Evelyn Underhill

Born in England in 1875, Evelyn Underhill became one of the best-known writers on spirituality in the early 20th century. She is especially remembered for her work on mysticism and for making demanding spiritual ideas approachable to ordinary readers.

Her best-known book, Mysticism (1911), established her reputation, and she went on to write widely on prayer, worship, and the Christian interior life. She was also an important retreat leader and spiritual guide, and is often noted as a pioneering woman in Anglican religious life.

Underhill died in 1941, but her writing has had a long afterlife. Readers continue to turn to her for thoughtful, steady encouragement in the practice of prayer and the search for a deeper spiritual life.