Cecil Murphey

Cecil Murphey is a prolific author and co-author who has written or collaborated on more than 135 books across multiple genres. He is particularly known for his work as a ghostwriter and co-author of autobiographies, including the New York Times bestseller "90 Minutes in Heaven" with Don Piper. Throughout his career, Murphey has specialized in collaborating with individuals to tell their life stories, particularly focusing on themes of faith, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. His work includes notable titles such as "Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story" and "I Choose to Stay" with Salome Thomas-EL. Murphey has received multiple writing awards, including the Gold Medallion Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. His background as a pastor and teacher has informed much of his non-fiction work, which often explores spiritual and inspirational themes. As a writing instructor, Murphey has conducted numerous workshops and mentored emerging authors through his "Writer to Writer" blog and educational materials. His own personal works include "When Someone You Love Has Cancer" and "When God Turned Off the Lights," which draw from his personal experiences.

Readers consistently note Murphey's ability to capture authentic voices when co-authoring memoirs and autobiographies. Many reviews highlight his straightforward writing style that makes complex stories accessible. What readers liked: - Clear, conversational prose that maintains the subject's voice - Balanced handling of faith-based themes without being preachy - Practical advice in his writing guides - Personal vulnerability in books about grief and loss What readers disliked: - Some find his co-authored works too simplified - Occasional repetition of ideas across books - Writing style described as "basic" by more literary readers Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: Average 4.1/5 across major titles Amazon: 4.3/5 average rating - "90 Minutes in Heaven" (co-authored): 4.5/5 from 2,800+ reviews - "Gifted Hands" (co-authored): 4.8/5 from 3,100+ reviews - "Writer to Writer": 4.4/5 from 120+ reviews One reader noted: "He lets the story speak for itself without unnecessary flourishes." Another commented: "His writing guides offer concrete steps rather than vague inspiration."

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story - Biography of neurosurgeon Ben Carson, co-written with Carson, chronicling his journey from inner-city Detroit to becoming a pioneering pediatric surgeon.

90 Minutes in Heaven - First-person account of Pastor Don Piper's near-death experience, co-written with Piper, describing his claimed experience of heaven after a fatal car crash.

I Choose to Stay - True story of Philadelphia teacher Salome Thomas-EL's work with inner-city students, co-written with Thomas-EL, documenting his educational methods and experiences.

When Someone You Love Has Cancer - Guide for supporting loved ones through cancer treatment, drawing from Murphey's personal experience as a cancer survivor.

When Someone You Love No Longer Remembers - Resource for caregivers of people with memory loss, based on Murphey's experience caring for his mother with Alzheimer's.

Making Sense When Life Doesn't - Examination of finding meaning during difficult life circumstances, incorporating real-life stories and practical guidance.

When God Turned Off the Lights - Personal narrative about experiencing spiritual darkness and doubt in faith.

Words of Comfort for Times of Loss - Collection of reflections and advice for those experiencing grief and bereavement.

Coach Wooden's Greatest Secret - Analysis of UCLA basketball coach John Wooden's teaching philosophy and methods, co-written with Wooden's family.

Touchdown Alexander - Biography of NFL running back Shaun Alexander, co-written with Alexander, detailing his football career and personal life.

Max Lucado writes Christian inspiration and self-help books focused on finding hope through faith. His writing style and subject matter align with Murphey's approach to exploring spiritual growth and personal transformation.

Philip Yancey examines challenging aspects of Christianity and wrestles with questions of faith, similar to Murphey's work. His books combine personal stories with theological insights in a way that mirrors Murphey's narrative style.

Charles Stanley focuses on practical Christian living and applying biblical principles to daily life. His emphasis on personal development through faith parallels themes found in Murphey's writing.

Jerry Jenkins combines Christian themes with storytelling and has experience as a ghostwriter like Murphey. His work spans both fiction and non-fiction, with an emphasis on faith-based narratives and personal growth.

Richard Foster writes about spiritual formation and Christian disciplines with a focus on personal transformation. His books explore the practical application of faith in ways that complement Murphey's approach to spiritual development.