Do Everything: The Biography of Frances Willard

"Do Everything: The Biography of Frances Willard" offers a compelling exploration into the life of one of America's pioneering social reformers, Frances Willard. Published on September 27, 2022, the biography delves deep into Willard's tenure as the president of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), where she championed an expansive agenda known as "Do Everything" reform. This movement not only advocated for prohibition and women's suffrage but also tackled economic justice and the integration of Christian principles into social reforms, marking significant strides in gender equality, economic justice, and religious freedom. Historian Christopher H. Evans not only chronicles Willard's impressive achievements and the cultural shift towards women's leadership but also critically examines the fading of her legacy in contrast to modern feminist figures. This thought-provoking biography is an essential read for adult education programs, providing a nuanced perspective on the intersections of faith and social justice activism, while encouraging reflection on the continuing impact of historical figures in today's social movements.