The Silent Gift

By: Michael Landon Jr., Cindy Kelley

Narrated by: John McDonough

Author and director Michael Landon, Jr., and Cindy Kelley—screenwriters behind the popular Love Comes Softly films—deliver a heartwarming Depression-era tale of a devoted mother and her disabled son.

The 1930s were a decade of enormous uncertainty - for the world, for America, and in particular for one lonely, struggling mother and her disabled son. Their story is one of love and enormous sacrifices in the face of circumstances horrendous beyond belief. When her husband leaves her for someone whose time isn't wrapped up in a silent, handicapped kid, Mary and little Jack are out on their own in a world that has no room for the poor and disabled. Especially not at a time when most Americans are simply trying to survive their economic woes and job losses. But then arrives The Gift...where has it come from, and why? How can a young boy who can neither hear nor speak provide comfort, direction, and sometimes challenges to seekers who learn of the special ability? Whatever the source, its presence brings a single shaft of light and hope to Mary and her beloved Jack. Will it be enough?

©2009 Michael Landon, Jr. (P)2010 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"Landon and Kelley recreate the Depression era so vividly that scenes and people leap off the pages. [Jack's] innocence is heartwarming, and the evil of other characters is clearly felt. Readers will enjoy this trip back in time." ( Romantic Times)

Couldn't quit listening

This story is unique on that it shows the challenges of being a mother of a special needs child mixed with circumstances of just trying to survive. Sometimes I had a hard time listening because of its intensity... and yet I couldn't quit listening. It was back and forth with bad luck then good luck. The ending wasn't the usual predictable kind which made it all the more interesting. Narrator John McDonough was my very favorite in other books and the reason I wanted to listen to this one. I was sad when I learned of his passing a few years ago. Sometimes I get so involved with the characters of a book that I miss it when finished. This is one of those.

Nice surprise ending

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes I would recommend this audiobook. I plan to recommend it to my book club as one to consider for next year.

What did you like best about this story?

This young mother had more than her share of 'bad luck.' I admired her spunk when she left her husband and hid with her son but was saddened many times when so many people took advantage of her. Several times I was 'on the edge of my seat' trying to tell her not to trust that person. Or don't do that! But through it all the relationship she had with her son was touching and the end of the book made all of her sacrifices worthwhile.

What about John McDonough’s performance did you like?

I can't say enough good things about Mr. McDonough's performance. John McDonough is one of my favorite narrators. I first became infatuated with his voice in the Mitford series by Jan Karon.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Is this small silent child a modern day prophet?

excellent

the narrator was one of the best that I have listened to. the story was ar times heart-rending . any one who reads this needs to keep in mind the era the story took place. just like in real life the book shows that life is not always fair. a great read.

Enjoyed it very much!

Could hardly put it down, Enjoyed it and liked the ending!
It is a must read!

Everyone has the gift of love

Very well written and interesting story line. I enjoyed listening to this book. I'm sure you'll like it ,too.