Book Review: The Noticer by Andy Andrews
As a reviewer for Thomas Nelson Publishers, I agreed to review Andy Andrews new book The Noticer which hit store shelves today (April 27, 2009).
According to Nancy Lopez (LPGA hall of fame golfer), this is the best book she has ever read. All I can say to that is she needs to read some more books.
First of all, The Noticer is a small book of just 156 pages, so if you’re looking for a quick read while waiting in line at the DMV or the doctor’s office, this would fit the bill. Initially, I was under the impression that this book was autobiographical for Mr. Andrews, but it is mostly fiction and fluffy story telling. If you are looking for a marshmellow sweet book and little depth, this book is for you.
The general thread running through the book is a need for people to get a different perspective on their lives. Andy, the guy living under a pier needed to view himself as successful and then he would be (and of course was). I could only think of Joel Olsteen and his gospel of prosperity as I read parts of this book. Other people in the book needing perspective were those in bad marriages, bad relationships, failing businesses, etc etc. For each of these people, an old man named Jones would appear just in time to give them the perspective they needed to change their lives. Besides the positive thinking guidance, the other most common “perspective” the Jones character provided seemed to be based on the Five Love Languages, by Gary Chapman.
The Noticer has vague references to faith and prayer, but no guidance as to a need to accept Jesus Christ as Savior.
Obviously we all have times in our lives when we need a fresh perspective, and all of us have people that have greatly touched our lives and made them better. The Noticer (for me) was just the same old basic “self-help” information in a new wrapper and a hefty retail price of $17.99 for such a small book. If you’re looking for an easy read that might give you some feel-good moments, then by all means, read this book. If you’re looking for substance that will change your life, The Noticer is not what you’re looking for.
That’s my opinion.
OneMom
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