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History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith
1945. The life's story contained in this volume, by Lucy Mack Smith, mother of the Prophet Joseph Smith, is one of the most beautiful narratives and yet one of the most tragic in our Church literature. Never did a woman pour forth the true feelings of her heart with more sincerity; expressing her gratitude to God for the blessing she had received; acknowledging His hand in the trials she had suffered and in the persecutions she had endured. It is the record of a great, true Christian life; a record which will be read and reread with interest, by men and women who seek inspiration, guidance and comfort for their own lives throughout many generations to come.
504 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 1958
55 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Mack Smith
26 books8 followersLucy Mack Smith was the mother of Joseph Smith, Jr., founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She is most noted for writing an award-winning memoir: Biographical Sketches of Joseph Smith, the Prophet, and His Progenitors for Many Generations. She was an important leader of the movement during the life of Joseph.
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July 21, 2016This wasn't really what I expected. It was however really good! I'm glad to have read it. It didn't have all of Church history and all the events. It seemed more of Lucy's memories. I read stuff I didn't know, more about the Smith family and all of Joseph's siblings. Lucy was a spunky little lady and wasn't afraid to speak up! Impressive.
January 26, 2009
I have wanted to read this book for many years and since I am teaching the Doctrine and Covenants to my primary class this year, I thought that this would be the perfect time to study the life of Joseph Smith, as seen through his mother's eyes. I was unprepared for what ended up being a heart-wrenching, inspiring and faith-promoting experience. Why had I never pondered more on what it must have been like for Joseph's mother? What kind of a woman must she have been to have raised a prophet of God? As mothers, we all experience our children's trials, even though they may be second-hand. Because of this knowledge, I have an even greater appreciation for what Lucy must have gone through, even though my experiences pale in comparison to hers. She was a mighty woman of faith with great devotion to God, her family and the Church. As Joseph, she never wavered in her commitment to the truth, even when faced with incredible persecution. Before her life came to an end, she had buried her husband and five of her sons! She had many personal spiritual experiences that strengthened her faith, and because I have learned more about her, I also see why Joseph had the faith that he did at such a young age. Yes, this is a history of Joseph Smith, but more than that, it is a powerful portrayal of the early years of the church and the Smith family, written by a strong, faithful and devoted mother.
December 1, 2008
The pages of this history are filled with an honest and love filled account of Joseph Smith's history which will bring an honest reader closer to an understanding of the love that flowed from the Smith family for the gospel of Jesus Christ. This history by Lucky Mack Smith does not lack inaccuracies, as opposed to a polished, technical, detail oriented account which must be left for academia. Surely each of these types of historical literature has its place, but this account will give a reader a better sense of who the Smith family was in those early years of Church history .
June 30, 2007
I loved hearing about the Prophet Joseph Smith from his mother. She gives an up front view of what was happening in their family from the time Joseph was a little boy. It is so neat that he came from good ancestors who were religious. It is wonderful how his family supported him from the beginning and enjoyed sitting around together in the evening discussing the things he was learning from angels and from the Book of Mormon.
May 16, 2018
I loved hearing this history from Joseph's mother and I learned new things about him and the early history of the church, but I learned a lot about Lucy Mack Smith. Although this was a book about Joseph Smith by his mother I felt like it shed a great deal of light on just how amazing, strong, and faithful she was.
September 27, 2008
I learned so much from this book about the era in which Joseph Smith lived. My testimony of him has grown stronger knowing what is family went through to bring the gospel forward. An excellent source for anyone wanting to know more about the Prophet and his family.
January 14, 2009
I loved getting to know Lucy as well as Joseph Smith and his whole family better when I read this book. There were some incredible insights I gained. I also appreciated the notes added to this recent edition.
June 29, 2008
I enjoyed reading about Joseph from his mother's perspective. Especially during his early years as that's when all the details are shared.
June 21, 2008
i learned more about who joseph smith really was. No one knows better than mom
January 6, 2009
Took me five years to read but it was worth it!! I had a hard time reading some because it was so sad, but I learned a lot of new things.
August 29, 2025
This is a simple review. Because when I first read this book, it was a long hot summer with no where to go, not even to the library. So I found this on my dad's shelves of religious books. And it seemed to be a story instead of just "lectures."
And what a story it was.
It has gained my coveted 5-star review because of the impression, the intense feelings it gave to me as I read it. Those first stirrings have stayed with me now for over 50 years. In fact, they have grown tremendously. So, though the writing itself may be nothing, the power of the word to bring this story to me as an adolescent is enormous.
I recommend it to anyone on the journey of truth finding.
And what a story it was.
It has gained my coveted 5-star review because of the impression, the intense feelings it gave to me as I read it. Those first stirrings have stayed with me now for over 50 years. In fact, they have grown tremendously. So, though the writing itself may be nothing, the power of the word to bring this story to me as an adolescent is enormous.
I recommend it to anyone on the journey of truth finding.
May 24, 2025
I read this book back when I was a young mother, and I was even more touched by it now that my children are adults. Lucy Mack Smith’s unwavering faith, resilience, and love for her family are deeply inspiring to me. The Smith family endured tremendous hardship and experienced loss after loss as they helped bring Christ’s Church to the earth. Lucy is one of my heroes and inspires me to stand strong in defending my faith.
September 10, 2025
What an interesting, funny, and fiesty lady. There are some real gems in here.
June 10, 2017
Chapter 1 tells the courage of her father.
Chapter 2 is quite sad. Her brother had the misfortune of his beloved betrothed being stolen from him. When she found out she had been tricked, her health failed and she died within 2 years.
Chapter 3 - the death of her two sisters.
Chapter 4 is about her brother Stephen. He acquitted himself honorably in fighting the Brittish. His housekeeper saved a store of his from being burned. He died after only 4 days illness leaving his family with an estate of fifty thousand dollars, clear of encumbrance.
Chapter 8 - 10 Her conversion to the Lord.
Chapter 11 Joseph Smith senior defrauded in business & Brother Jason
Chapter 12 Continuation of her religious activity; A dream of two trees (her husband had his brother)
Chapter 13 Joseph sr. has a tree of life vision.
Chapter 14 All children sick with Typhus. Sophronia healed.
Chapter 16 Defrauded by creditors; Abused by the man hired to transport the family to New York.
Chapter 17 "I now come to the history of Joseph."
Chapter 28 The first lawsuit against Joseph Smith brought by the wife of Martin Harris. The witnesses so contradicted each other that the judge dismissed the case "and told them to go home about their business, and trouble him no more with such ridiculous folly. And they did go home perfectly discomfited." (Page 116)
Chapter 29, 30 At time an angel would take the plates.
"When Joseph was about starting for Palmyra, where the writings were to be executed, Dr. McIntyre came in and informed us, that forty men were collected in the capacity of a mob, with the view of waylaying Joseph on his way thither; that they requested him (Dr. McIntyre) as they had done once before, to take command of the company, and, that upon his refusing to do so, one Mr. Huzzy, a hatter of Palmyra, proffered his services, and was chosen as their leader."
"On hearing this, I besought Joseph not to go; but he smiled at my fears, saying, "Never mind, mother, just put your trust in God, and nothing will hurt me today." In a short time he set out for Palmyra. On his way thither, lay a heavy strip of timber, about half a mile in width, and, beyond it, on the right side of the road, lay a field belonging to David Jacaway. When he came to this field, he found the mob seated on the string fence running along the road. Coming to Mr. Huzzy first, he took off his hat, and good-naturedly saying, "Good morning, Mr. Huzzy," passed on to the next, whom he saluted in like manner, and the next, and so on till he came to the last." (Page 155)
"Emma's health at this time was quite delicate, yet she did not favor herself on this account [that of preparing clothing for missionaries being sent out], but whatever her hands found to do, she did with her might, until so far beyond her strength that she brought upon herself a heavy fit of sickness, which lasted four weeks. And, although her strength was exhausted, still her spirits were the same, which, in fact, was always the case with her, even under the most trying circumstances. I have never seen a woman in my life, who would endure every species of fatigue and hardship, from month to month, and from year to year, with that unflinching courage, zeal, and patience, which she has ever done; for I know that which she has had to endure—she has been tossed upon the ocean of uncertainty—she has breasted the storms of persecution, and buffeted the rage of men and devils, which would have borne down almost any other woman. It may be, that many may yet have to encounter the same—I pray God, that this may not be the case; but, should it be, may they have grave given them according to their day, even as has been the case with her." (Page 190)
I first read this as a teen, and found it well worth rereading.
The edition that I read is based on the 1853 edition, which according to this web page had some intimate details edited out.
http://ldsmag.com/what-was-edited-out...
Chapter 2 is quite sad. Her brother had the misfortune of his beloved betrothed being stolen from him. When she found out she had been tricked, her health failed and she died within 2 years.
Chapter 3 - the death of her two sisters.
Chapter 4 is about her brother Stephen. He acquitted himself honorably in fighting the Brittish. His housekeeper saved a store of his from being burned. He died after only 4 days illness leaving his family with an estate of fifty thousand dollars, clear of encumbrance.
Chapter 8 - 10 Her conversion to the Lord.
Chapter 11 Joseph Smith senior defrauded in business & Brother Jason
Chapter 12 Continuation of her religious activity; A dream of two trees (her husband had his brother)
Chapter 13 Joseph sr. has a tree of life vision.
Chapter 14 All children sick with Typhus. Sophronia healed.
Chapter 16 Defrauded by creditors; Abused by the man hired to transport the family to New York.
Chapter 17 "I now come to the history of Joseph."
Chapter 28 The first lawsuit against Joseph Smith brought by the wife of Martin Harris. The witnesses so contradicted each other that the judge dismissed the case "and told them to go home about their business, and trouble him no more with such ridiculous folly. And they did go home perfectly discomfited." (Page 116)
Chapter 29, 30 At time an angel would take the plates.
"When Joseph was about starting for Palmyra, where the writings were to be executed, Dr. McIntyre came in and informed us, that forty men were collected in the capacity of a mob, with the view of waylaying Joseph on his way thither; that they requested him (Dr. McIntyre) as they had done once before, to take command of the company, and, that upon his refusing to do so, one Mr. Huzzy, a hatter of Palmyra, proffered his services, and was chosen as their leader."
"On hearing this, I besought Joseph not to go; but he smiled at my fears, saying, "Never mind, mother, just put your trust in God, and nothing will hurt me today." In a short time he set out for Palmyra. On his way thither, lay a heavy strip of timber, about half a mile in width, and, beyond it, on the right side of the road, lay a field belonging to David Jacaway. When he came to this field, he found the mob seated on the string fence running along the road. Coming to Mr. Huzzy first, he took off his hat, and good-naturedly saying, "Good morning, Mr. Huzzy," passed on to the next, whom he saluted in like manner, and the next, and so on till he came to the last." (Page 155)
"Emma's health at this time was quite delicate, yet she did not favor herself on this account [that of preparing clothing for missionaries being sent out], but whatever her hands found to do, she did with her might, until so far beyond her strength that she brought upon herself a heavy fit of sickness, which lasted four weeks. And, although her strength was exhausted, still her spirits were the same, which, in fact, was always the case with her, even under the most trying circumstances. I have never seen a woman in my life, who would endure every species of fatigue and hardship, from month to month, and from year to year, with that unflinching courage, zeal, and patience, which she has ever done; for I know that which she has had to endure—she has been tossed upon the ocean of uncertainty—she has breasted the storms of persecution, and buffeted the rage of men and devils, which would have borne down almost any other woman. It may be, that many may yet have to encounter the same—I pray God, that this may not be the case; but, should it be, may they have grave given them according to their day, even as has been the case with her." (Page 190)
I first read this as a teen, and found it well worth rereading.
The edition that I read is based on the 1853 edition, which according to this web page had some intimate details edited out.
http://ldsmag.com/what-was-edited-out...
March 25, 2010
What a wonderful, insightful, and special book! As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I thought I knew just about everything there was to know about the beginnings of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon and all the sacrifices and persecution he and his family went through. This book gives deeper and more personal accounts of the events about which I've learned my whole life. I'm reading the Book of Mormon again with a new outlook and excitement. To read about Joseph Smith and his family reading the Book of Mormon for the first time after Joseph was finished translating it, was something I never before pictured. What an amazing experience that must have been! On a different note, it was horrifying to read about the intense cruelties of the constant attacks of mobs and enemies. It was as if the very gates of hell had been flung open to destroy a harmless person, book, and religion.
Whether you are a "mormon" or not, this book is a page turner and worth reading.
Whether you are a "mormon" or not, this book is a page turner and worth reading.
September 17, 2007
'Mother' Smith's voice really comes through the unabridged version in this tribute biography of her son, Joseph. Many of the stories about his early life are only contained here so it is a valuable resource to anyone wanting to know more about the life and times of the Prophet, Joseph Smith. It is not perfect, however. Lucy Smith was 82 when she wrote this, and although she had a great memory and presence of mind, it is typical of retrospective reflections of a woman who had lost so much... I found it endearing, but perhaps a bit over-biased in presenting an accurate reflection about certain episodes. Do not let this slight qualm disinterest you. Its worth is invaluable and rightfully deserves a place on any LDS bookshelf.
May 21, 2020
I would rename this book the family history of Lucy Mack Smith...very little is actually about Joseph Smith but more about his mother and her family as a whole! My heart hurts for this family who experienced so much tragedy in their life but I know that they are at peace with God now! It is embarrassing to think that the government did not stand up and help these people! Our country was built on the foundations of freedom yet here was a group of people that were NOT given freedom to live and worship as they chose! I fell in love with Joseph’s mother and father through reading this! They were amazing parents, strong in their testimonies and just wonderful people! Lucy Mack Smith amazes me! She is an amazing example of a courageous woman!
March 26, 2008
A breath of fresh air. Finally an account by someone that has a desire for you to see the real and very human side of Joseph Smith. It is interesting to see what shaped Joseph Smith into what he was and where many of his ideas came from. Seems what his father wanted to be, his son became. Uncluding some of the visions which are credited to the son but in reality were from his father. Little wonder the church wanted it destroyed when it was first published. A must read for any one interested in the History of the Church from someone that was actually there and not by those that want to "romanticize" Joseph Smith.
September 13, 2008
Certainly a unique perspective of the dramatic early events, the intimate moments, and the unconquerable faith of the first family. It doesn't focus on Joseph as much as the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our day.
My particular copy (purchased from LDSAudio.com) would have been MUCH enhanced by a better reader. Great content - narration talent was lacking.
Reader notwithstanding - if you're a descendant of Adam, you are entitled to read this book and encouraged to make it yours.
The audio version I listened to was an LDSaudio download. The book was 9 hrs 29 min. long.
Completed around 10/15/07
My particular copy (purchased from LDSAudio.com) would have been MUCH enhanced by a better reader. Great content - narration talent was lacking.
Reader notwithstanding - if you're a descendant of Adam, you are entitled to read this book and encouraged to make it yours.
The audio version I listened to was an LDSaudio download. The book was 9 hrs 29 min. long.
Completed around 10/15/07
February 22, 2009
Lucy Mack Smith describes the early history of the LDS church, including her own life and history. At times it would slow down a bit, and would have benefited from some more modern editing as far as format goes. But I was fascinated by the accounts of the visions and dreams her husband had even before Joseph's First Vision. The stories of the suffering of the early saints was terrible to read. And I also realized that Lucy first her husband, and then 4 of her sons in just weeks. It must have been a tremendously painful thing to go through.
This was a little old-fashioned in places, but it was an easy read and I finished it in one day.
This was a little old-fashioned in places, but it was an easy read and I finished it in one day.
November 6, 2008
I have read this book before and have listened to the book on MP3 (downloaded) and have really enjoyed it. I highly recommend it as this view of his mother is so sweet. I learned things that I had not known before (not hard as I am not as educated as I would like) and especially liked hearing it read by a woman. Many years ago I attended a Ricks College class with my daughter and a woman portrayed Lucy Mack Smith. It gave me a whole new perspective on a woman that some portray as hard. She certainly had a hard life but she was a loving and dearly loved woman. Truly a elite woman of the time.
May 1, 2008
I picked up a copy while staying with my sister for a few days back in 2004, and could not put it back down. What a fantastic view into the more personal aspects of the life of Joseph Smith the Prophet, and the great work he undertook. Reading this book, written by his mother and cross-referenced by the editors and others over the past 100 years, paints a clear picture of the events surrounding the life of Joseph. A must read for anyone wanting to know more about this great man.
June 26, 2008
I just finished this book again for the third time. Over the past few years, I've really enjoyed reading both Joseph Smith's History of the Church and B.H. Robert's Comprehensive History of the church. This book, however, brings a much softer touch. The prophet's mother was certainly a talented writer (through her scribe of course) and the editors have done a great job making this a quick and easy read. Anyone interested in LDS church history should read this or the abridged edition.
July 24, 2010
The book reinforced my general disposition to be cautious when forming opinions of those from another era. I felt overwhelmed by what Lucy relates of their trials and experiences. So many died in childhood and the prime of their lives.
I am grateful that Lucy shared her faith, her confidence and trust in the Lord. It helps me understand Joseph's strengths; Joseph could easily relate to the mother's of Helaman's army.
I am grateful that Lucy shared her faith, her confidence and trust in the Lord. It helps me understand Joseph's strengths; Joseph could easily relate to the mother's of Helaman's army.
July 26, 2012
I really enjoyed the book, the point of view of Joseph's mother. I just felt that is was more a history of Lucy Smith than of Joseph Smith. I understand she wasn't there for every aspect of Joseph's life and doings, and also she wrote the book YEARS after the fact. All in all it was a good book, parts dragged out too much (In my opinion) and I expected something different and/or more than what I read.
May 30, 2016
I read an older edition, edited by Preston Nibley. I thought it was very interesting to get the Smith family history from Lucy's memories and perspective. I felt it was a history of the entire family and came to know Lucy's personality better through reading this. They were an amazing family, spiritual, faithful and strong. They endured lives of extreme hardship and unjust persecution yet remained true and steadfast.
February 16, 2017
After I closed the last page to this book, I sat in awe. In awe of a family that gave so much that I had no idea about! We all hear about Joseph and Emma and what they went through but I had no idea that Joseph's entire family was so involved in the work and sacrificed so much. Made me take a step back and think, "What am I doing to show appreciation, and what am I doing to help further this great work that they sacrificed so much for"?
Incredible.
Incredible.
October 24, 2015
Why this book isn't more widely read or talked about among members of the LDS church is beyond me. It is truly fantastic; anyone who seeks to strengthen their understanding of the Prophet Joseph's life and mission should read this book. It would also be a good introduction to the history of the Mormons for those of other faiths.
February 15, 2010
I never did finish this book that is why it has been on my currently reading list for over a year. I started reading it for additional commentary as we were studying the Doctrine and Covenants last year. I learned things that I did not know about the prophet. Someday I would like to read this book cover to cover but now is just not the time.
May 12, 2011
This book is amazing! I read it about every 3-4 years and always learn more. Lucy Mack Smith offers such a unique mother perspective and should be known as one of the wisest, most faithful, choice women of the world. I don't know how she endured all that transpired in her life. I highly recommend this book. Great history, easy to read, unique insights, - I love it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews