52 Little Lessons from It's a Wonderful Life Hardcover – September 10, 2012

It's a Wonderful Life is my favorite Christmas movie, and this book is full of reminders about why I love it. Bob Welch thoughtfully dissects the movie and its characters, discussing what we can learn from this classic film. Having enjoyed his similar book on Les Miserables, I knew this would be perfect holiday reading material, and it was!Each chapter begins with a quote from or about the movie, and then talks about how we can apply various themes and thoughts into our lives. I love George Bailey and the impact he makes on Bedford Falls. As Welch says on page 90, "...The good we bring to the world, to the community, to our families, doesn't necessarily have to be big and glitzy. It can be small and quiet, which doesn't negate its importance." This is something I'm passionate about, and I love it when other people catch this vision.I enjoyed the backstory and behind-the-scenes tidbits about the movie that Welch highlights. He talks about various script changes that Frank Capra's story underwent, tells us which lines the actors ad libbed that made the final cut, and comments on public perception of the film when it was released in 1946 versus how it's viewed today. It was clear the cinematic history was carefully researched and is seamlessly woven into the narrative, showing the high regard Welch holds for the movie.The book is also laced with Scripture and makes plenty of connection to faith's influence on our lives. How does God desire us to live? Does He value the sacrifices we must make for others? Jesus knows more sacrifice than any one of us. I'd definitely say this book was written for a Christian audience."People respond to those who inspire, which is what, in his quiet way, George does," Welch writes on page 157. I hope that you and I will be more aware of the ways we can touch and inspire the world around us, both in this Christmas season and throughout the New Year. May we change our worlds the way George Bailey changed Bedford Falls!

Love the movie and love the book. Many life lessons to be learned. I would recommend this to anybody and everybody. Will probably make reading it a new Christmas tradition.

This book needs to be read in every household every Christmas after watching the movie. It really brings out what is most important in life, what really matters. It helps you see the simple things, as wonderful blessings without giving up on your dreams. I honestly cant say enough about this book. I want to buy it for everyone on my Christmas list next year.

I fully enjoyed the book. It only took me 3 days of off-and-on again reading as it was difficult to put down and get my chores and other things accomplished. I agree about Zuzu's petals. It was a live flower. How we prove that, I don't know. But who would give a paper flower to a child for something that was obviously a prize for doing well? The other place I found to have incorrect information (Chapter 18 1st paragraph)was he had said there were only 3 children. Well, on the front cover you can see and in the movie there are four, 2 girls and 2 boys. Otherwise, I loved the book and I purchased 4 copies outright to give as Christmas presents, mostly because I had read the reviews and just knew I was going to love it. I liked the simple way he wrote and gave scripture to back up the context of the scenes. This is a keeper and a re-read. If I could, I would have everyone of my friends read it and then what eye-opening conversations we could have!!

Next to A CHRISTMAS CAROL (particularly the Alastair Sim version), my next favorite holiday film is Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life".The funny thing is that I don't really consider it a 'Christmas movie'. The pivotal climax scene takes place on Christmas Eve, but I always felt this film could well be viewed and enjoyed year round. 52 LITTLE LESSONS from It's a Wonderful Life by Bob Welch gives a thorough examination of this great film and is essential reading for fans of it.52 short chapters highlight a Lesson, feature a blurb from the film and then goes on to analyze the scenes, characters involved and even tie in some biblical verses to infuse some spirituality into an already excellent examination of this movie.

I love the movie, and to read this book was a great reminder of how life really can be! It is not a fairytale but it is a picture of how God desires to use each and everyone of us! Highly recommended!

I know this movie. I love this movie. I thought I knew every plot and subplot. But Bob Welch has helped me dig deeper. Have you considered the heroism and insight of Mary Bailey? Committing to George when she was just nine-years-old at the soda fountain. Wishing for the old Granville house? Going against her mom. Sacrificing her honeymoon. Decorating -- with love and creativity -- their rain-soaked wedding night accommodations. Initiating the prayer that launched the movie. Standing by her man. And don't even get me started about Violet, Joseph, Sam, Martini, Bert & Ernie. You'll enjoy that old movie in a whole new way. Also a great gift!

I loved this book when I first got it and bought several copies to give to friends and family at Christmas. The short little devotional lessons were just the right length and enjoyable. Towards the end, it started to feel repetitious...maybe that was just me and I took too long to finish it.

I was actually looking for the movie when I came across this book and I'm so glad that i took the chance and bought it. I really like it and it is perfect for me. The lessons are so short and I can even share them with my kids who are aged between 9 an 2. it is a good inspirational read...just what you need sometimes.

Excellent

If you have loved the film you will love the book!!!

The product arrived very quickly. Bought 3 items. Each one was in impeccable condition. Great price! A great book to keep on your side table. Nostalgic appearance.

Bought for my daughter, she loves it