The Root of All Evil

"The Root of All Evil" by J. S. Fletcher is a story set in the early 1900's, telling about the Farnish family's struggles in the face of financial problems. The book focuses on two sisters, Jeckie and Rushie, who are trying to salvage their father's failing farm, Applecroft. The family is being ruined by their father, William Farnish, who is irresponsible. The story looks at themes of family duties, especially from Jeckie, and the desire to escape a life of poverty. Jeckie takes charge when she realizes how bad things are, facing debts and possible loss of their home, determined to rescue her kin.