The Angel Inside

Michelangelo's Secrets for Following Your Passion and Finding Work You Love

By: Chris Widener

Narrated by: Chris Widener

There will come a time when you must decide to lead the life someone else has chosen for you¿or the life you want.

According to legend, when a young boy asked the great Renaissance artist Michelangelo why he was working so hard hitting the block of marble that would eventually become his greatest sculpture, David, the artist replied, "Young man, there is an angel inside this rock, and I am setting him free." In The Angel Inside, the renowned consultant and career coach Chris Widener uses Michelangelo's words to explore the hidden potential that exists within us all.

In this unforgettable parable, Tom Cook, a disillusioned American businessman, has traveled to Italy looking for direction in his life. In Florence, the last city on his tour, Tom meets a mysterious old man who opens his eyes to the art and life of Michelangelo and reveals what the artist's work can teach him and all of us about the power of following your passion.

Whether you're looking for a way to reinvigorate your career or searching for the courage to begin a new one, The Angel Inside is a must-read if you want to find true meaning in your life and work.

©2007 Chris Widener (P)2007 Random House, Inc. Random House Audio, a division of Random House, Inc.

Critic reviews

"The Angel Inside is truly one of the most inspiring, encouraging, motivational books I have ever read. Once I got started, I found it impossible to stop....And I say this as a man who has never read fiction; I've always said that when I get all of the truth, then I'll start reading fiction. It was a wonderful thrill to read a work of fiction that contains an enormous amount of truth and encouragement." (Zig Ziglar)

What a lovely short story

This book has a great story line as well as a truth about life that is really so simple yet often clouded by our own disbelief and insecurities.

A little cliche, but inspiring

Motivational, a little cliche. But I liked the ten steps and how they give a short but actionable plan.

There is size 6 in everyone

I listened to the book without interruption. I was possessed by the simple presentation of grand idea of an angel inside. Too often we concentrate on what is visible, what is tangible, what is comfortable and the golden nugget lies just few strikes below. We neglect to look for it. I always believed, that no matter how big you are (my weight problems), there is size 6 inside of everyone, or the perfect 10, if you prefer. Getting introduced to the book by Chris, I only confirmed my believes. I recommend this book to everyone, as a wake up call to the new reality of the 21st century as well a little art history lesson, which we all can use. Thank you Chris, RW

A gem

If you feel stuck and don't know what to do with your life, this is the story for you. Short, sweet and breathtakingly simple. This will rekindle the spark of a fire inside you if that is what you're looking for. If you feel drawn to listen to it, do it! If only all self help/advice book were as clear. The narration is very rushed at the beginning but you soon get taken away with the story.

Great principles and excellent narrating.

I don't read much fiction, but this is a fictional story in which one character teaches lessons to another character in the book. I really enjoyed the book and will be purchasing a hard copy or ebook for my children.

Loved it.

Great parable.... A little cheesy in parts but overall a worthwhile read. Especially if you love artists.

Very special little book!

This little book has a very simple but BIG message inside. As a past resident of Florence this book takes me back to a city where beauty and history meet fate and create another masterpiece. Reminds me a bit of The Little Prince, and too always keep the child alive inside.

Motivational.

What did you love best about The Angel Inside?

Good story for discovering your passion and be a happier person. The author reminds us basic but still important lessons.

Recommend it

I enjoyed this audiobook. I would recommend it. The message is simple yet important.

Very inspiring!

If someone is looking for meaning in whatever thing he is doing, this book will direct him to see the light !