The Cross and the Switchblade: Dave Wilkerson's best€“selling dramatic book first introduced millions of readers to Nicky Cruz. He was a warlord of a vicious New York City gang, an experienced thief and mugger, and a hardened and violent street criminal all before he reached 18. Run Baby Run is the story of his desperate battle against drugs, alcoholism, and a violent environment, as he searched for a better way of life.