The Journal asked Ruth Elizabeth Jenks to share some thoughts on Richard A. Nenneman's biography of Mary Baker Eddy.
Each Biography Of A Particular individual is unique, reflecting the author's distinct perspective and approach. The basics may be the same from one biography to the next, as with the colors in a kaleidoscope, but each one presents a fresh "design."
The book Persistent Pilgrim: The Life of Mary Baker Eddy by Richard Nenneman does just that. Those who have read other biographical accounts of Mrs. Eddy's multifaceted contributions to humanity will gain new insights into as well as an expanded appreciation of her unselfed lifetime achievements. The reader who knows nothing of this remarkable woman will come to understand why her place in history is secure. Her example of persistence and dedication in the face of many physical and emotional challenges should be encouraging to anyone. She just didn't allow herself to be distracted from her priorities. The unfolding of events is clearly presented in this biography and could stand alone as the record of an outstanding life. Yet the book also shows how her approach to these events, with an unshaken resolve, humility, and spiritual insight, made her experience unique.
