3Most of the stories in this book took place in Missouri when it was, spiritually, a very dark place. It was run by superstitions, fear and ignorance. Demonology and witchcraft were rampant at that time and many worlds were crashing together. The weird, the supernatural, and the darkness seemed to be fighting for dominance.

Growing up in this environment presented many challenges, especially for a young boy who was homeless at the age of 13. The stories that "Papa" told to his children, and later his grandchildren, were exciting and riveting. Some were very, very dark and disturbing. Some were full of "Hillbilly" humor, but others were absolutely terrifying.

Finally "Papa" gave in to the Holy Spirit's urging and committed the stories to paper. Sometimes that was more traumatic than actually living the event itself, but it was necessary for his own healing and restoration