The Cross and the Switchblade

I loved this book when I read it as a pre-teen and ordered it for my grandson. I wanted to look it over (without breaking the binding) to make sure it was the same book, but I couldn't put it down! I still love it 50ish years later! So now I either have to buy another one for my grandson, or give it to him as a hand-me-down, instead of a wrapped gift! This true story is engaging because it elicits a range of feelings: Suspense, curiosity, compassion, sadness & joy (I got a little teary a few times) amazement, and the wonder of God.

I recently realized I had never read this book, but only watched the movie. I was truly inspired by it, from start to finish. There were many times it touched me deeply, reading about the lives of young people which were suddenly and miraculously changed. I was also inspired by the simple faith described, as David sought to obey God, stepping out into the unknown, trusting God, and working with young people in very difficult situations. The root problem of "lonesomeness ", described by one of the youths, is very much a problem today; even with internet "connections", I believe people are lonelier than ever. The good news is that we who Believe can offer hope.

I absolutely enjoyed reading this book! My faith was stirred to believe God the more for the souls that I see every day!

This truly is a beautiful book. It came in 10/10 condition from Amazon, and from the seller. But the story truly is beautiful. It brings out some pure emotion and an amazing testimony! But like I said earlier, I got this in less than a day, and in perfect condition

This book gives an awesome and well-written account about the faithfulness of God. I love that it is a true story and that there are people alive today to testify to the power of the Holy Spirit’s transformation of their lives. I have never cried so much reading a book. The fact that Teen Challenge and Times Square Church are both still around and thriving reinforces the importance of this work.

Good book, tells the true story of God working through so many people and teens to overcome loneliness and addiction. Inspirational.

I grew up hearing about "The Cross and the Switchblade". I bought it for Kindle after its mention in a sermon last summer. I had some unexpected time to wait today and I started reading. The Holy Spirit wouldn't let me sleep tonight and I finished reading it. Although I never lived in the inner city, as a former addict myself, I found myself thanking God not only for the work through this preacher (and later Nicky-- whose book I intend to purchase next) but my own life. I too went through a stage of rebellion. I chuckled a little when the book mentioned Tammy's parents being taken aback with her bohemian lifestyle (as I am sure mine were). The sex and drugs were all things I hid well. I still pulled good grades in college and held a job despite being in a very alternative lifestyle. I graduated, married a man who was hardened against the Lord, and I believed i was beyond redemption because of my sexual behavior and a failed previous marriage. Well, I ended up with the Mormans for a while because I was so lonely. I started reading the Bible again at that point and I enjoy arguing so I started realizing that not everything I was being told was true. My child was severely bullied one Sunday by another child in his primary class and we left. My son participates in rodeos and there was a Cowboy church with rodeos nearby and we started attending. 6 Sundays in or so, I rededicated my life to the Lord. I received the Spirit just before Christmas and I sobered up for the (on faith) very last time. After Christmas, they announced a men's retreat. I signed my husband up, packed his bag, dropped him off and told him it was a skeet shoot. He was saved at thst retreat. Now we are living for and serving the Lord, and our son is following our example. I praise God for all He has done in our lives and I praise Him for everything He will do. In this beautiful advent season, prepare your hearts for Him and He will come!

This is a Great Book at a Great Price foe the Women's Monthly Book Club!

Every literate human on Earth would do well to prioritise the reading of this epic book 🙏🏽 You will be moved to tears, laughter and utter understanding ✝️

This book is a must-read for every believer. Of course, everyone says so but when I actually read it, it completely transformed the way I looked at life. God led me to lead a Sunday school for underprivileged children near our church and it was a true blessing to read the life-transforming encounters written on these pages. This book really teared me up. I could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit while reading the storyline. The narration gave me a renewed hope, ‘No life on earth is too far to be saved by God.’ So thankful for the authors, publishers, distributors, everyone on the team that helped bring this book into my hands and the hands of many like me. This story is now etched onto my heart and I am a better believer because of it. Have already shared it with many to read and be blessed. I definitely recommend getting a copy of it.

My teen son read this book recently, and this is his review: The Cross and the Switchblade is the powerful true story of a Pennsylvania preacher who travels to the slums of New York to teach the Word of God to the teenage gangs that run rampant there. There are many dangers and challenges to overcome, but by allowing God to do His work through him, he makes a positive difference to thousands of teens across the city. I liked this book because it shows how Christ has the power to make a change in even most violent of gang fighters, and the most hopeless of drug addicts. Anyone who enjoys tales of adventure, triumph, and Redemption will love this book.

Very good and inspiring

This book is full of miracles, courage and fresh inspiration - even after all this time. It had inspired me when I was a little teen ager, and it inspires me again now in my late twenties. Truly challenging and refreshing.