In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon Value Guide

This Grosset and Dunlap hardcover edition represents a significant era for the book that popularized the phrase 'What Would Jesus Do?' Originally shared as a series of sermons in Topeka, Kansas, this 1930-1940s printing is a collectible example of the many public domain editions produced following a historic copyright error.

What Is In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon Worth?

The typical price range for In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon is $15 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original 1930s-era dust jacket significantly increases market value.
• Overall physical state, specifically looking for foxing on the paper or fraying of the cloth binding.
• The specific printing year within the 1930-1940 range, as earlier Grosset editions are slightly more desirable.
• Provenance or unique inscriptions that link the copy to specific religious history or congregations.

How to Identify In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon?

• Check the spine and title page for the Grosset and Dunlap publisher imprint common in the 1930s.
• Verify the cloth-bound hardcover material typical of mid-century American reprints.
• Look for the lack of a formal copyright notice, which characterizes these early public domain editions.
• Confirm the Topeka, Kansas setting in the text to ensure it is the original Charles M. Sheldon narrative.

History of In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon

Originally published in 1896, this book is best known for introducing the phrase What Would Jesus Do? to the popular lexicon. The author originally read the chapters of the book to his congregation in Topeka, Kansas, on Sunday evenings. Due to a copyright error in the original publication, the book entered the public domain almost immediately, leading to a massive number of reprintings by various publishers like Grosset and Dunlap.