Joseph & Brigham: An Eternal Bond

by Susan Easton Black

Susan Easton Black, one of the great historians of our age, reveals for thefirst time the private friendship between Joseph Smith and Brigham Young.Though these two men grew up in close proximity to each other, they didn’t meet until Brigham was in his thirties. Their first meeting, which involved speaking in tongues and led to Joseph prophesying that one day Brigham would “preside over this Church,” proved to be a harbinger of their future relationship.But these two giants of the Restoration, indeed of the American West,didn’t always see eye to eye, though their friendship never faltered.Joseph’s inexperience in certain matters led to doubts in the minds ofmany, indeed to apostasy, but Brigham, nearly five years older, saw beyondthe inexperience to a man of prophetic vision called by God himself.Over time a respectful relationship grew into a deep and abidingfriendship, with both men willing to sacrifice their all for thekingdom—and for one another. What led to this deep commitment? What created this mutual trust and loyalty, even when others abandoned them? The answer lies in the foundation of their love, which was also the foundation of their undying faith. They knew. They knew God, and they knew each other.This great friendship, which began in the eternities and certainlycontinues there now, is the story of two men’s faith, commitment, and love.

Genres: Religion

173 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 16, 2021

About the author

Susan Easton Black is a retired professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. She is also an author of several books related to Joseph Smith, Jr. and the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (from Wikipedia)

Reviews

[Lesley Squire · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I loved learning more about the interactions and relationship between Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, both of whom I believe are prophets of God. I learned some things about church history that I did not previously know, and I was lifted and inspired by Joseph and Brigham’s words of testimony.

I give this four stars instead of five because there were typographical and editorial errors. Mistakes in layouts, etc. It definitely needed a better editor/proofreader. But the content was close to my heart and enjoyable to read.

[Rob · Rating 1 out of 5]

What a waste

First, not remotely what it claims to be. Provides nothing new about the relationship between Joseph and Brigham, nor even tries to.

Second, this reflects the kind of “history” that has. Caused nothing but trouble for the Church. Rose colored glasses that refuse to even acknowledge any potential issues with the narrative. It isn’t dishonest. It just isn’t exactly honest.

Third, not even an effort to use reliable sources or get facts right.

Finally, it is just a very superficial review of early Church history, all of which have been addressed far better than here. It reads like it was written by a marginal grad student. An utter waste of time, and a shameless “click bait” approach to selling books.

Complete disappointment.

[Zach Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful

So well researched and studied. There are almost half a thousand excellent historical sources in this book that guide a beautiful narrative that shows the deep connection Joseph Smith and Brigham Young had. I have no doubt that Brigham was called of God to continue to help restore the church after Joseph’s death. Thereby the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints truly is the Lord’s church restored again upon the earth and an unbroken chain of priesthood from Jesus Christ to the current prophet flows through this true church. Truth continues to be restored to the earth in its fullness. Wonderful book, I recommend it to all.

[Bryant Condie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

I learned quite a bit about Brigham Young and how he was tutored by Joseph Smith on how to lead the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints after Joseph's death. Brigham needed incredible strength to move the Saints to the West, and Joseph helped him to have it. Recommended!

[Scott Browning · Rating 1 out of 5]

There’s a lot more to these stories than what’s taught here. If faith promoting stories are more important than an honest history, this book is for you. Go beyond the myths and lore shared in this book. Find out who these fascinating men really were. You’re not going to find it here. My biggest disappointment with this book was the promotion of the transformation of Brigham Young. So dishonest. So dishonest. I expected more from a professor of history.

[Travis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most was familiar history to me as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but there were a few new things I learned. I liked the perspective of showing the relationship between the two leaders. I found it inspiring and uplifting. Good biography that built my faith and generally made me want to be a better person.