Customer Reviews

American Prophet: The Story of Joseph Smith

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Certainly, objective, this book takes an accurate look at the Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith. The Mormons take him for a bonafide prophet of biblical proportions. The book makes no such conclusion, but certainly takes a good look at one of the most remarkable personalities of the 19th Century. Rising out of obscurity, his influence grows exponentially even today more than 150 years beyond his death.

The most recurring theme of Joseph Smith's life as found within Heidi Swinton's book was his endearing love for both his friends and his enemies. It is an easy read and flows well with many well placed pictures and paintings throughout. This book quotes from scholars from all walks of life and from various faiths and institutions, most of whom do not believe in the divine role of Joseph Smith, but all of whom joined their voices in recognizing the extraordinary role that Joseph played in the development of a uniquely American borne religion.

This book as well as the documentary has given me great insight on a story that is hard to tell. I highly recommend this book. The author clearly has a talent for writing, a great knowledge of history, and a love for Joseph Smith that is evident in the story.

The print companion to the PBS feature, the book presents a broadly positive biography of the charismatic Mormon leader. Obviously not meant to be a detailed critique, neither is it the work of an apologist. Non-Mormon readers or students needing more information will definitely want to order the PBS companion film, and then review other Smith biographies, or some of the works by Hugh Nebley. Mormon readers will find this a refreshingly positive work with public recognition, making it easy to share with friends.

Many events that were essential in the shaping of mormonism and Smith's life are left out of this history.

For some reason the editor didn't mention what was the content of the Nauvoo Expositor, or why it was so dangerous for Smith. Polygamy was also not addressed in any detail.

Smith comes off as an unreal man who always had the misfortune of being victimized by "bad" people.

Has history ever been this simple? Strange.

Reviewing books on Morman History, particularly Joseph Smith biographies is a daunting task. Mormons insist on "faith promoting" books, and proclaim that anything else is "anti-Mormon." The problem is made more difficult by the refusal of the Mormon church to make available their historical documents to independant scholars. This book falls clearly into the "faith promoting" category. It is pretty and well written. It tells an interesting story, but forgoes any in-depth historical analysis. It is a book designed for Mormons to give their non-Mormon friends.

If you want an in depth study of the life of Joseph Smith, buy No Man Knows My History, 2nd Edition, by Brodie or for a fascinating psychological study, Inside the Mind of Joseph Smith by Robert D. Anderson. If you want a neutral evaluation of the Mormon church as a whole, I recommend Mormon America bye Richard and Joan Ostling. It you want a propaganda coffee table book, buy this one.

By the way, who is the guy who is pictured on the dustjacket? The cover pictures a handsome, all-American man, but open the book and look at actual period pictures and Smith is a round, odd-looking guy, not at all like the artwork pictured throughout the book.