William G. Blaikie wrote the following words about the author of this book on Heroes of the Reformation, "In preaching to the young, Dr. Newton has attained the first rank in this department of work. The American mind has such a proclivity to sharp, terse forms of expression, clever analogies and illustrations, keen analysis of feelings, vivid description and warm coloring, that we do not wonder tghat it should excel in addresses to which such qualities contribute so largely."This volume includes brief but very informative sketches on the likes of Wycliffe, Huss, Savonarola, Luther, Melancthon, Tyndale, Edward the Sixth, John Fox, Latimer and Ridley, Cranmer, Knox, Zwingli, Calvin, Farel, Alasco, Gustaus Adolphus and several others.In the words of the author, "There is nothing more helpful to us, in seeking to serve God, than to try and learn the practical lessons which we find illustrated in the lives of the good and holy men, who have been a blessing to the church and to the world through their faithful labors. The 'Heroes of the Reformation' belong to this class, and these sketches of their noble lives are sent forth in the earnest hope that through God's blessing they may prove useful to the young who are trying to serve him."