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Hope in Front of Me: Find Purpose in Your Darkest Moments [Paperback]
Stepping onto the American Idol stage just weeks after his first wife’s unexpected death, Danny Gokey experienced both the pinnacle of hope and the depth of despair. But his story began long before that. Danny’s dreams began to form when he was a child, only to take a turn he never could have predicted. As life unfolded, he learned that true purpose is found in relationships, and destiny is sometimes born out of our darkest moments.Now Danny wants you to embrace that same promise of hope. In this book, he shares his experiences in the high and low moments and offers compelling, hard-won wisdom to help you reach beyond your greatest challenges. Whether you struggle with relationships, loss, anger, self-esteem, or doubt that your dreams can come true, Danny’s down-to-earth encouragement and positive outlook will transform your life and reveal how you can move toward hope and take the next step to truly making a difference.
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First published January 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 29, 2014
This was an excellent book about an ordinary guy who never gave up on life despite the deep emotional pain he experienced. He continued to reach out for the hope that was always in front of him. It wasn't easy and he faced numerous obstacles along the way. We can do the same by letting go of the hurt and grabbing onto the hope that is always in front of us too. Everything happens for a reason. We need to trust that there is a bigger purpose for us and keep moving forward. Something else Danny shares is the importance of helping others. Nothing else in life matters if we don't put people first. Relationships are so important. I remember watching Danny on American Idol. He was my favorite singer. Now he is also one of my favorite authors. No matter what you are going through right now, I highly recommend this book!
January 18, 2022
This was an okay story with a good message, but it became very repetitive which made it kind of a chore to finish. I enjoyed learning more about Danny's life, both the trials and blessings he has had. I was kind of disappointed that there weren't any pictures included, but that's not too big of a deal. All in all this wasn't too bad but it's not something I'd recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
December 29, 2013
"True faith means thanking God before the miracles happens and then having the resolve to see it through and match your dreams to life." Danny Gokey
I liked this book--a lot. I never heard of Gokey (yeah, I know, I must live in a different universe from the rest of America), but received this as a Christmas present. (I should have a category of books I would never have read if someone--usually my wife or niece--hadn't given it to me.) It's well written. (Partial credit to Ben Stroup, of course.) And it's topical. Danny has had dark moments, so he speaks with authority to a generation which may expect everything to go right and give up at the first adversity. Or, conversely, have experienced nothing but headwinds and gave up early.
Quibble: I assume Gokey is a Christian, but, while he mentions "God" every other page, he never mentions Jesus, Christ or Holy Spirit. His single scriptural reference is to Psalms. Perhaps he's reaching out to people to whom any word related to Christianity is a turn off. (He mentions being in such an environment at least once.) Such a vocabulary restriction results in sentences such as, "The power of your belief system will get you out of your darkness moments." I assume that's not what he really meant to say because a hundred pages later he affirms, "Faith is not saying I deny the facts; it just acknowledges that God is bigger than the facts."
A very good read of the inspirational, The Power of Positive Thinking sort.
I liked this book--a lot. I never heard of Gokey (yeah, I know, I must live in a different universe from the rest of America), but received this as a Christmas present. (I should have a category of books I would never have read if someone--usually my wife or niece--hadn't given it to me.) It's well written. (Partial credit to Ben Stroup, of course.) And it's topical. Danny has had dark moments, so he speaks with authority to a generation which may expect everything to go right and give up at the first adversity. Or, conversely, have experienced nothing but headwinds and gave up early.
Quibble: I assume Gokey is a Christian, but, while he mentions "God" every other page, he never mentions Jesus, Christ or Holy Spirit. His single scriptural reference is to Psalms. Perhaps he's reaching out to people to whom any word related to Christianity is a turn off. (He mentions being in such an environment at least once.) Such a vocabulary restriction results in sentences such as, "The power of your belief system will get you out of your darkness moments." I assume that's not what he really meant to say because a hundred pages later he affirms, "Faith is not saying I deny the facts; it just acknowledges that God is bigger than the facts."
A very good read of the inspirational, The Power of Positive Thinking sort.
March 18, 2019
I love his songs and his story resonates with me since losing my husband.
February 19, 2017
An interesting memoir about how Danny Gokey got to where he is today.
Having not been viewer of American Idol I had no idea that's where his musical career took off from. I simply enjoyed his music from WAY FM and K-LOVE and heard that his song Hope in Front of Me came from a tragic place in his life and I was curious enough to pick up this book.
More of a memoir that a self-help book (which for some reason I thought it was), but it does offer some encouragement for getting through dark days. Mostly it is about his like with his first wife Sophia and her illness, his struggle to even want to do American Idol (initial tryouts were just 4 weeks after his wife's death), and what his like looked like after his wife's death. It also serves as a platform for explaining his non-profit Sophia's Heart which sounds like an amazing organization.
Having not been viewer of American Idol I had no idea that's where his musical career took off from. I simply enjoyed his music from WAY FM and K-LOVE and heard that his song Hope in Front of Me came from a tragic place in his life and I was curious enough to pick up this book.
More of a memoir that a self-help book (which for some reason I thought it was), but it does offer some encouragement for getting through dark days. Mostly it is about his like with his first wife Sophia and her illness, his struggle to even want to do American Idol (initial tryouts were just 4 weeks after his wife's death), and what his like looked like after his wife's death. It also serves as a platform for explaining his non-profit Sophia's Heart which sounds like an amazing organization.
June 29, 2015
Danny Gokey is a talented and inspirational artist. I admire his desire to spread the gospel, give hope to the hurting, and keep his wife's legacy growing through his nonprofit organization. He has a good heart and a nice message.
The writing of this book, however, leaves something to be desired. It was very repetitive and redundant. Gokey and his coauthor, who may be really to blame, give the same message over and over throughout the book. While I applaud their attempt to spread the gospel through Danny's life story, I did not really enjoy reading this book.
I will say, however, that I attended a Danny Gokey concert at my church a month ago, and he was phenomenal!
The writing of this book, however, leaves something to be desired. It was very repetitive and redundant. Gokey and his coauthor, who may be really to blame, give the same message over and over throughout the book. While I applaud their attempt to spread the gospel through Danny's life story, I did not really enjoy reading this book.
I will say, however, that I attended a Danny Gokey concert at my church a month ago, and he was phenomenal!
June 20, 2017
This is a really good book from the perspective of the life lessons and nuggets of wisdom on every page. Some of the reviews have been luke-warm, and I get it, but this is more a reaction to what the other reviewers were looking for. I am guessing they were looking for a meaty biography that delves deeper into Danny's life. I take it that Danny wants to keep some of the deep stuff to himself, and wanted to pass on the pearls of wisdom he has collected along the way. The book is organized a little differently, it is loosely chronological with flashes back to the other times as reference points to the life lessons. It should probably be read in chapter size chunks, as each chapter is a conversation on one main topic. I did plough through the whole book in only a few days of voracious consumption, because I just kept wanting more. I will read it again at leisure to make sure I have gotten all the little nuggets or pearls it has to offer.
I too would have liked more depth in places, a little more detail than was offered, and a little more description in areas where Danny referred to his depression, or the depth of difficulty of some of the circumstances. I understand the difficulty of those times, and he may have wanted to glaze over that to get to the good nuggets of wisdom he shares. It would have given the book a third or fourth dimension, however, if he could have described more of the detail of the down times he had, or some of his struggle during that time; and it may have made the book reach a few more people.
As the book is, it has touched me in a way that I did not expect, due to the timeliness of the book to my own journey. Some of these pearls of wisdom have struck such a chord in me, that I am making music of my own. For anyone that recognizes themselves in these pages, it will be stunning. The reader that recognizes himself will either embrace or run away from this book. I highly recommend for anyone searching for answers, and who is willing to work on continuing his or her own journey. It is a keeper, one to keep on the shelf and look at from time to time to reaquaint you with the message. I highly recommend the album of the same name, the music is beautiful, and cycles between deep despair and redemption. But overall, the message is indeed redemption.
I too would have liked more depth in places, a little more detail than was offered, and a little more description in areas where Danny referred to his depression, or the depth of difficulty of some of the circumstances. I understand the difficulty of those times, and he may have wanted to glaze over that to get to the good nuggets of wisdom he shares. It would have given the book a third or fourth dimension, however, if he could have described more of the detail of the down times he had, or some of his struggle during that time; and it may have made the book reach a few more people.
As the book is, it has touched me in a way that I did not expect, due to the timeliness of the book to my own journey. Some of these pearls of wisdom have struck such a chord in me, that I am making music of my own. For anyone that recognizes themselves in these pages, it will be stunning. The reader that recognizes himself will either embrace or run away from this book. I highly recommend for anyone searching for answers, and who is willing to work on continuing his or her own journey. It is a keeper, one to keep on the shelf and look at from time to time to reaquaint you with the message. I highly recommend the album of the same name, the music is beautiful, and cycles between deep despair and redemption. But overall, the message is indeed redemption.
September 2, 2019
Whether or not you are familiar with Danny Gokey's music or story, this book is a must read. Written with an openness rarely seen, Hope in Front of Me tells the story of tragedy and triumph. Danny helps us see that no matter where we are in life we are all capable of extraordinary things. Every step on our journey is preparation for something better, if we're open to it. "What is before us is greater than what is behind us. The divine gift of hope you've been given has been specifically crafted with you in mind. When you are strong enough to be you and keep being you, you'll find what you're looking for."
As you read this book, you will find a friend who has been in the darkness of pain and loss, who found his way to the light. Here you will find the your way to the path of healing.
As you read this book, you will find a friend who has been in the darkness of pain and loss, who found his way to the light. Here you will find the your way to the path of healing.
July 21, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. Thank you for sharing your story and positive message. Danny was very open and candid in expressing the brokenness experienced after the loss of Sophia. Everyone should relate to the struggles and insecurities depicted in Danny's life and everyone can conquer their own fears through hope and faith in God. I only wish that this book had emphasized that the salvation of Jesus Christmas our LORD is the source and foundation of our love, hope and faith. I enjoy hearing Danny sing on the radio on 'The Message', I now realize the heartfelt connection between his music and his testimony.
November 6, 2018
Writing-wise, it's more of a 2 but I gave it an extra star for good intentions. This guy really, really wants you to get it, so he repeats himself, more or less, with commonsense platitudes. Yes, he genuinely suffered, but he was young and had a support system in place. This book could have been much shorter, but would it still be a book? If I were him, I'd have streamlined it and, to compensate (if it still needed to be a book), enlarge the font a little, widen the margins, and provide some photos--both personal and inspirational. Still, his advice is nothing new under the sun. There was some insight into American Idol's vetting process, which is what I was most curious about anyway.
April 1, 2018
Not being an 'American Idol' fan, my first introduction to Danny was through his Christian music. I loved his songs as you can hear faith and hope in them. I picked this up at his concert and am happy i did.
I enjoy stories of people and the road they traveled to get to where they are today. Even the seemingly smallest decisions can send us on very different paths.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it. While what he goes through May or may not relate, the idea that we should never give up and always look to God is very spot on.
I enjoy stories of people and the road they traveled to get to where they are today. Even the seemingly smallest decisions can send us on very different paths.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it. While what he goes through May or may not relate, the idea that we should never give up and always look to God is very spot on.
January 22, 2020
Danny has an interesting story and I really enjoyed those parts. While I certainly expected parts with his insights and encouragements and such, I feel he was poorly served by the writer and those parts were disjointed and repetitive and the timeline became confusing at times. I found myself skimming those parts because it was the same thing over and over and over again, taking up probably more than half of the book. I really wanted to like it more. I enjoy his music and appreciate his life story. Mr. Stroup, the writer, made that difficult.
May 14, 2021
I love this book, I love Danny Gokey! His story and the way he tells it, just makes you like him even more. I have had this book on my list since it came out but had not read it, until now. I could not tell you why I wait but when I started this book the reason became clear. Reading Danny's story and the hope he continued to have, it hits close to home right now. This book has given me a whole new approach to a situation I am currently in. I am thankful for this book and reading it at just the right time in my life.
December 7, 2016
Having learned the story of Danny Gokey and the death of his wife I had to read this book. Someone sent me his cd after my husband was killed in the San Bernardino terrorist attack. This book goes through his life, his marriage to his first wife and grieving her death, and meeting and marrying his second wife. I liked his candidness going through the grieving process. Reading about how quickly he remarried was surprising, but I think some people remarry very quickly while others never marry again. Because of my own beliefs I have no plans to remarry.
April 11, 2019
Picked this up at the library because it was on display and I'm familiar with his music and thought it would be interesting to read his story. It was certainly an uplifting one and I learned a lot from him on how to keep going "in your Darkest Moments", part of the subtitle. I took lots of notes from the book to look back on and to continue to encourage me to keep going and serving Christ and sharing myself. He's quit a guy.
December 29, 2019
Being a fan of Danny Gokey's music, when I found out he had a book out, I figured I'd give it a try.
For me the book fell flat emotionally. It felt like Gokey never really found his voice, nor did the book have much purpose. He wrote of his wife's death and I hate to say this, but I didn't feel much. Of course, I felt sad for him, but there was just something missing for me. This lack continued throughout the entire book.
For me the book fell flat emotionally. It felt like Gokey never really found his voice, nor did the book have much purpose. He wrote of his wife's death and I hate to say this, but I didn't feel much. Of course, I felt sad for him, but there was just something missing for me. This lack continued throughout the entire book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2019
This was an inspirational book of hope and encouragement in the midst of trials, obstacles and disappointments. Not only does he tell his life story but also gives us hope for our individual journeys. It is a testimony of how God gives us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for our spirit of heaviness. Great book!
March 20, 2020
I really enjoy Danny's singing and I learned a lot more about his personal story, which I knew a little about already. His story is an interesting one but I found the book rather repetitive. His message was a good one but it was stated in many different ways, over and over. Good for learning more about him and the message of hope.
November 7, 2022
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful man and I cannot begin to tell you how humble and kind he is. Words will never be able to explain it. This book does a pretty good job about how he is as well as his wife. Puts a lot into perspective when you are having a rough time coping with something. Whatever it may be. Please read this and learn from it.
August 1, 2017
Great life story with no disappointment in the message of hope. I needed this message at this point in my life so did quite an bit of highlighting. He has some great advice to those going through hardships or dealing with loss. His story is definitely inspiring.
June 15, 2024
This book was published by NavPress: Discipleship Inside out but it talked mostly about hope. And hardly anything about GOD. A lot of it was just do this : like leap! It’s not all about you! It should be all about God.
October 3, 2017
A must read if u are going through a lost or struggle in life
September 25, 2018
Great book.
Great to learn and hear his story from his perspective. Would like to if heard him talk about when he transitioned to a Christian artist.
Great to learn and hear his story from his perspective. Would like to if heard him talk about when he transitioned to a Christian artist.
February 21, 2019
I read this book because I'm a fan of Danny Gokey's music. Now I'm a fan of Danny. Really encouraging read and filled with hope and faith.
March 13, 2019
3.5 Stars. The book had a nice message, but some parts were really repetitive.
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August 16, 2019A book to be read multiple times, lots of insightful thoughts.
August 31, 2019
Going in November to see him in concert..wanted to read his story! Full of positivity and one cannot be hopeful after reading this book!
April 23, 2021
Very interesting and motivational. Some parts/chapters tend to turn into motivational/inspirational lists, but there is a great deal of honesty and real-life knowledge in even the list(y) portions.
December 25, 2022
Amazing touching sentimental heart breaking and heart renewal. Power of God to heal a heart.
March 29, 2024
would I read it again
Danny let us into his struggles with loss and moving on. Not a bad read, I just feel like there was a great deal of repetition and lack of flow.
Danny let us into his struggles with loss and moving on. Not a bad read, I just feel like there was a great deal of repetition and lack of flow.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews