Geoff Benge

I first came across a mention of Louis Zamperini’s name in a devotional I frequently read. The brief, one-paragraph snippet of his life intrigued me, and later on, I checked our bookshelves to see if we had a biography about him. To my delight, the Benges (some of my top favorite biography writers of all time) wrote the story of his life, and as soon as I picked up the book, I was sucked into Louis’ story.

From leading a wild, partying life in his young teens, to eventually competing in show more the Olympics, to serving as a bombardier during World War II, to his imprisonment as a POW by the Japanese, Louis lived a life of danger and adventure. I don’t know what inspired me more—his brother Pete’s constant encouragement and wisdom, the fortitude he showed when drifting on the Pacific Ocean for weeks on end, unsure if he’d survive or not, or his courage when tortured by the Japanese. I loved the upbeat perspective Louis tried to keep through it all, and loved that he pushed himself even when he didn’t feel like it. I also loved the hope that came near the end of the book.

As far as the writing style is concerned, this reads like a novel. This story gripped me, and I had a hard time pulling myself away. I’d love to read this aloud to my family, although I’m not sure if/when I can make that happen. With the many different adventures and situations Louis found himself in, I’m sure my brothers would love this book. Highly recommended! show less

Quite a few years ago, Mom read Gifted Hands to our family. It was an excellent book, but I always wondered what happened after the book ended. I assumed Mr. Carson went on and did more successful separation surgeries, but since I didn’t have access to any of his later works, I didn’t know for sure. Until this book. This was our most recent audiobook for traveling as a family, and I found it to be another gripping story—even though I was already fairly familiar with a lot of the show more events.

The Benges write with a passion and ability that I admire. They don’t just spit facts and dates out on the page; they take you along to the individual’s life to watch things play out, as you see sometimes in a novel. As far as I can tell, this is a factual account of a good portion of Ben Carson’s life, but it’s written in a very engaging manner.

As far as Mr. Carson himself, it was inspiring to see how he chose the difficult path of learning and choosing obedience to his mother over his own wishes. Her influence changed the course of his life, and watching him struggle and learn—and learn to rely on God—was quite a blessing. If you enjoy biographies about Christians who choose to take God at His word and do their best to live in obedience to Him, this would be an excellent choice—even if you already know something of Ben Carson’s story! show less

I enjoy every single YWAM missionary biography I read. This book is no exception. I have always enjoyed the story of the woman who went by herself to a country that was fighting a war! Her diligence and untiring work serving the people of China is encouragement for all.
My only note is that there was a lot more violence and romantic content than I had anticipated (see below).

Notable Quotes:
“If I must die, let me not be afraid of death, but let there be a meaning, O God, in my show more dying.”

Things to be aware of in “Gladys Aylward: The Adventure of a Lifetime:”

Violence:
-Many executions is witnessed (sensitive readers may not appreciate it)
-Fingers are blown off by bombs
-A woman and her children’s house is boarded and then set on fire.
-There is a prison riot involving blood, machetes, and other violence (details are given that sensitive readers may not appreciate)
I wouldn't consider myself a sensitive reader, but some of the violence was very gruesome. It is all true and I do believe it is important to include it, but just keep that in mind when recommending this book to younger/sensitive readers.

Romantic Content:
-A male character is alone in a room with Gladys and says, “You forget you are a woman alone in a strange country. I can do what I like.”
-Women’s clothes are ripped off multiple times.

Spiritual Content:
Obviously, this is a Christian biography so there is a lot of great spiritual content!

Additional Notes:
-There is detailed explanation of China’s foot-binding law. (Sensitive readers may not appreciate it)
-Gladys preaches show less

Interesting story about George Muller. It's decently written; simple. Anyone could read it.

George Muller lives a hedonistic lifestyle, using people and proud of it. He parties and drinks. I should mention he was born in 1805. His father was rich, so George didn't lack for anything. They did not get along because of George's lifestyle. His father wanted him to get his education, get a respectable job, and be rich. A strange things happens one day. He's in school for religious reasons (no, show more he's not religious; it was a means to an end). George is invited to a evening with a christian who will read the Bible and talk about it. George COMPLETELY changes.

George becomes a complete believer and dedicates his life to God. He vows to rely only on God and forego material goods and wealth. He struggles to find his path, but he becomes a well known pastor, preaching many places. He finally realizes that he doesn't need to travel to another country; he sees orphans in the town he lives: Bristol, England. He opens up an orphanage that provides care to thousands and thousands of orphans for decades.

I think my issue was the idea that God is at your prayer call. George prays and it happens. He does say, "If God wills" and he "listens" to God. I am a christian, but I still had trouble with this view that God will provide under all circumstances. Maybe my faith isn't strong enough. I admire George's dedication and sheer energy to change so many lives. show less