Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
"Find my coat," she whispered weakly. "There's an envelope in the pocket. Don't open it. Take it to the park. You remember the rumors." In what is sure to become a classic, Brendon Burchard has crafted a triumphant tale of personal growth and change that will inspire any reader who has ever wished for a second chance. Life's Golden Ticket tells the story of a man who is so trapped in the prisons of his past that he cannot see the possibilities, the choices, and the gifts that are right in front of him. At the behest of his fiancee, Mary, who is clinging to life in a hospital bed, he takes a mysterious envelope from her and makes his way to an abandoned amusement park to appease her delirious pleadings. When he steps through the rusted entrance gates, the deserted park magically comes to life. He soon meets an old, wise groundskeeper and together they set out to uncover what happened to Mary. Along the way, he encounters a number of caring yet confrontational park employees--a hypnotist, a fortune-teller, a lion tamer, high-wire performers--and they teach him more about his fiancee and himself than he bargained for. What follows is an unforgettable journey of personal transformation as he overcomes his past, uncovers what happened to Mary, and, finally, discovers what is inside her mysterious envelope.
Is Life's Golden Ticket appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This inspirational allegorical fantasy deals with heavy themes of a fiancée in the hospital and confronting past mistakes, but handles them gently through magical realism and mentorship without graphic content.
What to know going in
This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death, grief, and terminal illness.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Adult readers will connect with the protagonist's journey of personal transformation as he confronts his past through encounters with magical park employees.