☕☕☕☕☕

A coming of age story set in the 1970's. We find Charlie Riverton and his friends looking forward to summer and doing all the things kids like to do. This summer becomes different when they are caught up in a turf war. This sparked so many memories of my youth and the magic of summer and friends. A truly enjoyable read.

Novels and Latte Book Club

 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5

Come see what Charlie, Sky and the gang from A Gift Most Rare are up to in this summer adventure.

In Summer Up, we find ourselves in Smalltown USA in the 70s when life was so much simpler! This is a great mix of Disney meets Home Alone mischief.

This book just made me all warm and fuzzy inside. Great coming of age story with some lovable characters that I first got to know in A Gift Most Rare. This is a great mix of summer fun and mischief with some worthy life lessons.

I’m keeping this series for my daughter for when she is older. I think it’s one she will appreciate that will definitely withstand the test of time.

Bookphile Belle

⭐⭐⭐⭐️⭐️

I loved reading #AGiftMostRare by @leihbacher the author and was looking forward to “Summer Up.” The story is a beautiful continuation to revisit the characters at Briarcliff. This book focuses more on DMarks, and how he changes during the summer as the group finishes middle grade and prepares for high school.
The author has a beautiful writing style that melts your heart. I enjoyed DMarks in the lead. At times, he is annoying for how he gets the group into trouble, but I loved seeing him transition with Sky’s presence, which even Charlie noticed.

Rajivs Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Summer Up! by Tom Leihbacher is a wonderful coming of age story set in 1975.
Charlie Riverton and his friends are well written fleshed out characters that reminded me of times long gone.
The group of friends has each other's backs and maybe some help from an angelic friend.
They grew stronger together and faced each battle head on.
This was such a good coming of age story that I really enjoyed.

Miss W Book Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐ star read

I truly enjoyed reading about Charlie and his friends. I felt like I was there with them, having a lot of Summer fun and having great adventures. This book brought back many fond memories from my own childhood summers. There is nothing quite like the bond we have with our childhood friends.

 Christina Luvs 2 Read

This is a beautiful coming of age story and is the second book in a series (each book can be read as a stand-alone). This book is set in summer and the first book, A GIFT MOST RARE, is set at Christmas time. Many of the same characters from the first book make an appearance (even if only briefly) in this novel which pays tribute to family, friends, faith, and the carefree days of summer vacation.

I enjoyed the quick dialogue between the characters and the dynamics of the beginnings of boy/girl relationships. I love how in this book we see specific changes in one of the main characters who transforms from a mouthy kid to a considerate young man.

This is a quick read that warmed my heart as I loved the message it shared and all the pop culture references of the time period that I remember so well.

About the Book

The summer of 2022 is winding down so go back in time to 1975 where “Jaws” has just come out on the big screen, Emergency is the show of choice, and “Time In A Bottle” by Jim Croce is playing on the radio.
Four best friends are enjoying their summer before starting high school in the small town of Briarcliff, New York.

These four boys, Charlie, DMarks, George, and BB are learning lessons and testing the boundaries as they take on the summer before high school together.

The boys find themselves in a few predicaments as a high school athlete, Will Marks, and his group of friends seem to constantly turn up and cause trouble.

The friends must decide together how to handle girls and a group of older bullies, all while enjoying every minute of summer.

 Rozier Reads and Wine

𝘍𝘶𝘯, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘧𝘶𝘭!

I love coming-of-age stories and when they are set in a small town they’re even better.

I loved this beautiful story about friendship, finding yourself and growing up. An adorable and sweet read.

 Books and Coffee MX

As Labor Day is fast approaching, I know many people mark that as the end of summer. This book would be great one to add to your long weekend before. Charlie and his friends are so sweet as they stick together like good friends should while they explore their last summer before high school. With some divine guidance this is such a great coming of age story that reminded me of my summers as a kid.

Geaux Get Lit

CMT Loves Wine and Books

I love a good coming of age story and this one was delightful. The town in which these soon to be high schoolers grew up together was charming. The adorable canine characters, community camaraderie and life lessons the kids learned over the summer made for a wonderful read all the way around. This was a stand alone sequel which I enjoyed so much that I’ve added the first book to my TBR.

CMT Loves Wine and Books

Summer Up! is a God-honoring fun-ride set in Smalltown, USA, during the summer of 1975. It’s a wonderful sequel to A Gift Most Rare and comes with a timely message and a wholesome spiritual uplift. 

—Kevin Sorbo, Actor, Director, Producer 

Tom Leihbacher has done it again. Picking up where A Gift Most Rare left off, he wove a fun, coming of age summer tale that mixes The Wonderful World of Disney with a dose of Home Alone and a dash of Field of Dreams. 

— Martha Higgins Ferguson 

I didn’t think Tom could best himself with this tale of lively young buys during a sun kissed summer, but he did! 

– Karen Smith, Historian, Briarcliff Manor 

Charlie Riverton is a young boy, a sixth-grader, living in a small town known as Briarcliff Manor, a suburb in Manhattan. With Christmas right around the corner, the whole village is busy with preparations and indulging in uplifting activities. However, as always, Charlie's group of friends is trying to experiment with their newfound freedom, interest in girls, and other pre-teen shenanigans. This Christmas, a newcomer will be joining the village. Charlie, along with his new friend, plans an epic Christmas surprise for the whole village. His efforts and encounters toward making the festivities more miraculous are already making an impactful change in the lives of those around him.

A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher features true Christmas spirit characteristic of the early 1970s when such events were focused on thanking God and showing love and support for your loved ones. The book is a wholesome read that will spark the readers’ Christmas spirit this year. Charlie’s relationship with his friend and the newcomer is unique and special enough to take us back to our childhood days. Tom Leihbacher’s distinct storytelling techniques are apparent throughout the tale. The protagonist, although very young, displays affection and care in the most insightful and inspirational manner.

This book will serve as a great read for those interested in feel-good stories and a glimpse into simpler times. The prose contains a magical tale of a young boy changing the lives of those around him just in time for Christmas and changing the whole community’s perspective through his heartfelt contributions. A must-read if you want to enjoy a pleasant experience through and through.

REVIEWED BY ROMUALD DZEMO
Review Date: October 20, 2021

Linds Metzger (Goodreads and Book club Reviewer) Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

What a wonderful, "feel good story" and at Christmas time!!! Set in the small village of Briarcliff Manor, close to New York, in the early 1970s, his book warms your heart and convinces you of the inherent kindness of people.

Charlie is in the sixth grade, but he has a sensitive heart toward those who are hurting, especially the newly widowed Mr. Olsen and Viet Nam Vet, Parker. There are so many great lessons to learn from in this book. I wish there were MORE books like this one!!

A gift most rare....how TRUE~
I recommend this book and give it 5 stars!!

This is the most feel-good story of all feel-good stories. Charlie is in the sixth grade, but he has a sensitive heart toward those who are hurting, especially the newly widowed Mr. Olsen and Viet Nam Vet, Parker. When Skylar moves into town to work with Henry in the parks department, he recognizes Charlie's thoughtfulness and encourages Charlie in his endeavors. Charlie is a typical sixth grade boy in all other aspects, with a group of friends who are all sports-minded like he is. One of the boys in his group of friends is a bit of a loose cannon who is willing to step in and take credit for things he didn't do; at the same time, he races head-long into trouble while taunting the rest of the group to entice them into his trouble. Skylar watches all of these shenanigans with a close eye.

What the reader gets to understand is that Skylar is not exactly who he presents himself to be. He is an angel in disguise, working inside and outside the hearts that are receptive to his help.

There are characters the readers will absolutely love, a few they will absolutely dislike strongly, and a few that the readers will change their minds about. Tom Leihbacher is a gifted author who has a great grasp of the work angels do in our world. A Gift Most Rare is an easy read that is compelling and entertaining. Four Strong Stars. I will be looking forward to reading more books by Tom.

— Becky Guinn (blog Reviewer). Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

“Congratulations to Tom for writing a heartwarming Christmas story that evokes the traditional Christmas spirit.  A Gift Most Rare focuses on a God-honoring relationship between a young boy, a guardian angel and a whole village that rediscovers how best to celebrate Christmas.”

– Kevin Sorbo, Actor, Producer, Director

“ I read A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher. I read the book in one day. It was like a breath of fresh air. It was such an uplifting story. It really restores your faith in humanity. A wonderful story about how one person can make a difference in the lives of many. A great pandemic read!”

– Katherine, Pennsylvania

“ I thoroughly loved everything about this book! It is a heartwarming story based on a real place, Briarcliff Manor, New York, in the early 70’s. The story hit home for me! It brings you back to a simpler time, where everyone truly loved their neighbors! It is a wonderful God telling story, and Tom Leihbacher, writes it so beautifully, you can actually picture yourself there in the moment! I give this book “five stars and a must read!”

– Gretchen, New Jersey

“ This is a book for all ages. It is a beautifully written story that hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. The author brings the book to life with his words and you feel like you are there. It's a heartwarming uplifting story that will stay with you long after you read the last page. I loved this book and highly recommend it. 5 stars all the way!!”

– Lisa, Indiana

“ Nothing replaces kindness as a way to change people’s lives for better.
I believe wonderful novels should be read all year long–even if they’re holiday related. Tom Leihbacher wrote one such novel A Gift Most Rare.”

– Deb, Massachusetts

“This Novel is sweet and affectionate, with a strong spiritual uplift.  A lovely debut.”

– Jamie Malanowski, author of The Coup and Commander Will Cushing, Daredevil Hero of the Civil War. 

“A Gift Most Rare is a gift to every reader.  Bringing you back to a time when Christmas was filled with thanks to God, it is a great reminder to care for those around you, giving to those in need and coming together to celebrate God’s gift of Jesus.”

– Reverend Anthony Karlik, Sr. Pastor, Eastern Region President of the Church of the Lutheran Brethren. 

“Every once in a while comes a magical story, an exquisite jewel of a book, a piece of fiction that more than makes up for all the ordinary books.  Leihbacher is an amazing storyteller.  He economically imbues his plot and characters with life’s truths.”

– Karen Smith, Village Historian, Briarcliff Manor NY

“A Gift Most Rare is a thoroughly feel-good holiday tale, reminiscent of the things we all love about It’s a Wonderful Life, but for our times.”

– Martha Higgins Ferguson, Chappaqua NY

“ Tom Leibacher offers a Wonderful narrative of Life in 1970's Briarcliff Manor, the bucolic town where he grew up and still lives. Set at Christmastime, the backbone of the story is a central tenet of Christianity; that each of us has received the gift of grace, and that gift should be ministered to our neighbors who need help. As the story unfolds lives are transformed and enriched until the whole community understands the true meaning of Christmas. Ironically, the Gift is not Rare, it just needs to be discovered. A compassionate young middle schooler shows us the way. Instant classic.”

– Phil, New York

“ The author captured the meaning of the holidays – a true, feel-good read!  The characters in this book feel like you have known them and met them.  A modern twist on It’s a Wonderful Life.” 

– Margaret, New York

“It's really difficult to read this book without a smile on your face. It a God centered story which takes us back to a time when we were young and life was simpler.  Tom is truly a gifted story teller. I wish the book had gone on. I guess I'll have to wait for the sequel.”

– Paul, Georgia

“A Gift Most Rare is an uplifting, heartwarming story back when life seemed less complicated. Leihbacher has a gift of being able to create his characters perfectly and in a fun way to help remind us all that caring, kindness and compassion is what the holiday season is all about.” 

– Carolyn, New York

“A Gift Most Rare is a walk through a nicer, more innocent time and highlights community, caring and tradition.  I loved it!”

– Connie, Florida

“Richly developed characters with deftly presented backstories in a richly textured, engaging tale.  The book is “A Gift Most Rare” indeed – and a joy to read.” 

– Tom, Massachusetts

“If you have ever lived in a small town (or just wish you had) you will immediately be charmed by this beautifully written tale set in the 1970's. With a keen eye for detail and a flair for funny, believable dialogue, Tom Leihbacher captures the magical essence of the Christmas season through the eyes of Charlie Riverton, a sixth grade boy with a huge heart. This feel-good story is a truly a special "gift most rare".” 

– Jack, Texas

“Loved the feel-good nature and Americana of the story.  Mixes of A Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful life.”  

– John, New York

“While a wonderful Christmas story, Mr. Leihbacher's A Gift Most Rare is an inspiring tale to be appreciated year round. A true lesson in the kindness of people!”

– Keelin, New York

“Thank you for this wonderfully written heartfelt God-honoring Christmas story and walk down memory lane...Charlie and his friends are a lovely reminder of a much more simple time when kindness, empathy, compassion and lifelong friendships were woven abundantly together through the Spirit. Looking forward to the sequel! Bravo! 

– Robin, Conecticut

“A heart warming booking about a small town boy who gets the true meaning of Christmas. An uplifting story that will leave you smiling long after you finish the book. Cannot wait to read the next book in this series and immerse myself in this small town once again! ”

– Fran, New York

“Very well written and so easy to read!  I loved all the references to growing up in the 1970’s.  The book was heartwarming and thought provoking.”   

– Sharon, Massachusetts

“The book was excellent!  Captivating, uplifting and genuine.  It was wonderful!”  

– Doug, New York

“Reading A Gift Most Rare was all that the name implies. Thank you for such a heartfelt, profound and spiritual experience.”   

– Don, New York

“Anyone who believes in the spirit of Christmas and the holidays will love this book!”  

– Eric, New York

“You have a very distinct writing style.  It suits you and the book.”   

– Cathy, Vermont

“An amazing story!  The author has a special gift to bring joy to people’s lives.”   

– Deb, Florida

“I really enjoyed this heartwarming novel about a small town full of interesting stories during the winter holiday season. It's well written, the characters are genuine, and the dialogue makes it all come alive. I was eager to read each new chapter.”   

– Amy, Washington DC

“Tom delivers spiritual nourishment, rekindling a childlike wonder at God’s ways of touching us when we least expect it with guardian angels.  I could not put it down after one chapter!”  

– Thomas, Massachusetts

“This book is a wonderful Holiday flash back to simpler times and faith filled memories.”  

– Beth, New York

“This Book brings you back to a simpler time when family and community were so very important. In this time of so much distress, sadness and anxiety, this book is a perfect escape. Reminds me of all the lessons my parents taught me in childhood!”  

–  Theresa, Arizona

“I loved this book. In a world where there is so much chaos and sadness right now, this book brings you back to simpler time and reminds us all that we can help each other out through tough times. Many of my friends who read this book, have been inspired to help others out- it's that inspirational!!!!!”   

– Pat, Massachusetts

“I had a blast reading this book. The small town setting reminded me of my childhood and brought back such great Christmas memories I had growing up." It's like a Hallmark Movie come to life! Would highly recommend.”   

– Carol, New York

“This book was very well written and easy to read. So fun to go back in time and read about growing up in the 70's. It is such a heart-warming and delightful book to read at holiday time!”   

– Sharon, Oregon

“Love this heartwarming story. Beautifully written. It's the perfect Christmas gift. Shhh don't tell my relatives and ruin their holiday surprise. Just a feel good read and we can all use that right now.”   

– Jelane, New York

“What I liked the most about the book was that it was a sweet and spiritual Christmas story that emphasizes how important it is to be present to others in their time of need. And it does this in the story of a group of 4 boys and their families and friends.”   

– Naomi

“How fortunate to have read A Gift Most Rare on the days leading up to Christmas Day. Thus the season enhanced Tom Leihbacher’s powerful story of a caring young teen whose growing compassion for his neighbors and townspeople reached many others throughout his own village.  The result is a story that regardless of one’s faith, lifts the spirit as it reminds us what Christmas and life can be.”   

– Peggy, Massachusetts

“A perfect read for this isolated COVID time! Inspirational and heartwarming. Can’t wait for the movie! 

– Anna, New York

“A beautifully written story that is both heartwarming and inspiring! It reminds us of what the Christmas spirit is all about and the importance of helping those around us that are struggling and in need of a friend. Can’t wait for the summer edition! ”  

– Deirdre, New York

“A story that warms the heart, and is appropriate for the whole family. Follow Charlie Riverton in his middle school adventures and let his faith inspire yours. ”   

– Joan, New York

“It was a wonderful book! I was going to read a chapter a day, but couldn't put it down. A real "feel good" book! I have loaned out my copy and purchased another for a friend. They enjoyed it as much as I have! Looking forward to his next book!” 

– Cher, California