Product Description
Winner of the 1997 _Evans Handcart Prize_, these are the complete diaries of Patty Sessions, detailing early Mormon life from Illinois to Utah. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Inspiration For All!
I'm very proud to be her granddaughter.Patty is a great example of a woman who sacrificed everything because of her love of the gospel of Jesus Christ.Not only is her life a testimony to her family but to all.I hope anyone who reads her entries understands how much she sacrificed.Her story can inspire everyone to be a better person.

A SUPER Biography!
Mormon Midwife Diaries of Patty Bartlett Sessions is wonderful. Reading it makes it seem like your right there with her. She was an incredible lady. I'm proud that she was my 5th great-grandmother. This book is a treasure to me. Full of history.

women of few words are best women.
Patty Sessions didn't spend a lot of time detailing the happenings of each day, she was too busy doing everything else imaginable.The entries are usually just a few lines for each day, yet month by month, and year by year, she paints a picture that is an effective illustration of what life was like in early polygamy, what folk beliefs influenced her, and the her role she shared with the more recognized greats of the mormon West, like Brigham Young.
Patty Sessions shares her life and passion for religion, but her religion is quite different from the Mormonism of today.Patty Sessions' life makes great reading for any student of history at any level.
The editor, through pain-staking effort, has added notes of background and clarification that really bring some obscure parts to life.I have given other books about Mormon History five stars, and I regret it as this book IS Mormon History, and provides unique insight that only comes from witnessing a life in words of those who lived it.

Gratitute from a Granddaughter.
I am the 4th great granddaughter of Patty Sessions.This book is an excellent genealogical source for me.She in one or two places in her journal addresses her descendants.I feel as if she is speaking directly to me.She worked hard all of her life, you can tell by her entries.It humbles me to know that I am related to such a great lady.I am thankful that I am able to have this book in my library. ... Read more

Product Description
Using the scriptures to teach children can be a tool through which they will sharpen their social, emotional, and spiritual skills. This unique program uses the Book of Mormon to teach reading and writing skills to children, and yet by using the scriptures, your children will find themselves learning more. Not only will they develop daily scripture study habits, they will also gain confidence, intelligence, and wisdom. As Paul said: "Behold, I am God; give heed unto my word, which is quick and powerful." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Find at the library
Not a complete waste of time, particularly since it is a very quick read, but I wouldn't buy it, maybe even if there was no other option.It is more a story about the author's experiences than a tool in teaching, and the most valuable thing I gained from it was the reproducible flash card sheets of the most commonly used words in the Book of Mormon...which I may or may not actually use...but I did like the idea for sight words.I also like the idea of using scripture as part of education, but the idea is not unique to this book.I will be passing my copy on. ... Read more

Product Description
Book of Mormon ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Suggested reading on the Book of Mormon
This is a collection of updates regarding certain pericope and items contained in the Book of Mormon volume from the Foundation of Ancient Research and Mormon studies. It is, too all intents and purposes, based on the book from 1992, "Reexploring the Book of Mormon." I strongly suggest this text as it contains a heck of a lot of information regarding Nephite economics, warfare, material culture, and scriptural insight for exegesis and hermeneutics.

Further, in regard to the negative review left by "Dave" below, his ignorance of the Book of Mormon volume is staggering.

The only steel sword, for instance, in the Book of Mormon is that of Laban's from the Old World. 2 Nephi 5 mentions sword making and metallurgy as if they were seperate from one another, suggesting that New World swords in the Book of Mormon were made from wood, as with the Macanas Mesoamerican soldiers used in warfare (that this is so can be seen in Alma 24:11-14).

Here's an update
Number of pre-Columbian horses found in the Americas (excluding those little tiny dog-sized ones from the Eocene)= 0

Number of steel swords found in digs from periods prior to European colonization= 0

Number of Native Americans found to have Jewish or Egyptian DNA prior to European colonization= 0

Number of Cureloms and Cumoms located in the Americas= 0

Number of archeological artifacts found from the great ancient city of Zarahemla= 0

Number of written records recovered from the BOM periods that have any hebrew or egyptian characteristics= 0

Number of peer reviewed studies of FARMS publications by reputable scientists who are not Mormon= 0

Number of speeches by current and preceding prophets contradicting FARM's "Limited Geography Theory"= 9,765

Probability that the Book of Mormon is a literal transation of an ancient record of Native Americans= .00000000000000000001

Got Faith?

I welcome feedback on this and all reviews at wstrnlibwarrior@yahoo.com

... Read more

Product Description
The first serious attempt to analyze the careers of converts who later left the Mormon church, this book contains selections about 18 Mormon dissenters--David Whitmer, Fawn Brody, and Sonia Johnson, among them--contributed by Richard N. Holzapfel, John S. McCormick, Kenneth M. Godfrey, William D. Russell, Dan Vogel, Jessie L. Embry, and many others. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Great book with equally great content and readability
I want to thank Ms. Scott for her excellent book.It is thorough, insightful, and yet written in a very readable way, which is useful when going through so much information.It is also organized very well, with the related information nicely divided into chapters, with more than adequate notes at the end of each chapter.In addition to that, there is a good general index at the back to help when you wish to look up a particular subject in a hurry.It is a very even handed presentation of Mormonism, as well as the different critics or Mormonism and the Book of Mormon.

I would recommend this book to anyone: Mormons, ex-Mormons, and anyone who is interested in Mormonism.

Art Vanick

An insight from a family member
To those of you who do not have the privilage to know Latayne. She is my loving mother-in-law. And I have to tell you that before I married into the family, I could see that Latayne is not holding any grudges of the Mormon Church. In fact, she is the only person I know that does not hold a single grudge of anyone. She loves Mormons...because they are good people and they were her family growing up. So before some of you who are so negative and grudgeful yourselves pass judgement on someone like Latayne who has only given her own account, maybe you should pluck the plank out of you own eye first.

Been there; done that.This book is right on the money!
Having been born a fourth generation Mormon (my great grandfather was in the wagon trains), but having later found the REAL Jesus, I can tell you that this book is right on target.Unlike the books by Ed Decker and the Tanners, this one isn't a detailed in-depth analysis of Mormonism vs. Biblical Christianity, but instead, is the story of the author's investigation into Mormonism, and how too many things just didn't add up... like how the "Book of Mormon", which was written by Joseph Smith and considered by Mormonism to be without error, keeps getting revised, and many more things like this.The author does provide plenty of facts that can be verified by anyone interested in the Truth.The author is very gentle in this book, and is kind to Mormons while at the same time exposing the many deceptions of Mormonism which most Mormons don't even know about.I would not classify it as an anti-Mormon book, but as a pro-Truth book which exposes errors in Mormon doctrine.I do hope Zondervan will re-print it... it is in my opinion _THE_ classic on this subject, and needs to be read by all Mormons and non-Mormons alike.

Despite the title, this is the best book to read
I read this book when it first came out, and since have read a great many more on Mormonism. It is the best one out, and Zondervan should re-issue it a.s.a.p. Scott is a skilled prose writer, the story is heartfelt, and the theological/historical critique dead-on. I don't think it going to far to call this one a minor evangelical "classic." Nowhere near as thorough as the Tanners' work, but somehow just as powerful in its overall effect.

As for the reviewer who said Scott failed to mention her missionary ex-boyfriend, he needs to go back to the book-that part's in there as well.

Sour grapes....
This book is actually fairly well-written compared with a lot of the anti-Mormon literature that's out there.However, one can safely assume that Ms. Scott's being "Dear Janed" by the LDS boyfriend who introduced her to the church was the driving factor in her becoming disenchanted with it.Thus, while it is true that Ms. Scott spent some years as a member of the Mormon Church, she probably isn't the most objective of sources.(It's curious that she gives the obligatory first-person account of the Mormon temple endowment ceremony, even though one must assume she never actually witnessed it herself, inasmuch as single women who didn't have missionary calls rarely received their endowments in her day.)

The irony of it all is that the boyfriend later became a general authority in the church, which points up the fine line that can exist between being the wife of a honcho in the Mormon Church and a bitter author of anti-Mormon literature. ... Read more

Product Description
In this, the first comprehensive survey of Mormon polygamy—from nineteenth-century Ohio to twentieth-century Utah—Richard S. Van Wagoner details with precision and detachment the tumultuous reaction among Mormons and non-Mormons to plural marriage. Drawing heavily on first-hand accounts and recent scholarly research, the author carefully outlines the philosophical underpinnings of the practice, the institutional administration of policies regulating polygamy, the opposition from within and without the church, and the personal trauma often associated with plural marriage.

What emerges is a portrait of polygamy that neither discounts nor exaggerates the historical evidence but presents it as sympathetically as possible in the context of the times. Van Wagoner offers neither condemnation nor apologetics. All relevant contemporary accounts are examined and interpreted , and no period of Mormon history emphasized over another. Even present-day polygamous splinter groups are examined. The result is a systematic view unavailable in studies of isolated periods or repetitions of folklore which disguised the ubiquitous and fascinating story of polygamy as it is really was. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Reconstituted pithy brew - love tamed shrew
Petruchio's obdurate Katerena morphed by love into "Molly Mormon" not Myogeny, but gental Italian tempering, in Venice's seat of passion (Padua). Mormons hundered year war fitfully follows framed fruition historical (histerical?) play. A"kind of history" to us befuddled drunkards (Sly in the shrew), us tricked into believing royals. "And Jesus laughed" as Gospel of Mary, John and James states over and over - the befuddling is from God to us.The cosmos of God,"stars over each", and the "guiding star" as the Saviour said often.After 3 reads of Van Waogner, and numerous other tomes, effulgent rays split my head - God laughs at us and our inability to give up our will to him!The one thingwoman would ever willing give up is her husband, hence God laughing at me and you, could he really require...?The enlightened Katarean wittingly agrees that the sun is the moon, after being denied clothes as "nothing is good enough for you, I vow it shall be so for me!", so the latter day saint women realized God was spoofing them.I am starting to realize that there is only the will of God revealled through prayer and prophets.Read this book, let the Holy Spirit guide. The Shrew is mild compared to Caxtons' original lashing raw and bloddy of the shrew thence shrouded in blood dripping horse hide. Poly lashed bloody raw Mormon woman, then open to healing love of Christ's priesthood of God. "I have revelled you to those you gave me out of this world...they are yours" Jesus also said "I have given them your word, and the world has hated them...sanctify them by the truth...for them I sanctify tmyself, sanctify them also". May the men someday realize woman portal to God...

The History of a Social Experiment
There is a seminal moment in Orwell's "1984" where the fictional totalitarian regime announces that "We are at war with East Asia, we have always been at war with East Asia". Up to that point in the book, the regime had been at war with Eurasia. As I read Van Wagoner's book, I was often reminded of that line. Lacking adequate control of information, the LDS Church cannot plausibly deny polygamy ever happened like Orwell's antagonist did. Their discomfort, de-emphasis, complete removal from teaching manuals, and outright hostility to those splinter groups that still practice it are certainly the next best thing.

Van Wagoner's book traces the LDS experience with polygamy from the early days of Joseph Smith's clandestine relationships through Brigham Young's normalization of the practice through John Taylor's legal battles with the US government through Wilfred Woodruff and Joseph F. Smith's oftimes deceptive ambiguity on the matter and finally to the persecution of those who chose to continue the practice under later leaders. The reader gets the impression of going full circle (monogamy to polygamy to anti-polygamy) without the LDS Church ever having to admit wrongdoing or apologizing - much like Orwell's antagonist. Along the way, Van Wagoner attempts to paint a picture of the impact of the institution on the lives of its practitioners (the chapter on Women under Polygamy is especially rich in this regard).

I recommend this book to any LDS practitioner wishing to have a sober look at the subject material left out of their Sunday School manuals. I would also recommend it for any secular readers who wish to gain some good anthropological insights from a radical social experiment.

Highly "educational"
As a reader of church history, with not a small amount of study on the subject, I find Van Wagoner a thorough and meticulous historian. While he seems to reveal his abhorance for how church leaders, and Joseph Smith, handled (lied, bullied, denigrated others) things in this regard, so do I. And, it is hard not to when learning about such bad behavior on the part of men you have been taught to revere (and have been inappropriately raised to Mount Olympus heights) by so-called "faithful history."

So, I recommend it to open-minded Mormons. I don't care what non-Mormons think--they don't have sufficient contextual understanding of the Mormon sub-culture.

a more believable account on polygamy
I had been looking for an objective overview of Mormon polygamy for some time, as LDS missionaries rarely speak about it openly, so I was very pleased to find this book.
I am very surprised that Mormons consider this book offensive since it clearly reflects what is taught in LDS literature.
Joseph Smith's polygamy is a very well documented fact: he took over 30 wives, some of them already married, originally hiding this to his first wife Emma, and to the whole Church; one wonders why the LDS people are going great lengths to sugarcoat reality.
I f you have an interest in Mormonism, I would also suggest "No Man Knows My History", by Fawn Brodie.

Great factual overview of Mormon Polygamy
This book blew me away when i read it. It was the first time I had read about the way polygamy was actually instituted and practiced - much different than the version I was taught growing up in the LDS church. A very well done, and concise overview of Mormon Polygamy - probably the best general book on the subject. Van Wagoner's strength comes in his ability to tell the story of polygamy in a factual way without taking sides or getting emotionally involved. He presents the facts and let's the reader draw their own conclusions. He examines both how polygamy impacted the people who practiced it, as well as how it functioned on a larger scale. It's also not just an expose on Joseph Smith or Brigham Young's practice of polygamy. Rather, Van Wagoner carries the story of polygamy into the early 20th century, describing how polygamy did not simply stop when the 1890 manifesto was issued by Wilford Woodruff, but rather persisted for about 15 more years - sometimes with the knowledge and consent of Church leaders. A well written and well-documented piece of New Mormon History that is a great introduction to the topic for any interested reader. ... Read more

Product Description
Mormons, you gotta love 'em--from the gingham baskets full of scones they leave on your doorstep (along with the Book of Mormon and a hand-made card), to their odd beverage rules (hot chocolate, yes; coffee, no), members of this fast-growing religion can be found in every neighborhood, workplace, Dollar Store, Costco, and ...well, perhaps not in every tavern. This book provides an affectionate laugh at a religion that has its share of odd customs, beliefs and practices. From the training of missionaries to the rearing of its fine and moral young women, Mormonism can be taken oh-so seriously, or, how we prefer it: with a twist of humor. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Best satire on LDS culture
One of our favorite books from the very witty LDS writers of
"The Sugar Beet."

Probably not what you're looking for
As a former Mormon very familiar with that culture, and one who thoroughly enjoys The Onion, after which this is supposed to be modeled, I was really looking forward to this.I was VERY disappointed.The book is 9 parts ridiculing Mormon culture and MAYBE 1 part actual humor.It needs to be about half and half to succeed.Where the Onion (if you are unsuspecting) actually makes you think the 'news event' might have happened, most of what's in this book is so exaggerated and off the wall that it never really elicits a laugh.Don't waste the 7 bucks...

The Mormon Tabernacle Enquirer
This hilarious send-up of tabloid journalism and Utah Mormon "culture" will have you laughing until you cry.However, one caveat for non-mo's: it's pretty much a gigantic series of inside jokes.

Disappointed
I had high hopes for this read, however, after a few pages decided to return the book.I am an active LDS male, however, enjoy poking fun at our own unique culture.This book crossed the line for me early on.There is a big difference between laughing at our culture and making light of sacred doctrines.This makes light of some doctrine that I consider very sacred.Any active LDS would be offended.I was offended and I am not easily offended.

Like the Onion, but More Appropriate!
Oh my heck!This is Mormon beach reading without equal.Especially Mormons who might not feel TOO guilty about reading on the beach on Sunday.It's a funny, satirical, insiders view of Mormonism and the culture it has created.Written in the newsy style of The Onion, the Mormon Tabernacle Enquirer takes a peek (and a gentle poke) at the quirks of missionaries, the Relief Society, youth programs and more, and anyone who has ever regularly spent at least 3 hours of every Sunday in a chapel in Utah will know EXACTLY what these people are talking about.You'll giggle, you'll laugh, but you'll also say to yourself, "Yup, by golly, that's us..." ... Read more

Product Description

Clear, Biblical Answers to Thirty-Eight Cleverly Designed Questions Mormons Ask Christians

Mormonism is one of the most American of religious movements and one of the most rapidly growing of all non-Christian cults around the world. Though today the Mormon church numbers in the millions, few Latter-day Saints realize just how unbiblical and inconsistent their doctrine is.

From his in-depth research of Mormonism, Bill McKeever takes the puzzling and often perplexing questions that Mormons are taught to ask Christians and answers them from the Bible in a simplified, straightforward manner. It provides quick and easy access for lay-Christians to answer the actual Mormon visiting their homes or through other contact. Questions ranging from the inspiration of the Book of Mormon to whether Mormonism's fast growth is proof of its truthfulness are examined in the clear light of God's Word, the Bible.

An Invaluable Tool for the Ordinary Christian

Customer Reviews (40)

The Honest Truth
All of the attacks against this book are from mormons, even the ones who lie and say they are not. Mormonism requires confrontation as the author's style suggests, other wise they say "lets just agree to disagree". I have in my library the mormon quad plus "achieving a celestial Marriage" and "gospel principals" and this book is a welcome addition. "One Nation Under Gods" is the best on the sordid history of the morman church and another good read. My heart goes out to the many good people who are seeking God but end up in a church built by men, the lds morman faith, and who will spend eternity locked outside the gates of Heaven.

Waste
Don't waste your money or brain cells!! I wan't the one back I ruined with this book!! Refund..........

Mormon's questions unanswered
I thought from the title this would be a thoughtful consideration of mormonism, but instead found it to be a rabid anti-mormon harangue, full of distortions and outright untruths. This is a very bad book and could seriously mislead anyone desiring serious information about mormon history and beliefs. I hope such people will go elsewhere for information. This author has a hatred which is difficult to understand.

Weak and out-dated
McKeever is perhaps one of the worst critics who operates against the LDS Church, often seen in his incessant use of scriptural eisegesis and fallacoius argumentations against the Mormon faith.

It would take many pages to detail all the mistakes in this book. However, one of them deals with the issue of Acts 2:38 and the question of baptismal regeneration.

As with many of his co-religionists, McKeever argues that the this verse is not actually conducive to baptismal regneration. Indeed, others who embrace Evangelical Protestantism, such as Ron Rhodes and Norman Geisler, argue that the word "for" really means something to the effect that one is baptised as a result of their pre-existing salvation. However, this notwtihstanding, the preposition in Greek, eis, when followed by an accusative, as it does in this verse, means _into_. Therefore, the proper understanding of this verse is that one is baptised INTO a remission of their sins and into the Lord Jesus Christ, wholly consistent with the Latter-day Saint interpretation, as with the vast majority of the Christian world, as well as early Christianity, such as Justin Marty in his apologetic writings to Trypho.

Much more could be said about the inaccuracies in this one section of the text, and the other chapters in the book. However, this brief example should be suffice to reveal that a knowledgeable Latter-day Saint will not be challenged by this text, and, as with all anti-Mormon "literature," is really for the already converted or those who know next to nothing about "Mormonism."

I welcome feedback at Robert.S.Boylan@nuim.ie

Strawticus meets a flamethrower
This is just straw-man arguments against a non-existent Mormon neighbor.

From Chapter 1 to 38, it is just one misleading approach after another.Starting in 1, the chapter is entitled "We [Mormons] never criticize other churches and their beliefs.Why do you pick on the Mormon church and what it believes?"They then quote from the First Vision wherein Joseph Smith is told all churches are wrong, and to join none of them.

As far as official statements go, that is the only statement clearly aimed at other Churches, and it is the basis of why Mormons don't affiliate with other churches.But then Mr. Bill goes on to quote 4 talks from Journal of Discourses, a publication intended solely for 19th Century Mormons, and one denounced work, the Seer, which has no connection to anything officially LDS.He ends by quoting out of date clips removed from the temple ceremony and quotes, without any context, a verse from the Book of Mormon.

Every denomination has a reason why it exists separately from other denominations.That is their own "First Vision Statement".But the LDS Church is completely focused on why to believe in the LDS belief structure, and never resorts, ever, to criticizing the other faiths of the world.Mormons teach all churches have some truth, and statements about the errors of other churches are very limited.We don't need to tear at others to build the kingdom of God.

Every chapter is like this.A disjointed assertion followed by a usually wild set of citations of authorities.Baptism for the dead was not a Christian practice.Men are not really called gods in Psalm 82.Books are not missing from the Bible.Praying for truth is unBiblical.As a fan of the New Testament, these kinds of false assertions are like teeing up a golf ball for a drive.It just doesn't get any easier to refute.

Maybe I should give this book 5 stars when I think about it.This is one book I hope every non-LDS person reads because they will then talk to their Mormon neighbors about all the things they now "know".And the Mormons will gain thousands of new members.It is just not good that anyone should be exposed to so much falsehood in one setting. ... Read more

Product Description
As medical students at the University of Utah, Andy and Louisa fall in love - but can a mainstream Mormon and a Fundamental polygamist overcome the cultural barriers between them? Both realize that their choices will not only affect their own lives, but will also have an impact on their family, friends, and even their communities. Fearing that the sacrifices required of them would be too great, they go their separate ways. Yet for Andy in Kentucky and Louisa in Utah, life does not go as they'd planned. While Andy is serving as a country doctor and trying to bury his pain, Louisa is coming to terms with the fact that all is not as perfect in her tight-knit community as she'd believed. As doctors, each will have to choose between keeping the peace in their communities or doing what they know is right. And someday, both will have to face their past and decide if they can make the sacrifice to be together. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Religious fiction, with a twist
This rather unusual story combines love and cultural differences then throws in some drama and a twist of suspense.It begins as your standard "boy meets girl" story, where "boy" is a mainstream Mormon, and "girl" comes from a polygamous society.Both study medicine at the University of Utah, fall in love, and then go their separate ways mainly due to their different backgrounds.

Naturally, true love finds a way, but a large part of the story deals with the trials they face while apart."Boy", whose name is Andy, becomes a country doctor in Kentucky, while Louisa, heretofore referred to as "girl" returns to her community in Gabriel's Landing, Utah.Both soon realize that small communities aren't always as peaceful, sunny and cheerful as they appear, and have to make difficult choices.

Just when you think you've got the story line figured out, the author throws in an unexpected twist with a couple of unlikely characters, and the plot goes off in a different direction.

This begins as Romeo and Juliet, and ends up as something else entirely. There are a couple of characters that seem a tad caricaturized, but overall, an interesting read, which although based on religious differences never becomes preachy.




Amanda Richards, July 5, 2010

Nice little book....
I was reading it on the plane over to europe. It's a cute little story. Would buy it again... :-)

Sweet romance with a twist
Dr. Andy McBride finds the love of his life when he meets Louisa Martin. Unfortunately, her lifestyle is in direct conflict with all he believes. He cannot accept it and she can't escape it. Andy leaves to practice medicine in Kentucky where he hopes to forget Louisa and get on with his life.

The distance from Louisa doesn't keep her from Andy's thoughts. Though he tries to get on with his life, he can't forget her. He immerses himself fully in his new life and new friends, but one of them becomes a bitter enemy who will later bring him heartache much worse than what he felt when he left Louisa behind.

DON'T YOU MARRY THE MORMON BOYS is told through both Andy and Louisa's points of view. We get to know them both; Andy's Mormon beliefs as well as Louisa's polygamist community.

Though they are so different, I couldn't help yearning for them to find some way to be together. And just when it seemed like they'd live happily ever after, Jensen throws in a curve ball that took me by surprise.

I loved DON'T YOU MARRY THE MORMON BOYS with its sweet romance and heartache it kept me turning the pages well into the night. I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with the characters. I even learned a little about their differing beliefs along the way.

I'm not a particular fan of flashbacks and Jensen used this technique often, but it seemed to work for this novel, and once I got used to it, I hardly noticed it anymore. All in all, it was an enjoyable read. Though I didn't pass it on to my teen, I still gave it a high rating because I will definitely pass it on to my siblings and friends.

Regardless of your personal beliefs, if you like your romance with a bit of a twist, I think you'll enjoy DON'T YOU MARRY THE MORMON BOYS.

Well-written and thought-provoking
Janet Jensen writes about a secretive society in a way that is both fair and thought-provoking. I loved the insights into a polygamous community and the fact that Ms. Jensen showed the bad and the good. The hero and heroine are people I would want as friends. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone, in fact I bought a copy for my mom!

A title that will catch your eye!
When i seen this title i had to pick it up and find out more! I'm very happy that i did, because this is a wonderful read! You will catch your yourself laughing out loud as you read this. Andy and Louisa seem very real in many ways. They both are struggling with her coming from a polygamist back ground. Find answers that will show many how hard some will fight for true love.
Janet Kay Jensen should write more novels because she did a WONDERFUL job! ... Read more

Product Description
One of four major biographies of Joseph Smith, Donna HillÂ’s award-winning book is the most comprehensive. Hill cautiously rejects the simplistic reductionism of either/or characterizations in favor of a broader, more humanistic view that takes Smith on his own terms as both prophet and as man.

Foremost among HillÂ’s concerns is the spiritual drama that defined SmithÂ’s controversial life, as well as his theologically motivated sexuality and the apocalyptic assumptions that fueled his political and military activism. Her intent is not to validate SmithÂ’s actions, only to understand them. Equal attention is given to the environmental influences that shaped SmithÂ’s 1830's New York upbringing. Add th these HillÂ’s impeccable scholarship, the result of nine years of research, and her talents as a novelist, and the significance of her achievement is apparent. Her quest for authenticity provides a vivid portrait of an extraordinary life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

A great introduction to a fascinating subject
I've read a number of books on Joseph Smith starting with "No Man Knows My History" through "The Mormon Experience" to "Martyr, Prophet of God",and a number of others.I've read viral anti-mormon literature to real white washes.What I like about this book are its straight forwardness and its footnoting.If I want a more in-depth look at a subject I know where to find it.If I was to read one book on Joseph Smith, this would be it.Having said that, if this is your first read, you'll be hungry for more on a fascinating subject; this is where the footnoting comes in.I recommend this book highly.

A respectable biography. As with most on this subject, NOT the complete picture.
Having read both Brodie's No Man Knows My History: The Life of Joseph Smith and Bushman's Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling, I was not terribly excited to read yet another biography of Joseph Smith other than the fact this one appeared to be a middle of the road rendition and not biased (heavily) in one direction or the other.

The result is a very good effort. Donna Hill is a believing member of Smith's following, and as such, does a commendable effort in presenting this history. But as a believer, Hill does not cover EVERYTHING that could be covered. But she nonetheless does a good job.

For example, the book neglects covering topics that were a big influence in Joseph Smith's life, like his involvement in treasure seeking or "money digging" which is today recognised and accepted by ALL Mormon historians, and in my opinion is a key topic in understanding Joseph Smith's cultural history. Another exclusion is Joseph's (and the church's) involvement in Freemasonry, again an important influence in the activities of the early Church.

Some noted passages:

"The evidence so far accumulated suggests that Joseph Smith had no need of the Egyptian papyri to produce "The Book of Abraham", but he found them stimulating. Feeling in direct communion with the Lord, through the workings of his mind, he believed he had done a translation." (p.194)

I loved this statement, not because it was the best reasoning the author could come up with to explain why the papyri found does not translate (by modern means) into the work Joseph Smith produced, but because it aptly describes the SAME translation process that occurred in producing the Book of Mormon (Joseph Smith had no need for the plates - which he rarely referred to , as he didn't perform a "translation" but instead relied on revelation to produce the Book of Mormon).

pp. 188-190 raises the beginnings of polygamy as early as 1835, with the prophet's first plural wife, the 17 yr old Fanny Alger. The Church's official policy from that point onwards (included in the Doctrine & Covenants until 1876) was "we believe that one man should have one wife, and one woman but one husband, except in the case of death, when either is at liberty to marry again". From 1835 onwards, Joseph Smith was married to many women including some who were already married to living husbands, somewhat contrary to the public official belief.

The topic of polygamy continues on in Nauvoo (pp 358-359) where the doctrine is becoming public knowledge via the actions of soon to be apostate John C. Bennett. The Church issues a statement that they are neither aware of such activities and condemn any that exist, while in reality the practise was being taught and sanctioned. Later, in 1886, the Deseret News issues a statement to explain that the Almighty (and hence his servants) are justified in denying [lying about] doctrines "not intended for the world".

The book includes a chapter on Joseph Smith's intention to establish a literal kingdom of God on the earth complete with a revelation directed to rulers of the world to accept the restored gospel or else, they will fall in glory.

Lastly, of the MANY books I have read on Joseph Smith's life, this is by far the best one in regards to covering the events leading up to the prophet's imprisonment at Carthage, the charges, the men involved in prosecuting him and those meant to protect him, and even more rare, the events that took place after his murder in dealing with those accused and responsible for the crime. It covers much in regards to the political side of things in the state of Illinois at that time, and the players involved in dealing out justice.

Overall, I highly recommend this book. Like most on the subject, it is not a definitive, "complete" biography, but it certainly worthy of attention.

The most balanced book at time of publication on Joseph Smith
Donna Marie Hill was an accomplished author, with a wonderful, entertaining and scholarly way of writing both fictional and non fictional books.Her book on Joseph Smith definitely captures the reader's attention and keeps the reader interested throughout the whole book.At the time she wrote it, this book was touted by many scholars (both LDS and Non LDS) to be the most definitive, unbiased, and most balanced biography on Joseph Smith in it's day.In fact many academians thought that her work was far superior to the biased book by Fawn Brodie (who definitely had an "ax" to grind as a former Mormon who apparently wished to shake believers from their faith). Although Donna Hill's book is still a strong contributor to a scholarly and balanced, in-depth look at Joseph Smith and perhaps the most interesting to read, there have been additional writings by other competent authors since that time who have followed in her footsteps.These authors have had available to them further information that has since come to light on this subject. For a more current, updated scholarly work on Joseph Smith, I would recommend "Joseph Smith Rough Stone Rolling" by Richard Lyman Bushman, for another comprehensive analysis.He includes additional research not available when Donna Hill wrote her book.

A detailed work and non-polemical
It was a relief. After having read Fawn Brodie's "No man knows my history", her eloquent literary style and description of Joseph Smith's mind, Donna Hill's biography became so simple , descriptive- and dare say wordy. Hill's writing style is like a storyteller. It can be boring in the long run. She never guesses what people thought in any situation - it is not a psychiography as Brodie's of course. Hill has weighed several sources and draws conclusions whenver possible, but sometimes she leaves it open.

I found Joseph more holistic and not that controversial in Hill's writing. Even if Brodie used the same quotes and situations, in Hill everything came natural, Joseph seemed natural - something he surely was. People who are acquainted with scholarship, know very well, how important it is to not draw any unconfirmed conclusions about the past. Some episodes in Joseph's life - which normally take a lot of pages in other books, such as the writing of Book of Mormon, the coming forth of Book of Abraham, First vision, are treated just as equally as other episodes of his life - his escapes, his constructions, his involvement in politics etc. This is a healthy approach.

For example, about the First vision, Hill wants to say that notwithstanding the several accounts, there are some similar details and in the context of 19th century religious atmosphere, nearly everybody had some extra-body experience. She treats the Book of Mormon as how an ordinary believer in those days saw it - a sign of latter days and she doesn't go into its "source" or try to decipher who copied who. The most difficult issues of early LDS, such as the consolidation of prophet's power, plural marriage and Afro-americans, are handled subtly and gently. The perspective introduced on plural marriage, is healthy, it is not judging or positive - it's neutral, because as a historian, she has researched on the "why" and on the "how".The issue of Afro-americans - they received the priesthood one year after the publication of Hill's book - confirmed my belief that Joseph never intended to shun them away. He had his prejudices but he did hot let these come in the way. He ordained an Afro-american to be a priest.

Joseph's life, his environment, is difficult to understand, especially when it comes to the hostility shown to him and his movement, the different financial details such as the Anti-banking in Kirtland, the land speculations, his trouble with the law - which haunted him all the time. But Hill shows how patient he was. Something that gave me a further insight, was the reflection she made when Joseph saw the hatred of the people in Carthage, who killed him. She writes that it was the first time he understood how hated he was. How pity!

I am fascinated with this personality, not as a believer, no, but as a humanist. Reading Hill and her account of the hostility towards LDS in those days, makes me angry - what did these people do besides being good Christians? This hostility exists today from anti-LDS Conservative Christians, directed also to Liberal Christians like me. Even though Joseph made mistakes ( excommunications of friends, Nauvoo expositor, Council of Fifty) - as Hill shows, I appreciate the good he did.

He opened a new realm and understanding of god and scripture, which has changed the lives of millions - and even mine, though I don't believe in a supernatural god. Hill, though, too wordy, has done a detailed job. She has taken into account the environment, Joseph's ancestors - which clearly confirm again the fact that Joseph was nurtured by his family's religious activities and conflicts in his prophetic career - the arguments of his enemies and a detailed description of governor Ford and other mildly helpful non-LDS. I do not agree with one of the reviews below, that she writes a lot about Danites, no! She has only written three pages about them, and more than 40 pages about plural marriage and some 20 about Afro-americans, and some 15 about Book of Mormon - she has treated Joseph as a whole.

Hill has demonstrated that one can write a non-polemical and truthful biography of a religious person. Good done, ma'm!

Smith's best biography, for now
This is certainly the best biography about Joseph Smith so far. I believe it is certainly the most objective, it does not bash Smith or praise and defend him. Its objective is to attempt to understand Joseph Smith. I feel for the most part it does achieve that goal. I felt after reading it I certainly had a better understanding of who Joseph Smith was. I appreciated the fact that Hill did not get off on issues such as whether or not the Book of Mormon is real history or if Joseph Smith was a true prophet, that was not the books goal. My only criticism is it does not really focus on Joseph Smiths culture or enviroment that he lived in. It also sometimes seems that it is more of a early history of the Mormon Church than a biography. There are more biographies about Joseph Smith currently being written that I believe will replace this one as being the most definitive biography of Joseph Smith. However right now there is no better biography about Joseph Smith available. And having spent several hours of my own in the Churches Historical department studying certain aspects of Joseph Smiths life, I do feel somewhat qualified in saying that.
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Product Description
Mormon women today might be surprised to learn about their foremothers' views on feminist theology and women's issues, according to Maxine Hanks.

In 1842, founder Joseph Smith foresaw the LDS Women's Relief Society as "a kingdom of Priests," that he "would ordain them to preside over the society...just the Presidency preside over the church."Originally, the LDS Women's Relief Society paralleled the LDS men's priesthood quorums.Women were "ordained" to various positions, as well as set apart to be healers "with power to rebuke diseases."

In the 19th-century, Mormon theology also spoke of a Mother God, having "all power and glory" with the Father in Heaven. Mormon doctrine also hinted at the divine status of Eve, Mary, and Mary Magdalene.

The 19th-century Woman's Exponent, published by the LDS Women's Relief Society, editorialized in favor of "equal rights before the law, equal pay for equal work, equal political rights." The magazine's masthead read, "The Rights of the Women of Zion and the Rights of Women of All Nations."

One Relief Society founder, Sarah Kimball, referred to herself as "a woman's rights woman," while another leader, Bathsheba Smith, was called on a Relief Society mission in 1870 to preach "woman's rights" throughout southern Utah.According to the Woman's Exponent, a woman's place was not just "in the nursery" but "in the library, the laboratory, the observatory."

Women were encouraged to pursue formal education and career opportunities, study medicine and involve themselves in politics.Mormon women were assured that "when men see that women can exist without them, it will perhaps take a little of the conceit out of some of them."

Women who served inside LDS temples were termed "priestesses," while LDS Women's Relief Society president Eliza R. Snow was known as a "prophetess."Snow discouraged women from confiding their personal issues to male bishops, saying that such matters "should be referred to the Relief Society president and her counselors."

In 1875, LDS Women's Relief Society president, Emmeline B. Wells, could say with confidence: "Let woman speak for herself; she has the right of freedom of speech. Women are too slow in moving forward, afraid of criticism, of being called unwomanly, of being thought masculine. What of it? If men are so much superior to women, the nearer we come up to the manly standard the higher we elevate ourselves." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Women in the Mormon faith - hope for equality
Being a recent convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (more commonly called Mormons) I am slightly dismayed by the misogyny of authority, etc.However, it isn't any worse than most other religions.But this book reveals that things weren't always this way; that Mormon women in the past had more authority in the priesthood, etc.
A friend of mine and I think this misogyny will be corrected on the other side of the veil (to the spirit world).

The Mormon Woman's Bible
Even if you don't want to use the "F" word -- feminist -- to describe yourself, you will find this book tremendously interesting. Chock full of inspiring original documents from the founding mothers of Mormonism and thoughful, varied essays by modern writers, this book contains the writings of those on the "who's who" list of Mormon Feminists, from Eliza R. Snow to Sonia Johnson to Todd Compton. For those doing any sort of research on LDS women, this is an invaluable collection of original quotations and thoughful modern reflection.

Spirituality has no gender!
This book is just jolly good! I mean you get to read about all these aspects of LDS women's life and spirituality. The editor has really done a remarkable job, gathering all these essays from believing and cultural LDS, which illuminate the situation of many passed and present women of LDS.

Some essays are interviews with LDS women, there is a long excerpt from the 19th century LDS women's magazine, a lot of space is dedicated to the equal rights movement taking place in US and how LDS women handled it. The question of authority and priesthood is discussed which gave a great knowledge about the old days, when the LDS movement was charismatic, not so institutionalised as it became later. It is not only the facticity of women healing, administering to the sick, praying and having religous seances that is mentioned, but also howhow this can be used today, in women's and men's lives. Do we actually need female priests? What kind of measures would it take? Is there a possibility for creating a forum besides the Relief society to empower women's sprituality?

The role of language and its patriarchal structure, another essay, reminded of my own church's struggle (I am Swedish Lutheran) in the 1950s when the first women were ordained to be priests. The question of language is also connected to the image of god, is it a man, a father, and how comforting can a father image be, when fathers seem so absent in our lives? There is according to LDS a mother in heaven but she is rather silent, but through this book you get to know people who were touched by her and answered by her.

I loved the book and you will like it independently of your relation to the LDS movement, because it raises important questions and can be a start-off for a change, just like that research which finally opened the priesthood for all males regardless of skin colour in 1978. But as always, change takes time, I mean it took five hundred years for the Lutherans in Sweden to finally "let" the women become priests, it will take time and a lot of effort. As an essay in the book says, there is hardly any women in the place where the action in the church takes place, because many posts in the LDS hierarchy are connected to the priesthood, so it will take time. It is a faith-promoting book in many ways, it showed how faithfulness to the religion can be empowering even if it never gives you the actual chance to be empowered.

Two constructive suggestions, when editing another collection: one: why the silence aboutpolygamy? How did it affect authority? How did it effect women's chance to be priestesses and godesses of the new heavens and earths? I mean even if the women had an independence during Joseph's life time and a bit afterwards, many of them, were living in polygamous relationships. It is sad that not one essay mentioned this and I believe that polygamy had to do someting with the Relief society in the beginning and that polygamy helped institutionalise the patriarchy in the church so that women's voice was never heard, only their exit, when they could not handle it. Two: the book is in some way very US-focused, especially in the equal movement part, maybe I am too European living in Europe but it hardly mentions anything about the church in other countries. How is women's spirituality and authority affected by the church in countries with another religous/secular tradition? So, bro' or sis' I recommend and especially for the men in the LDS church!

Reclaiming Female Spirituality in Mormonism
This book is an amazing collection of women's voices.Unlike many feminist books which protest religion or agitate for change, this book takes a positive approach that celebrates and reclaims women's spirituality in Mormonism. The book heals women's loss of spiritual power in the Church simply by reclaiming that power, individually.These voices are brave and authentic, spiritual and sincere.They show that Mormon women have not lost their connection to God, but are finding their inner pathway to the divine.None of these voices is weak or plaintive, they have the energy of living spirituality, flowing from the true source, God. Reading this book fills one with the Spirit.It is soundly based on Mormon theology and doctrine, careful to reclaim female spirituality without veering outside of the faith.Every Mormon woman could benefit from reading this book, and may find that it strengthens her testimony of Mormonism, increases her personal connection to God, and expands her spiritual life. This is a healing book for Mormon women.

Reclaiming Female Spirituality in Mormonism
This book is an amazing, unparalleled collection of women's voices.Unlike many feminist books which critique or protest religion or lobby for change, this book takes a positive approach that celebrates and reclaims women's spirituality in Mormonism. The book heals women's loss of spiritual power by simply reclaiming that power, individually.These voices are brave and authentic, spiritual and sincere.They show that Mormon women have not lost their connection to God, but are finding their inner pathway to the divine.None of these voices is weak or plaintive, they have the energy of living spirituality, flowing from the true source, God. Reading this book fills one with the Spirit.It is soundly based on Mormon theology and doctrine, very careful to reclaim female spirituality without veering outside of the orthodox faith.Every Mormon woman could benefit from reading this book, and may find that it renews her testimony of Mormonism, increases her personal connection to God and expands her spiritual life. This is a healing book for Mormon women. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Brilliant and thorough examination of law and scripture
This is one of the best books I have read about law and about the Book of Mormon.Prof. Welch's introduction to biblical law in the first chapters is very helpful and opens the world of legal analysis for laypeople.The detailed discussions of the cases are amazing.He points out nuance and meaning that only a committed scholar can.And he does it in a way that makes sense and enlightens.For those that do not believe in the Book of Mormon, this book will still provide some heavy food for thought.For those that do believe the Book of Mormon, this book will open up new vistas.I recommend this book for those interested in law, Mormon studies, and biblical studies.

Thought-Provoking Spiritual Insights
The close readings in this book bring many new details to light, making the legal cases in the Book of Mormon clear to ordinary readers, convincing to attorneys, and respectable to scholars of all types, whether Latter-day Saints or not.

All readers can identify with these compelling legal narratives, for they address pressing problems of ordinary people. These texts deserve repeated attention and repay careful analysis.

Appreciating both the subtle jurisprudential details and the persistent patterns in these legal dramas adds thought-provoking spiritual insights and practical perspectives to these significant proceedings.

The Legal Cases in the Book of Mormon begins with a discussion of important background information, including legal practices in the ancient Near East, the ideal of righteous judgment, and the legal cases recorded in the Bible.

Welch then devotes a chapter to each of the legal cases in the Book of Mormon-from the formative cases of Sherem and Abinadi to the landmark trials of Nehor and Korihor, the wrenching prosecution of Alma and Amulek, and the politicized proceedings of Paanchi and Seantum.

A Scriptural Tour de Force
John W. (Jack) Welch is a lawyer, a faithful scholar and an editor, and all three skills enrich this impressive work. Meticulously researched and heavily foot-noted, this very readable book is pregnant with insights as it casts new light on Nephite culture through detailed analyses of half a dozen legal cases in the scriptural text. Long-time Book of Mormon students will be surprised at the wealth of details they have previously overlooked. Biblical scholars will be impressed how comfortably the Book of Mormon fits in the pre-exilic Near Eastern legal landscape. Even avowed critics of the Nephite scripture may show the Book of Mormon more respect as they see dozens of ancient legal nuances come alive in the text.Jack Welch, best known for his work on chiasmus, is the dean of contemporary Book of Mormon scholars, and this may be his magnum opus. Believers, agnostics and skeptics will all view the Book of Mormon in a more profound way after they have seen it through a legal lens. ... Read more

Product Description
In this quick reference volume, noted teacher and gospel scholar David J. Ridges uses years of research to provide concise information on hundreds of beliefs and doctrines taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Members of the Church of Jesus Christ will find this work to be an invaluable resource for checking both basic information and specific details of the beliefs and doctrines of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. In addition, members will find references provided in each section for more in-depth study.Written by a practicing member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this quick-reference book provides brief, easy-to-understand information on hundreds of topics of interest to those who have wondered what the Mormons truly believe.As local and national media continues to spotlight the Mormons, people everywhere will find this volume to be the ultimate guide to understanding The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

You'd probably be better off reading "True to the Faith"
David J. Ridges has been a prolific writer for Cedar Fort, with a whole series of "Made Easier" books. This is his newest title, for which he received a record advance of $50,000, apparently in the hopes that it will replace Bruce R. McConkie's Mormon Doctrine.

My copy of the book seems to have had some printing problems on the last couple of pages - the ink on the left side of the page is darker than on the right side. I don't know whether it's just my copy or if the whole print run is like this. Other than that, it is a nice looking book.

The book is formatted similarly to Mormon Doctrine and the Church's own True to the Faith, both of which it quotes from. According to the introduction, there are over 1,300 topics covered. Some of them are very brief, while the longest one, "Same Gender Attraction" covers nearly 20 pages. Unfortunately, it seems that the more important topics - the ones that would actually be considered doctrine - tend to be treated with very little space ("Jesus Christ" takes up 2 pages).

While Ridges plays it safe on some subjects by quoting from official sources such as True to the Faith, the Bible Dictionary, and lds.org, he also perpetuates some of the teachings from sources such as Mormon Doctrine, Doctrines of Salvation, and the Journal of Discourses, that some members of the Church may not agree with. In addition to quoting from other sources, he also gives his own explanations on many topics.

According to the Introduction, this book is intended for members as a "quick reference" and for use "as they prepare lessons," as well as for non-members, to help them gain "a better understanding of what [we] believe." However, other than specific topics (such as "Mormons") that seem to be specifically intended for non-members, most of the other topics would probably be confusing to them or raise more questions than they would answer.

Some topics seem to have information withheld from them, possibly to keep them simple, or to try to avoid controversy, but it seems misleading. One example is "Plural Marriage," where it says "It is often called polygamy, but the technical term is `polygyny,' since `polygamy' can mean having more than one wife or more than one husband." This explanation implies that polyandry was never practiced, and indeed it is not mentioned. Under "Nauvoo Expositor" it says that the Nauvoo city council directed the mayor to have the press destroyed, but neglects to mention that Joseph Smith was the mayor.

There are topics that have some of the same information more than once under different titles, such as "Accountability" and "Age of Accountability." In some cases only a reference is given to further material under one topic but the whole passage that the reference refers to is given under another. This means that if you look hard enough, you can often find information that is being referred to in another part of the book without having to go to the source.

Topics such as "Flood" contain information from Mormon Doctrine that some members of the church do not agree with ("The Flood was the baptism of the earth" is an idea that appeals to some but has no scriptural support). "Flood" also states that the flood was universal, using Genesis 6-9, Moses 8:43 (which doesn't actually exist), and Ether 13:2 to back it up.

"Book of Mormon, Translation Of" lacks a lot of information that other sources cover more thoroughly, such as the Encyclopedia of Mormonism and Neal A. Maxwell's article that appeared in the January 1997 Ensign.

The "Word of Wisdom" topic gives a brief explanation of its history, including mentioning when it became required to live it in order to receive a temple recommend. It also gives a verse by verse explanation. One part of the explanation that I found particularly interesting is that of verse 13. It mentions that there were Shaking Quakers (the D&C actually refers to them as Shakers) and others in the area that "advocated not eating meat" and that verse 13 might be read as the flesh of beasts and fowls "should not be used only in times of winter, or cold, or famine, like Ann Lee and the Shaking Quakers teach. Rather, they are to be used sparingly." Perhaps he came up with this explanation because the original text of the Word of Wisdom didn't have the comma that is found in the current version, which the author also omits in the section I quoted (the comma was added by James Talmage and it gives the verse a completely different meaning, which more closely matches what is taught in the church today). Caffeine is not specifically mentioned, but in other topics it is said that it is up to individual members whether or not they should partake of it.

One topic I found puzzling is "America." It says "In its broadest use in the scriptures, America means the Western Hemisphere, including North and South America (1 Nephi 2:20; Ether 2:7-8)." Of course, the word "America" is not found in the scriptures. The Book of Mormon scriptures cited do refer to the "land of promise," but it is not clear where that is exactly. Current research has shown that the Book of Mormon people were probably not spread out across the whole Western Hemisphere, as this seems to imply, and as the Church seems to be accepting as reflected in the recent change to the introduction to the Book of Mormon. The topic does go on to talk about the mention of the United States Constitution in the Doctrine and Covenants, which does seem more appropriate.

Under "Evolution," the 1909 First Presidency statement is quoted. It is followed by an interesting argument: supposing that man evolved from lower life forms, "Should temple work be done for lower forms of life in the ancestral chain?"

Ridges is not shy about saying that we have the potential to become gods. This is covered under several topics, such as "Exaltation," "Plurality of Gods," "Godhood," and "Gods."

"Proclamations of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles" gives the full text of all the official proclamations that have been issued, starting with one published in 1841, except for the Proclamation on the family, which is a separate topic. Notes are included along with each of them.

On the topic of "Jesus Christ," an introduction is given which includes the frequency of mention of Him in the Book of Mormon as well as quoting D&C 76:22-24. It then goes on to quote from the declaration from the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles titled "The Living Christ," which also quotes from D&C 76:22-24.

"Fellowshipping" is another topic that seems incomplete. It states simply: "A word which commonly denotes the actions of making new members feel welcome in the Church." While this is one use of the word within the church, it seems to be more commonly used to describe the action of befriending non-members and less active members.

I am really not sure that this book is needed. I think that True to the Faith, which is published by the church, would be a better replacement for Mormon Doctrine (and perhaps it is intended to be such). When compared to True to the Faith, this book has many more topics, but it goes beyond the official explanations that a reader can get from True to the Faith, and presents opinions and some speculation as fact. This is the same weakness that Mormon Doctrine had.

However, if readers approach it with the understanding that it is not all necessarily doctrine, and not all necessarily accurate (there is the standard disclaimer that appears on both the copyright page and the introduction that says as much), it might be a good springboard for further study on the topics it covers - as long as it is not used as the final authority. As Harold B. Lee put it, "All that we teach in this Church ought to be couched in the scriptures. It ought to be found in the scriptures. We ought to choose our texts from the scriptures, and wherever you have an illustration in the scriptures or a revelation in the Book of Mormon, use it, and do not draw from other sources when you can find it here in these books." (Dennis B. Horne, Determining Doctrine [Roy, Utah: Eborn Books, 2005], 175.)

Perfect for whole family!
This book is very comprehensive and a great reference for our family regarding all things relative to the LDS church! Easy to understand for about age 8+.

My top reference book!
New to the church, this particular book answers all my questions and gives references to where the doctrine can be found. A must have for your LDS reference library. So far, I have purchased three copies, one for myself and two as gifts.

I highly recommend this to members old and new!

More Mormon Doctrine
I've thought for the longest time that someone needs to update Mormon Doctrine. Not the doctrinal-scriptural areas, but we have had so many changes in Church Government since it was last revised in 1979 that the entries on such things as Assistants to the Twelve are mere historical curiosities.

There have been several attempts to come out with similar books. One was The LDS Reference Encyclopedia vols. I and II. Then there was The Encyclopedia of Mormonism in 1992. Sadly, time has overcome some aspects of these books so that they are out of date in some non-doctrinal areas.

(Keep in mind this is a good thing--The Church is guided by revelation, so since updates are an occupational and theological hazard. Article of Faith #9)

So this new book by David Ridges is an attempt to fills this gap caused by the march of time.

PLUSES

This book has several pluses. Of course, its "up to dateness" is paramount.His entries on Area Authority Seventies and the Acting President of the Twelve are superb.And there are the cluster of entries relating to AIDS and Same Gender Attraction are great assists. These issues were not Hot-Buttons back when Elder McConkie was writing or the Encyclopedia of Mormonism was published.

The entries on symbolism and the Salt Lake Temple symbolism were wonderful surprises. Since there is so much anti-Mormon spin on the symbols, having a quick reference is like an ace in the hole.Ditto for the entries on proclamations of the Church.

And his entries on Jesus Christ, the Atonement, Joseph Smith, and the Signs of the Times are majestic.


MINUSES

However, there are some minuses.First, Ridges does not explain why we should turn to his book over Mormon Doctrine. This is the "Justify the existence of your project" question.Does anyone care?Ridges is one of these theologians whose brain runs in book-lengths. But a person buying the book would not know that.

Ridge cites scriptures, but compared to McConkie, it is very scant. Another concern is that some of the entries are cut-and-pastes of the entries in `The Encyclopedia of Mormonism' or `True To The Faith.'This redundant material is a negative: we've already read it before. Of course we learn by repetition, but as Thomas Aquinas noted, frequent repetition can bring weariness and confusion to the minds of students (A Shorter Summa: The Essential Philosophical Passages of Saint Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica. Rote repetition makes the gospel boring. There is another way: President Joseph Fielding Smith taught, "old and familiar subjects may be dressed in new clothes; they need not always be presented in the self-same way." (The way to perfection)

Some entries are puzzling. There is one for Harold B. Lee and for Joseph Smith (under J, not S), but none for the rest of the presidents of the Church. Not even for Brigham Young!And the entries on Covenants and Gospel Covenants should be merged.

The euthanasia entry is too compact: "The so-called `mercy killing' of someone who is terminally ill.The Church does not condone this practice." But why doesn't the Church condone euthanasia?Ridges should have cited D&C 59:6 "Thou shalt not . . . kill, nor do anything like unto it." And then cite `Answers to gospel questions: The classic collection in one volume' 4:132ff, for extended reasons. As it stands, we are just remembering the various positions of the Church. But we need to know the doctrine behind the positions.

Another quirky entry is on illiteracy: "Not being able to read or write. Adam and Eve were literate and taught their children to read and write." But why is literacy important for the gospel?Look at the Mulekites (Omni 1:17-18).Plus he should have referenced the Relief Society literacy Program using the Book of Mormon.

The entry on the Relief Society did not include the Relied Society Declaration, even though he included The Family and Testimony of Christ proclamations in their appropriate entries.

There are stylistic questions, too.Most of the entries are quick slugs of information. But there and there, Ridges will write "We will quote from `True To The Faith' for additional information . . ." (p. 2). Encyclopedic entries do not use pronouns. Write, "`True To The Faith' says . . ." which eliminates six words.

ODDBALL

I have a few oddball comments.One of the criticisms of `Mormon Doctrine' is the title: If member of the Seventy and later the Twelve is not constitutionally empowered to lay down doctrine for the Church, then a fortiori the secretary to the General Sunday School Presidency is also not constitutionally empowered to lay down doctrine for the Church.

(Then again, what else would you call this book?)

There are entries on Temple Square, The Tabernacle Organ, and the International Genealogy Index. These are not really beliefs or doctrines, but mere Mormonalia. Of course, neither is the Lost 116 Pages, but it does have a bearing on the nature of the Book of Mormon and the historical basis for Sections 3 and 10 and Words of Mormon 1:7.

Lastly, books like this benefit the authors more than they benefit the readers. This book is, in essence, Ridges's Final Exam from all of his scriptural commentary books. I am eager to see how his systematic analysis of the gospel will enhance his studies.

BOTTOM LINE:

I would recommend this book, but read it in context. Start with the Conference Ensign, the Bible Dictionary and `True To The Faith.'Then read `Mormon Doctrine' and `Encyclopedia of Joseph Smith's Teachings' and the `Teachings Of' book for the current prophet. Then get `Mormon Beliefs and Doctrines Made Easier' as part of your third-tier studies.Remember, this books strength is its "up to dateness," so for the hot issues, you might go to this book first.

Disclaimer:David Ridges and I (Consider My Servant Job) have the same publisher. I did not receive a review copy, but had to buy my own. ... Read more

Product Description
A broad examination of early Mormon efforts to establishin Utah an independent, theocratic Kingdom of God. Those bold effortsresulted in struggles with national republican ideology, Mormonopponents within and outside of Utah, and the federal government. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Good take on a violent place and time
My interest in this book was triggered by an encounter with a brother-in-law who denied any blood-atonment incidents in the early Basin Kingdom. I knew otherwise from reading Mike Quinn and Mountain Meadows history. Forgotten Kingdom was a good dispassionate source confimring the rough-and-tumble times of early Utah. Full-fledged democratic institutions hadn't yet taken shape in the US generally, much less on the frontier, much less in a territory dominated by a theocratic kingdom not yet ready to accommodate outsiders. Violence was a part of life, just as it is now (only more institutionalized now).

I didn't sense any particular ideology or ax to grind. You don't get that voyeuristic feel of sensationalism that you might with a less sympathetic view. Biglet lets the story tell itself. He doesn't pull punches or whitewash, but neither does he judge from a 21st century view how these frontiersmen made do in their lives. The most important thing I look for when I read a history is a sympathetic storyteller - someone who doesn't judge participants from a narrow point of view. Bigler's history is sympathetic and compassionate.

I have ancestors who settled in southern Utah, and Bigler helps me understand better what they went through. The vision of an independent kingdom of God was doomed from the start, for the same reasons that it failed in Ohio, Missour, and Illinois, You can't help but admire the audacity and tenacity of these early settlers, though. Forgotten Kingdom does a useful services by shedding light on these times.

Balanced and clear account of Theocratic Kingdom
I agreed with the previous reviewers in saying that this is one of the best books regarding the theocratic state that the Mormons tried to create during their early territorial years.The book does a wonderful job contrasting the theocratic values of the Mormon's ideal world to the republican ideology of the United States at that time.

The key figure of this book proves to be the theocratic dictator of Utah Territory, Brigham Young, prophet and president of the LDS. Its pretty clear by the book that Young saved his church from destruction and with his single-minded clarity of mission, managed to saved Utah for the Mormons. But in doing so, he committed himself to unforgivable sins, worst being the cover-up of the Mountain Meadow Massacre. But it was also interesting how he created a shadow government to off set the loss of formal position. But to paraphase one of the quotes from the book, "I may be the governor of the territory but Young is the govenor of the people" (close?). His defense of polygamy aided the enemies of his church and his willingness to over looked the misdeeds of his underlings marked him as a great but deeply flawed man. The book covered this struggled between Young and all his foes who stood against his theocratic dictatorship.

The book appears to be very well researched, clearly written and easy to read. Its an interesting read of Utah's politics, wars and religious conflicts as the Mormons slowly but surely, began to assimulated into the American society.

An untarnished account
This important and seminal work should be required for those interested in or those currently studying Mormonism and its forgotten legacy to western America.

Beggining with the Arrival of the Mormons in 1847 and the creation of the state of Deseret we are taken through the many twists and turns of the Mormon effort to establish a country west of the mississippi.Truly a tale of endurance and originality.This was the only state ever created in the americas not relying on colinialism to create it.Here the 'Saints' built schools, railroads and an army.The settled the land from California to Nevada to Arizona and beyond.The almost came to war with the American government in 1858.Some mormons massacred a group of Gentiles traveling through Utah(but gee history seems to have forgotten the massacres of mormons back east).We learn of the regime of Young.

The book details the indian wars and immigration.Like estbalishing the state of Israel by the Jews, these pioneers esablished their own Zion which in many ways parrallels the creatiion of the Jewish state a 100 years later.

This bridges the gap between the mormon histories of Nauvoo, the hero making of Orrin Port Rockwell, and the modern mormon books that detail the power and secrecy of the chruch.This book also goes beyond the sensationalistic accounts of the Mountain Meadows Massacre(titled 'American Massacre' it would have been more aptly named for the Waco massacre in 93.)

An important book, well written and structured so as to make it easy for the reader to grasp.

This is the one!
If you are looking for a comprehensive and accurate history (1847-1896) of the Mormons this book is the one to buy. David Bigler's ability to accurately research and write about Mormon history is second to none. From the discovery of gold at John Sutter and James Marshall's lumber mill to the Mountain Meadows Massacre this book covers some of the most important events in the history of the United States.

Book of the Year
Westerners International gave David L. Bigler's Forgotten Kingdom its Best Book award for 1998.

Will Bagley, Series Editor ... Read more