Bad Times: ...and Then There Was God

The stories about the history, his family and the Indians around his life gave me a new perspective about this time in history. Ivan, an engineer, has told a story in this book about his experiences and involvement in the transformation of our nation from the `old west' to the modern technological age. I have always been in awe of people who have had challenging life experiences. It was fun to read this book and see how all these experiences have shown God's leading in Ivan's life.

Ivan Allen is my uncle. (my mothers brother) I was very happy that he wrote this book because it brought back many memories dating back to when I would visit my grandparents farm in Sumner, Oklahoma. When I saw the photographs of my grandparents, (uncle Ivans parents) and his children and family, I got a very nostalgic feeling. Sumner, Oklahoma is a simple, hard working farm community in northern Oklahoma and when I read Uncle Ivans book, it brings back a lot of good memories which I will never forget that I had as a child growing up. The old wooden raft (a very heavy wooden raft it is!), is still located somewhere in Sumner, Oklahoma, probably sitting in the corner of a farm pasture near the Allen homestead. I would like to find that old raft and let Uncle Ivan know where it is located and possibly even buy it and give it back to him.. Ivan Allen is a fine christian man with high morals and dignity and I respect him very much. I only wish that I lived closer to him so that he and I could talk about the old homestead and listen to some more of his early childhood experiences at Sumner, Oklahoma. I highly suggest reading his book "Bad Times and Then There Was God" because it will enlighten you on the early times of northern Oklahoma history with sad,serious and funny stories of the past. Its great!

Ivan Allen is a personal friend of mine. He and I have known each other for about one year. After reading his book, I feel honored to know him more and make the most of every opportunity to talk to him. The stories and adventures that Ivan relates in his book are very compelling and exciting. My children regard his experiences as many do Laura Ingalls Wilder in her famous biographical stories.

I never would have guessed that anyone could have had such an interesting life. The way Ivan writes it is like sitting down and listening to him tell the stories in person. The only thing I could wish for is more detail. Jim Kilmer Ph.D.

I love this book. What a read. As a history buff, I appreciate your take on that narrow slice of Oklahoma history. I started reading this book one sunday morning and could not put it down. I finished it that same day. I actually felt like I was right there at times. I think you should consider a sequel. Sincerly, Sam Nichols,