Paul Loeb is an associate scholar at Seattle's Center for Ethical Leadership and author of Soul of a Citizen: Living with Conviction in a Cynical Time. He has spent more than 25 years searching and writing about citizen responsibility and empowerment. While many activists start out with great energy, few seem to have the patience needed for the long haul. Loeb points out that the great leaders who have brought about major changes — he mentions Nelson Mandela as an example — persevered for many years.

Armed with many fascinating stories of ordinary individuals who have challenged powerful institutions and transformed society for the better, Loeb reveals their courage, stamina, conscience, and sense of humor. While many who yearn for social change give in to burnout, overload, and frustration, others find renewed strength in community and the success of the women's movement, the civil rights movement, and nuclear activism.

Loeb salutes what he calls "long runners" who dare to hope as they enter unknown territory. He celebrates the "helpers' high" and "the ripple effect" emanating from those who give all they've got in service of others.