacher. Then to become a priest. However, my father's dream for me was to become a doctor so I took up Medical Technology (a popular pre-med course) but when I finished it, he did not have money to send me to a medical school so I worked and while working finished my second degree, business administration. Now, I am an Information Technology (I.T.) career in an electronics manufacturing company. Haha.
Should I pursue my dream of becoming an agriculturist even now that I am in my 50's? If I were to ask Bruce Wilkinson, his answer will be a resounding yes. Haha. Oh well, maybe ten years from now when I retire from corporate world, I'll try to go back to the province and plant crops in the farm. Or maybe I'll write (not a boyhood dream but something that I think I'll enjoy doing). One thing is sure though: I will keep on reading.
Anyway, the book also gives an outline on what to do to pursue those dreams regardless of ones' age or life predicaments. Wilkinson only wants us to dream and to pursue it.
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, saying, "Oh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from the evil one." And God granted his request.Wilkinson basically expounded on this prayer to encourage his readers to outlines his or her life and what he wants to do and raise that plan to God so it will be blessed by God.
Here in this book he expound it some more: to include dreams in the plan. We all have dreams when we were kids but those dreams are probably dead now. Maybe they are not practical. Maybe they don't make sense anymore. My dream when I was a kid is to be an agriculturist. Then later it was to become a teacher. Then to become a priest. However, my father's dream for me was to become a doctor so I took up Medical Technology (a popular pre-med course) but when I finished it, he did not have money to send me to a medical school so I worked and while working finished my second degree, business administration. Now, I am an Information Technology (I.T.) career in an electronics manufacturing company. Haha.
Should I pursue my dream of becoming an agriculturist even now that I am in my 50's? If I were to ask Bruce Wilkinson, his answer will be a resounding yes. Haha. Oh well, maybe ten years from now when I retire from corporate world, I'll try to go back to the province and plant crops in the farm. Or maybe I'll write (not a boyhood dream but something that I think I'll enjoy doing). One thing is sure though: I will keep on reading.
Anyway, the book also gives an outline on what to do to pursue those dreams regardless of ones' age or life predicaments. Wilkinson only wants us to dream and to pursue it.
February 17, 2021
Everyone has a dream, and author Bruce Wilkinson wants to see you achieve yours. The first half of this book is an imaginative fable about a person trying to achieve his dream. This book is like a map to the blossoming forth of long-cherished desires about things you'd like to achieve.
This is the fourth book I've read by Bruce Wilkinson. I always enjoy his writing and speaking on YouTube videos. This time I guess you could say I got both as I purchased the audiobook copy of The Dream Giver, and the author was the reader.
The first half of the book was like a Pilgrim's Progress type fairy tale with a person named Ordinary in the Land of Familiar. We must leave our comfort zones in order to achieve great things. Despite Border Bullies, Ordinary is able to achieve his dream, as we all must, to find our true places in life.
The world will be a richer place if we do those things God places it in our hearts to do. We were created in God's image as creative beings. We were born to create.
The audiobook was only three and a half hours in length and I started and finished it in one afternoon's drive. I liked it enough that I'd like to listen to it again. I think I'd get more out of it each time I listened. It is that kind of book.
This is the fourth book I've read by Bruce Wilkinson. I always enjoy his writing and speaking on YouTube videos. This time I guess you could say I got both as I purchased the audiobook copy of The Dream Giver, and the author was the reader.
The first half of the book was like a Pilgrim's Progress type fairy tale with a person named Ordinary in the Land of Familiar. We must leave our comfort zones in order to achieve great things. Despite Border Bullies, Ordinary is able to achieve his dream, as we all must, to find our true places in life.
The world will be a richer place if we do those things God places it in our hearts to do. We were created in God's image as creative beings. We were born to create.
The audiobook was only three and a half hours in length and I started and finished it in one afternoon's drive. I liked it enough that I'd like to listen to it again. I think I'd get more out of it each time I listened. It is that kind of book.
September 16, 2023
Don't waste your money. At $17 for what would only be about one hundred pages if font, line spacing and margins were normal, it's pretty expensive.
Wilkinson is a great communicator. His The Three Chairs and Prayer of Jabez are classics of inspirational literature. The Dream Giver however does not meet those standards. It's half parable (John Bunyan, Wilkinson is not) and half inspirational guide (complete with The Dream Giver "resources").
If you want to read something that'll do you some good, try Rick warren's The Purpose Driven Life.
Wilkinson is a great communicator. His The Three Chairs and Prayer of Jabez are classics of inspirational literature. The Dream Giver however does not meet those standards. It's half parable (John Bunyan, Wilkinson is not) and half inspirational guide (complete with The Dream Giver "resources").
If you want to read something that'll do you some good, try Rick warren's The Purpose Driven Life.
November 25, 2022
Adam and I have read this together a few times over the last 15 years. We always seem to pick it up and re-read it at the exact moment we need it. The first half of this book is my favorite, an allegory about following the dreams that God has given us. The second half is teaching and breaking down the meanings of the allegory. It honestly has greatly impacted me every time I read it. I strongly suggest this one. ❤️🪶
July 20, 2020
This book has been a God-send for me!
Coming out of the Wasteland into Sanctuary is where I'm at presently. Bruce has helped me to see that taking proper time in Sanctuary with the Dream Giver, is crucial to the next leg of the Dream journey. If you have lost or forgotten that God has called you into His Big Dream - this book will be a refreshment to you.
Coming out of the Wasteland into Sanctuary is where I'm at presently. Bruce has helped me to see that taking proper time in Sanctuary with the Dream Giver, is crucial to the next leg of the Dream journey. If you have lost or forgotten that God has called you into His Big Dream - this book will be a refreshment to you.
June 1, 2023
Wow wow wow. No words. Everyone needs to read this book. This is probably my favorite book ever. I felt seen, heard, and understood and it really spoke to me. Now I’m ready to go chase my Big Dream! Step out of the Land of Familiar and step through the wall of fear and head towards the Big Dream the Dream Giver has uniquely given to me. I am about to go read this all over again.
April 4, 2016
He vuelto a soñar...
February 3, 2025
Easily one of the cheesiest, most on-the-nose Christian self-help books I've read for as far as I can remember. But it is not without its merits.
The first half of the book presents a parable that is too excited to subtly hide any of its cards from the get-go. And yet it reminds me of my childhood self writing short stories and immediately elaborating on any symbolism to my non-existent readers. Of course, Wilkinson's audience is far from non-existent. In fact, I'd argue that the unadulerated positivity presented here is to reach a long-forgotten part within many readers. In order to receive the message of The Dream Giver, one needs to dare dream like a child. Wilkinson then takes that child-like dream and bring it on a journey of challenges until it matures. The author assumes that the dream is already worth pursuing, contrary to a skeptical mind like mine, for the sake of encouraging the reader to follow through with his or her own calling.
I don't doubt that Wilkinson's sentiments might rub some readers the wrong way. But I think the world is too depressing to not consider a part of you that might actually bring about change, to bring back some light into it.
The first half of the book presents a parable that is too excited to subtly hide any of its cards from the get-go. And yet it reminds me of my childhood self writing short stories and immediately elaborating on any symbolism to my non-existent readers. Of course, Wilkinson's audience is far from non-existent. In fact, I'd argue that the unadulerated positivity presented here is to reach a long-forgotten part within many readers. In order to receive the message of The Dream Giver, one needs to dare dream like a child. Wilkinson then takes that child-like dream and bring it on a journey of challenges until it matures. The author assumes that the dream is already worth pursuing, contrary to a skeptical mind like mine, for the sake of encouraging the reader to follow through with his or her own calling.
I don't doubt that Wilkinson's sentiments might rub some readers the wrong way. But I think the world is too depressing to not consider a part of you that might actually bring about change, to bring back some light into it.
June 5, 2015
"God has put a driving passion in you to do something special...You are created in His image-the only person exactly like you in the universe. No one else can do your Dream." ~ Bruce Wilkinson, The Dream Giver, Page 75, Paragraph 5
God is our Dream Giver and He has deposited something very special inside everyone of us. He has give us a calling, giftings, talents, abilities, etc. that He has not given anyone else on this planet.
The realization I came to when studying this book was that I am the only one who can fulfill the vision or dream that God has given me and if I fail, then others will be affected as well. It made me realize that I have a lot of responsibility to fulfill the dreams and visions that God has given me.
Bruce Wilkerson becomes your dream coach through this book. He starts off with a parable of man called "Ordinary" who wants to be a "Somebody", but the ordinary way of life is holding him back, as well as bullies. The parable takes you through the thoughts and actions of the character to the end of accomplishing his dream. The dream at the end of the story may surprise you. I'll give you one hint...it isn't about you, it's about taking care of others.
I liked the questions that were scattered throughout this book and made every effort to write an answer them. Some of them are:
* What have I always been good at?
* What needs do I care about most?
* Who do I admire most?
* What makes me most fulfilled?
* What do I love doing most?
* What have I felt called to do?
There is only one criticism I have for this book is that it failed to provide a practical way of accomplished your dreams. I highly recommend a book called, "Mentored By A Millionaire", by Steven K. Scott and using a skill he provides in this book called "Vision Mapping". This is one of the greatest skills that I know for reaching your dreams. Otherwise, I was greatly encouraged by this book and I think it is required reading for those who want advice about the tug that God has put on your heart - Your Dream.
God is our Dream Giver and He has deposited something very special inside everyone of us. He has give us a calling, giftings, talents, abilities, etc. that He has not given anyone else on this planet.
The realization I came to when studying this book was that I am the only one who can fulfill the vision or dream that God has given me and if I fail, then others will be affected as well. It made me realize that I have a lot of responsibility to fulfill the dreams and visions that God has given me.
Bruce Wilkerson becomes your dream coach through this book. He starts off with a parable of man called "Ordinary" who wants to be a "Somebody", but the ordinary way of life is holding him back, as well as bullies. The parable takes you through the thoughts and actions of the character to the end of accomplishing his dream. The dream at the end of the story may surprise you. I'll give you one hint...it isn't about you, it's about taking care of others.
I liked the questions that were scattered throughout this book and made every effort to write an answer them. Some of them are:
* What have I always been good at?
* What needs do I care about most?
* Who do I admire most?
* What makes me most fulfilled?
* What do I love doing most?
* What have I felt called to do?
There is only one criticism I have for this book is that it failed to provide a practical way of accomplished your dreams. I highly recommend a book called, "Mentored By A Millionaire", by Steven K. Scott and using a skill he provides in this book called "Vision Mapping". This is one of the greatest skills that I know for reaching your dreams. Otherwise, I was greatly encouraged by this book and I think it is required reading for those who want advice about the tug that God has put on your heart - Your Dream.
June 3, 2023
More like a 2.7.
This book had promise and I liked the original concept but then I slowly became disinterested. The beginning reminded me of the Alchemist but then it fell short of improving upon it. This book is a short and easy read and yet was difficult to finish. The idea of Ordinary pursuing his big Dream is one we can all relate to. And many of us will experience having to leave our Comfort Zone, the naysayers, lack of progress, hurdles, etc. But in a nutshell, the author pretty much ties everything to keep pushing and having faith and everything will just work out.
A couple of things to note. This book isn’t really about following your dreams but more about pursuing God’s purpose...which can be two different things. So if your dream is about becoming the best financial advisor versus traveling the world saving others...good luck. Also, everything is compared to the great bible stories...which is great for motivation but there are no real tools given. Nothing you can take with you and begin using immediately. It’s just pushing forward and having faith. So for those who experience real challenges or hurdles in trying to pursue your dream. There really isn’t any real advice how to get past them. Just again have faith and keep pushing.
There were some aspects that I found to be helpful...like surrendering your desires to God. But again, what does that look like...how do you do that? And if you are getting this book to maybe learn more about what your dream is (like I did)...you can forget about it. A whole chapter is dedicated to helping you figure out your dream. Spoiler alert: it did not help me figure out my dream!
In a nutshell, if you are very religious, have a dream that aligns with service and people, and already have the tools and resources to get there...this book is for you. But if you are in any way cynical, lack tools and/or resources, or not sure what you purpose is...you will probably still be in that same boat after reading. This book in short is a great sermon in book form...nothing more.
This book had promise and I liked the original concept but then I slowly became disinterested. The beginning reminded me of the Alchemist but then it fell short of improving upon it. This book is a short and easy read and yet was difficult to finish. The idea of Ordinary pursuing his big Dream is one we can all relate to. And many of us will experience having to leave our Comfort Zone, the naysayers, lack of progress, hurdles, etc. But in a nutshell, the author pretty much ties everything to keep pushing and having faith and everything will just work out.
A couple of things to note. This book isn’t really about following your dreams but more about pursuing God’s purpose...which can be two different things. So if your dream is about becoming the best financial advisor versus traveling the world saving others...good luck. Also, everything is compared to the great bible stories...which is great for motivation but there are no real tools given. Nothing you can take with you and begin using immediately. It’s just pushing forward and having faith. So for those who experience real challenges or hurdles in trying to pursue your dream. There really isn’t any real advice how to get past them. Just again have faith and keep pushing.
There were some aspects that I found to be helpful...like surrendering your desires to God. But again, what does that look like...how do you do that? And if you are getting this book to maybe learn more about what your dream is (like I did)...you can forget about it. A whole chapter is dedicated to helping you figure out your dream. Spoiler alert: it did not help me figure out my dream!
In a nutshell, if you are very religious, have a dream that aligns with service and people, and already have the tools and resources to get there...this book is for you. But if you are in any way cynical, lack tools and/or resources, or not sure what you purpose is...you will probably still be in that same boat after reading. This book in short is a great sermon in book form...nothing more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2013
The Dream Giver is comprised of two parts with part one including a fictional story on fulfilling your dream. Part two is where author Bruce Wilkinson becomes our dream coach and answers questions people have posed, especially the obstacles, that create uncertainties about their pursuits. Additionally he reviews key points from chapters in his fictional work and tells us how to apply each stage in our advancement toward our dreams. It is God's desire and high calling that we become all we were created to be and do. You will see in the story that as we embark on the journey to fulfill the dream, we encounter obstacles along the way that will try to deter us from advancing. These obstacles can be in the people closest to us as well as things like fear, rejection, and insecurities. Although a fictional piece, you will clearly understand the process of fulfilling your calling and the necessity of the dark times- Wastelands- encountered along the way. Each step of advancing toward your dreams will leave you with choices only you can make.
Shared in this book also will be five common misconceptions that keep people from pursuing their God-given dreams and strategies for how to hang on during trying times. This book is super for all ages including young Sunday school classes. The options to be creative in sharing these ideas are numerous. The sooner the younger generation can embrace destiny and position themselves the better off is all of us as a result of talents and gifts being used for the glory of God. Author Bruce Wilkinson will share his personal "Dream Giver" experience and how the risks of leaving a fruitful past resulted in an even better future. His life experiences bring great validity to this book's theme message.
Shared in this book also will be five common misconceptions that keep people from pursuing their God-given dreams and strategies for how to hang on during trying times. This book is super for all ages including young Sunday school classes. The options to be creative in sharing these ideas are numerous. The sooner the younger generation can embrace destiny and position themselves the better off is all of us as a result of talents and gifts being used for the glory of God. Author Bruce Wilkinson will share his personal "Dream Giver" experience and how the risks of leaving a fruitful past resulted in an even better future. His life experiences bring great validity to this book's theme message.
December 28, 2018
So...not a fan of this book. The book is divided into two parts: a parable and advice (or dream coaching). The writing is actually not terrible and I enjoyed reading the “parable.” But my praise for this book stops there. My biggest concern is the theology of the book, which is terrible. First, the author states everyone has a big dream that they must pursue in order to fill a need that only they can fill. If there is a need and God wants it filled, it will be filled regardless of who chases what dreams. Second, he states one should always be pushing past their comfort zone. He describes himself pushing his comfort zones by preaching at bigger and bigger churches and conferences. But what about the pastor who is supposed to simply shepherd a small church? We don’t always need to chase bigger dreams, but seek to glorify God in all things (even the small and ordinary things). Third, “bullies.” Anyone who opposed your “God-given dream” is a bully upset that you are disturbing their comfort and their words should be ignored. A) how do you know this “dream” is God-given and not some fanciful, temporary obsession? B) how do you not know these “bullies” are truly concerned for your well-being and have words of wisdom that should be heeded?
These are just a few of the issues I have with this book. There are some good truths that can be picked out of the muck, but also a lot of words and ideas that are not only false, but potentially harmful.
These are just a few of the issues I have with this book. There are some good truths that can be picked out of the muck, but also a lot of words and ideas that are not only false, but potentially harmful.
November 26, 2018
This book has been on my to-read list for quite a while and I have no idea how it got there. Someone must have recommended it or have given it high reviews. It's a very religious little self-help book focused on how to discover, achieve, and overcome obstacles related to dreams and life's purpose.
The story of Ordinary during part one of the book annoys me a little. It's a little too overt how proper names are also descriptions of each thing. At the same time, the author gets the point across. It doesn't bother me that the author quotes from that story and enlarges on the points he makes in the second half of the book. It's easy to comprehend.
The "Dream Giver" is clearly God. We Dreamers are obviously "Ordinary." Other helpful truths are found in this book. I like the questions the author asks to help discover individual dreams. They got me thinking.
The point of the book is very simple. I wasn't looking for complicated, so I appreciate this. I like that it is clear that God can help us with our dreams. I like the emphasis on the importance of dreams as a way to help others. Bigger, better dreams are unselfish.
This book will possibly influence a positive turning point in my creative pursuits. It's helped me find more clarity. I recommend it.
The story of Ordinary during part one of the book annoys me a little. It's a little too overt how proper names are also descriptions of each thing. At the same time, the author gets the point across. It doesn't bother me that the author quotes from that story and enlarges on the points he makes in the second half of the book. It's easy to comprehend.
The "Dream Giver" is clearly God. We Dreamers are obviously "Ordinary." Other helpful truths are found in this book. I like the questions the author asks to help discover individual dreams. They got me thinking.
The point of the book is very simple. I wasn't looking for complicated, so I appreciate this. I like that it is clear that God can help us with our dreams. I like the emphasis on the importance of dreams as a way to help others. Bigger, better dreams are unselfish.
This book will possibly influence a positive turning point in my creative pursuits. It's helped me find more clarity. I recommend it.
February 11, 2025
This is a powerful book and message intended to shine a light and empower readers to let go of the comfortable “familiars” in their life and move towards achieving their dreams - dreams given to us by our Dream Giver, God.
A great book to give to anyone who’s stuck, graduating college, or needing direction in their life.
I’m gifting my copy to my brother in hopes this helps motivate him to recognize a dream and work towards it.
This book is an easy, short read. You can finish it in a weekend, which I recommend. The message is more powerful with limited interruptions.
I’ve accomplished dreams, but at this moment in my life feel deflated, unmotivated, uninspired. I have work to do to realize a new dream, God’s dream for me. Of course I wished a flame was lit ablaze for me while reading this, but I’m sure a spark has developed and just needs time to simmer and grow.
Closing remarks from the author:
“God has given you a Big Dream. I hope this book has convinced you to chase after that Dream with every fiber of your being… take next steps towards realizing your Dream…Now May you devote yourself to His Dream for you.” - Bruce Wilkinson
A great book to give to anyone who’s stuck, graduating college, or needing direction in their life.
I’m gifting my copy to my brother in hopes this helps motivate him to recognize a dream and work towards it.
This book is an easy, short read. You can finish it in a weekend, which I recommend. The message is more powerful with limited interruptions.
I’ve accomplished dreams, but at this moment in my life feel deflated, unmotivated, uninspired. I have work to do to realize a new dream, God’s dream for me. Of course I wished a flame was lit ablaze for me while reading this, but I’m sure a spark has developed and just needs time to simmer and grow.
Closing remarks from the author:
“God has given you a Big Dream. I hope this book has convinced you to chase after that Dream with every fiber of your being… take next steps towards realizing your Dream…Now May you devote yourself to His Dream for you.” - Bruce Wilkinson
July 27, 2024
I think I had someone recommend this book to me like a year ago and said it changed their life. I can’t say that it changed mine but I did catch some gems that made an impact.
The allegory of “Ordinary” was interesting, but I didn’t feel like it was especially creative therefore making it less impactful. I loved the moral of the story but the execution didn’t hit the same as C.S. Lewis.
The second half of the book was the author making commentaries on the story of Ordinary and the Land of Familiar. He was basically life coaching with a lot of personal experiences. I didn’t feel like his personal stories were very relevant to me and I found myself zoning out at times.
Overall, a well meaning book that has potential to motivate and inspire. Here are some of my favorite gems:
- Comfort is the ultimate enemy of your dreams.
- Dreams are for somebody else while comfort is for yourself.
- A dreamer is ones whose life is in motion.
- Are you holding tighter to your dream or to the dream giver? Put the giver before the gift.
- God cares more about you than your dream, and what he wants is a thriving relationship with you.
The allegory of “Ordinary” was interesting, but I didn’t feel like it was especially creative therefore making it less impactful. I loved the moral of the story but the execution didn’t hit the same as C.S. Lewis.
The second half of the book was the author making commentaries on the story of Ordinary and the Land of Familiar. He was basically life coaching with a lot of personal experiences. I didn’t feel like his personal stories were very relevant to me and I found myself zoning out at times.
Overall, a well meaning book that has potential to motivate and inspire. Here are some of my favorite gems:
- Comfort is the ultimate enemy of your dreams.
- Dreams are for somebody else while comfort is for yourself.
- A dreamer is ones whose life is in motion.
- Are you holding tighter to your dream or to the dream giver? Put the giver before the gift.
- God cares more about you than your dream, and what he wants is a thriving relationship with you.
October 25, 2012
This was a very interesting book. Half of the book was a story, while the other half of the book was a lesson about life which was very religious. The story was very interesting and had a nice meaning behind it. The names that Bruce Wilkinson give to the characters are symbolic as well. The story was about a person who wanted to pursue his dream and in order to do so, he had to leave his city, Familiar, and had to face multiple obstacles such as border bullies, and giants which where representative of real-life obstacles. He eventually achieved his goal. He took the risk and did what the Dream Giver, or God, told him to do. In the end he got his goal back, and God's trust. The second half of the book explained how the author, Bruce Wilkinson, went down the same trek in real-life. As he explained his journey, he also explained how it related to the story. The story was a fiction version of his life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
The first part of this book is written in a similar style
as Pilgrim's Progress. A parable format is used to explain Ordinary's journey through the land of Familiar. Ordinary feels called to a Dream, and the first part of the book explains his journey and obstacles that he encounters trying to leave the comfort of the land of Familiar. As I read the first half, it brought tears to my eyes, as I relived some of the very emotions/experiences that are expressed. The second part of the book walks through all the aspects of this parable, making biblical references to Moses' Journey in the wilderness and giving ideas on how we can overcome and leave the land of Familiar to pursue the Dreams to which God, The Dream Giver has called us. The writing style was not 5 star worth, hence the 4 star reading, but it is a short, quick read and a book that I will be going back to study to learn how to apply the principles that I need in my life.
as Pilgrim's Progress. A parable format is used to explain Ordinary's journey through the land of Familiar. Ordinary feels called to a Dream, and the first part of the book explains his journey and obstacles that he encounters trying to leave the comfort of the land of Familiar. As I read the first half, it brought tears to my eyes, as I relived some of the very emotions/experiences that are expressed. The second part of the book walks through all the aspects of this parable, making biblical references to Moses' Journey in the wilderness and giving ideas on how we can overcome and leave the land of Familiar to pursue the Dreams to which God, The Dream Giver has called us. The writing style was not 5 star worth, hence the 4 star reading, but it is a short, quick read and a book that I will be going back to study to learn how to apply the principles that I need in my life.
December 25, 2019
الكتاب: مانح الحلم.
الكاتب: بروس ولكنسون. .
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في كتابه الأكثر مبيعا (مانح الحلم ) يروي لنا "بروس ولكنسون" قصه "عادي " ... رجل تحول من البساطة الي فرد غير اعتيادي، في الروايه يعرض لنا "ولكنسون " كيفية تحديد العقبات التي تمنع الفرد من عيش الحياه المبتغاة، يبيّن لنا كيف ب أستطاعه التفوق على المألوف وتغلبه علي المخاوف،يكتب لنا هذه الروايه بطريقه عصريه قويه خارجه عن العاده ، يمنح ويلكينسون القراء مفاتيح عملية توراتيه لتحقيق حلمهم ويطلب منهم الشروع في رحلتهم بدون تأجيل ... .
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. أكثر ما يروق لي في قصص التمنيه البشرية هو أنها غير محددة أو موضوعيه ذات صله ب فرد .. وهذا ما يميزها بحيث يمكن لأي شخص أن يجد نفسه في اي فصل من فصول الروايه . . .
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روايه ذكيه جدا جدا .
August 2, 2015
This book gave a lot for me to think about and one that can be used in our daily lives when the "Giant" try to keep you on a path of their choosing. using words live Ordinary which we all are familiar with or Big Dreams can we do it without causing to much of a ripple. Once you can let go of your Comfort level you may find that your life was just plain without shaking a few branches.
The biblical Wilkinson gives readers seem to be easy but limited with out going with God as your co-pilot.
It is in my opinion a quick read but one to stop from time to time to see where you are in Ordinary's travel if you were Ordinary.
The biblical Wilkinson gives readers seem to be easy but limited with out going with God as your co-pilot.
It is in my opinion a quick read but one to stop from time to time to see where you are in Ordinary's travel if you were Ordinary.
September 12, 2017
Encouraging. The parable was easy to relate to, to apply to my own life as I've walked forward into my own dream. I've seen and experienced the doubts, fears, and bullies, and I've wondered if I should leave the land of familiar, routine, and ordinary. Yet I also believe the dream inside me was planted by God and fertilized by others who love Him. I appreciated the second half of the book, filled with specific questions, answers, tidbits, and hints for the journey. This is a great book for anyone who dares to believe that maybe God wants something different--something bigger--than what they've currently grabbed hold of.
October 25, 2019
This is an encouraging parable written for those believers who have given up on seeing their dreams and goals being fulfilled. It's not a "pie-in-the-sky" volume. If you read it and heed its message, it will help you conquer fears and overcome the obstacles that keep you from living your Big Dream.
Hope Irvin Marston, author of THE WALLS HAVE EARS: A BLACK SPY IN THE CONFEDERATE WHITE HOUSE.
Hope Irvin Marston, author of THE WALLS HAVE EARS: A BLACK SPY IN THE CONFEDERATE WHITE HOUSE.
January 20, 2021
Interesting way of writing a book. The first half is written in a parable format, telling a story that seems like it could be obvious but is very impacting. Then the second half is written in teaching format using examples from the author's ministry and life experience plus Q&A from his conferences while pointing back to the different scenes and moments in the parable.
I enjoyed the overall premise, but I think it was maybe a little repetitive...especially for such a short book.
I enjoyed the overall premise, but I think it was maybe a little repetitive...especially for such a short book.
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