Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling

Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling is a comprehensive biography of the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, written by Richard Bushman, a Columbia University historian and practicing Mormon. The book presents Smith's life story within the context of early nineteenth-century American religious and cultural movements. The biography addresses both the religious and secular aspects of Smith's life, including his early years in New England, his religious visions, and the formation of the Mormon church. Bushman draws from extensive primary sources and historical documents to construct a detailed narrative of Smith's personal journey and public ministry. The work maintains a balanced perspective, acknowledging controversial elements of Smith's life while placing them within their historical context. Bushman's unique position as both a respected historian and a member of the LDS church informs his approach to the subject matter. The biography stands as a significant contribution to religious scholarship, examining how individual faith intersects with institutional religion and exploring the complex relationship between prophetic claims and American society. The work raises questions about the nature of religious authority and the role of charismatic leadership in forming new religious movements.

Readers commend Bushman's thorough research and balanced approach to Joseph Smith's life, though some Mormon readers find it too critical while non-Mormon readers consider it too favorable toward Smith. Readers appreciated: - Extensive primary source documentation - Coverage of controversial topics like polygamy and treasure-seeking - Clear writing style that makes complex history accessible - Inclusion of both faith-affirming and challenging historical details Common criticisms: - Too academic/dry for casual readers - Insufficient coverage of Smith's theological innovations - Occasional apologetic tone in addressing difficult issues Ratings: Goodreads: 4.17/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (850+ ratings) Representative review: "Bushman doesn't shy away from Smith's flaws but also helps readers understand his religious motivations. The book requires patience but rewards careful reading." - Amazon reviewer Many readers note this book works best for those already familiar with Mormon history basics rather than newcomers to the subject.

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🔹 Bushman, himself a practicing Mormon and the Gouverneur Morris Professor Emeritus of History at Columbia University, spent nearly 20 years researching and writing this biography. 🔹 The book's title comes from a quote by Joseph Smith himself, who said: "I am like a huge, rough stone rolling down from a high mountain... knocking off a corner here and a corner there." 🔹 Published in 2005, this work was the first major academic biography of Joseph Smith since Fawn Brodie's controversial "No Man Knows My History" in 1945. 🔹 The book draws from over 450 contemporary documents, including personal letters, journals, and court records, many of which had not been extensively analyzed in previous Smith biographies. 🔹 Despite being written by a believing Mormon, the book openly addresses controversial topics like Smith's practice of plural marriage and his involvement in folk magic, earning praise from both Mormon and non-Mormon scholars.