As the 100th anniversary of the death of Ellen G. White approaches, Patricia Pryor takes a fresh look at her life, her ministry, and the forces that shaped the religious culture of the nineteenth century in which she lived. A unique set of environmental events made many believe the end of the world was imminent; financial disasters succeeded one another; radical groups formed isolated communities; strange occult activity gave birth to spiritualism. Suddenly a young girl began having visions that explained the future and revealed how to survive a coming apocalypse. Although this scenario has all the elements of good science fiction, it is the true story of the nineteenth century and Ellen G. White. Pryor traces the events of White's life as the amazing journey from her childhood in Portland, Maine, to her prominent position as co-founder of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church unfolds. The possible undiagnosed disease that profoundly influenced her personality is examined in detail and her spiritual gift of prophecy is explained. Pryor doesn't hesitate to discuss the controversial questions raised about White's visions and writings. This book tells the inspiring story of Ellen White, revealing why millions still revere her as prophetess and leader.