Title: The Noticer
Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective
Author: Andy Andrews
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Available: 4-28-2009
Genre: Inspirational
ISBN-10: 0785229213
ISBN-13: 978-0785229216
I read this book for Thomas Nelson Publishers.
First sentence: His name was Jones.
What a great little book this was to read. Only 160 pages in length, so it was very quick, but it is packed full of good advice. Advice on how and why to change your "perspective."
The stories ranged from a young homeless man (the author), to a couple on the brink of divorce, to an elderly lady who feels her usefulness has passed. After they all encounter a mysterious old man named Jones, their lives change. All because he allows them to see their lives and their futures with a different perspective. Just by asking them very simple questions, and leading them to see their problems from a logical perspective, they can begin to understand how to change those things they think are problems or obstacles.
For several minutes, we both sat silently, watching the gulls soar
overhead, listening to the surf break on the beach. Then Jones began to gather the empty cans and place them in the plastic bag. Standing, he extended his hand and helped me to my feet. "Incidentally," he said with a smirk, "you ate sardines and Vienna sausages in the sand. I dined on surf and turf with an ocean view." He slapped me on the back. "It's all about the perspective." (p 15-16)
One chapter touches on the principles of the Five Love Languages - illustrating 4 of those languages as animals.
- Spoken Words of Approval as being a puppy dog. You respond and need this verbal affirmation.
- Favors and Deeds like a goldfish. You don't care if the other person is around, can't hear them - but you depend on them to feed you and clean your bowl.
- Physical Contact like a cat - You like to be touched, petted, scratched - just like a cat shows their love to you by rubbing against you.
- Quality Time would be a canary - You don't need to really do anything for them, but they just want you in the room.
Please watch the book trailer to find out about all the different scenarios he tackles in this book.
I think this would be a great book to share with anyone! It is written in such a way that I think it could impact young adults as well as senior citizens. The lessons he teaches transcend any age. They are mainly based on not being so wrapped up in yourself, but just to take the time and effort to notice those around you. When you do, you will see how it changes your perspective.
“Most people think it takes a long time to change. It doesn’t. Change is immediate! Instantaneous! It may take a long time to decide to change . . . but change happens in a heartbeat!” (p 110)
To see more about this - go to The Noticer Project at www.TheNoticerProject.com.
