In his gritty debut, inspirational speaker Archer shares the story of his hardscrabble childhood and how it brought him to Gods grace. Born in 1963 in Cleveland, Ohio, Archer faced a litany of obstacles growing up: his teenage former prostitute mother had attempted to abort him; his home life is rife with abuse; he is sexually abused by a neighbor; and classmates ridicule him for his stutter. At the age of 10, he unsuccessfully attempts suicide. But a teacher changes the trajectory of Archers life by helping him master the spoken word-and find faith in God. With his newfound sense of identity, purpose, and community, 16-year-old Archer becomes a part-time preacher at Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Cleveland, where he helps lead his sister and mother to faith. Archer, who is African-American, then becomes senior class president and valedictorian of his 98% white private school. Peppered with observations on the cycle of poverty and racial prejudice-and how he overcame both-Archers memoir is riveting, instructive, and will appeal to Christian readers looking for an inspirational story.
-Publishers Weekly
Ron Archers story is captivating. As a "trick baby," his life was miraculously spared, and theres no question in my mind, it was for Gods kingdom purpose. Ron is one of the most gifted communicators I know. I believe with his eyes fixed on Jesus and with a love for God and all his neighbors, he can help lead the too-often overlooked and "least of these" into a Promised Land life. He has supernaturally been transformed by the power of the gospel, and he wants everyone to experience the divine encounter Jesus referred to as being "born from above." I dont think youll be able to put this book down, and everyone who cares about the future of freedom will want to hear him share not only his heart, but the heart of his heavenly Father.
-James Robison, Founder and President of LIFE Outreach International