Struck from Behind is a memoir--but not the usual narrative of events. James Howell tells intriguing stories from childhood, romantic life, travel, friendships, tragedies, and wonders, and how God was there, although unnoticed or uninvited at the time. By sharing in retrospect how he now understands God's presence in seemingly mundane moments, we begin to sense something of God's way in the world, and in our own lives.

Howell has been a successful pastor and published theologian. In Struck from Behind he opens up his own private life as a window into God's hidden activity. When he remembers, then we too remember God, and begin to notice, and become grateful.


"A wordsmith with a purpose, James Howell bares just enough of his romantic pastor's soul to allow us to better understand our own. His earthy reminiscences are a beautiful invitation to unearth the transcendent in our own messy lives."
--Lillian Daniel, Senior Minister, First Congregational Church, UCC

"James Howell is simply incapable of thinking of his life without thinking of the uproarious and creative grace of God. That's why this book is such a treasure. That God still sends us such preachers is a sign we've not been abandoned."
--Jason Byassee, Senior Pastor, Boone United Methodist Church


James Howell is Senior Pastor of Myers Park United Methodist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Adjunct Professor of Preaching at Duke Divinity School. The author of fifteen books, he is a columnist and blogger who has preached all around the world.