There he meets five people from his past: the Blue Man, the Captain, Marguerite, Ruby, and Tala. Each shows him how he impacted their life or they his–and not always for the better.

The point may seem simplistic–everyone is connected–but The Five People You Meet in Heaven finds a unique and engaging way to make it.

The theme of this story is that no life is a waste, no matter how seemingly insignificant-and that there are no random acts, because all are connected. The profound but simple truths in this poignant story by Albom reflect the themes that all is one, there are no random acts, and that peace, learning and growth face us on the Other Side.

Forgiveness is another theme of the story.

The Five People You Meet In Heaven is a story of redemption and personal meaning, as Eddie finally realizes that everything- even difficulties, disappointments, and deaths-happen for a reason.

I have read the book and was deeply moved by the story. It serves as a reminder that no interpersonal interaction is by chance, and that every cruel, painful, or disappointing situation serves a higher purpose that will someday be explained.