Alvin Sanders discusses urban ministry and the work of World Impact, a ministry he serves as president. He shows how true urban ministry must partner with community development. He shows how gentrification often hurts those who need low cost housing most. He shares insights from his own work in the "hood." Many years ago Alvin was a student at a Bible college and seminary where I worked as a librarian. His love for the Lord manifested itself in his attitude and his attention to his studies. I enjoyed seeing how God has used him to reach others over these years. He talks about the ups and downs in terms of his ministry, showing that urban ministry is not an easy calling. I was struck by a statement he made early in the book. To paraphrase it, he stated that many Christians become involved in a service project to the hood because it makes them feel good--not to show what God can do. I couldn't help but wonder how much more effective our efforts to reach the "hood" would be if Christians forgot themselves and focused on what God can do. Certainly some of the most effective work with the poor came from people such as Mother Teresa who embraced this principle. Christians interested in reaching the poor should read this thought-provoking book. ( )