Son of the Underground by Isaac Liu with Albrecht Kaul

I was really excited to read this book because my mother-in-law had let me borrow The Heavenly Man two years ago and I loved it.  I recommended it to so many people because I don't think many Americans have a clue about what life is like for Christians in other countries.  Not only that, I think many Americans think that God is believed in half-heartily in other countries, as many "Christians" do so in America.  With that said, that book left some questions for me.  I had questions, such as, what do his children think about him being gone all the time and putting Christ first?  How could he have influenced them in their lives if he was gone?  How did his wife handle all of the persecution (which the book touched on a little, but I wanted to know more)?  At any point, did they ever want to throw up their hands and say "this just isn't worth it?"

When I saw this book come up as a review choice, I immediately filled out the form and awaited its arrival.  I was curious to know, from his son's perspective, how his dad influenced his life.  Did he ever face persecution and did he love Jesus as much as his dad?  Enough to give it all?

This book is short and can easily be read in a day (probably even a half of a day, with no distractions).  That was refreshing in itself.  Sometimes the best books say what needs to be said and then they end it.  Throughout the pages, Isaac talks about the persecution he faces on behalf of his dad's name, how they had to change their names, their homes, and ultimately their lives to escape a sure death.  He shares with the readers that yes, at times, he didn't want to believe in God.  He didn't want to accept what God was calling him to do for the rest of his life, either.  He talks about how he didn't want to be known as Brother Yun's son...he had his own life and wanted his own name. 

Towards the end, he discusses their escape from China, the miracles God worked for them to get out of China, and finally ends with his deep love and deep desire to one day return to China and reach many Chinese communities for Christ.  This is a book that all Christians need to read.  Not only so they can become more aware of what is happening in China (and many other countries), but also so we know how to better pray for them.  What a wonderful testimony of God's hand working in their lives!

_____________________

I received this book free from Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review.