08/28/21 Weekend Grif.Net - Sunday in New York
Robert Griffin
Leo Burkett said about writing a novel: “Make it simple. Make it memorable. Make it inviting to look at. Make it fun to read.” Evidently, my friend and former college classmate Robert Allen took that admonition to heart as he penned his book “Sunday in New York”, checking all four boxes and more.
Set in New York City at the time of America’s entrance into the First World War, Allen’s story centers around the great crusade of famous Evangelist Billy Sunday over a ten-week span. I assumed this historical novel would be all about Sunday himself, a biographical sketch with segments of his sermons and compilation of facts about his conversion, ministry, and impact in this city.
Instead, while it did revolve around the event, it developed intricate plot lines around other characters that were in the orbit of the crusade. This made the information and details of how such a massive endeavor could take place “come to life” in an easy read, not a textbook or history tome. Adding to all the facts is an unfolding web of plotlines that kept me turning pages.
I’ll admit three things – I learned many facts about Billy Sunday and the New York campaign I had never known; I was caught up in the unfolding stories that Allen used to make historic events come alive; and I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
As I recover from surgery, It was a way to edify my heart and encourage me, to say nothing of the joy of just reading a wholesome, lively story.
I’d encourage all on the grif net blog to consider reading this novel. It is suitable for the whole family, perhaps to read as a “devotional” at the dinner table. I asked Bob how anyone could get this book and hope he doesn’t mind my sharing. Until it appears officially on October 1st you may order direct from the author - Robert Allen, PO Box 28342, Mpls. MN 55428 – for $11.95 and he will pay the postage. After Oct. 1 it will be available from CrossLink directly or on Amazon.
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Dr Bob Griffin
"Jesus Knows Me, This I Love!"
