How to be Wise opens with an unexpectedly entertaining survey of the philosophical and religious roots of wisdom, before focusing on the brooding text of Ecclesiastes. Illumination of a more uplifting kind is then found in the sublime language of the Prologue of St John's Gospel, and the life and letters of St Paul.

Forgotten saint? Proto-feminist? Josephine Butller's story is one of incredible passion and tenacity and deserves to be better known. She had a deep concern for the marginalized of Victorian society, she reached out to the poor and destitute, campaigned and worked tirelessly to bring about the repeal of the Contagious Diseases Act; spoke out on subjects that shocked her contemporaries and remained strong and determined against all kinds of injustice . This is a lively and well-drawn portrait which also delves into her personality and reveals the deep faith that sustained her in her work.