School Library Journal

Tony is an excellent singer and a talented guitar player. This is remarkable since he was born without arms because his mother took Thalidomide. His 1987 performance before the Pope moved John Paul II to praise and embrace Tony. Since then, he has performed throughout the world and on numerous TV programs. His frequent performances, shown here, are inspirational, and encourage viewers to accept themselves, have goals and work to attain them. As Tony and several family members tell his story, scenes shot over a 10-year period show him with friends and family. Subtitles appear on-screen when Tony occasionally speaks in his native Spanish. His wife and two young children also appear on-camara. Tony's achievement and attitude are remarkable and inspiring. Although there is a spiritual aspect to his talks, which makes the program well suited to religious programs, the video also stresses his personal striving and self-acceptance which makes it applicable to all audiences.

Church Libraries

Born in 1962, Tony Melendez was a Thalidomide baby. His mother took the prescription drug, resulting in a birth defect for her son; he was born without arms. Tony, a musician who sings and plays guitar with his feet, tells his story in between outtakes of songs from his concerts. Viewers meet his mother, siblings, wife and child and follow along with him from childhood to the present. Tony's story is touching and courageous. His inspirational words, humor, and music provide hope. Anyone who has ever felt he or she has nothing to offer in life or who has struggled with self-esteem will benefit from watching this video. It will appeal to people of Protestant or Catholic background and teens and adults.

CBA Marketplace - February 2002

This inspiring story tells how Melendez has touched millions with his music. However, it's not just about the beautiful guitar music he plays, but how he plays it. He was born without arms in 1962. This disability would have ruled out guitar playing for just about anyone, but for Melendez, it became a gift from God.

Melendez handles his guitar with beautiful results. His voice and guitar playing even moved Pope John Paul II, who, after hearing Melendez play in 1987, came down from his platform to embrace and kiss him. The Gift of Hope tells of Melendez's life and family - from his youth, where his parents taught him to be independent, to his mission to inspire people through his strength.