Book excerpt: Premier Pentecostal historian Vinson Synan shares for the first time his engaging personal assessment of and involvement in the extraordinary events of the last 100 years that gave birth to the charismatic and Pentecostal movements. Because of his unique position and participation in most of these events, Synan offers a rare and fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the phenomenal events that took place when the Holy Spirit fell at Azusa Street; the subsequent formation of the Pentecostal denominations; the surprising birth of the charismatic renewal; the emergence of charismatic Catholicism; the Toronto Blessing; and beyond. Because Synan is so widely respected across denominational lines for his scholarship and balance, his candid eyewitness memoir will rivet all who walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit, as well as professors, students, and curious onlookers. A once-in-a-lifetime perspective!