Dog-eared Books

Title: Crossing Myself
AUTHOR: Greg Garrett
PUBLISHER: NavPress
COPYRIGHT: 2006
PAGES: 239

Dog-Eared Books
WHAT DID YOU TAKE FROM THIS BOOK?
Crossing Myself by Baylor professor Greg Garrett is, as its subtitle suggests, a "story of spiritual rebirth." This book takes the reader through Garrett's spiral into chronic depression, and back up into joy through his realization of a faith he learned to make his own. As Garrett's student for two semesters, I can say without reservation that he has made a significant impact on my life, both academically and personally. After reading his memoir, I realize how truly committed he is to the issues he discusses in class, like putting Christian love into actions through tolerance and charity. He discusses the issues of contemporary Christianity that he wrestled with, and how he worked through them and came to understand that, while God may not speak to all of us in the same way, He will speak to all of us in a way that we can understand.
WHAT DID YOU TELL YOUR FRIENDS 
ABOUT THIS BOOK?
The book is a memoir about redemption. The author states several times throughout the book that, if he can speak to even one person dealing with depression through telling his story, then he has fulfilled his purpose in writing it. I would recommend this book to anyone who is dealing with depression or knows someone who is, or has simply forgotten what it feels like to be fully committed and living in faith. Crossing Myself offers a hopeful message: No matter how unworthy you might feel, or how low you feel you may have sunk, understanding your faith in a way that works for you can save your life.
BRIEF SUMMARY:
Garrett begins his memoir by taking the reader into the darkest period of his depression, and throughout the book explains how God captured his heart and brought him into the contented life he leads today. With a warm, personal writing voice, Garrett touches on the issues of solitude, sin, heroes, and much more. Crossing Myself offers a refreshing message of hope and redemption to the broken reader looking for a way to understand his or her faith.

Marie Bingham
Professional Writing '07