The Immortal Nicholas
BEFORE HE WAS FATHER CHRISTMAS…HE WAS SIMPLY A FATHER.
Thirteen-time #1 national bestselling author Glenn Beck realized years ago that somewhere along the way, his four children had become more focused on Santa than the meaning of Christmas. No matter how he tried, he could not redirect their attention away from presents and elves to the manger instead.
Glenn didn't want to be the Grinch who spoiled the magic of Kris Kringle, so he had to find a unique way to turn his kids back toward the true meaning of Christmas. He decided the best place to start was by first turning Santa himself back toward Christ.
That was when one of America’s best storytellers began to craft a tale that would change everything his kids thought they knew about Santa—the incredible story he went on to tell them that Christmas Eve spans over a thousand years and explains the meaning behind the immortality and generosity of the man named Claus.
The Immortal Nicholas has now been expanded and reimagined into this novel for adults; a novel full of drama, history, legend, and heart. From the snowy mountains of Western Asia, to the deserts of Egypt, to Yemen’s elusive frankincense-bearing boswellia trees, this is an epic tale that gives the legend of Santa a long overdue Christ-centered mission.
In this novel, Glenn Beck fundamentally transforms the figure that the world now mainly associates with shopping, all while staying true to the real story of the baby who brought redemption and salvation to the entire world.
Reviews (195)
A Very Personal Connection to a Grieving Man and the Need for Faith
A person at work told me about this book, and it intrigued me enough that I looked up the description. I decided to purchase and read it, and will say that this book greatly affected me. Without getting too personal on a book review, this book hit a nerve that I didn't realize existed. I think everyone will connect to this book in a different way. For me, I had a very personal loss in my 20s that caused me to question my faith. While reading this book, I could feel everything the broken main character felt. When I finished this book, I wished it wasn't over. It was deeply moving for me, so much so that I purchased this book for my Mom and sisters for Christmas. I'm interested to see how they react to it as we all grieve differently. Even if they don't feel the personal connection I do, I think they can appreciate the wonderful literary work of this author. I understand that not everyone will have the same experience I did with this book. But just as I feel my family can at least appreciate how well written this book is, I think anyone that loves to read can appreciate the same.
As I turned the last page of this book, my heart cried....no!
Many people may turn from this book simply because of opinions, thoughts and feelings associated with the author; however as an avid reader I challenge you to open the covers of this book and step into an immortal story of humanity and hope. The beautiful storyline and masterful writing led me like one on a scavenger hunt from gem to gem to home and beyond. I struggle to write this review because sometimes reviews can destroy or diminish a reader's relationship with a story. Yes, relationship. Reading stories like this one is not simply an act of deciphering words on a page but an inspirational journey of soul and spirit. A conversation of discovery. This is neither an historical book nor is it political. As you turn the last page and realise the story has ended, I hope you also say, no! (I want more!)
Excellent story, great narration.
Excellent story. My one son recommended it to me, and I was amazed at how well the story progressed. We (my wife and I) like to listen to AudioBooks as we travel. And while we do occasionally listen to a 'Book' a second time; we usually wait six months or more. However, we broke our normal pattern with this book; we listened to book straight through, and then immediately listened to it again. And then a third time a couple of days later. We thought it was that good. The historical events discussed, the various societies that were encompassed, and the economic conditions of the various locales were all accurately described; which simply surprised me. The author resisted today's 'normal' writers' trick of describing historical societies and environs as though they were occurring today, with all of today's mores and attitudes. It was a welcome and refreshing approach to take; very enjoyable. The book's narrator was excellent. It was a pleasure to listen to him.
Immortal Nicholas- A New Way to Celebrate Christmas
New slant on the creation of Santa that depicts that the character, Agios, was not a jolly old elf but rather, a man with tremendous losses in his life and wants to die but a special mission to become a special family's and baby's protector and through new opportunities to regain connectedness with his inner humanity with new people and situations. Yet, through all these, Agios finds his protected baby years later a grown man and has achieved a new status among the people that lifts and then dashes Agios' spirit by not being able to offer protection for his special charge and this is only the first part of the story. To see the transformation of why Santa does what he does, wears what he wears and why the North Pole, get the book and discover these for one's self.
Just a really nice Xmas story.
Love this book. I have been giving a few of them away a xmas gifts. After they read the book my friends always come back an say it was a nice story with an intertesting look at xmas from a diffrent view. Once you get past the fact that the author is a well know talk political radio person and just enjoy the book for what it was written for you'll like it.
It is true classic, at least for me
I first read this story in 2015 when it first came out. I enjoyed it so much, I purchased copies for members of our family. Recently, I had an urge to read the story again, something I usually do not do with books I've read. Boy, I was glad I did. It had as much impact on me the second time, 5 years later, as it did the first time. It is both sad and joyful at the same time, much like sweet and sour sauce. It is not your normal Christmas story all glittery and sparkly. It has a pace that allows you to feel and understand the characters. I think the story is a true classic.
A Christmas book to savor
Absolutely incredible book that will keep you captivated! This will become an annual tradition to read each year. Glenn clearly articulates each scene and uses such detailed descriptions that the images and characters come to life. His ability to weave facts from history, legends and the truth of the life/death/resurrection of our Christ Jesus is phenominal! As a Christian, I began reading this book curious with how he would pull in the truths of our faith and link them up with a worldly figure, Santa. Mr. Beck makes it almost possible to believe that Santa could exist. The cover and texture of the pages are also unique. The pages have a slightly rugged edge fitting of the historical context of the book. Truly a book for all to read and re-read, year after year.
Not "like new"
Decided to take a chance on this listing as "like new" for a less expensive option for a gift. Very disappointed. Cover jacket has significant wear. Although the pages look in great shape I feel hesitant to gift this book now, but it's too late to try to get a replacement. Lesson learned. Buy new. This should have been labeled as good condition I would think for the amount of wear on the cover jacket.
but I stuck with it and I am glad I did
The Immortal Nicholas starts slow, but I stuck with it and I am glad I did. It drew me in just past the first quarter of the book, and after I was half way I had to finish the book before putting it down. The story telling was well done, and (while the immortal part is still a bit hard to fathom) the characters seemed to fit the time period of the story. You can see the progression of the main character from a person who was mad with the world and God to a person at peace with himself that finds his niche as a toy maker for children. I highly recommend this book!!!
Great concept, modest delivery
If you've ever listened to Glenn Beck speak, not on his radio or tv shows, but really speak at a conference or event, you know he can be very inspirational. That said, I guess my expectations were a little high. It's good, it's easy to read, and it flows, I just didn't find any surprises or real suspense, or anything "inspirational" above the minimum I expected. It's definitely worth reading. I was disappointed to find it at a "bargain" store after I purchased it here, for one-quarter the price.
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