Jerry Falwell: His Life and Legacy

by Macel Falwell, Sean Hannity (Foreword)

An intimate perspective into the life of the most visible religious leader in America, as told and authorized by his wife.

Jerry Falwell played a pivotal role in the American religious and political scene for the last thirty years. As a constant voice for the Christian Right, and with his strong affirmations for family values, he remained outspoken about his beliefs and vision for revolutionized morals and social reform, including issues that will greatly affect the upcoming 2008 elections. Readers will be treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the private life of Jerry Falwell, giving insight into his most publicized and controversial events, such as:

His friendship with Ronald Reagan His relationship to Larry Flynt What led to the concept and formation of the Moral Majority The reaction to his September 11 remarks

Macel Falwell, Rev. Falwell's widow, provides this official biography of the founder of the Moral Majority. Along with never-before-seen photographs, Macel gives a personal viewpoint and tells readers stories from across the decades, including some from his children, that show the man behind the passion.

Genres: Biography

272 pages, Hardcover

First published May 13, 2008

Reviews

[Calle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was curious to know what Jerry Falwell's wife would write about her controversial husband. What would she have to say about the controversies her husband created? The Clinton Chronicles, blaming gays and liberals for 9/11, accusing Teletubbies of promoting homosexuality, etc? Unfortunately, this sloppy book has very little to offer. Yes, it gives a timeline of Falwell's life and career but it mainly consists of one-page long anecdotes about how Jerry Falwell tolerated his wife's bad cooking and that he was devoted to his family, never missing a child's birthday and his generosity towards strangers. This self-serving book offers little of substance and will appeal mostly to Falwell's most loyal and unquestioning followers. It's basically a hagiography. Mrs. Falwell paints a picture of a wonderful man who could do no wrong and people who had anything bad to say about him were just evil godless people who didn't know him. It briefly mentions the 9/11 controversy and tries to justify his statements.

Falwell may have been nice to his children but his legacy will be that of a controversial televangelist and, if you ask me or millions of others, a hatemonger.

[Kat Connors · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a book about Jerry Falwell written by his wife... It is exactly what you think it will be.

[Gene · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author shrewdly avoids suggesting that Falwell's legacy involves bilking little old ladies out of their social security checks.

[Kaci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. While Jerry has quite the reputation in the media, I do believe that he was a sincere and genuine person who truly tried his best to follow and honor God and his family. This book was really well written; it sucked me in and even made me emotional, especially near the end. It was sweet to hear the genuine adoration of Macel and his children—a sign of a life well lived.

[Jenna]

“God’s man is invincible until he finishes the job God gave him to do.”

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to attend and graduate from Liberty University. In the years since I've graduated I've gotten used to the need to be prepared for all reactions when I tell people I was one of "Jerry's Kids". The opinions are rarely middle of the road..either love him or hate him. I can say I loved him..He was a great role model to students, he seemed to be a great father and husband and he was exactly as Mrs. Falwell presented him in her book. It was great to hear her side of the story after all these years. The book was excellently written and once I started it, I couldn't put it down. I appreciated hearing all of their stories from their life, and the excerpts from folks who knew him well only added to the book. Whether or not he agreed with a person, he always showed a love for them...perfect example is Larry Flynt. I count it a privilege to have been able to see how God can use someone when they are completely willing to serve Him. Jerry and Liberty truly instilled in me the knowledge that anything is possible with God. I would recommend this book to anyone who thinks that the Jerry Falwell presented in the media is the only side of him there was. There was much more to him than that, just as there is with all of us.

[Luke · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Liberty student, I was greatly interested in this book. You often hear many opinions concerning his life. Some loved him while others hated him. Many didn't understand what motivated him to take such strong stands on deeply controversial issues. This book shows the heart of the man seen by the one who knew it best, his wife. Throughout his life he faced monumental challenges and hate-filled criticism for following Christ. This speaks to the truth of scripture that all "who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" because men "love darkness rather then light". The world longs for such steadfast uncompromising men today. Jerry Falwell was a spiritual giant filled with incredible faith. This book declares the cost of forsaking all to follow Christ, the joys along the way, and the reward in eternity.

[IrenesBookReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why did Jerry Falwell start the Moral Majority? Did you know he started his church by knocking on hundreds of doors a week? How did a large donor check end up in the college down the roads bank account instead of Liberty’s? These questions and hundreds more can be answered by reading his story as beautifully told by his wife.

Macel Falwell writes a story that is easy to read and understand. The stories of his personal family and life at home will touch your heart. You will put the book down feeling as if you personally knew him.

[John Kennedy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some colorful behind-the-scenes stories of the man who became the face of the Religious Right in the 1980s, but don't expect any surprises in this largely hagiography by a widow.

[Thomas Kinsfather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Macel adds a lot of emotion and insight into Jerry Falwell's life. She shows the big heart of her husband for teenagers and young people. I enjoyed reading this.