Apparently revising her doctoral dissertation, Harley (religious studies, U. of South Florida) presents a biography of Hopking (1849-1925), who strongly influenced the New Thought movement in various stages of its historical and religious development. Her early training was with Christian Science under Mary Baker Eddy. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Harley (religious studies, Univ. of South Florida; Women Building Chicago, 1770-1990: A Biographical Dictionary) provides a critical biography of an overlooked spiritual revolutionary. Initially inspired by Mary Baker Eddy, who focused on interpreting the Christian scriptures, Emma Curtis Hopkins (1853-1925) broke away to develop a more eclectic form of metaphysical idealism that came to be known as the New Thought. In her version of the Christian Trinity, she imagined three aspects of God, who played a role in different historical periods: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Mother-Spirit. Using this theology, she established an ordained ministry for New Thought that actively encouraged the membership of women (Hopkins herself became the first American woman to ascend to the episcopacy). This illuminating biography, well documented through quotations from Hopkins's letters, helps to reveal a unique religious thinker as well as the religious climate of late 19th-century America. The only study on Hopkins available, it will surely find an audience with feminists, historians, religious scholars, and the general public. Recommended for large public libraries, as well as seminary and feminist collections. Carolyn M. Craft, Longwood Coll., Farmville, VA Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc. Enlightening biography of an early feminist and religious entrepreneur who championed "the innate spirituality of women." Gail M. Harley teaches in religious studies at the University of South Florida, Tampa. She also writes guest editorials for the St. Petersburg Times and the Tacoma News Tribune. Used Book in Good Condition