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Sister Saints: Mormon Women since the End of Polygamy
The specter of polygamy haunts Mormonism. More than a century after the practice was banned, it casts a long shadow that obscures people's perceptions of the lives of today's Latter-day Saint women. Many still see them as second-class citizens, oppressed by the church and their husbands, and forced to stay home and take care of their many children.
Sister Saints offers a history of modern Mormon women that takes aim at these stereotypes, showing that their stories are much more complex than previously thought. Women in the Utah territory received the right to vote in 1870-fifty years before the nineteenth amendment-only to have it taken away by the same federal legislation that forced the end of polygamy. Progressive and politically active, Mormon women had a profound impact on public life in the first few decades of the twentieth century. They then turned inward, creating a domestic ideal that shaped Mormon culture for generations. The women's movement of the 1970s sparked a new, vigorous-and hotly contested-Mormon feminism that divided Latter-day Saint women. By the twenty-first century more than half of all Mormons lived outside the United States, and what had once been a small community of pioneer women had grown into a diverse global sisterhood.
Colleen McDannell argues that we are on the verge of an era in which women are likely to play a greater role in the Mormon church. Well-educated, outspoken, and deeply committed to their faith, these women are defying labels like liberal and conservative, traditional and modern.
This deeply researched and eye-opening book ranges over more than a century of history to tell the stories of extraordinary-and ordinary-Latter-day Saint women with empathy and narrative flair.
Sister Saints offers a history of modern Mormon women that takes aim at these stereotypes, showing that their stories are much more complex than previously thought. Women in the Utah territory received the right to vote in 1870-fifty years before the nineteenth amendment-only to have it taken away by the same federal legislation that forced the end of polygamy. Progressive and politically active, Mormon women had a profound impact on public life in the first few decades of the twentieth century. They then turned inward, creating a domestic ideal that shaped Mormon culture for generations. The women's movement of the 1970s sparked a new, vigorous-and hotly contested-Mormon feminism that divided Latter-day Saint women. By the twenty-first century more than half of all Mormons lived outside the United States, and what had once been a small community of pioneer women had grown into a diverse global sisterhood.
Colleen McDannell argues that we are on the verge of an era in which women are likely to play a greater role in the Mormon church. Well-educated, outspoken, and deeply committed to their faith, these women are defying labels like liberal and conservative, traditional and modern.
This deeply researched and eye-opening book ranges over more than a century of history to tell the stories of extraordinary-and ordinary-Latter-day Saint women with empathy and narrative flair.
312 pages, Hardcover
First published November 2, 2018
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305 people want to read
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September 24, 2018
Writing about Mormonism is hard. For insiders it's impossible to see it clearly, for outsiders it's impossible to fully understand what it's like on the inside. But I felt like I was in good hands with McDannell, she clearly has a solid grasp on the nuances of Mormon culture but brings the eye of a historian.
When you grow up Mormon you take Church History classes and you think you really know things. But the version of history you get is similar to the lessons you learn each week: ultimately it's men who run the show and men who write the story. There was a lot here I'd never known about women in the church, things I'd maybe heard of once were elaborated on in great detail. And seeing the changes and shifts that happened culturally over generations helps to paint a much bigger picture than the one you'd get at church. While the church likes to say that it's always held women a certain way and to a certain standard, that these are gospel principles, the truth is that the current version of Mormon womanhood is an invention of the 1950s and that it's currently in great danger of being broken all together.
I found of particular interest the women of the early 1900's. Though it's painful to see so much of the book devoted to removing power and agency from women once they've earned it. The book does an excellent job of placing women in a larger historical context so you can see when Mormon women are well ahead of the curve and when they're right in line with the times. My only real criticism is that I would have liked more individual stories to illustrate McDannell's points. I know this can be particularly difficult because Mormon women don't often feel comfortable sharing their frustrations and that's further complicated in the historical record, but I would have liked it. I appreciated McDannell's efforts to show the international growth of the church and how it impacts the population, though I feel like the plight of single and queer women (both immensely important at the moment, but they've also been around as long as the church has been) got far too little attention. In fact, I don't think we got any queer women, just mothers of queer children, which is, well, very much the way Mormons like to consider queer people.
While I have the benefit of a Mormon background, it seemed to me that McDannell does a good job explaining the culture and doctrine sufficiently that even someone who knows very little could read the book without confusion. And I think it's a real wakeup call of a book for Mormon and ex-Mormon women who haven't ever seen their own history of their own families and culture presented this fully.
For practicing Mormons, this is a clear-eyed, well-researched account that clearly had several members involved in its writing and editing. McDannell is objective but respectful and while there seems to be a tendency by members to avoid this kind of book written by a nonmember, I would really encourage it. Even if you're a conservative member who doesn't see any need for the church to change, there's a mountain of information here about the women of the early church that is impressive and inspiring. And if you're a more progressive member who wants to know how to move the church forward, you'll find a lot here to show how the church has changed (and not changed) over time that will be helpful to you.
When you grow up Mormon you take Church History classes and you think you really know things. But the version of history you get is similar to the lessons you learn each week: ultimately it's men who run the show and men who write the story. There was a lot here I'd never known about women in the church, things I'd maybe heard of once were elaborated on in great detail. And seeing the changes and shifts that happened culturally over generations helps to paint a much bigger picture than the one you'd get at church. While the church likes to say that it's always held women a certain way and to a certain standard, that these are gospel principles, the truth is that the current version of Mormon womanhood is an invention of the 1950s and that it's currently in great danger of being broken all together.
I found of particular interest the women of the early 1900's. Though it's painful to see so much of the book devoted to removing power and agency from women once they've earned it. The book does an excellent job of placing women in a larger historical context so you can see when Mormon women are well ahead of the curve and when they're right in line with the times. My only real criticism is that I would have liked more individual stories to illustrate McDannell's points. I know this can be particularly difficult because Mormon women don't often feel comfortable sharing their frustrations and that's further complicated in the historical record, but I would have liked it. I appreciated McDannell's efforts to show the international growth of the church and how it impacts the population, though I feel like the plight of single and queer women (both immensely important at the moment, but they've also been around as long as the church has been) got far too little attention. In fact, I don't think we got any queer women, just mothers of queer children, which is, well, very much the way Mormons like to consider queer people.
While I have the benefit of a Mormon background, it seemed to me that McDannell does a good job explaining the culture and doctrine sufficiently that even someone who knows very little could read the book without confusion. And I think it's a real wakeup call of a book for Mormon and ex-Mormon women who haven't ever seen their own history of their own families and culture presented this fully.
For practicing Mormons, this is a clear-eyed, well-researched account that clearly had several members involved in its writing and editing. McDannell is objective but respectful and while there seems to be a tendency by members to avoid this kind of book written by a nonmember, I would really encourage it. Even if you're a conservative member who doesn't see any need for the church to change, there's a mountain of information here about the women of the early church that is impressive and inspiring. And if you're a more progressive member who wants to know how to move the church forward, you'll find a lot here to show how the church has changed (and not changed) over time that will be helpful to you.
November 10, 2018
I grew up in an LDS household. My father converted to Mormonism in 1978 and my mother followed suit. That same year the church reversed its position on Black men holding the priesthood.
I was too young to understand the implications of the missionaries at the time--I was only a toddler at the time-- but my father's decision to allow the young men in business attire to speak with him in our driveway that afternoon ended changed our lives.
Today my mother and brother remain active members. My brother served a mission, married in the Temple, and continues to serve within his ward.
My mother has held many callings, including Relief Society President and Young Women's President, and I maintain strong relationships with a handful of the Young Women with whom I spent my Sundays.
While I opted to step away from organized religion more than a decade ago, I'd be lying if I said my faith and spirituality continue in large measure because of the doctrine I was taught as an active member of the LDS Church. I credit much of my connection to my Heavenly Father to the women I came to admire within the church. Their contribution to my spiritual growth, via their guidance and example, was greatly appreciated.
That said, I have a complicated relationship with the ideology of the church where women are concerned. It's the reason I opted to step away. I grew up in a home where my mother was a single parent, during a time when her being so was openly frowned upon. That left a negative impression and greatly influenced my decision to step away from the only religion I ever knew.
McDannell's honest, unflinching, yet completely objective look at the LDS Church since polygamy was one I appreciated. She kept to the research, presented the views of prophets and key members as documented, offered anecdotal and statistical evidence when necessary, and allowed the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.
No sugar-coating necessary.
"Sister Saints" is an open look at the women of the LDS Church. A group that is very often overlooked for its contributions but without whom much of what exists today wouldn't be possible, in my opinion.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ for this Advanced eGalley of "Sister Saints".
I was too young to understand the implications of the missionaries at the time--I was only a toddler at the time-- but my father's decision to allow the young men in business attire to speak with him in our driveway that afternoon ended changed our lives.
Today my mother and brother remain active members. My brother served a mission, married in the Temple, and continues to serve within his ward.
My mother has held many callings, including Relief Society President and Young Women's President, and I maintain strong relationships with a handful of the Young Women with whom I spent my Sundays.
While I opted to step away from organized religion more than a decade ago, I'd be lying if I said my faith and spirituality continue in large measure because of the doctrine I was taught as an active member of the LDS Church. I credit much of my connection to my Heavenly Father to the women I came to admire within the church. Their contribution to my spiritual growth, via their guidance and example, was greatly appreciated.
That said, I have a complicated relationship with the ideology of the church where women are concerned. It's the reason I opted to step away. I grew up in a home where my mother was a single parent, during a time when her being so was openly frowned upon. That left a negative impression and greatly influenced my decision to step away from the only religion I ever knew.
McDannell's honest, unflinching, yet completely objective look at the LDS Church since polygamy was one I appreciated. She kept to the research, presented the views of prophets and key members as documented, offered anecdotal and statistical evidence when necessary, and allowed the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.
No sugar-coating necessary.
"Sister Saints" is an open look at the women of the LDS Church. A group that is very often overlooked for its contributions but without whom much of what exists today wouldn't be possible, in my opinion.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ for this Advanced eGalley of "Sister Saints".
September 4, 2024
A good history of women in the church, definitely a bit academic but I learned a lot
January 17, 2020
I learned more about myself from reading this than I would have reading 25 self-help books. I feel like this book contextualized my life and the lives of the my female ancestors in a way that was clear, fair, and well-researched.
April 13, 2021
Sister Saints feels like a gift to anyone interested in Mormon women or Mormon history and is a source that I keep going back to. It is a relatively short book (202 pages before end matter), but Dr. McDannell skillfully packs in so much content and context. Prior to reading I knew that the Relief Society had run hospitals and major social programs, but what happened to that progressive organization? What happening in the post-WWII Church when women’s roles in leadership protracted and rhetoric around women became so focused on the home and motherhood? When did the Relief Society lose authority and autonomy over budgets and lesson plans? How did the women act and react during all of these changes? Sister Saints discusses these issues and so much more. I don’t know of any other book that covers this time frame with this lens and does such a brilliant job of tracing themes and also pointing the way for further research. McDannell’s bibliographical essay at the end of the book is a gem for anyone wanting to dive deeper into any of the issues she raises.
January 5, 2021
BOOK REVIEW - Sister Saints: Mormon Women since the End of Polygamy, by Colleen McDannell
This was a delightful book. I stumbled upon it and thought it was a free Kindle download. I soon realized that the download was of the first 3 chapters. They were so good that I bought the book. The author, Colleen McDannell, who is not LDS, does an outstanding job especially as an “outside observer” of LDS culture in presenting the story of Mormon women from the end of polygamy to today.
This is the story of generations of LDS women who were both instigators and victims of change. Women who continually adapted to, partnered with, and participated in progressive movements both within the church and society. McDannell explores how changes in Church policies continually impact sisters throughout the world, sometimes with due consideration prior to implementation and sometimes without.
LDS women have been resilient and independent sometimes by necessity in the face of ignorance by male leadership. The book details the influence of broader American culture on LDS women as they managed home, professional and educational needs. McDannell addresses charitable works, the fight for female suffrage, and female empowerment within the home, workplace, and church.
Faithful LDS women largely accepted, albeit occasionally grudgingly, the teachings and admonitions from the pulpit. Discerning women recognized the differences and sometimes the conflicts between gospel truth and contemporary expediency proffered by priesthood leaders. Obedience was not blind, but often well-informed and patiently endured, and positively framed.
McDannell addresses the early engagement of Utah women in the suffrage movement. Utah women were the first women to vote when Utah became a territory. Ironically, they lost the vote upon statehood in 1896. When Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony came to Utah they found women who were united in the cause. When the Edmunds-Tucker Act was passed in 1887, outside pressure forced the Church to either cease the practice of polygamy or endure censure and loss of economic means of survival by forfeiture of property, factories, banks, rights of inheritance, self-governance, etc. Polygamy was officially ended, compelling sister saints to reformulate living situations. Those updated ways included civic activism, productivity, and modern business practices embraced by the Relief Society woman's organization.
Spiritual practices of the earlier period were ended when it was declared that ritual healings and blessings given by women would cease and become the province of the male priesthood. Relief Society autonomy ceased. Some sisters were rankled when Relief Society funds, properties, and goods were combined with other Church assets in the name of efficiency.
With modernization, industrial pursuits, and wars, the whole society shifted to a kind of retrenchment where heart and family turned inward to home. LDS women gave committed priorities to values and inculcated them in their large biological and church families. A monumental collective of sister saints served in the Church, did charity work, worked on family history, and participated in church activities, all the while attempting to maintain beautiful, well-organized homes and raise beautiful and well-educated children. Eventually, church growth would come more from convert baptisms than fertility.
Feminist activism arrived on the scene in the 1960’s. It was met with skepticism and some dismay, as it seemed to devalue motherhood and women who chose to stay home. As feminism became more militant, LDS women generally followed a gentler path, becoming educated formally and informally as they ventured away from Utah, wholeheartedly raising families and serving the Church in congregations near and far, but absorbing more secular influence. Eventually, increasing numbers of sister saints joined the workforce and entered government and public service. Also, as a result of missionary work, new members brought in women of diverse backgrounds and nationalities. LDS women historians and researchers began to closely study earlier Church history and uncovered problematic events not previously discussed in official histories. Sister saints were among those who influenced the latest open-book policies where the whole history is available, warts and all.
One antidote I found curious was at the time the Chruch released “The Family Proclamation to the World.” The General Relief Society Presidency at the time (Jack, Clyde, Okasaki) was apparently never consulted as the Proclamation was being drafted and considered. They privately expressed their dissatisfaction to the Church leadership. It appears that that frustration brought about change with a more visible engagement of women leaders on the general level and modeled and encouraged for local leaders.
McDannell concludes her book with this statement: “It will be women who determine whether the next generation remains committed to the faith – and precisely what shape that faith will take.” Having presided over a mission of the Church in South America this statement is so true. Without women leadership in some of the areas, we worked the local units would be in serious trouble. It causes me to both wonder and look forward with great anticipation what the future will bring.
(Adapted from a review by Catherine Peterson)
This was a delightful book. I stumbled upon it and thought it was a free Kindle download. I soon realized that the download was of the first 3 chapters. They were so good that I bought the book. The author, Colleen McDannell, who is not LDS, does an outstanding job especially as an “outside observer” of LDS culture in presenting the story of Mormon women from the end of polygamy to today.
This is the story of generations of LDS women who were both instigators and victims of change. Women who continually adapted to, partnered with, and participated in progressive movements both within the church and society. McDannell explores how changes in Church policies continually impact sisters throughout the world, sometimes with due consideration prior to implementation and sometimes without.
LDS women have been resilient and independent sometimes by necessity in the face of ignorance by male leadership. The book details the influence of broader American culture on LDS women as they managed home, professional and educational needs. McDannell addresses charitable works, the fight for female suffrage, and female empowerment within the home, workplace, and church.
Faithful LDS women largely accepted, albeit occasionally grudgingly, the teachings and admonitions from the pulpit. Discerning women recognized the differences and sometimes the conflicts between gospel truth and contemporary expediency proffered by priesthood leaders. Obedience was not blind, but often well-informed and patiently endured, and positively framed.
McDannell addresses the early engagement of Utah women in the suffrage movement. Utah women were the first women to vote when Utah became a territory. Ironically, they lost the vote upon statehood in 1896. When Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony came to Utah they found women who were united in the cause. When the Edmunds-Tucker Act was passed in 1887, outside pressure forced the Church to either cease the practice of polygamy or endure censure and loss of economic means of survival by forfeiture of property, factories, banks, rights of inheritance, self-governance, etc. Polygamy was officially ended, compelling sister saints to reformulate living situations. Those updated ways included civic activism, productivity, and modern business practices embraced by the Relief Society woman's organization.
Spiritual practices of the earlier period were ended when it was declared that ritual healings and blessings given by women would cease and become the province of the male priesthood. Relief Society autonomy ceased. Some sisters were rankled when Relief Society funds, properties, and goods were combined with other Church assets in the name of efficiency.
With modernization, industrial pursuits, and wars, the whole society shifted to a kind of retrenchment where heart and family turned inward to home. LDS women gave committed priorities to values and inculcated them in their large biological and church families. A monumental collective of sister saints served in the Church, did charity work, worked on family history, and participated in church activities, all the while attempting to maintain beautiful, well-organized homes and raise beautiful and well-educated children. Eventually, church growth would come more from convert baptisms than fertility.
Feminist activism arrived on the scene in the 1960’s. It was met with skepticism and some dismay, as it seemed to devalue motherhood and women who chose to stay home. As feminism became more militant, LDS women generally followed a gentler path, becoming educated formally and informally as they ventured away from Utah, wholeheartedly raising families and serving the Church in congregations near and far, but absorbing more secular influence. Eventually, increasing numbers of sister saints joined the workforce and entered government and public service. Also, as a result of missionary work, new members brought in women of diverse backgrounds and nationalities. LDS women historians and researchers began to closely study earlier Church history and uncovered problematic events not previously discussed in official histories. Sister saints were among those who influenced the latest open-book policies where the whole history is available, warts and all.
One antidote I found curious was at the time the Chruch released “The Family Proclamation to the World.” The General Relief Society Presidency at the time (Jack, Clyde, Okasaki) was apparently never consulted as the Proclamation was being drafted and considered. They privately expressed their dissatisfaction to the Church leadership. It appears that that frustration brought about change with a more visible engagement of women leaders on the general level and modeled and encouraged for local leaders.
McDannell concludes her book with this statement: “It will be women who determine whether the next generation remains committed to the faith – and precisely what shape that faith will take.” Having presided over a mission of the Church in South America this statement is so true. Without women leadership in some of the areas, we worked the local units would be in serious trouble. It causes me to both wonder and look forward with great anticipation what the future will bring.
(Adapted from a review by Catherine Peterson)
April 11, 2019
Very well researched, compelling history of Latter-day Saint women within the framework of the church as well as in the broader context of women’s history in the United States. Somehow, I admire my own mother even more now, knowing what she chose to keep and what she chose to let go of regarding her own life growing up in rural Utah, leaving Utah after graduating from BYU, marrying outside of her faith, raising three children and being an integral part of her ward family for most of her life. She would be pleased with how forward thinking she was and proud of who her daughter and grand-daughter have become.
January 6, 2019
this is an interesting look at women's issues and teachings within the LDS church throughout the decades. it points out some of the practices that have been emphasized and changed. I found myself represented in many of the different eras. it was educational to see how culture has changed over the years. I recommend this book to all LDS women. it is a must for anyone who is or ever has been a feminist or had questions about the representation of women in church culture.
August 7, 2018
Informative and fair. The author doesn't downplay either the positive or the negative. Anyone interested in contemporary Mormon history will enjoy this book.
I'm fairly versed in Mormon history and I learned quite a bit.
I'm fairly versed in Mormon history and I learned quite a bit.
December 16, 2019
I read a lot about Latter-Day Saint culture and history. Most of what I read is by Latter-Day Saint authors. Sister Saints gave me a completely fresh perspective. The author is a religious scholar, not of the Latter-Day Saint faith. I think it’s good to read an outside perspective to avoid developing an insular view of one’s culture.
Sister Saints gave a brief, yet comprehensive overview of Latter-Day Saint womanhood in the 20th-21st century. It was interesting experiencing my religion in a wider historical and societal context. I appreciated McDannell’s fair and relatively objective take on a peculiar religion. It is apparent that she has worked hard to understand the theology and culture without resorting to stereotypes.
The last couple of chapters resonated the strongest, as they reflect my personal experiences as a Latter-Day Saint woman. But, I gained greater insights into where the church is now, because of where it has been. I found the chapters surrounding the ERA movement most interesting, as well as the first post-polygamous decades. There have been some strong, forward thinking, yet faithful women in my church’s history. I loved learning more about them.
Sister Saints has widened and enriched my perspective on what it means to be a Latter-Day Saint woman. I think the role of women in the church continues to change and evolve. Knowing my roots helped me gain a greater vision of who I am, and where I would like to go.
Sister Saints gave a brief, yet comprehensive overview of Latter-Day Saint womanhood in the 20th-21st century. It was interesting experiencing my religion in a wider historical and societal context. I appreciated McDannell’s fair and relatively objective take on a peculiar religion. It is apparent that she has worked hard to understand the theology and culture without resorting to stereotypes.
The last couple of chapters resonated the strongest, as they reflect my personal experiences as a Latter-Day Saint woman. But, I gained greater insights into where the church is now, because of where it has been. I found the chapters surrounding the ERA movement most interesting, as well as the first post-polygamous decades. There have been some strong, forward thinking, yet faithful women in my church’s history. I loved learning more about them.
Sister Saints has widened and enriched my perspective on what it means to be a Latter-Day Saint woman. I think the role of women in the church continues to change and evolve. Knowing my roots helped me gain a greater vision of who I am, and where I would like to go.
April 22, 2019
Full disclosure, after reading the preface, I was almost wary to continue reading Sister Saints. As an active member of the Church and an adult convert, sometimes I feel like books written about Mormons (by members or non members) can focus almost too heavily on the negative and be emotionally draining for me to read. Some parts of Jana Riess’ The Next Mormons were a huge eye roll for me (Riess is a member of the church, McDannell is not - as emphasized in the preface).
That said - I felt this book was very thoughtful and well written. The historical coverage felt balanced and honest. I especially was interested in The Family Proclamation background information by former Relief Society general presidency members. I didn’t find anything that would challenge my faith in this, but if you’re looking for that I’m sure you could.
My only real eye roll was the suggestion that Mormon mommy bloggers penchant for white home decor, platinum blonde hair and blonde children was meant to be symbolic of the purity of the temple. Literally laughed out loud.
Besides from those two pages, solid read if you’re interested in history of Mormon women beyond pioneers.
That said - I felt this book was very thoughtful and well written. The historical coverage felt balanced and honest. I especially was interested in The Family Proclamation background information by former Relief Society general presidency members. I didn’t find anything that would challenge my faith in this, but if you’re looking for that I’m sure you could.
My only real eye roll was the suggestion that Mormon mommy bloggers penchant for white home decor, platinum blonde hair and blonde children was meant to be symbolic of the purity of the temple. Literally laughed out loud.
Besides from those two pages, solid read if you’re interested in history of Mormon women beyond pioneers.
April 14, 2024
It took me 3+ years, but I finished it! This was recommended by a friend a few years ago, and I immediately purchased and devoured the first half. For those who want to understand the history of Mormon women, this a great start. Its very academic, so prepare yourself.
I'm giving it a full 5 stars, not because I agree with everything in it, and not because of the writing (which is good, but very academic), but because of what it did to help me understand the history that has impacted my own views of my role as a woman in my religious community and in my society. As George Santayana said, "Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." I want to understand our history as women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints so that I can be part of making it better!
There is much to be frustrated about as a women right now...in my job (I work in male dominated tech. I'm routinely the only woman in the room, dealing with communications and gender differences), in media (body image, self worth, perfectionism), in my faith (what does being perfect really mean) and because I'm an all-in member, in my callings (hierarchical priesthood, patriarchal relics in decision making, communication, different views of how men and women should work together, etc, etc) I must acknowledge how much _better_ it is than it was 20-30 years ago. We truly stand on the shoulders of those who went before and drink from wells we did not dig. I see this, and I'm so grateful.
So, does this book have any answers so some of these personal questions? Not really. It's a history book. But McDannell's research helped me understand where my own views may stem from, and why my mom and grandmothers may have approached their lives. That is a win.
I appreciated the most was how well McDannell (not a member of the Church) did her research. Its very thorough and very objective and honest. I _really_ liked her documentation of experiences during and after polygamy, into the early 1900s, and the huge shift between the 1950s into the 1980s. I didn't fully agreed with, or like, the summary of the current period of Mormon women. but it was still interesting and insightful. The stories she wrote about seemed to be the opinions of the few and I'm not sure if they reflect the opinions of the many. At least, I didn't quite see myself in their experiences.
Overall, a great read. Well done. And a recommendation to any woman out there who's trying to help "make all things new" and find a better understanding of equality between the genders.
I'm giving it a full 5 stars, not because I agree with everything in it, and not because of the writing (which is good, but very academic), but because of what it did to help me understand the history that has impacted my own views of my role as a woman in my religious community and in my society. As George Santayana said, "Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." I want to understand our history as women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints so that I can be part of making it better!
There is much to be frustrated about as a women right now...in my job (I work in male dominated tech. I'm routinely the only woman in the room, dealing with communications and gender differences), in media (body image, self worth, perfectionism), in my faith (what does being perfect really mean) and because I'm an all-in member, in my callings (hierarchical priesthood, patriarchal relics in decision making, communication, different views of how men and women should work together, etc, etc) I must acknowledge how much _better_ it is than it was 20-30 years ago. We truly stand on the shoulders of those who went before and drink from wells we did not dig. I see this, and I'm so grateful.
So, does this book have any answers so some of these personal questions? Not really. It's a history book. But McDannell's research helped me understand where my own views may stem from, and why my mom and grandmothers may have approached their lives. That is a win.
I appreciated the most was how well McDannell (not a member of the Church) did her research. Its very thorough and very objective and honest. I _really_ liked her documentation of experiences during and after polygamy, into the early 1900s, and the huge shift between the 1950s into the 1980s. I didn't fully agreed with, or like, the summary of the current period of Mormon women. but it was still interesting and insightful. The stories she wrote about seemed to be the opinions of the few and I'm not sure if they reflect the opinions of the many. At least, I didn't quite see myself in their experiences.
Overall, a great read. Well done. And a recommendation to any woman out there who's trying to help "make all things new" and find a better understanding of equality between the genders.
February 8, 2023
McDannell’s work here reads more like a survey text of LDS women’s lives post 1890–it covers 120+ years in about 200 pages, so it is a great overview that will hopefully lead readers to more in-depth looks at various topics. What she produces here, though, is very impressive.
McDannell, an historian of religion, writes about a faith she has never practiced with an intimate understanding that is hard to find in academic work. I’ve read my fair share of scholarly publications about my LDS faith, and there are always little moments of misunderstood vernacular or culture that glare off of the page when reading as an insider. Not here, though. McDannell has not just conducted thorough research but she has also clearly done some heart work to really understand the people about whom she is writing.
People often approach the subject of The Church of Jesus Christ and its members in stereotypes and exteemes, and McDannell resists that. Her chapter on convert women and experiences of women of color outside of the United States was wonderfully done. Her analysis of what she calls “eMormons” and the effect that the internet has had on the faith and also the effect that the faith has had on the internet was fantastic. Frankly, her analysis of The Family Proc and developing ideas of marriage completely changed my perspective and understanding in a really great way. Probably the most fair, refreshing modern telling of LDS women’s history from an outside perspective that I’ve read.
McDannell, an historian of religion, writes about a faith she has never practiced with an intimate understanding that is hard to find in academic work. I’ve read my fair share of scholarly publications about my LDS faith, and there are always little moments of misunderstood vernacular or culture that glare off of the page when reading as an insider. Not here, though. McDannell has not just conducted thorough research but she has also clearly done some heart work to really understand the people about whom she is writing.
People often approach the subject of The Church of Jesus Christ and its members in stereotypes and exteemes, and McDannell resists that. Her chapter on convert women and experiences of women of color outside of the United States was wonderfully done. Her analysis of what she calls “eMormons” and the effect that the internet has had on the faith and also the effect that the faith has had on the internet was fantastic. Frankly, her analysis of The Family Proc and developing ideas of marriage completely changed my perspective and understanding in a really great way. Probably the most fair, refreshing modern telling of LDS women’s history from an outside perspective that I’ve read.
September 9, 2024
About Mormon women and the Church's attitudes toward gender. It's mainly about the history of gender in America and politics while showing where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints differed. This includes the federal government's crackdown on polygamy (justified by appeals to women's rights), women serving as healers in the early days of the Church, the concept of the "Heavenly Mother," the Church's use of excommunication against outspoken feminists, and their emphasis on having a LOT of children. Overall, the book is informative, tells you a lot about Mormon women and general Mormon history and theology.
Quotes
Pratt went on to conclude that it was monogamy rather than polygamy that was unnatural and often led to sin. Men limited to one wife fell into whoredom, adultery, fornication, and prostitution. On the other hand, into celestial marriages would come the noblest spirits of the preexistence, those who had waited thousands of years to descend to earth. These spirits would become the children of the faithful Saints, “the most righteous of any other people upon the earth."
"The Proclamation on the Family—with its terse descriptions, its caveats, and its modifiers—provided a doctrinal explanation for the expanding multi4plicity of Latter-day Saint lives. It did not encourage that multiplicity, but it did recognize—via its theology of silence—the complexity of Mormon lives."
Quotes
Pratt went on to conclude that it was monogamy rather than polygamy that was unnatural and often led to sin. Men limited to one wife fell into whoredom, adultery, fornication, and prostitution. On the other hand, into celestial marriages would come the noblest spirits of the preexistence, those who had waited thousands of years to descend to earth. These spirits would become the children of the faithful Saints, “the most righteous of any other people upon the earth."
"The Proclamation on the Family—with its terse descriptions, its caveats, and its modifiers—provided a doctrinal explanation for the expanding multi4plicity of Latter-day Saint lives. It did not encourage that multiplicity, but it did recognize—via its theology of silence—the complexity of Mormon lives."
August 11, 2019
I read this following a reading of Laurel Thatcher Ulrich's A House Full of Females, as McDannell picks up at a point in Mormon history right where Ulrich leaves off. McDannell's writing is both engaging and well-researched. Though she covers a lot of ground, the book moves along at a quick pace. I was particularly impressed by her simple, clear explanation of LDS Doctrine, especially considering this is a faith not her own.
All that being said, this is, in simple terms, a subjective feminist revision of Mormon history. Read with a grain of salt. McDannell does well to try and present a balanced view, but oft times her sympathies lie with dissenters of the faith, rather than those who stay. While I agreed with much of what McDannell had to say, many passages sat less comfortably with me, particularly her epilogue, in which she advocates for a "high-level change to bring women into ritual activities, perhaps even a theological rethinking of the nature of Latter-day Saints." I would almost suggest reading the epilogue first, as it gives the reader a good summation of McDannell's take on Mormon women.
All that being said, this is, in simple terms, a subjective feminist revision of Mormon history. Read with a grain of salt. McDannell does well to try and present a balanced view, but oft times her sympathies lie with dissenters of the faith, rather than those who stay. While I agreed with much of what McDannell had to say, many passages sat less comfortably with me, particularly her epilogue, in which she advocates for a "high-level change to bring women into ritual activities, perhaps even a theological rethinking of the nature of Latter-day Saints." I would almost suggest reading the epilogue first, as it gives the reader a good summation of McDannell's take on Mormon women.
February 28, 2019
I enjoyed this book immensely and learned a great deal from it. Sister Saints is very comprehensive, well-researched, and takes you through the different time periods of the church’s history. It does a great job of explaining the context behind the events, which was helpful for me, since I wasn’t alive during those times.
I was surprised to read that, during Amy Lyman’s leadership, women could receive a special church calling as a social worker. They received professional training and got paid. This is the only instance I’ve ever heard of a woman having a paid (and professional) calling in the church. I also enjoyed the story of the Hawaiian sisters who, when told that their hard-earned money (which had belonged to the Relief Society) would now be under the Bishop’s stewardship, decided to spend their money at a nice restaurant. The book talks about all kinds of issues that relate to LDS women, such as Heavenly Mother, voting rights, contraceptives, and the Equal Rights Amendment.
To read the rest of the review:
https://www.the-exponent.com/book-rev...
I was surprised to read that, during Amy Lyman’s leadership, women could receive a special church calling as a social worker. They received professional training and got paid. This is the only instance I’ve ever heard of a woman having a paid (and professional) calling in the church. I also enjoyed the story of the Hawaiian sisters who, when told that their hard-earned money (which had belonged to the Relief Society) would now be under the Bishop’s stewardship, decided to spend their money at a nice restaurant. The book talks about all kinds of issues that relate to LDS women, such as Heavenly Mother, voting rights, contraceptives, and the Equal Rights Amendment.
To read the rest of the review:
https://www.the-exponent.com/book-rev...
March 15, 2019
My husband (!) picked this up at the library, devoured it, and told me I should read it too. I wasn't sure I wanted to go there emotionally right now, but I'm sure glad I did. Colleen McDannell is a non-Mormon historian and did a good job of presenting information in an even-handed way. When I read some parts of the book, the mormon feminist in me sometimes wanted to yell "Aaaah! Why aren't you saying how awful that was!?!" But then a few paragraphs or pages later, she would explain how this situation made some women feel X, while others viewed it as Y. I came to appreciate how she presented historical situations neutrally and then explained how people reacted. Her explanations resonated with my lived experience, but also helped me try to understand different perspectives.
I feel like I learned a lot. The writing was casual and easy to read, while at the same time authoritative and well documented with plenty of references. My only complaint is that I wish it was a little longer, particularly the chapters that dealt with more recent history.
I feel like I learned a lot. The writing was casual and easy to read, while at the same time authoritative and well documented with plenty of references. My only complaint is that I wish it was a little longer, particularly the chapters that dealt with more recent history.
July 3, 2019
A surprisingly quick and easy read, which is quite a feat given the scope of the subject matter! This is a great book for anyone looking for an overview of Latter-day Saint women's history, or just beginning their research, but if you are looking to delve deeply into a time period you will probably be left wanting. Be sure to read the epilogue, as it provides some very important caveats surrounding all of the issues discussed. While I thought the book would have benefitted from a discussion about how larger societal patriarchy affects Mormonism and how the ways in which church leaders wanted to be perceived during certain time periods has affected their stance regarding certain issues, ESPECIALLY during the Cold War, I also realize that the book probably would have gotten quickly out of control if that were the case. Despite these limited shortcomings, it is still very much worth a read and will remain an influential work for years to come.
June 23, 2021
I appreciate McDannell’s research and compilation of this much needed history of Mormon women. Her book has inspired many conversations and brought clarity to a subject I am not only passionate about, but intricately created from and effected by as well. I feel a kindred spirit in Sonia Johnson, a spokeswoman for Mormon feminism, who “when asked why she belonged to a church whose rules she did not want to obey, she raised a larger issue of who constituted the church. ‘Well, I think they think it is their church,’ she observed. ‘But I felt as if it was my church too, you know.’” The assumption that a group of men can define faith for me has never worked for me, so, like Johnson, I define it for myself. I just want to thank and weep with all of the women from the beginning of Mormonism to today who have lived and witnessed their power and been silenced and journeyed through their faith alone.
March 15, 2019
An incredibly illuminating and well-researched history of women in the Mormon church. This book is an invaluable resource for understanding the important role that women play in the most distinctly American religion that currently exists. Though I'm not a member of the LDS church, I have had extensive contacts with pairs of young women missionaries who have visited at great length with my wife and me in our home which is one block away from the local Mormon church. My tremendous admiration for the young women that we know was bolstered by the fascinating history I read in McDannell's book. Her work here seems fair and generous, and I would highly recommend this volume to anyone who wants to know more about this mostly misunderstood faith and the women who are such an indispensable part of it.
January 12, 2022
This book perfectly walks the line of being respectful and honoring the contributions of Mormon women while honestly bringing to light the way male Mormon leaders indirectly tried to bring them down. I say “indirectly” because of course they never actually SAID or ORGANIZED to limit the influence of women- they did it the Mormon way, behind kind words and a smiling face, unwilling to recognize their own ignorance and sexism. This book enraged me and brought me peace. This book helped me greater appreciate Mormon women everywhere.
January 5, 2022
Really enjoyed learning about women members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their role in church and community after the discontinuance of polygamy in Utah. I found the work of Relief Society women so inspiring and wish Relief Society today was more like it--involved in local community efforts and proactively focused on local service. While I lament the copy editor's failures in this printing, McDannell's scholarship is good and the material compelling.
January 26, 2020
This book is incredibly well-researched and articulated. I’m floored at how objective McDannell is — she lays the facts out, points out inconsistencies and evidence on both sides of controversial issues, and leaves you to draw conclusions for yourself.
It was a really healthy book for me to read, I highly recommend it!
It was a really healthy book for me to read, I highly recommend it!
February 26, 2019
An honest and inspiring discussion of the role of Latter-day Saint women.
"Know from whence you came. If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go." - James Baldwin
"Know from whence you came. If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go." - James Baldwin
November 18, 2021
Not always easy to read (though very well written), and I don't agree with all the analysis, but I highly, highly recommend this book. McDannell's interpretation of the Family Proclamation was a revelation for me.
April 3, 2022
Fantastic treatment of women's experience in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I really enjoyed the richness provided by oral history interviews and the contextualization within the broader tides of culture and thought. I highly recommend this book!
November 6, 2022
The author does a fantastic job explaining Mormon culture, doctrine, and church structure, and how those things have informed Mormon women’s lives in recent history. This was a quick read, well written and succinct. I love reading Mormon history and this book did not disappoint.
March 23, 2019
It's a great overview of the topic.
February 4, 2020
Very well written and researched book about women in the Church of Jesus Christ through the 1900's to the current time.
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February 3, 2022Incredible read - one of my favorite nonfictions. She handles the subject delicately but thoroughly.
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