FEARLESS: How a poor Virginia seamstress took on Jim Crow, beat the poll tax and changed her city forever is about Evelyn T. Butts. A poor seamstress who became a forceful and courageous voting rights champion and won a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that abolished the poll tax. In FEARLESS, we see Mrs. Butts as a mother and active citizen who works tirelessly to improve the lives of family members and neighbors, while also joining or leading battles against discrimination in employment, public schools, neighborhood services and voter access.

While Norfolk, Virginia, and its environs are the backdrop for the story of Evelyn Butts’ life and activism, there are lessons that can apply to many communities and readers of all ages. There are always new obstacles, even in voting rights. The poll tax was an important part of American history that should not be forgotten. We must stay vigilant about continued attempts at voter suppression, which keeps coming back in new forms.