John Newton

Heroes of the Faith

by Anne Sandberg

While his ministry was popular, his gift for hymn writing would be more enduring as he became author of Amazing Grace."

Genres: Biography, Christian, Nonfiction, History, Childrens

203 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1996

Reviews

[Michael O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think most people are generally familiar with the melody of the song, "Amazing Grace" --- its moving lyrics having helped heal many a soul during our darkest hours. But, I think, not as many have really looked at its words, and even less probably know the story of the man whose wayward journey was well into darkness, but who experienced God's patience, grace, and mercy so profoundly that it set him upon a far better, different course from that of the libertine, deserter, atheist, and slave trader that he would have been otherwise.

I enjoyed reading the story of this remarkable, peaceful, redeemed man, and of the work that Jesus Christ did in his life so that he influenced so many for the better in serving God. I recommend this book to anyone desiring to learn the story of this "Hero of the Faith."

[Dana Hinman · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 stars for John Newton. 3 stars for the book. It was a quick read and primer on Newton’s life. There were a few editing errors and the book seemed like it was written by a few different authors. The horror of slave ships was woefully glossed over. The narrative/novel-like style of the book was enjoyable, albeit cheesy in some places. I’m looking forward to reading more in depth on Newton in another biography.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading for myself first because I can already tell that this may be a book for my kids when they are teenagers due to the talk of cursing and women, etc. They do know who he is now but I think the details can wait a bit until they are older. That said, I am looking forward to reading this book and then watching the movie "Freedom" that I recorded from Showtime on their free weekend promo. (A little fun for mom :)...krb 4/26/16

Interesting read, It is so amazing to see God working throughout his life. Now that I'm done with the book I still stick to my decision to wait to read this to the kids when they are older..krb 4/29/16

[Heather Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! Autobiography of John Newton's life. John Newton is best known for the hymn, "Amazing Grace". His story is incredible! What a testimony! John Newton is considered one of the Generals of the Christian faith. His testimony proves that God can take anyone and transform their lives if they will open their hearts up to Him. He went from a Captain in the slave trade to a preacher of God. After John's conversion he helped to abolish the slave trade in England. I was thoroughly blessed by this book.

[Garrett Johnson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great story of the life of John Newton but not great writing style. It seemed very sporadic in timeline and spent a ton of time on his pre-conversion then only a few chapters post-conversion which is where much of what we know him for happened.

[Jennifer Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tank's favorite

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the man and enjoyed his life story...wanted to give it more stars...but did not like the way the book was written. 😕 (I hope other books in the series are not written the same way)

[Delaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how this book told the story, and brought about a clearer understanding of the song.

[Lana Quist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, intriguing, and informative. A testament to the redemptive works of God in unlikely people.

[Josh Wymore · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting overview of Newton's life written for a junior high audience. Since it is something of a hagiography, there's a bit of moralizing and an overly simplistic rendition of his journey. But it is informative nonetheless.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see”. The words of this song have been echoed by many, many people all across the world. But how many people truly know of the man, John Newton, who penned these words, or the events that led him to do so?

In this biography of John Newton, we follow his life from his teenage years on. We see a young, cursing, sailor who denies the existence of God and wonder how this boy ever penned such amazing, convicting words? The struggles of John Newton truly broke my heart. However, the grace of God is so beautifully displayed in his life and testimony.

This book was a very easy read, only taking me a few hours. It was about 200 pages and divided into several small chapters. I would recommend this book.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great biography for kids on the life of the man who gave us the Hymn "Amazing Grace". Although, in my opinion, the hymn is meaningful for every christian the story of his life really elevates that meaning.

[Ernest Freudenburg]

What I didn't realize about John Newton prior to reading this biography, is that he tried to claim Christianity while working in the slave trade. The conversion to a Christian lifestyle was much more gradual.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had never heard of John Newton until I read this book. What a transformation his life took. He had a work to do on this earth and God helped him to do so.

[Bianca Retchless · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had to do this book for a report so I didn't necessarily like it.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent story but I didn't think the writing was all that spectacular and there were quite a few editing mistakes.