Joseph Smith

By: Robert V. Remini

Narrated by: Del Roy

The most important reformer and innovator in American religious history, Joseph Smith has remained a fascinating enigma to many, both inside and outside the Mormon Church he founded. Born in 1805, Smith grew up during the "Second Great Awakening," when secular tumult had spawned radical religious fervor and countless new sects. His contemplative nature and soaring imagination were nurtured in the close, loving family created by his deeply devout parents. His need to lead and be recognized was met by his mission as God's vehicle for a new faith and by the hundreds who, magnetized by his charm and charismatic preaching, gave rise to the Mormon Church. Remini's vital portrait contextualizes Smith's enduring contribution to American life and culture within the distinctive characteristics of an extraordinary age.

"Impressive scholarship with a riveting narrative."—The New York Review of Books©2002 Robert V. Remini; (P)2002 Books on Tape, Inc.

Good intentions with poor execution

The author takes great measures to tell a compelling, truthful story. You can tell there was a lot of research done with this book. It is missing a lot of details, which I feel, would help the reader/listener have a better understanding of who Joseph Smith was, and a better understanding as to WHY he did things. The author tells the story as an observant outsider simply telling what he sees. I find this method slightly flawed, because theology played a role in almost everything Joseph did. Theology is not explained as in-depth as I would like. The author doesn't go into detail about theology - and I understand why, because this was, what I gathered, a historical look at Joseph Smith and his impact on a changing American frontier. The Mormon reader should hardly blame the author, nor should he condemn him. This is book portrays how the world views Joseph Smith. The Mormon reader would do well to remember this as they are reading / listening. I gave this 3/5 stars because I truly feel like there should have been more doctrine / theology explained in the book. As I see it, the life of Joseph Smith, from a historical, worldly perspective, is not enough for someone to take interest in what he taught and believed - the restored church and gospel of Jesus Christ. This book is worth your time if you are interested in a cliff-notes timeline of Mormon history, but not so if you're interested in theology and doctrine.

Good synopsis of the Prophet Joseph Smith

Does a pretty good job of telling both sides of the story, few things are a little off but over all enjoyed it.

Unless You're a Member You Just Can't Understand Joseph Smith

I give Robert Remini an A for trying to understand Joseph Smith. He did his research & asked great questions but if treated as a secular object study, Joseph Smith simply can not be understood. As a member of the LDS Faith, I'm not upset about the Prophet Joseph being accused of being a treasure seeker or a pervert for having plural wives...I understand how critics might think that way. What is so difficult is for people to understand just what Joseph Smith seeing God the Father & His Son Jesus Christ in a spiritual visitation means to mankind. Remini treats the event as if it were an ordinary happening for Smith & other spiritualists of that era...I.e No Big Deal. That's where this book, while interesting looses the spark that could have made it great. For us who have accepted the visitation as being true...it's the biggest deal save Christ's atonement and resurrection or His Second Coming. So, in the end the book is like drinking a can of Soda Pop that has lost its carbonation.

Historical context

Would you listen to Joseph Smith again? Why?

The author's a historian who typically writes about 19th Century American Presidents. This book describes Smith's life and its influences, such as the Second Great Awakening, Manifest Destiny, books that had speculated about Native American origins, political paranoia, vigilante mobs, etc.

Poor reading.

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

I would recommend it based on that the entire book isn't "common knowledge".

How did the narrator detract from the book?

The narrator seemed quite unprofessional. Mispronouncing several names that were repeatedly used, and reading without break until his strong voice at the beginning of the chapter turned into a raspy old voice by the end of the chapter.

Do you think Joseph Smith needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

The book was written well enough, that I wouldn't mind a follow up book on the successor of Joseph Smith; Brigham Young and learning more about the 2nd prophet.