David Allen is a well trained classical psychiatrist who has written a practical book that addresses behavior from a unique vantage point. The unique feature of this book is the fact that classical psychiatry is framed in a clear Christian light. My experience with "Christian" self help books is that they are so frequently based on the premise that if you "believe" everything will be OK and if its not then obviously you really don't believe which could not be further from the truth. David Allen has it right, read what he has to say.

Everyone desiring to travel the road to spiritual discovery, experience emotional closeness, a richer, healthier, loving life and "compassion of a child's soul", look no further. This book is like none other on the market, you owe it to yourself to have it in your collection of "great books."

I am impressed by the skill in which Dr. Allen integrates psychiatry and Judeo-Christian values. His recounting of personal challenges and triumphs gave me courage. I have discovered why "hurt people, hurt people," how past hurts can stand in the way of developing honest, deep, caring and loving relationships, and I have learned how to abandon my "hurt trail" and live a more productive life.

I especially love the statement, "the heart is a metaphor for the center of the person...essence of who we really are involving our body, soul and spirit. We reach out to others through our hearts. The heart is a repository for those painful feelings, but like a sponge it can only absorb so much emotion. Once it's saturated, there is no room left for love and joy and beauty."

IN SEARCH OF THE HEART is so plainly written even a child could benefit from reading it. This book is more than a self-help book, it is a study guide. When I finished reading it I felt like I had an anchor. As the author puts it, "spiritual discovery anchors a person in the reality of love and peace, faith and trust."
I am having fun living and embracing the principles found in, IN SEARCH OF THE HEART.