The Twelfth Angel

This foray into fiction by the bestselling inspirational and self-help author ( The Greatest Salesman in the World ) is a slim, formulaic tearjerker. The story is one of grief, courage and emotional rejuvenation. In his early 40s, John Harding returns to his New Hampshire hometown as president of a large and powerful computer firm located in nearby Concord. His life seems nearly perfect until his wife and son are killed in an auto accident. Paralyzed with grief, Harding sinks into near-suicidal depression. Then a childhood friend who has been recuperating from bypass surgery convinces him to coach their old Little League team--the Angels. In this capacity Harding meets Timothy Noble, the 12th and last player to make the team. Timothy, who recites self-affirmations and carries around a ``never-give-up'' attitude, provides the ultimate inspiration for Harding. But from there on out the cliches pile up until what we get is a two-dimensional Little League version of the Lou Gehrig story. Even Mandino's devoted following may be disappointed. Doubleday Book and Music Clubs, Crossings Book Club and Literary Guild selection. (May)