Nonfiction Navigators discussion

In a story rooted in faith, Same Kind of Different as Me is a powerful and touching narrative of two unlikely friends who are brought together by one woman. This nonfiction read is co-narrated by Denver Moore and Ron Hall and recounts the vivid details of an unexpected friendship. This book is an easy read with an incredible true story that puts God at the forefront and explains how hardships are in accordance to His plan.

Denver begins by recounting his early life as a virtual slave in Louisiana, a modern day sharecropper, who underwent extreme tragedy. His struggles as an African-American prompted fear throughout his childhood of whites and their seemingly limitless power. Ultimately, he leaves his home and winds up on the streets of Fort Worth, Texas. Conversely, Ron Hall grows up as a middle class white man who works hard for opportunities. His persistence in all of his ambitions presents him with a prosperous job and a faithful wife, Deborah.

Although Ron has everything he could have ever envisioned, his temptation of material items grew until his marriage is turned upside down. Graciously, Deborah forgives him, and they embark on a journey to further their faith through service. Ron’s journey unites with Denver’s when Deborah feels God calling her to volunteer weekly at the Union Gospel Mission. At the Union Gospel Mission, they both see first-hand the individuals of the streets. There, they encounter Denver and perceive him as a cold individual who has never had a stable relationship.

Throughout the book, Ron is able to form an unbreakable friendship with Denver as they navigate the worst and best of life. Denver is able to open up to Ron and discuss the tragedies surrounding his childhood. In return, Ron is able to provide the support and comfort that Denver needs from a lifelong friend. Their relationship becomes rooted in God’s love and furthering the service Deborah intended.

Prior to reading this book, I was naively unaware of the challenges a homeless individual faces and the change one person can make. Through the eyes of Denver Moore, I was able to understand the difficulties he endured and the required perseverance to survive on the streets. Through the eyes of Ron Hall, I was able to experience the power of God’s will and the positive consequences of public service.

I would highly recommend this book for all ages due to underlying messages of strength and faith. I feel that each individual, regardless of age, would gain some sort of wisdom from this book. This book is refreshing in light of modern day events and ultimately draws the attention back to the most important resource in our lives, God.

Hall, Ron, Denver Moore, and Lynn Vincent. Same Kind of Different as Me. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2006. Print.