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Magnificent Obsession: A Beloved Literary Classic of Redemption, Sacrifice, and Grace
When Robert Merrick's life is saved at the expense of the life of an eccentric but adored surgeon, the carefree playboy is forced to reevaluate his own path. Merrick embarks on a course of anonymous philanthropy, inspired by reading the doctor's private papers. An engaging and dramatic story of personal redemption and private sacrifice, this spiritual tale has served as an inspiration for both the stage and screen.
330 pages, Paperback
Published April 7, 1999
210 people are currently reading
2029 people want to read
About the author
Lloyd C. Douglas
121 books662 followersLloyd C. Douglas was a noteworthy American minister and author. He spent part of his boyhood in Monroeville, Indiana, Wilmot, Indiana and Florence, Kentucky, where his father, Alexander Jackson Douglas, was pastor of the Hopeful Lutheran Church. He died in Los Angeles, California.
Douglas was one of the most popular American authors of his time, although he didn't write his first novel until he was 50.
His written works were of a moral, didactic, and distinctly religious tone. His first novel, Magnificent Obsession, was an immediate and sensational success. Critics held that his type of fiction was in the tradition of the great religious writings of an earlier generation, such as, Ben-Hur and Quo Vadis.
Douglas is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, California.
Douglas was one of the most popular American authors of his time, although he didn't write his first novel until he was 50.
His written works were of a moral, didactic, and distinctly religious tone. His first novel, Magnificent Obsession, was an immediate and sensational success. Critics held that his type of fiction was in the tradition of the great religious writings of an earlier generation, such as, Ben-Hur and Quo Vadis.
Douglas is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
January 5, 2012
I have seen the Jane Wyman and Rock Hudson movie several times, but had yet read this 1st edition book that I found in an end table I purchased at a flea market. And I must say the book surpassed the excellent movie. It is a moving book that epitomizes the Christmas and New Year Seasons. Interwoven lives are affected by tragic accidents. Saved from drowning, Robert Merrick learns the price that was paid by eminent Dr. Wayne Hudson and transforms his life to continue Hudson’s work and make amends to those closest to the late surgeon as well as to the community. But to accomplish this, Merrick must learn Hudson’s secret and in doing so he will embark upon a MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION.
He emulates Hudson so closely that he transcends his shallow man/boy lifestyle and becomes prominent in the same field as Hudson. Merrick willfully does good deeds without expectation swearing his charges to secrecy and refuses payment of any kind because “his gift is all used up.” Though MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION is a beautiful love story, it is a wonderful Christian allegory that doesn’t preach Douglas’s philosophy. Revealing more of the plot would spoil the book for readers. I highly recommend readers to discover Helen Hudson and Robert Merrick and others that were closed to the late Dr. Hudson. The slightly stilted prose may be off putting in today’s era; the novel was published in 1932. Its message is still pertinent in 2012, and what a beautiful love story.
He emulates Hudson so closely that he transcends his shallow man/boy lifestyle and becomes prominent in the same field as Hudson. Merrick willfully does good deeds without expectation swearing his charges to secrecy and refuses payment of any kind because “his gift is all used up.” Though MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION is a beautiful love story, it is a wonderful Christian allegory that doesn’t preach Douglas’s philosophy. Revealing more of the plot would spoil the book for readers. I highly recommend readers to discover Helen Hudson and Robert Merrick and others that were closed to the late Dr. Hudson. The slightly stilted prose may be off putting in today’s era; the novel was published in 1932. Its message is still pertinent in 2012, and what a beautiful love story.
June 7, 2013
This book didn't rise nearly to the heights of The Robe. It has
good intentions, but falls flat. Douglas doesn't seem to be sure what
kind of book he wants to write. Sometimes it reads like a romance novel
and other times like a religious novel, but a very apologetic one. He
seems almost ashamed of proclaiming any sort of religious belief. He
tries to pigeonhole religion as a science, sneering at those "namby-
pamby folks" who sing hymns and recite scripture. In fact, I don't
know if he ever refers to Christ by name, rather than calling him the
"Galilean" and calling God the "Major Personality". It is sad after the
power of The Robe. It is wonderful that his characters were helping
people without any desire of recognition, but the motivation for doing so
bothered me. It seemed as if the whole thing was a tract to convince people
to be more compassionate while tip-toeing around Christ and His power and
divinity.
good intentions, but falls flat. Douglas doesn't seem to be sure what
kind of book he wants to write. Sometimes it reads like a romance novel
and other times like a religious novel, but a very apologetic one. He
seems almost ashamed of proclaiming any sort of religious belief. He
tries to pigeonhole religion as a science, sneering at those "namby-
pamby folks" who sing hymns and recite scripture. In fact, I don't
know if he ever refers to Christ by name, rather than calling him the
"Galilean" and calling God the "Major Personality". It is sad after the
power of The Robe. It is wonderful that his characters were helping
people without any desire of recognition, but the motivation for doing so
bothered me. It seemed as if the whole thing was a tract to convince people
to be more compassionate while tip-toeing around Christ and His power and
divinity.
February 13, 2021
I could not put this book down when I was a teen. The whole idea of doing good anonymously with no desire for a reward was not foreign to me, but I thought it was a big stretch to imply that the characters in this story became successful and rich by practicing these charitable acts.
Now that I am much (MUCH) older, I do believe that the positive and negative energy that you send out into the world eventually finds its way back to you. Napolean Hill wrote many self-help books on a similar theme. I do believe that you have to change your thinking, but my aim has never been to gain riches. (I wanted to be a better, more tolerant and rounded person. Money has its own energy and karma attached to it: there never seems to be enough of it, and it has caused all kinds of grief in this world.)
Another "golden oldie" book on my "reread" list
Now that I am much (MUCH) older, I do believe that the positive and negative energy that you send out into the world eventually finds its way back to you. Napolean Hill wrote many self-help books on a similar theme. I do believe that you have to change your thinking, but my aim has never been to gain riches. (I wanted to be a better, more tolerant and rounded person. Money has its own energy and karma attached to it: there never seems to be enough of it, and it has caused all kinds of grief in this world.)
Another "golden oldie" book on my "reread" list
July 27, 2010
This was one of the first novels I ever read, and I still love the stuffy, cigarette-smoke style of writing, which I associate with old office equipment and rotary phones and the smell of darkening, dog-eared pages. As with Rebecca and Lost Horizon, the reading experience is greatly enhanced by the feel and smell of a worn-out, ex-library first edition, which can sometimes be picked up at a library book sale or Salvation Army store.
April 2, 2011
“Pay it forward”-esque novel written in the late 1920s about a wealthy young cad turns altruist. I truly liked, and rooted for, the protagonist and found the writing style unique and quirky and very post-flapper. The sentence structure all over the place and Tourette’s-like at times so I can see why other reviewers took issue with it even though it worked for me. Indeed, for a “light” read it can be a bit hard to muddle through.
Despite having been written over 80 years ago, this story has a new age bent that feels modern. Sometimes it was hard to believe it was written so long ago. Other times it was painfully obvious, such as the author’s blasé approach to wife-beating and the fact most of the female characters are silly, naïve, drunken, and/or easily swindled. Doubtless this is a reflection of the time period but it’s a little jarring when someone pops into conversation the fact her husband punched her in the stomach the previous night.
Overall, I enjoyed this. I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend it, but it was a worthwhile read.
Despite having been written over 80 years ago, this story has a new age bent that feels modern. Sometimes it was hard to believe it was written so long ago. Other times it was painfully obvious, such as the author’s blasé approach to wife-beating and the fact most of the female characters are silly, naïve, drunken, and/or easily swindled. Doubtless this is a reflection of the time period but it’s a little jarring when someone pops into conversation the fact her husband punched her in the stomach the previous night.
Overall, I enjoyed this. I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend it, but it was a worthwhile read.
Read
December 8, 2023Een wilde rit. Ik moet zeggen dat ik er beslist door gefascineerd ben, maar of het nou uit de vergetelheid gered moet worden... Meh. Ik geloof dat het hele verhaal in feite geschreven is om te laten zien dat het christendom heus wetenschappelijk is. En dat vrouwen bezit zijn in de ogen van meneer (dominee) Douglas.
October 11, 2020
My Mom asked me to order this book for her on Amazon. Curious, I asked why she wanted this book. She told me that her Father had her read this book when she was in high school. My Grandfather has been dead for many decades. The hope of connecting to him caused me to order a book for myself and read it. The style of the book is a little unusual or not what I am use to. Experiences and relationships were developed in scarcity of words, and yet fully felt. Douglas has a large vocabulary and I found myself often seeing words I did not recognize, but this added to the experience of reading this book. The book explores spirituality and belief in Jesus Christ teachings of the main character as he navigates life after a near death experience. Although maybe not the most intriguing well written book I have ever read, I give it five stars because of the many times I have thought back on things I read in the book.
April 1, 2009
I had a really hard time getting into this book so it took me a while to finish it, but once I got started I really enjoyed it. I enjoy Lloyd Douglas' writing style as well as his creative outlook on religious themes. I definitely needed to read an inspiring book lately and this one was a perfect fit. I finished it a couple days before fast sunday and then that weekend was studying the topic of fasting, I read the article in the April 09 Ensign by Shayne M. Bowen on Fasting With Power and was struck by the similarities between his article and Magnificent Obsession. It actually got me really excited about how our choices in regards to service really do affect our own life.
I've only read one other book by Douglas (The Robe), but I will definitely be looking into what else he has written.
I've only read one other book by Douglas (The Robe), but I will definitely be looking into what else he has written.
February 5, 2019
I loved this book. Inspires me to be a better person. Not be so proud of myself when I am generous.
No disclosure/talking about what I did. Bobby Merrick had plenty to share but so do I. Not really on that same level, but still... I plan to experiment with this "projection of myself through investments in other people". Comes with a warning of not always successful but occasionally I'll manage and it will square for the failures. This is a type of "pay it forward" process. A process of expanding your personality. Personality projection is like any other investment. It earns compound interest. Wonderful satisfying ending to this engaging story. Thank you Kristi for this Spinecracker daytime bookclub suggestion!
No disclosure/talking about what I did. Bobby Merrick had plenty to share but so do I. Not really on that same level, but still... I plan to experiment with this "projection of myself through investments in other people". Comes with a warning of not always successful but occasionally I'll manage and it will square for the failures. This is a type of "pay it forward" process. A process of expanding your personality. Personality projection is like any other investment. It earns compound interest. Wonderful satisfying ending to this engaging story. Thank you Kristi for this Spinecracker daytime bookclub suggestion!
October 10, 2022
A selfish playboy is saved from death and sees the error of his ways. He devotes the rest of his life to becoming a first-rate surgeon in order to replace the fine doctor who died because of his selfishness. Through a careful study of the bible, he also decides to perform good deeds in secret for the benefit of mankind. Oh, if only people were like this. (I shouldn't be too cynical. There are actually some people like this. Many, in fact.)
Today, we would call this "Paying It Forward". The story gets a bit soapy at times, but the basic premise is so intriguing that I found myself suspending my disbelief and getting swept along.
Today, we would call this "Paying It Forward". The story gets a bit soapy at times, but the basic premise is so intriguing that I found myself suspending my disbelief and getting swept along.
June 22, 2020
Another of the tattered old books we had when I was young. A story of perceived guilt maybe as I remember — to me now maybe an example of pay-it-forward. Written fairly well I imagine as I read it several times.
January 6, 2018
Many people probably would not get past the first chapter of this book because the dialogue is so very outdated. I believe the book was written in the early 20th century. I doubt I could bribe anyone born in this millenium to stick with it. But I have gone back and read it at least half a dozen times, if that means anything to anyone. I simply love the theme of the book, and the way the ideals that it puts forth are woven into the life of a young, rich loafer who develops into a master brain surgeon. I highly recommend it.
August 13, 2018
The story and literature are good and interesting. But that's not worth 5 stars. This is among the most impactful books I've ever read or ever will read. I think about it nearly every day and strive to apply the lesson it taught. People have asked me to share the lesson with them, but I won't. Wisdom is earned, never given. So I give them the book and invite them to discover it themselves.
Read in Oakton, VA. Recommended by Amanda Maughan
Read in Oakton, VA. Recommended by Amanda Maughan
January 14, 2008
I have read this book at least twice. I think it is a young adult book. But the story is so good, well written, and inspiring. It's just fun to read like watching your favorite movie, it just makes you feel good. I have my own copy if any of my friends want to borrow it.
April 27, 2014
Lloyd Cassel Douglas, 1877-1951, was a minister before he was an author. MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION, was his first book written and published after he retired from the pulpit around 1928. How appropriate then that this books main subject centers around his old boss, the Galilean from Nazareth. His novels are of a didactic tone purposed for developing strong moral character. His writing is of the very formal literary style of the day, and tilt toward the upper class vernacular of that era. This is a classic novel that was first published in 1929.
The protagonist is Robert Merrick (Bobby), a good for nothing carousing playboy that drinks too much, and chases women. His parents inherent money led to their irresponsible, self indulgent attitudes, and those bad traits carried over into their son’s life; he could always buy his way out of any bad situation.
The money came from his grandfather, Nicholas J. Merrick, who was the founder of Axiom Motor Corporation, and still a large stockholder of that company. Nic Merrick worked hard for the wealth his family took for granted. His family was a disappointment to him. That is until Bobby Merrick’s life was changed by an unfortunate chain of events.
Bobby lived with his grandfather at Windymere, a retreat by a lake out in the country. Bobby’s father, Clif, had died when he was young, and his self absorbed mother, Maxine, abandoned him to go live in Europe, leaving him to live with his grandfather Nic. His neighbor was a prominent brain surgeon from Detroit, Dr. Wayne Hudson, who had recently married in hopes of helping his daughter, and moved his family to his newly constructed retreat, Flintridge, across the lake from Windymere.
Dr. Hudson was the most important brain surgeon in the country, but his career was being threatened by what his close colleges that worked with him at Brightwood Hospital in Detroit called “little idiosyncrasies”, and his not so close colleges called “clean-cut psychoses”. All colleges thought Dr. Hudson’s extreme hard work and dedication, along with concern about his out of control daughter, Joyce, was killing his health, mental and physical. It was decided that Dr. Pyle, who idolized the prominent brain surgeon, would talk to the Dr. and convince him to take his daughter and go on a long vacation.
Dr. Hudson completely turned the tables on Dr. Pyle when he finally got the gumption to approach the good Dr. about taking a vacation. Before Dr. Pyle could say a word Dr. Hudson informed him that he was going to marry his daughter’s college classmate, Helen Brent, because Miss Brent had such a positive effect on his daughter. Joyce was a perfect lady and good student when in the presents of Helen. Telling Dr. Pyle that it sounds like one of those “January and June” weddings; that he was not fooling himself, and it was to be a marriage on behalf of his daughter. A “mariage de convenance”. That he was building his country retreat, Flintridge, and retiring there for the sake of his family. Dr. Pyle was amazed, as were all his associates at Brightwood Hospital.
One of Dr. Hudson’s ‘idiosyncrasies’ was living without fear; must not fear anything. He feared swimming, but he swam.
“Still swim?”
“Regularly”
“Enjoy it?”
“Well - it’s good for me.”
“Keeps your weight down?”
“Perhaps. But, in any event, it’s good for me.”
The visitor then asked about a “strange piece of furniture” that was sitting there, his super-type inhalator. Dr. Hudson briefly explained what it was, and that it was to be used if anyone were to fall in the deep water; it would be of great use.
Then the unfortunate chain of events that spurred Bobby Merrick to reevaluate his life, to commit his life to doing good for others, happened. Bobby’s boat had somehow exploded and he was blown off the boat, and would have died except for the aid of Dr. Hudson’s super-type inhalator. Unfortunately, on the other side of the lake, Dr. Hudson died from drowning because he din’t have his inhalator there to save his life, because it had been taken to the other side of the lake to help save Bobby’s life.
The village Dr. attending to Bobby shipped him off to Brightwood Hospital, famous for its brain surgery, not knowing that Dr. Hudson wouldn’t be there. When Merrick revived he was tortured by the ill treatment, or rather hateful attitude of the staff there. He tried to make it right by throwing his money at the problem, not knowing that everyone there blamed him for the death of their beloved Dr. Hudson. That is until Nancy Ashford, the most intimate of Dr. Hudson’s associates, kindly filled him in. Once Merrick transformed his life to one of doing good, and committed his life to the service of mankind, Mrs. Ashford became his biggest ally.
By chance he came to the aid of Mrs. Helen Hudson, still in mourning from her husbands passing, when her car got stuck in a ditch near Windymere, where Merrick again went to live with his grandfather after his recovery from the hospital. He didn’t reveal who he was for fear she hated him so. It was love at first sight. This impossible love story carries throughout the story, and ends on the last pages in a quite dramatic and satisfying fashion.
Bobby became Dr. Merrick, brain surgeon, and inventor of a surgical tool that catheterized vital veins during the surgical process. Loved and hoorayed by all just as Dr. Hudson had been. Since gaining Mrs. Ashford’s approval and admiration, she entrusted ‘a little coded book’ of Dr. Hudson’s to Dr. Merrick. Decoding this little book solidified Dr Merrick’s religious convictions, which until his accident were nil. He concluded that religion wasn’t a thing out there. It is as certain as the physical sciences used in materia medica. Dr. Hudson’s little coded book described a sort of personality transference. Help people by doing good deeds in an effort to help them reclaim their own lives. And, most importantly, keep it to yourself. That by doing so your own life would be blessed with all the good your heart desires. To quote Dr. Merrick, if only people “...realized how human personality can be made just as receptive to the power of our Major Personality.” Just as surely as electricity can be transferred in physical science. Beautiful premise, beautiful story.
It is sacrilegious to be allowed to give this classical literature only five stars.
The protagonist is Robert Merrick (Bobby), a good for nothing carousing playboy that drinks too much, and chases women. His parents inherent money led to their irresponsible, self indulgent attitudes, and those bad traits carried over into their son’s life; he could always buy his way out of any bad situation.
The money came from his grandfather, Nicholas J. Merrick, who was the founder of Axiom Motor Corporation, and still a large stockholder of that company. Nic Merrick worked hard for the wealth his family took for granted. His family was a disappointment to him. That is until Bobby Merrick’s life was changed by an unfortunate chain of events.
Bobby lived with his grandfather at Windymere, a retreat by a lake out in the country. Bobby’s father, Clif, had died when he was young, and his self absorbed mother, Maxine, abandoned him to go live in Europe, leaving him to live with his grandfather Nic. His neighbor was a prominent brain surgeon from Detroit, Dr. Wayne Hudson, who had recently married in hopes of helping his daughter, and moved his family to his newly constructed retreat, Flintridge, across the lake from Windymere.
Dr. Hudson was the most important brain surgeon in the country, but his career was being threatened by what his close colleges that worked with him at Brightwood Hospital in Detroit called “little idiosyncrasies”, and his not so close colleges called “clean-cut psychoses”. All colleges thought Dr. Hudson’s extreme hard work and dedication, along with concern about his out of control daughter, Joyce, was killing his health, mental and physical. It was decided that Dr. Pyle, who idolized the prominent brain surgeon, would talk to the Dr. and convince him to take his daughter and go on a long vacation.
Dr. Hudson completely turned the tables on Dr. Pyle when he finally got the gumption to approach the good Dr. about taking a vacation. Before Dr. Pyle could say a word Dr. Hudson informed him that he was going to marry his daughter’s college classmate, Helen Brent, because Miss Brent had such a positive effect on his daughter. Joyce was a perfect lady and good student when in the presents of Helen. Telling Dr. Pyle that it sounds like one of those “January and June” weddings; that he was not fooling himself, and it was to be a marriage on behalf of his daughter. A “mariage de convenance”. That he was building his country retreat, Flintridge, and retiring there for the sake of his family. Dr. Pyle was amazed, as were all his associates at Brightwood Hospital.
One of Dr. Hudson’s ‘idiosyncrasies’ was living without fear; must not fear anything. He feared swimming, but he swam.
“Still swim?”
“Regularly”
“Enjoy it?”
“Well - it’s good for me.”
“Keeps your weight down?”
“Perhaps. But, in any event, it’s good for me.”
The visitor then asked about a “strange piece of furniture” that was sitting there, his super-type inhalator. Dr. Hudson briefly explained what it was, and that it was to be used if anyone were to fall in the deep water; it would be of great use.
Then the unfortunate chain of events that spurred Bobby Merrick to reevaluate his life, to commit his life to doing good for others, happened. Bobby’s boat had somehow exploded and he was blown off the boat, and would have died except for the aid of Dr. Hudson’s super-type inhalator. Unfortunately, on the other side of the lake, Dr. Hudson died from drowning because he din’t have his inhalator there to save his life, because it had been taken to the other side of the lake to help save Bobby’s life.
The village Dr. attending to Bobby shipped him off to Brightwood Hospital, famous for its brain surgery, not knowing that Dr. Hudson wouldn’t be there. When Merrick revived he was tortured by the ill treatment, or rather hateful attitude of the staff there. He tried to make it right by throwing his money at the problem, not knowing that everyone there blamed him for the death of their beloved Dr. Hudson. That is until Nancy Ashford, the most intimate of Dr. Hudson’s associates, kindly filled him in. Once Merrick transformed his life to one of doing good, and committed his life to the service of mankind, Mrs. Ashford became his biggest ally.
By chance he came to the aid of Mrs. Helen Hudson, still in mourning from her husbands passing, when her car got stuck in a ditch near Windymere, where Merrick again went to live with his grandfather after his recovery from the hospital. He didn’t reveal who he was for fear she hated him so. It was love at first sight. This impossible love story carries throughout the story, and ends on the last pages in a quite dramatic and satisfying fashion.
Bobby became Dr. Merrick, brain surgeon, and inventor of a surgical tool that catheterized vital veins during the surgical process. Loved and hoorayed by all just as Dr. Hudson had been. Since gaining Mrs. Ashford’s approval and admiration, she entrusted ‘a little coded book’ of Dr. Hudson’s to Dr. Merrick. Decoding this little book solidified Dr Merrick’s religious convictions, which until his accident were nil. He concluded that religion wasn’t a thing out there. It is as certain as the physical sciences used in materia medica. Dr. Hudson’s little coded book described a sort of personality transference. Help people by doing good deeds in an effort to help them reclaim their own lives. And, most importantly, keep it to yourself. That by doing so your own life would be blessed with all the good your heart desires. To quote Dr. Merrick, if only people “...realized how human personality can be made just as receptive to the power of our Major Personality.” Just as surely as electricity can be transferred in physical science. Beautiful premise, beautiful story.
It is sacrilegious to be allowed to give this classical literature only five stars.
January 2, 2019
A wonderful, thought-provoking book. Makes a fantastic read in November/December around the holidays. Part of the storyline takes place around that time on the calendar. Due to the nature of the story, it's a very giving book, providing the reader with such good principles on living a well-spent life... So the "giving" themes presented run true at Christmastime even moreso than usual, maybe even placing you directly in Dr. Hudson's footsteps, just like it does young Bobby Merrick.
What the story boils down to is a non-believer of religion finding God by scientifically executing generosity, and through that, learning to feel empathy for others' plights. After young, spoiled Bobby Merrick finally catches sight of the meaning behind abundant living, he glimpses the shining light of glory ahead, and chases it down with all his might. He ends up making discoveries about life that he never thought possible before. He espies a legacy that is worth duplicating as his own... and maybe we all should too.
The book just gleams with the polish of a master storyteller. No doubt about it. As the chapters flew by for me, I could just feel the intensity of the tale smoldering right off the copy in my hand. There's many layers to the plot too, which is why it feels eternally intense, abysmally deep.
Note to the discerning reader: There is mild swearing and saying God's name in vain; due to the frequency of this, I have to drop a star off my rating, regretfully.
Personally, for me? I don't quite agree with all the religious type of logic illustrated in the story... it's not always clearly shown as following Christ. Instead the acts of kindness portrayed are referred to as "expanding one's personality" (it is better to give than to receive)... but it's still inspirational, nonetheless, and was written in an effort to reach the harvest fields of the world.
Overall? I rejoice in the fact that I got to read Magnificent Obsession at this point in my life. It's one to remember and reflect upon. (Plus, I think I need to go re-watch the old film version of it again. I remember just loving it as well.)
EXCEPTIONAL.
What the story boils down to is a non-believer of religion finding God by scientifically executing generosity, and through that, learning to feel empathy for others' plights. After young, spoiled Bobby Merrick finally catches sight of the meaning behind abundant living, he glimpses the shining light of glory ahead, and chases it down with all his might. He ends up making discoveries about life that he never thought possible before. He espies a legacy that is worth duplicating as his own... and maybe we all should too.
The book just gleams with the polish of a master storyteller. No doubt about it. As the chapters flew by for me, I could just feel the intensity of the tale smoldering right off the copy in my hand. There's many layers to the plot too, which is why it feels eternally intense, abysmally deep.
Note to the discerning reader: There is mild swearing and saying God's name in vain; due to the frequency of this, I have to drop a star off my rating, regretfully.
Personally, for me? I don't quite agree with all the religious type of logic illustrated in the story... it's not always clearly shown as following Christ. Instead the acts of kindness portrayed are referred to as "expanding one's personality" (it is better to give than to receive)... but it's still inspirational, nonetheless, and was written in an effort to reach the harvest fields of the world.
Overall? I rejoice in the fact that I got to read Magnificent Obsession at this point in my life. It's one to remember and reflect upon. (Plus, I think I need to go re-watch the old film version of it again. I remember just loving it as well.)
EXCEPTIONAL.
September 4, 2025
What is to be made of this novel? Throughout it there are moments where I think "Okay this is getting really good now." and then all of a sudden I couldn't tell you what I read for the last five pages...
On the whole a decent book but could have been much much better
On the whole a decent book but could have been much much better
April 28, 2015
3.5 star rating.
In no particular order... here are some jumbled thoughts...
- At first my eyebrows shot up at the scene where Randolf takes the page out of the bible and forms an entire way of living around this one piece of scripture (... It seemed very irreverent to me. And the author's efforts to attach scientific reasoning to it all, reminded me of the Robe...
THEN I realized that the original publishing date was 1929..... that era closely mimics the era we are going through now. Right before the 30's, the 20's were an era of excess... people were cynical about Christianity, people were seeking out 'new spins' on the old... in fact it was the style at that time even among Christians to make sure that everything had a scientific explanation... in thinking about the era in which Douglas lived, and given his background - I really think that this was an attempt to reach the unchurched in a way that they could relate to...
- I DO love the idea that doing good deeds and loving others without acknowledgement helps to grow us into someone better than we would have been. In fact, the scripture that this book is based upon (Matthew 6:1-4) promises a reward...
- Wondering about the symbolism of the cross that Helen wears and that plays a part in her healing... and with the ensuing marriage.. ??
In no particular order... here are some jumbled thoughts...
- At first my eyebrows shot up at the scene where Randolf takes the page out of the bible and forms an entire way of living around this one piece of scripture (... It seemed very irreverent to me. And the author's efforts to attach scientific reasoning to it all, reminded me of the Robe...
THEN I realized that the original publishing date was 1929..... that era closely mimics the era we are going through now. Right before the 30's, the 20's were an era of excess... people were cynical about Christianity, people were seeking out 'new spins' on the old... in fact it was the style at that time even among Christians to make sure that everything had a scientific explanation... in thinking about the era in which Douglas lived, and given his background - I really think that this was an attempt to reach the unchurched in a way that they could relate to...
- I DO love the idea that doing good deeds and loving others without acknowledgement helps to grow us into someone better than we would have been. In fact, the scripture that this book is based upon (Matthew 6:1-4) promises a reward...
- Wondering about the symbolism of the cross that Helen wears and that plays a part in her healing... and with the ensuing marriage.. ??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2009
I am currently re-reading this 1929 edition I purchased for $3.00 at the public library. I read this many years ago as a teenager, then again as a young mother. I still find enjoyment and inspiration in the theme of the book now as I enter my 60's. To serve without expecting recognition, reward or thanks is a rather unusual approach to life. This is a theme often popular at Christmas by giving to the needy without expecting anything in return except the warm feelings in the heart. In this book, the young, wild Merrick finds powerful reason to reform his life and pursue a life of productivity as a brain surgeon as well as greatly strengthen his personality by giving, serving, helping those he notices who have a particular need. He requests no payment or acknowledgment in return for his gift is "all used up" and cannot be given back. This path leads to an amazing gift to him of incredible creativity that will publicly bless many lives and actually brings much notoriety. Whether this can be applied in real life, outside of fiction is for the reader to discover as he pursues his own paths through life.
February 12, 2018
I first became acquainted with this story in my Rock Hudson phase. The film was glossy, predictable, and gave him plenty of time to brood with that classy face of his. Jane Wyman was a little too old for him but it added validity to the relationship she had with Joyce and her first husband.
The original (this book) was better in several ways. Joyce was much less of a wannabe movie star, Tom existed for much more than legalities, and Nancy's devotion to the family made more sense.
But Helen! I never could quite believe she loved her first husband and that is crucial to the whole story.
Merrick was a little bit more human than in the movie and that I enjoyed. But they insisted on calling him Bobby... so I always thought of him as a child (when he's probably one of the more mature characters).
And there was no end to the ellipses. Granted, I have a certain fondness for them myself but not to that extent. They made the text seem disjointed.
The original (this book) was better in several ways. Joyce was much less of a wannabe movie star, Tom existed for much more than legalities, and Nancy's devotion to the family made more sense.
But Helen! I never could quite believe she loved her first husband and that is crucial to the whole story.
Merrick was a little bit more human than in the movie and that I enjoyed. But they insisted on calling him Bobby... so I always thought of him as a child (when he's probably one of the more mature characters).
And there was no end to the ellipses. Granted, I have a certain fondness for them myself but not to that extent. They made the text seem disjointed.
February 4, 2018
Written by Lloyd C. Douglas, author of “The Robe”, this is an interesting tale of the impact that serving others can have on an individual’s search for purpose and significance. Wealthy philanderer, Bobby Merrick’s life is saved while a beloved surgeon, Dr. Hudson’s life is lost. The weight of that realization forces young Robert Merrick to appraise and take measure of the direction his life has been heading. When he gains access to Dr. Hudson’s personal journals he learns that there is more to life than personal gratification and pleasure, and sets about to redeem his squandered life.
I did enjoy this inspirational story although I felt as if Merrick’s inspiration came from the model of Jesus and the Gospel, and yet that was never made clear. The terms that the author chose were quite ambiguous and that was disappointing.
I did enjoy this inspirational story although I felt as if Merrick’s inspiration came from the model of Jesus and the Gospel, and yet that was never made clear. The terms that the author chose were quite ambiguous and that was disappointing.
August 29, 2011
I really really liked this book. I would give it 4 1/2 stars if that was an option. It started a little slowly, but once I got into it I really enjoyed it. It has a great message, a likable (if sometimes exasperating) main character, and a cute little love story. I thought that it was kind of weird how abruptly the love story suddenly resolved itself, but I like happy endings so I guess I am okay with it. I really enjoyed the writing style. It was very clever and funny, and full of sentences like, "He would today atone for all his failures to be what she wanted him to be by going cheerfully into an affair which, he suspected, would establish his utter asshood as a fact beyond controversy in the opinion of any sensible person present." Love it.
July 2, 2018
Found the original print copy of this book on the ‘give away’ table at the library. I only took it because I liked the way it looked, and I’m glad in this case that I “judged the book by its cover.” It’s the story of a playboy college millionaire essentially given a second chance at life after a near death experience- and how he applies a pay it forward principle to make his life more meaningful. I also enjoyed reading about people who ride steam ships to Europe (it was written in 1929), and take month long sabbaticals in Italy. (Sigh) And about surgeons who finish their Neuro surgery training in three years!!??? It was definitely a different time, but the moral of the story is still pertinent today. Slow moving but thoughtful. Read it if you can find it.
January 28, 2022
"Magnificent Obsession" by Lloyd Douglas was published in 1929 and, because of that dating, suffers some from stilted language and dialogue. Be that as it may, it was an inspirational story about someone who finds God in his life. For the reader, once past the first chapter and by then used to the literary style, the book opens up and the pages fly by. A special layer in the tale is that while the protagonist is finding God, a circular and sweet love story takes place.
This was a delightful read about serving others. The narrative reminded me of a late-1950s TV show—The Millionaire. In that show the reclusive John Beresford Tipton would anonymously give away money to people he did not know…much like “Magnificent Obsession’s” Robert Merrick doing good deeds for others. Good read…
This was a delightful read about serving others. The narrative reminded me of a late-1950s TV show—The Millionaire. In that show the reclusive John Beresford Tipton would anonymously give away money to people he did not know…much like “Magnificent Obsession’s” Robert Merrick doing good deeds for others. Good read…
August 11, 2008
Read ages ago, so I'm going by a rusty memory. However, I do remember that I wanted to tell the WORLD about it, but one mustn't do that if one wishes to do that. Even as a teen, I understood the concept, and it's loss should I decide to bring it to the mundane by sharing it with ... anyone. Oh, did I forget to mention, you can share the book just fine. It's the magnificent obsession itself that needs to live in the privacy of one's own soul.
It still informs some of my more pure actions today to a degree, though not the same as years ago when I read it. I think that is an improvement, though if I read it again, I think I would find renewed enthusiasm....
It still informs some of my more pure actions today to a degree, though not the same as years ago when I read it. I think that is an improvement, though if I read it again, I think I would find renewed enthusiasm....
August 3, 2015
Some call this book inspirational others call it a romance. I call it both. Though the romance is certainly not heavy. The author pushes some interesting ideas though the telling of a story. Most comments talk about the idea of "I've already used it all up" but I found the idea of never allowing a person to break off from you mad interesting. Wish I had someone to talk to about this idea.
I also really enjoyed the style of writing and found myself often rereading many phrases just to make sure I understood what was being said. Not because they were not clear but because I found many of them to be very poetic and more beautifully put the more times I read them.
I also really enjoyed the style of writing and found myself often rereading many phrases just to make sure I understood what was being said. Not because they were not clear but because I found many of them to be very poetic and more beautifully put the more times I read them.
February 22, 2023
Another beautifully written story, but you probably knew that. It's interesting, as one reads a book, to speculate on what point(s) the author was trying to make. Like the rest of us as we speak or write, authors inject a point of view, paint their characters, develop an overall theme that reflects who they are and what they believe. In "Magnificent Obsession", I see a man who, while a person of scientific intelligence, is hesitant in matters of love and faith in God. I also see an individual who has become a model for all of us in that he has learned that it is better to give than receive. Since you read this years ago, may I suggest you reread it?
February 9, 2008
Everyone in my ward book club liked this one for the Christian message. I found the Good Samaritan rhetoric too overt and materialistic--the message in part was that if you help other people, God will magnify your talents to make you wildly successful in your vocation. But I have to admit that I really liked the romance. Tip: the movie (with Jane Wyman and Rock Hudson) has a completely different plot, and I found it a bit unwatchable.
March 27, 2015
One of my favorites all-time! Just DON'T see the movie. You would think with Rock Hudson and Jane Weyman it would be pretty good. Unfortunately, they only kept the romance (which they still changed) and left out the best part of the book - the message. The message I got from the book is that anything you do for others comes back to you multiplied. I read it the first time in junior high and it has had a lasting impact!
December 4, 2012
This book is only "Christian" in that it does mention Jesus regularly. However, the portrayal of Jesus--his nature and purpose--is skewed from that of Savior to pragmatic, scientific, pick-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps leader. Although the plot is clever, my distaste for the theology made it virtually impossible to enjoy. I did not finish. Sorry, Rev. Douglas, I know your intentions were good--but you landed wide of the mark.
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