One sentence summary
Heaven is for Real is a heartwarming, uplifting book detailing a four year old boy’s journey to Heaven, and back again.
Book genre
Heaven is for Real is a non-fiction book that combines personal, faith-based anecdotes along with elements of spirituality, religion and philosophy.
Main topic of the book
The main topic of Heaven is for Real is Colton Burpo’s life-altering experience of visiting Heaven following a near-death experience and how the experience has shaped his family’s life and beliefs. This book explores God, Heaven, faith, spirituality and life as seen through the eyes of a small child.
Key ideas
Some of the key ideas explored by Heaven is for Real includes:
- The afterlife: Heaven is described through Colton’s eyes, providing insight into the afterlife, its beauty and the peace and joy it brings.
- Evidence of Heaven: Colton provides unique insight into Heaven that can only be known by someone who has experienced it.
- Evangelism: His miraculous experience is an evangelistic tool that challenges people to believe in the truth of Heaven.
- Personal beliefs: Heaven is a testament to faith as it shows us the power of believing in something greater than oneself.
Main parts of the book and a short summary
Heaven is for Real can be broken down into three main parts.
- Introduction: The book begins with an overview of the major events that triggered the story and sets the stage for the miraculous experience. It also introduces the reader to the Burpo family and explains their faith.
- The journey to and from Heaven: This section of the book focuses on Colton’s journey to Heaven and his return to Earth. It details his conversations with angels, Jesus and God as well as his experiences of Heaven. It also chronicles the events that took place following his return.
- The aftermath and impact: This section highlights the aftermath and impact that Colton’s experience had on his family, and ultimately on the faith of believers around the world. It shows how Colton’s message of Heaven has reached millions of people.
Key takeaways
The key takeaways from Heaven is for Real are:
- The beauty of Heaven: Heaven is for Real provides a glimpse into the beauty of Heaven and the peace, love, and joy that comes with it.
- God and Heaven are real: Colton’s experience is a powerful reminder that God and Heaven are real and that faith can have a profound impact on our lives.
- Joyous faith: This book is an uplifting testimony to the power of joyous faith and how it can be an inspiration for people of all ages.
Author’s background and qualifications
The author of Heaven is for Real is Todd Burpo. He is a pastor and faith-filled family man from Nebraska. Todd is also the father of Colton Burpo, the young boy who went to Heaven and returned to share his miraculous experience.
Target audience
Heaven is for Real speaks to people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly those who believe in something greater than themselves. It is a great read for the faith-filled as well as those who are open to spiritual growth and discovery.
Publisher and first publication date
Heaven is for Real was first published in 2010 by Thomas Nelson Publishers.