A Cop for Christ: The Dramatic True Story of Mike Disanza of the NYPD

Mike Disanza's autobiography describes his growing up poor in the 1950s, seeing becoming a cop as a way out of poverty, the events leading to him becoming a Christian and his experiences during his 22 year career with the NYPD and beyond.His story is one of serving God in his job, doing it well, yet not being fulfilled by the job itself. His relationship with God, the simplicity and strength of his faith, and his obvious love for his fellow officers and compassion for the people of New York is encouraging.Apart from the Christian aspects, Mr Disanza gives a grass roots view of life as a cop (for example, he tells of he and 3 workmates turning up at roll call one day, and a month later he was the only one left in the force - one had been killed, one had committed suicide, one had left the force on medical grounds, and he soldiered on). His tone is conversational and easy to read, his outlook very practical, tempered with a sense of humour and tenderness. The simple tone is engaging and leaves the reader wanting to know more about his adventures. Mr Disanza does not discuss his personal life in depth other than in relation to his Christianity and his career, nor does he proselytise for either Christianity or the police.Query how much rougher life in the NYPD has become, and how much more horrific the crimes police have to deal with than those in this book - there is little reference to junkies, child abuse, or similar crimes receiving lots of media attention these days, but maybe the author was just sparing the reader. Thank you Mr Disanza for permitting us a window into your 22 year career in the NYPD, and for your openness about how you felt at various times. In a world where police receive alot of bad publicity, it is refreshing to read how you tried to protect and serve the people of New York.