"As a journalist who has covered Helen Shiller, off and on, throughout her half-century of community activism, I have long wondered how she would tell her own epic story. Daring to Struggle, Daring to Win answers that question poignantly and powerfully…” 

Clarence Page, Pulitzer prize–winning columnist and editorial board member at the Chicago Tribune

“For more than a half century, Helen Shiller has been the radical’s radical. She has led countless progressive causes, from the battle against police brutality; to bureaucracy busting; to fighting against poverty; to fighting for racial equity. Her story is a go-to-battle blueprint for the fights of today, and for those to come. It is a dare well worth taking.”  

Laura S. Washington, political analyst, ABC 7-Chicago

“Helen Shiller has led no ordinary life. . .Her story is profoundly human and profoundly personal, but also a clarion call to the rest of us to join her.” 

Achy Obejas, author of Boomerang/Bumerán

“From coping with sexual abuse, experiencing life before Roe v Wade, committing to support Black liberation, and taking on the brass knuckle Chicago politics, Daring to Struggle Daring to Win is interwoven with historical milestones... Shiller fills in significant information gaps and provides much to think about in our elusive search for an equitable and anti-racist future.”  

Sylvia Ewing, Media Personality Non-Profit Executive, Poet

“I salute my good friend and comrade Helen Shiller for the broad vivid picture of her extraordinary life’s journey, filled with personal challenges, and her decades of exceptional social justice work with and for the poor and oppressed communities. . . She is as a true servant of the people.”  

Emory Douglas, revolutionary artist, Minister of Culture, The Black Panther Party 1967–1980

“…A story of personal and political triumph against all odds.” 

 Jeffrey Haas, author of The Assassination of Fred Hampton

“Regardless of the era, fighting for justice and marginalized people and principled positions in the public arena is difficult and challenging. Daring to Struggle Daring to Win contains numerous lessons for electeds, community leaders, and others on how to fight and win in the political arena without compromising those principles.”  

Kim Foxx, Cook County State’s Attorney

“Shiller's memoir offers a profound look into the challenges and triumphs of community-based politics. It is a testament to the belief that dedicated individuals can make significant changes at the local level. Through Shiller’s eyes, we witness the evolution of Uptown and Chicago, warts and all. While the perspective is decidedly hers, the reader is granted valuable insight into the mechanics of local governance and the unwavering spirit of community activism.

“Audiences who might be interested in using this memoir pedagogically include scholars of Chicago history, urban politics enthusiasts, and readers intrigued by White youth activism in the 1970s.

”Given its detailed account of gentrification, urban renewal, housing issues, and business development, the memoir can offer real-life case studies to students studying the dynamics of urban development and planning.

“Those studying political machines, city governance, local politics, and the history of Chicago from the 1980s to 2010s would find this memoir a treasure trove of firsthand experiences and insights. The book provides a detailed account of grassroots movements, protest politics, and the challenges faced by activists, making it an invaluable resource for students and educators interested in activism, social justice, and community organizing.”

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