Live Wires by D J Carswell

"Sometimes, when you least expect it, something happens that will forever be etched on your memory.

Live Wires is a collection of powerful stories that give us a snapshot into the lives of fifteen people from different walks of life. These fascinating people all have one thing in common; an encounter with Someone who changed their lives for the better.

Amongst others, we meet the actor, the astronaut, he power-lifter, the hairdresser, the Buddhist, the addict and the photographer."

Here is an example of the first 2 stories in the book:

Chapter 1 - The Barman - Graham

At a young age Graham joined the Merchant Navy. It was only a matter of time before he adopted the dubious lifestyle of the stereotypical "drunken sailor". Alcohol is a powerful drug that has peddled throughout society with a sense of respectability that it does not deserve. With the end of the war came the shock and shame of having to return to his home in Essex, England. One day, half-drunk, he walked into the emigration office in Piccadilly Circus and requested to go to Canada! Arriving in Canada he was immediately taken to the specially designated farms. One day Graham and a few of the lads walked out to find a better life. Graham eventually found a job in bars which were some of the seediest you can imagine.

On New Year's Eve Graham heard a beautiful choir on the television singing hymns. Memories of his childhood came flooding back.  God began to work in Graham's life ...

Chapter 2 - The Patient

At 12 years of age Rachel was diagnosed with cancer. She had tumours around her brain and the length of her spine. Following intense radiotherapy it was discovered that new tumours had developed which mean there was no cure. At this point Rachel reached out to an older gentleman who asked here what she was afraid of and what would happen if she did die. Rachel remembered back to Kids' Club at church. She knew Jesus, God's Son had died in her place. She acknowledged God loved her and accepted him to be her Lord and Saviour. It was at this point Rachel realised that if she died God would give her life forever.

Rachel's treatment was changed to a mild chemotherapy drug and very gradually she made progress, putting on weight slowly. She has had surgery to straighten her spine and completed a course at college in art and design.

The contents page gives an idea of the different stories.

 This book is a hard to put down selection of real life testimonies from individuals who have either come to faith or have experienced faith in new ways as they encountered situations in their lives. Each story is unique and challenging. I would say this book would appeal to someone who is questioning God and his influence on their lives. Each story can be read in its own right and would appeal to someone perhaps who wants a quick easy to read story that they can relate to.