Apparently it has become a classic for those American Evangelicals who like a certain amount of violence porn and police procedural in their tales of missionary efforts in the inner city. It was not to my taste, as at the age of 18 my memories of a working class neighborhood clashed with the mindset displayed. i read my Bantam paperback copy in April 1963, so this site has only reprints listed. ( )

This is a truly moving and powerful story and I think it will affect each reader differently. What really spoke to me was the fact that David kept 'putting the fleece before the Lord' and was blessed abundantly when he did this. It has encouraged me to consider praying out loud more and to not feel shame or embarrassment about praying for things. After-all in order to receive we must ask. ( )

I read this in the past and a friend gifted me with a copy so I could reread it. As I read, I wondered "where are the David Wilkersons of today?" I'm not sure if there aren't any or if we just don't hear about them in the anti-Christian mentality of the day. ( )

True story about a small-town minister called to serve inner-city youth struggling with gang violence and drug abuse. Witnessing people languish in heroine addiction, he states that he had "never felt so close to hell," but unflinchingly reaches out in love. Awesome story of faith and hope. ( )

“From delinquency to deliverance.” “’Dear God, I’m the dirtiest sinner in New York. I don’t think You want me. If You do want me, You can have me…’ “As Nicky talked, a hush fell over the room. For we were witnessing a miracle….” This is a terrific book for teenagers who may be involved in gangs. As with most realistic fictional books, this book demonstrates a pathway of how students can escape the gang life and turn to God. Nicky Cruz is a gang member involved in drug trafficking, prostitution, and gang activities, and he meets a man who will change his life forever. David Wilkerson actively pursues Nicky, and is the catalyst Nicky needs to change his life and follow God.
Most of the students I teach deal with gang issues every single day. This book could be a life-changing book which could help those in a gang situation escapes it. The book shows the wonders of God and how, with His help, a gang member can escape that world and live a productive and successful life.
I like this book because it shows students who are involved in gang activity that there is a better way of life. Due to our low-income status in our schools, students are always looking for a sense of belonging. The gangs can offer a sense of acceptance in a family-style environment, but isn’t the safest environment to belong to. This book can show how the love of God can forgive even the worst of people, show them the way to eternal life, and acceptance in the family of the Lord. ( )