Potted biographies of 16 prominant Quakers from George Fox to Amy Lewis (b1893)

Elfrida Vipont is one of the pen names of Elfrida Vipont Brown (1902-1992), who also sometimes used her married name, Foulds. She was a popular award-winning British writer of children’s fiction and also wrote adult nonfiction on Quaker topics. In Quakerism: A Faith To Live By, Vipont gives a whirlwind survey of Quaker history through 16 short biographies of key figures in the development of Quaker thought and practice. Beginning with George Fox (1624-1691), generally considered founder of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), and Margaret Fell (1614-1702), whom many consider the architect of the early Quaker organization, she counts down the years to American philosopher and mystic Rufus Jones (1863-1948). This is a good collection for someone who wants to get a quick impression of who the Quakers are, or for someone who is just beginning their study of Quakerism. Vipont’s usual fine writing is in evidence, offering an entertaining and educational read. ( )