Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days

Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days chronicles the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from its origins in the early 1800s. This multi-volume narrative history combines historical records, personal journals, and church documents to present the experiences of both church leaders and everyday members. The book follows key events, revelations, migrations, and challenges faced by the early members of the church across different locations in America. Personal stories and accounts from men and women who lived through these events provide perspective on the development of the religious movement and its growth into an international church. The work is structured chronologically and includes historical context for major events in church history, from its founding to modern times. Each volume focuses on a specific era of church history, with detailed source citations and explanatory notes to support the historical narrative. This comprehensive history examines themes of faith, perseverance, and community building while documenting the establishment and evolution of a religious tradition. The intersection of personal conviction and institutional development forms a central thread throughout the narrative.

Readers appreciate the narrative style that makes Church history accessible and engaging. Many note it reads more like a novel than a dry historical text. Mormon readers value the frank discussion of complex historical issues and inclusion of previously less-discussed topics. Likes: - Clear, straightforward writing - Extensive footnotes and citations - Personal stories and details about historical figures - Available free digitally - Professional narration in audiobook version Dislikes: - Some find it too simplified for serious study - Non-Mormon readers note clear faithful/devotional perspective - A few readers wanted more depth on controversial topics Ratings: Goodreads: 4.5/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (1,900+ ratings) "Makes history come alive without sensationalizing" - Goodreads reviewer "Well-researched but maintains faith-promoting tone" - Amazon reviewer "Good introduction but not comprehensive" - Deseret Book reviewer

Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling by Richard L. Bushman A biography examining Joseph Smith's life through historical documents and primary sources provides context for the founding of the LDS Church.

David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism by Gregory Prince This church history chronicles the transformation of the LDS Church into a global religion during McKay's presidency through interviews and archival research.

The Mormon People: The Making of an American Faith by Matthew Bowman This history traces the development of the LDS Church from its founding through the twenty-first century with focus on social and cultural evolution.

Women of Faith in the Latter Days by Richard E. Turley Jr., Brittany A. Chapman A collection of biographical essays presents the experiences of LDS women from 1775 to 1820 through personal writings and historical records.

By the Hand of Mormon: The American Scripture that Launched a New World Religion by Terryl L. Givens This examination of the Book of Mormon's role in religious history presents its impact on American culture and the development of the LDS Church.

🔹 The book was created by more than 300 researchers, writers, editors, and Church reviewers working together, making it a collaborative project rather than having a single author. 🔹 Unlike previous official Church histories, Saints is written in a narrative style similar to a novel, incorporating dialogue and personal details to make the history more engaging. 🔹 The complete work is planned as a four-volume series, with each volume covering a different era of Church history, from its founding to the present day. 🔹 Primary sources for the book include personal journals, letters, and records that had never before been published in an official Church history. 🔹 The book is available free of charge in 14 languages through the Church's website and mobile apps, and as an audiobook in select languages.