This book’s a nice light autobiographical read, with some very funny moments.

Simpson uses this book to go through his childhood and analyze the events that turned him into a cynic. More than that, he shares how God broke through his cynicism time and time again. The final assault came in the form of quadruplets. (Nice one, God.)

There were moments here that made me laugh out loud, even though I was the only person in the room. My favourite story had to be his unique perspective of an exorcism. Coming from an evangelical tradition myself, I identified with many of his frustrations (and have indulged in more than my share of cynicism along the way).

I love Simpson’s honesty and humility. Given the stage of life he’s in now, I’m sure there will be another memoir coming out soon.

Simpson, Stephen W. Assaulted by Joy: The Redemption of a Cynic. Zondervan, 2008.