Living Lyrics is a collection of prison poems written by Pastor John Cao. Cao received a seven-year prison sentence in March 2018 for his Christian faith. Cao, a legal resident of North Carolina, made many trips to his native China for humanitarian work before his detention in March 2017. Those observing Cao's case believe his imprisonment is part of the ongoing campaign by the Chinese government to suppress the church. Inside Living Lyrics is a collection of Pastor Cao's prison poetry in both English and Chinese, alongside photos and information about his life and work. Each poem is a testimony to Pastor Cao's exemplary faith, heart for the Gospel, and his commitment to take up the cross of discipleship even in the face of immense persecution.

"John Cao is a living testament to sacrificial love of brother above self and carrying his cross without shame so others may know the life found in it. He is of those mentioned in the Bible not worthy of this world as they are willing to lose it all for heaven's sake. May his words from a Chinese prison inspire us to be better, to be bolder, and to focus our time on Earth, like him, making an eternal difference." Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO)