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Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson
What kind of life preparation does the Lord give the men He will one day call to be prophet? And what are the lessons to be learned from such a life? From being raised in a home without the foundation of the gospel to the early days of his marriage and the stress of medical school to his last open-heart surgery in China, President Russell M. Nelson took advantage of every opportunity to learn and become more. In Insights from a Prophet's Life, Sheri Dew takes us through the life of President Nelson from childhood to the current day. This unique collection of life experiences is told in short episodes from the purpose of helping readers gain their own personal insights. For if we have much to learn from what a prophet says, surely we have much to learn from how a prophet lives.
504 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
555 people are currently reading
3728 people want to read
About the author
Sheri Dew
31 books360 followersSheri Dew graduated from Brigham Young University. She served as second counselor in the general Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1997 to 2002. In March 2003 the White House appointed her a member of the U.S. Delegation to the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations. In 2002, Sheri Dew became president and CEO of Deseret Book Company.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,503 reviews
May 23, 2019
You know how when you really get to know someone better you love them more? When I finished this book I had such a strong love for the prophet President Russell M Nelson. This was not like the usual biographies I have read before. Throughout the book I found so much inspiration and found myself wanting to learn new things and do things I’ve never thought were possible. So not only is this biography about an amazing man, successful heart surgeon or a modern day prophet...it can change you and inspire you to do great things! Sheri Dew did an incredible job sharing the details of his life. I would give this book 10 stars if it were possible.
February 26, 2021
Oh my...THIS BOOK...I loved it. I don’t often read biographies, but Sheri Dew is among my favorite inspirational authors and Russell M. Nelson one of my most admired people, this biography was on my list. I appreciated the book's format: chapters are designated as episodes- short, clear, essay-like readings arranged chronologically, making it easy to read, set down, ponder upon, and pick up again. Like the prophet himself, the book is full of quotable gems. I listened to the audio version, but enjoyed it so much I just ordered the hardbound version.
December 29, 2019
This was so fascinating, insightful, humbling, and so many other emotions. Truly a read that I think anyone, same faith or not, would enjoy. A truly remarkable, kind, and loving man.
March 28, 2019
Through the first half of this book I was planning on a 3 star review (since this is, apparently, a thing I think about while reading now). While it was well done, I got the sense that President Nelson was an unwilling participant in the biography process. Which, I guess makes sense, because if, at 94, he’d wanted a biography it would have already happened.
Anyway, the first half was mostly stories I already knew from conference talks or other people’s biographies. There were occasionally interesting new details thrown in (with the information credited to children, grandchildren, etc). I’ll admit it was disappointing.
BUT THEN! Around the time President Nelson becomes an apostle it picks up. I finally felt some connection and feeling when it addresses the death of his daughter and his first wife’s cancer. It was the first time I really saw him as a real person.
When Wendy comes into the picture things REALLY get interesting (because, I’m assuming Wendy, a friend of Dew, was much more informative than others.) Seriously loved and was fascinated by the second half. From Wendy on there are wonderful, uplifting, miraculous stories and added insight into things we already knew about (Like the time a few years ago when the church released a headline that the Nelsons were “robbed” in Africa but fiddledeedee no big deal. NO IT WAS A REALLY REALLY TERRIFYINGLY BIG DEAL laced with cool miracles.)
I also really loved that it didn’t gloss over the difficulties Wendy and Pres Nelson faced when they married. It was made clear that they felt being married was right, but it didn’t make the challenges any LESS, with Wendy even saying it was a more difficult time than the loss of her mother in some ways. Real talk, right there. Love that.
One last thing, There were references to President Nelson feeling his inadequacy for the things he’s had to face, but I wish I had gotten a better sense of what those things are. I felt like after reading Hinckley and Monson’s biographies I had a better sense of their weaknesses than I did in this one. I do think he had incredible strengths and abilities and it’s very fair to focus on those, but I have to feel like if we had Dantzel’s perspective, we might have seen a little more of Nelson’s growth process.
In the end, super glad I read it, but wouldn’t have really missed anything had I started halfway through.
Anyway, the first half was mostly stories I already knew from conference talks or other people’s biographies. There were occasionally interesting new details thrown in (with the information credited to children, grandchildren, etc). I’ll admit it was disappointing.
BUT THEN! Around the time President Nelson becomes an apostle it picks up. I finally felt some connection and feeling when it addresses the death of his daughter and his first wife’s cancer. It was the first time I really saw him as a real person.
When Wendy comes into the picture things REALLY get interesting (because, I’m assuming Wendy, a friend of Dew, was much more informative than others.) Seriously loved and was fascinated by the second half. From Wendy on there are wonderful, uplifting, miraculous stories and added insight into things we already knew about (Like the time a few years ago when the church released a headline that the Nelsons were “robbed” in Africa but fiddledeedee no big deal. NO IT WAS A REALLY REALLY TERRIFYINGLY BIG DEAL laced with cool miracles.)
I also really loved that it didn’t gloss over the difficulties Wendy and Pres Nelson faced when they married. It was made clear that they felt being married was right, but it didn’t make the challenges any LESS, with Wendy even saying it was a more difficult time than the loss of her mother in some ways. Real talk, right there. Love that.
One last thing, There were references to President Nelson feeling his inadequacy for the things he’s had to face, but I wish I had gotten a better sense of what those things are. I felt like after reading Hinckley and Monson’s biographies I had a better sense of their weaknesses than I did in this one. I do think he had incredible strengths and abilities and it’s very fair to focus on those, but I have to feel like if we had Dantzel’s perspective, we might have seen a little more of Nelson’s growth process.
In the end, super glad I read it, but wouldn’t have really missed anything had I started halfway through.
November 30, 2020
I loved learning about President Nelson's incredible life and am renewed in my commitment to lead a life of dedicated faith and selfless service.
May 13, 2019
I absolutely LOVED this book! It was easy to read and feel President Russell M. Nelson's kind-hearted spirit and his genius ability to solve problems throughout his career as a heart surgeon as well as in leadership roles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
While I already knew some of his story, there was a lot of material I didn't know about him and his life. I loved the way Sheri Dew wrote his story and how each section helped me to think about different decisions that he made that brought him to where he is now in his life, his testimony, and in his family. Each and every page, no matter the topic, confirmed to me over and over again that Russell M. Nelson is a prophet of God on the earth today.
While I already knew some of his story, there was a lot of material I didn't know about him and his life. I loved the way Sheri Dew wrote his story and how each section helped me to think about different decisions that he made that brought him to where he is now in his life, his testimony, and in his family. Each and every page, no matter the topic, confirmed to me over and over again that Russell M. Nelson is a prophet of God on the earth today.
September 11, 2019
In January of this year, I decided to read and listen to all of President Nelson's conference talks (super easy in the Library app go to General Conference and scroll over one tab to speakers). I took 30+ pages of notes and really increased my love of this great man, the Saviors life and influence in our life and many teachings that were close to his heart (the miracle of bodies, worshiping through good music, eternal families, etc).
I thought perhaps this book would be many repeats of what I'd just read but it was very different and enjoyable in its own right. Certainly, there were references to his talks and teachings but this was much more history of his life and behind the scenes (as in the many workings and services of the general authorities).
Very enjoyable and enlightening!
I thought perhaps this book would be many repeats of what I'd just read but it was very different and enjoyable in its own right. Certainly, there were references to his talks and teachings but this was much more history of his life and behind the scenes (as in the many workings and services of the general authorities).
Very enjoyable and enlightening!
March 24, 2019
Couldn't stop. my favorite biography about a prophet.
February 6, 2022
4.5 stars. I listened to the whole thing in one sitting. He is a man of great faith—a true disciple and proof that if you do all you can do, the Lord will step in and perform miracles. Some miracles are for individuals and are small in scope, others are as dramatic as the parting of the Red Sea. President Nelson has witnessed and participated in both types. I feel inspired to try to live my life dedicated as he is to the pure and simple truths of the gospel. He’s also proof that you don’t have to have a perfect family, have been raised in the Church, or have served a mission to be an instrument in the hands of God. I love how personable he is. His example and service in the Church has made a big difference to me personally. It was good to learn more about the man behind the calling.
December 3, 2020
Incredible read. I thank thee oh God for a prophet. But whether you are religious or not, he is inspiring. Recommend to anyone!
May 28, 2019
I became curious to see what this book would look like after President Nelson was ordained and set apart as the President of the Church. That's because he already had a biography published by Deseret Book some time ago. Would they simply append that book and re-release it as a new edition? Would an entirely new book be written? Who would write it.
With the ordination of each new Church President, Deseret Book publishes a quasi-official hagiography of the newly minted prophet, seer and revelator. In my opinion, the best of these was "Go Forward With Faith," the Sheri Dew-penned hagiography of Gordon B. Hinckley. Tragically, the Thomas S. Monson hagiography was awful. President Monson's life deserved better treatment. I would love to know why they didn't have Sheri Dew write it.
Sheri Dew is honest with the reader that this isn't an objective endeavor for two reasons: First, she is a true-believing member of the Church. Second, she is a close personal friend of both President Nelson and his high-profile second wife, Wendy Watson Nelson.
This book is better than the Monson hagiography, but falls far short of the treatment Dew gave Hinckley. The book is a series of chronological anecdotes, but those anecdotes don't form an ongoing, consistent narrative. The anecdotes are cheesy. Unlike the Hinckley hagiography, Dew never really dives substantively into any truly difficult issue in President Nelson's personal life or during his time as Apostle/Prophet. Eventually, this inauthentic treatment becomes exhausting. I was happy the book ended.
That said, the book does help give insight into what makes President Nelson tick. Throughout most of my life, I'd pegged him as a hardliner akin to Boyd K. Packer. While it is true, and the book confirms, that President Nelson sees the world through stark black and white terms, he is much more of a pragmatist than someone like Packer. Whereas someone like Packer imputes dogmatic meaning into the status quo, President Nelson does not hesitate to abandon current practices for a more effective approach. I suspect that this seeming paradox is the result of his experience as a pioneer in heart surgery. The black and white thinking is derived from the absolutes of scientific rules and laws. The willingness to change course derives from his history of innovating better ways to accomplish the same and new objectives.
With the ordination of each new Church President, Deseret Book publishes a quasi-official hagiography of the newly minted prophet, seer and revelator. In my opinion, the best of these was "Go Forward With Faith," the Sheri Dew-penned hagiography of Gordon B. Hinckley. Tragically, the Thomas S. Monson hagiography was awful. President Monson's life deserved better treatment. I would love to know why they didn't have Sheri Dew write it.
Sheri Dew is honest with the reader that this isn't an objective endeavor for two reasons: First, she is a true-believing member of the Church. Second, she is a close personal friend of both President Nelson and his high-profile second wife, Wendy Watson Nelson.
This book is better than the Monson hagiography, but falls far short of the treatment Dew gave Hinckley. The book is a series of chronological anecdotes, but those anecdotes don't form an ongoing, consistent narrative. The anecdotes are cheesy. Unlike the Hinckley hagiography, Dew never really dives substantively into any truly difficult issue in President Nelson's personal life or during his time as Apostle/Prophet. Eventually, this inauthentic treatment becomes exhausting. I was happy the book ended.
That said, the book does help give insight into what makes President Nelson tick. Throughout most of my life, I'd pegged him as a hardliner akin to Boyd K. Packer. While it is true, and the book confirms, that President Nelson sees the world through stark black and white terms, he is much more of a pragmatist than someone like Packer. Whereas someone like Packer imputes dogmatic meaning into the status quo, President Nelson does not hesitate to abandon current practices for a more effective approach. I suspect that this seeming paradox is the result of his experience as a pioneer in heart surgery. The black and white thinking is derived from the absolutes of scientific rules and laws. The willingness to change course derives from his history of innovating better ways to accomplish the same and new objectives.
August 22, 2023
Absolutely amazing. Everyone should read this book. President Russell M. Nelson is an incredible person. I have read many books on the Prophets of my church but no one and I mean no one comes close to touching this man. I don't know how he does what he does. The stories about his courtship of his second wife Wendy are incredible. The story of when he was attacked at gun point are nothing less than miraculous. I would follow him anywhere and do whatever he says to do because he is truly led by the Savior.
October 24, 2025
This book has sat on my book shelf for almost two years unopened. I’d always look at it and feel like I should read it but that it was going to be more of a chore than anything. With the passing of the prophet I finally pulled it off of my shelf. And now all I can say is that it breaks my heart I didn’t read it sooner. Because this book was so good!
Once I started I actually couldn’t put it down. It was one incredible antecdote after another. Not only is Russell M. Nelson the most lovable man on the planet, but his life was jam packed with everything you need to make an incredible life history.
I wish so much I had known everything written in this book before he passed away - if only to appreciate the man I call a prophet. But I’m so glad I’ve read it now. I have dozens of post it’s poking out of the pages of this book and there’s so much I want to go back and reference. This is hands down my favorite biography I’ve ever read.
Once I started I actually couldn’t put it down. It was one incredible antecdote after another. Not only is Russell M. Nelson the most lovable man on the planet, but his life was jam packed with everything you need to make an incredible life history.
I wish so much I had known everything written in this book before he passed away - if only to appreciate the man I call a prophet. But I’m so glad I’ve read it now. I have dozens of post it’s poking out of the pages of this book and there’s so much I want to go back and reference. This is hands down my favorite biography I’ve ever read.
November 19, 2020
Wow. That was soooo inspiring!!! I am in awe of this man--as a husband, father, doctor, citizen, human and most importantly as a prophet. Not only is he an unqualified genius, but he is also a good good person.
October 19, 2020
What an inspiring book!! I learned so much about President Nelson and also learned so much about who I want to be. I am in awe of the work he has accomplished in his life.
February 5, 2022
This book not only gives insights, but it gives wonderful inspiration as well. It's interesting to look back on a life to see where choices and decisions led the person to be where and who they are and it was fascinating to watch the things fall into place. Many moments of faith and many great opportunities taken full advantage of shaped and formed this man. I loved how it was written and put together and loved the tidbits that strengthened me.
March 9, 2020
I loved everything about this book. The short chapters made it easy to read, for a non-fiction book. There were lots of interesting pictures from Pres. Nelson’s life that I adored. Reading about so many ways the prophet was prepared to lead Jesus Christ’s Church today was inspiring. But, like the title says, my favorite things were the insights the author pulled out from these experiences to teach and lift to become better in our own lives. I found myself putting the book down often, excited to share something with my husband or children of something I had learned from the prophet’s life and the insight into mine it helped me see. It was written in a manner that promoted easy, fast reading. But I found I didn’t want to read it fast. I would read a few chapters and then just let my mind marinate on the messages and experiences I had read about for days. I felt my testimony of the restoration of Christ’s Church on the earth and for His living prophets growing with each page read, especially as I pondered on the words. I now want to go back and reread to make a list of inspiring quotes and let myself enjoy and learn new insights. It’s one of the best biographies I’ve read and I loved it from beginning to end.
November 29, 2019
I had a hard time putting this book down. It spoke to me on so many levels. It was insightful, interesting and meaningful. I enjoyed the short chapters and the way the history of this great man was presented, in ways that let me draw my own conclusions. I found many truths here that spoke to my heart and testified to me that Russel M. Nelson is a prophet of God, prepared to lead the world in these latter days. I am grateful for him and for his example to me.
Right now my husband and I are serving as the first missionary couple in Mali, West Africa. It was especially interesting to me to read about the process of starting the Church in new countries with all of the starts and stops and ups and downs.
This paragraph particularly struck me:
When later asked what he learned from the assignment to open the countries in Eastern Europe for the preaching of the gospel, particularly in light of the many stops and starts, failed meetings, and ups and downs, Elder Nelson replied simply: “The Lord likes effort. He could have said to Moses, ‘I’ll meet you halfway.’ But Moses had to go all the way to the top of Mount Sinai. He required effort from Moses and Joshua and Joseph Smith and from all of the subsequent Presidents of the Church. He requires effort from bishops and stake and Relief Society presidents and elders quorum presidents. There is always a test. Are you willing to do really hard things? Once you’ve shown you’re willing to do your part, He will help you. (p. 197)
He makes me feel a strong desire to be willing to do my part.
Right now my husband and I are serving as the first missionary couple in Mali, West Africa. It was especially interesting to me to read about the process of starting the Church in new countries with all of the starts and stops and ups and downs.
This paragraph particularly struck me:
When later asked what he learned from the assignment to open the countries in Eastern Europe for the preaching of the gospel, particularly in light of the many stops and starts, failed meetings, and ups and downs, Elder Nelson replied simply: “The Lord likes effort. He could have said to Moses, ‘I’ll meet you halfway.’ But Moses had to go all the way to the top of Mount Sinai. He required effort from Moses and Joshua and Joseph Smith and from all of the subsequent Presidents of the Church. He requires effort from bishops and stake and Relief Society presidents and elders quorum presidents. There is always a test. Are you willing to do really hard things? Once you’ve shown you’re willing to do your part, He will help you. (p. 197)
He makes me feel a strong desire to be willing to do my part.
May 1, 2021
There are some people that you can't help but be inspired by; President Nelson is one of them. Regardless of your position to the Church, his life will help you be a better friend and family member. This book gave me inspiration to continue my pursuit of personal, spiritual, and professional goals.
Also, Sheri Dew could write about grass growing and I'd be like, "Wow that grass is an example to us all." She's just good.
Also, Sheri Dew could write about grass growing and I'd be like, "Wow that grass is an example to us all." She's just good.
September 26, 2020
This book was extraordinary. One of my very favorites by far.
December 16, 2019
This book is amazing. Honestly, I was not at all expecting to like it as much as I did. I thought it would be fine... but it is actually quite moving and emotional to read.
What an incredible life this man has lead so far, and it kind of seems like he's just getting started! His energy is staggering. I thought this book would be sweet, but I had no idea it would be so powerful. Seeing how President Nelson has entirely turned his life over to God over years and years is so inspiring. I was especially moved by the stories about his missionary work in Europe, his interactions with women, and his relationships with the other brethren. His years as a renowned heart surgeon were amazing to read about, especially how he made his profession a spiritual endeavor instead of simply and intellectual one. His interactions with 10 of 16 of the Lord's modern day prophets were so interesting to read about, particularly his interactions with President Kimball, who acted as a second father to President Nelson.
Miracles still happen for those who seek God. President Nelson not only knows how to receive and implement revelation, he also knows how to inspire it. I learned so much from this book. I cannot recommend it more highly. Whether or not you are a Latter-day Saint, I'd encourage you to read it so you can understand a little more about the man who currently leads our church.
What an incredible life this man has lead so far, and it kind of seems like he's just getting started! His energy is staggering. I thought this book would be sweet, but I had no idea it would be so powerful. Seeing how President Nelson has entirely turned his life over to God over years and years is so inspiring. I was especially moved by the stories about his missionary work in Europe, his interactions with women, and his relationships with the other brethren. His years as a renowned heart surgeon were amazing to read about, especially how he made his profession a spiritual endeavor instead of simply and intellectual one. His interactions with 10 of 16 of the Lord's modern day prophets were so interesting to read about, particularly his interactions with President Kimball, who acted as a second father to President Nelson.
Miracles still happen for those who seek God. President Nelson not only knows how to receive and implement revelation, he also knows how to inspire it. I learned so much from this book. I cannot recommend it more highly. Whether or not you are a Latter-day Saint, I'd encourage you to read it so you can understand a little more about the man who currently leads our church.
October 31, 2022
I love the way Sheri Dew writes biographies. They are immensely readable and fascinating. She is the perfect person to write Russell M. Nelson's biography due to her closeness to his family as bff to his wife, Wendy. I could feel her love for the Nelsons through her words.
Russell M. Nelson is a genius. Even for those viewing his life through non-religious lenses, that is an incontrovertible fact. His work as a pioneer in open-heart surgery was amazing and awe-inspiring. He has led a full life of 98 years. It was hard not to feel like I am not quite squeezing the marrow out of my life after reading about all the things Pres. Nelson has done professionally, with his large family, and through his church. It has been a life well-lived.
I appreciate Pres. Nelson's compassion and love for others. As anyone who leads a public life, I'm sure there are people who have reasons to criticize him. But I have found him to be an example of what a true disciple of Christ should be ... not perfect, but trying very hard to be his best self in all circumstances. It took me a while to finish this story, but I enjoyed it every step of the way. Five stars.
Russell M. Nelson is a genius. Even for those viewing his life through non-religious lenses, that is an incontrovertible fact. His work as a pioneer in open-heart surgery was amazing and awe-inspiring. He has led a full life of 98 years. It was hard not to feel like I am not quite squeezing the marrow out of my life after reading about all the things Pres. Nelson has done professionally, with his large family, and through his church. It has been a life well-lived.
I appreciate Pres. Nelson's compassion and love for others. As anyone who leads a public life, I'm sure there are people who have reasons to criticize him. But I have found him to be an example of what a true disciple of Christ should be ... not perfect, but trying very hard to be his best self in all circumstances. It took me a while to finish this story, but I enjoyed it every step of the way. Five stars.
October 17, 2025
I started this book on my mission a few years ago and brought it home with me, but only picked it back up a few weeks ago. It’s a stunning biography, beautiful crafted and thoroughly researched. Now, just a few weeks after President Nelson’s passing, it stands as an even more beautiful and profound tribute to the life and work of a prophet of God. I felt inspired and touched while reading it as I reflected on my own experiences and memories of him, and how his leadership shaped my youth and young adult years. I took many notes, highlighted so many passages, and scribbled dozens of hearts in the margins next to things that touched me. It was a beautiful way to remember this man of God, and I am inspired to be better and more devoted to my faith, and to try to be more generous and compassionate.
March 30, 2020
My admiration for this incredible man grew exponentially as I read this book about Russell M. Nelson. What a great example he is of how to truly love others and to put the Lord first. I loved the many stories and was surprised that I had previously heard many of them, but loved reading them again as well as reading new stories about his life that I did not know. I also loved the colored photographs throughout the book. He is truly extraordinary in many ways. I'm looking forward to General Conference to hear from this dear Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!
May 5, 2021
This book was super interesting. I didn't know much about the Prophet's background before reading this. I enjoyed the short chapters that felt like glimpses into his personality. I think Sheri Dew did a great job of engaging the reader.
I am so happy to have read this. It really helped me connect more with the Prophet and see how much the Lord is leading him today. And the way he lives his life! So full of energy! It made me want to get things done! Truly blessed to have such a wonderful leader in the world today.
I am so happy to have read this. It really helped me connect more with the Prophet and see how much the Lord is leading him today. And the way he lives his life! So full of energy! It made me want to get things done! Truly blessed to have such a wonderful leader in the world today.
March 30, 2020
What an amazing book! Such a great testimony builder to learn more about our beloved prophet. There were so many times that I was in awe and humbled as I read about his many life experiences. This book has made me love President Russel M. Nelson even more❤️
December 18, 2020
I listened to this audiobook months ago and forgot to put it up on goodreads until my husband finished it this week, so I don't remember specifics, but I do remember really enjoying it. I thought it was fascinating and insightful, and my love for the prophet was enhanced by learning about his life.
May 15, 2022
It was very interesting to read about how someone becomes a prophet of the Church. Especially one that also grew up in Utah to parents that did not preach the gospel. However, I wish the book included the covid-19 pandemic because I think it will be known as a big part of his presidency. Especially since he was a doctor for so many years.
February 21, 2023
Absolutely loved this book. I learned so much and so much love and respect for the amazing man.
April 27, 2020
I found this book both interesting and inspiring. I loved learning about this prophet’s life and it gave me perspective in my own life!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,503 reviews