Where We See Tragedy, God Sees Possibility . . .Few American epics of tragedy, intrigue, friendship, and faith will entertain and challenge the soul like the narrative inspired by the events in the real life of David Ring–a boy literally born dead who survives with sobering consequences. Living with the harsh realities of cerebral palsy, Ring faces impossible odds yet stumbles into an improbable … into an improbable life of inspiration and influence in the small, unassuming town of Liberty, Missouri, in the 1960s.
As a teenage boy, Ring finds himself tragically orphaned and being shuffled about to various homes. Along this journey, he faces secret, unspeakable atrocities that eventually plunge him into the depths of depression and attempted suicide. But amid the harsh troubles of life, he encounters another boy his age named David, the son of a local pastor. Their unlikely friendship begins on the rocks, but eventually develops into something extraordinary and unique that alters the trajectory of both of their lives–and the whole town of Liberty–forever.
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An incredible, sad but joyous, true story of a boy who was born dead but lived with cerebral palsy. According to David Ring, “God don’t throw away broken things. God uses broken things.” A story of how God can use anyone who is willing. Everyone should read this book!
I personally know David Ring but never heard about his growing up years and all he had to go through. He is a wonderful Christian man and I recommend this book to every one.
This was an amazing story. quite awful to read because it actually happened to a young boy, but inspirational because such good came out of his life. The fact that he was a survivor of such tragic circumstances is truly is worth the read.
I purchased this book because my 9 year old grandson has CP and has already felt such despair than has mentioned suicide. It was a great book, but I wish there were a kid friendly version to encourage my grandson and give him hope for his future.
I especially appreciated this book because it’s a more transparent writing of David’s story and he deals with difficult, excessively painful youth. I heard him speak many years ago and was not disappointed in the new, more detailed rendering. Written from the eyes of a close friend who helped the author with the truth, I appreciated the era of the 50’s and 60’s and how mid-western towns and people lived. David overcame more than anyone will ever know to become a strong man of God with a message of God’s love and acceptance.
I purchased the audio that went along with the Kindle version of The Boy Born Born Dead and listened to it on a long car trip. Now I am looking on David Ring’s website to see if he has a speaking engagement near where I live so I can see him in person. It is rare, I think, to become a follower of Christ and be instantly transformed the way David was while still a teenager. But David was so damaged in his young life that when he heard the message of Jesus Christ he was moved to prostrate himself before the Lord in front of others, and drink in salvation like a dry sponge. His face — his countenance — was literally changed, as was his attitude, and ultimately, his life. This biography is written by David’s friend from high school, David Whiteman, who despite his own youthful shortcomings, was moved by God (through his father, a pastor) to continue pursuing David Ring in spite of his reluctance. This is David Ring’s story, yet it is also the testimony of how God can use those who obey His call to minister to others in spite of ourselves. It also reminds us how important parents are in the spiritual upbringing of their children. I highly recommend The Boy Who Was Born Dead.
I absolutely loved this book. I found it so very inspirational and have already recommended it to my friends.
Great book! David had so many obstacles going against him throughout his life but he conquered them all. He is truly an inspiration. God bless you, Ring!
I heard David Ring speak long before reading his story, A very good book for any spiritual journey you are on. God truly can turn any situation into good for His kingdom.
Inspirational how the Lord can work the one to life
Well-written and heart-felt. What an inspiration both Davids are!!
Great story of a great man of God.
After reading David Ring’s story, my problems are nothing!
Great story about a young boy with Cerebeal Palsy and the hardships he faces as he goes to school and becomes a young man. Wonderful and inspiring read.
Really good book. Spellbound throughout
I found this book really hard to get into, it was difficult to figure out what-who-why until about the second chapter
I was surprised that the reviews painted this book as difficult to read because of all the abuse David experienced. I am not downplaying that aspect. David’s life was full of horrific abuse. However, the author was sensitive in revealing just enough to unveil the abuse without embellishing on details. That said, it was such a joy to read an author so well spoken. He gives so much to the timeframe and realism to the story itself, that you are completely in the moment. I happen to be the same age as David so it took me back to wonderful memories of the 70’s even with the saddness intertwined.
Throughout this entire story of David’s life, you see the central theme of pure love. It begins with a mother’s love, and ends with an overwhelming number of friends and family who claim David as their own. The most amazing realization comes when David sees God’s hand in all of it and the depth of unconditional love God had for him all along. Truly an unforgettable story.
The story was interesting , but I would have been happier with a first person account.
I really enjoyed this book, since I’ve heard David Ring preach. It had its sad parts, but was very inspirational as God turned Davids life around.
I had heard the story of David Ring decades ago and found him to be truly an inspiration. But this book gave details of his life I never knew. He’s still a remarkable person, truly touched by the hand of God!