41 pages • 1 hour read
In His Steps
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Book Brief
166
Novel • Fiction
Raymond, Kansas • 1890s
1896
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
In In His Steps by Charles Sheldon, Reverend Henry Maxwell challenges his congregation in Raymond to live for a year asking themselves, "What Would Jesus Do?" This pledge leads to significant transformations in the lives of various members, including Rachel Winslow, Virginia Page, and Edward Norman, as they navigate personal and community struggles, profoundly impacting their town and beyond.
Inspirational
Contemplative
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
29,205 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
In His Steps by Charles Sheldon is widely praised for its compelling call to ethical living, challenging readers to walk in Jesus' footsteps. However, some find its didactic tone and simplistic portrayal of complex social issues less appealing. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with enduring moral relevance.
Who Should Read In His Steps?
Potential readers of Charles Sheldon's In His Steps are those who appreciate Christian moral fiction and explorations of ethical living. Fans of John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress or C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters will find this work thought-provoking and spiritually enriching. The novel's emphasis on the question, "What would Jesus do?" resonates with readers seeking to integrate faith into daily actions.
29,205 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rachel Winslow
Rachel Winslow
A talented soprano at the First Church of Raymond, she is inspired by Rev. Maxwell's challenge and decides to use her singing talents for evangelization and service rather than pursuing a career on stage.
Virginia Page
Virginia Page
A wealthy heiress and best friend of Rachel Winslow, she joins Rev. Maxwell's movement, facing challenges in her aristocratic lifestyle while generously supporting causes aligned with her new convictions.
Edward Norman
Edward Norman
The editor of the Raymond Daily News, he is one of the first to take Rev. Maxwell’s challenge seriously by transforming his newspaper to focus on virtuous content and true newsworthiness.
Rollin Page
Rollin Page
The younger brother of Virginia Page, initially without purpose, he undergoes a personal transformation and begins to seek deeper meaning in life after witnessing the events at the Rectangle.
Rev. Dr. Calvin Bruce
Rev. Dr. Calvin Bruce
An old friend of Rev. Maxwell and pastor at Nazareth Avenue Church in Chicago, he visits Raymond and decides to bring the same challenge to his affluent community, resulting in significant changes in his ministry.
Felicia Sterling
Felicia Sterling
A young socialite from Chicago’s Nazareth Avenue Church, she is moved by the challenge and finds new purpose in the movement after experiencing personal tragedy and joining the efforts in Raymond.
166
Novel • Fiction
Raymond, Kansas • 1890s
1896
Adult
14+ years
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