Simple and predictable...but touching, nonetheless. Plus, it's set in Oregon! Woo Hoo!! The hospital that Gideon stays at is the same children's hospital where my brother was treated and eventually passed away. I've walked through the glass corridor several times...the same place where Gideon and her father stopped to pray. This was a great little story to put the focus back on God and others...where the focus of Christmas should be!! ( )

This short novella from author Karen Kingsbury is destined to become a Christmas classic. It is heartwarming and inspirational in its story of belief in miracles by a selfless young girl with leukemia, and a man living on the streets of Portland, Oregon, haunted by his memories. Very touching for those not yet so desensitized that sentimentality and goodness has become something to disdain, Gideon's Gift will hold a special place among Christmas stories for them once the final page has been turned.

Gideon Mercer is an eight year old girl with a gift for bringing out the best in those around her. She is selfless and kind. When she dreams of the perfect Christmas and prays with her father for some kind of special miracle this year, it may have to transpire soon; little Gideon is running out of time. But prayers can be answered, and a miracle will present itself in the form of Earl Badgett.

Earl has been living on the rainy streets of Portland so long he has lost touch with humanity; his only connection to the past is a pair of red gloves. Only at night when he puts them on does he recall happier times. What happened to Earl is heartbreaking, and very plausible in Kingsbury's hands, her gift for making stories like this of faith and hope on wonderful display.

When Gideon and Earl meet at the mission Gideon senses what that miracle could be. I will not reveal what transpires between Gideon and Earl but this novella opens upon the joyous occasion of a wedding and slowly reveals how faith and a Christmas miracle brought all the parties involved there. This is a sweet and heartfelt story of hope that will make you want to do good to others while we still have the time.

Short and touching, Gideon's Gift does not have to be read during the Christmas season to enjoy it. While its brief length and sentimental message, does make it perfect for the busy holiday season, it is also nice for those who enjoy sentimental and heartwarming tales the year round. Highly recommended. ( )

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Chistian book about a girl who's dying of cancer and a homeless man. Christmas time story. Ginny loved this book.

Earl Badgett, has lost faith and all hope. Emotionally, he died when his beloved wife, Anne and daughter died in a car accident December 22, five years ago. Gideon Mercer, while in remission of leukemia volunteers at the mission. Gideon believes "Christmas miracles happen to those who believe." Gideon's gift of red gloves gives them both life and a miracle. ( )