Reviews
Resources
HOME

 

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF CRITICAL REVIEWS AND RESPONSES TO
SELECTED BOOKS AND ARTICLES ABOUT MORMONISM

Compiled with Comments by
Danel W. Bachman (DWB)
 with additions by others*
Last Updated 26 December 2003

Anderson, Rodger I. Joseph Smith's New York Reputation Reexamined, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1990).

Ankerberg, John and John Weldon, Behind The Mask Of Mormonism. (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 1992).

Abstract: This book is a reprint of an earlier work entitled Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Mormonism: The Truth About The Mormon Church. (See below.)  Peterson did an 86 page, 188 note review of that book, and on the surface it appeared that not much had changed in this edition.  However with a closer look Peterson found that a number of his criticisms had brought about revisions despite a new appendix in response to the review dismissing his arguments as meaningless personal attacks or a refusal to deal with the issues.   These covert changes, Peterson finds amusing in light of the author's criticism of the LDS church for allegedly secretly changing its documents and history.  Despite the changes the revision is still riddled with mistakes revealing the fundamental ignorance of the authors about their subject.  Moreover, the tone and intent of the book has not changed and remains what Peterson describes as a "bigoted, intolerant, ugly, incompetent...wretched specimen of fundamentalist Protestant hate literature." (P. 69)  The authors rely heavily on the Tanners and are rather typical examples of the common anti-Mormon tactic of recycling time-worn and superannuated arguments of other anti-Mormons.  Peterson concludes with a ten page exploration of the academic credentials of the authors and raises serious questions about whether either of them have earned doctorates--another common denominator among some professional anti-Mormons.   [DWB, 27 June 1998].

Ankerberg, John and John Weldon, Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Mormonism. (Eugene, OR, n.d.)

Ashment, Edward H. "The Use Of Egyptian Magical Papyri To Authenticate The Book Of Abraham: A Critical Review," (Salt Lake City: Resource Communications, 1993)

Bartley, Peter. Mormonism: The Prophet, The Book And The Cult, (Dublin: Veritas, 1989).

Abstract:  Peterson finds it ironical that a press supporting Catholicism (Ignatius Press of San Francisco, with a reputation of publishing high quality materials), should condescend to publish a low quality anti-Mormon polemic.  He devotes twenty-four pages of review to a book of 110 pages.   Bartley's is, according to Peterson, an "across-the-board attack on Mormonism (p. 32).  Bartley finds Latter-day Saints incompetent, dishonest, uninformed, unscientific, lacking critical thinking faculties and superficial.  LDS doctrine is characterized as "kindergarten theology."  On the other hand, Peterson warns, after several examples of Bartley's antiquated and ill-conceived positions, that we are not going to find rigorous and well grounded arguments in the book.  Bartley is painfully unaware of recent LDS scholarship on the following issues relating to the Book of Mormon: the eleven witnesses (pp. 35-37), possible credibility of the Book of Mormon (p. 40) (in footnote 24 on this page Peterson also demonstrates Bartley is unaware of LDS scholarship on the apostasy too), all American Indians are descendants of Lamanites (pp. 41-42), there is no Hebrew spoken or used in the New World (pp. 42-43), the Anthon episode (p. 44), borrowing from Ethan Smith's View Of The Hebrews (p. 44), cities in the New World (pp. 44-47), use of metals and knowledge of metallurgy in the New World (pp. 48-49), weapons (pp. 48-49), grain (pp. 49-50), war and peace among the Mayas (p. 50), style in the Book of Mormon (p. 51), the method of translation (pp. 51-52), multiple authorship (p. 52), and plagiarism (pp. 53-54). [DWB, 4 July 1998]

Beckwith, Francis J. and Stephen E. Parrish. The Mormon Concept Of God: A Philosophical Analysis. (Lewiston, N.Y.: Mellen, 1991)

Bloom, Harold. The American Religion: The Emergence Of The Post-Christian Nation. (New York: Simon & Schuster, 1992)

Brodie, Fawn McKay. No Man Knows My History: The Life Of Joseph Smith, The Mormon Prophet. (New York: Vintage Books, 1995)

  • Midgley, Louis "F.M. Brodie-`The Fasting Hermit And Very Saint Of Ignorance'" A Biographer And Her Legend," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 8/2 (1996): 147-230.

Brooke, John L. The Refiners Fire: The Making Of Mormon Cosmology, 1644-1844, (New York: Cambridge University Press, 1994).

  • Barlow, Philip L. "Decoding Mormonism," Christian Century, (17 January 1996): 52-55.
  • Bitton, Davis. review in BYU Studies, 34/4 (1994-95): 182-192.
  • Bushman, Richard L. "The Secret History Of Mormonism," Sunstone, (March 1996): 66-70.
  • Hamblin, William J., Daniel C. Peterson, and George L. Mitton, "Mormon In The Fiery Furnace: Or Loftes Tryk Goes To Cambridge," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 3-58.   (An abridged version of this essay appeared in BYU Studies 34/4 (1994-95): 167-181.
  • Underwood, Grant. "A Brooke Review," unpublished review delivered at the 1995 MHA convention.
  • Welch, John W. "Two Reviews: Mormonism And The Hermetic World View," BYU Studies, 34/4 (1994-95): 165-166.  [Welch is the editor of BYU Studies.  These are his introductory comments to the two reviews in this list from volume 34/4.]
  • Whittaker, David. "Throwing Water On Brooke's Fire," unpublished review delivered at the 1995 MHA convention.

Budvarson, Arthur. The Book Of Mormon-True Or False? (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1961)

  • Sperry, Sidney B. Problems Of The Book Of Mormon, (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1964), chapters 20-24.
  • Sperry, Sidney B. Answers to Book of Mormon Questions, (Salt Lake City, Bookcraft, 1967), chapters 20-24.

Abstract  This book was originally titled Problems of The Book of Mormon and was first published in 1964.  This new edition is revised and enlarged and contains some articles that were not in the first printing. (added by SDB 7 Jul 1999)

Buerger, David John. The Mysteries Of Godliness: A History Of Mormon Temple Worship.  (San Francisco: Smith Research Associates, 1994)

  • Brown, Matthew B. "Of Your Own Selves Shall Men Arise," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 97-131.

Charles, Melodie Moench. "Book Of Mormon Christology," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 81-114.

  • Baron, Ross David "Melodie Moench Charles And The Humanist Worldview," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 7/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1995): 91-119.
  • Millet, Robert L. "By What (Whose) Standards Shall We Judge The Text? A Closer Look At Jesus Christ in The Book Of Mormon," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994):187-199.

Abstract:  Millet mainly disagrees with Charles' point that Mormon authors do not let the Book of Mormon text speak for itself and provides a number of examples to this effect.  He also disagrees with her contention that Joseph's theology of God evolved and there was a marked move away from traditional Christian Trinitarianism, reflected in the Book of Mormon, after the year 1835.  He makes the excellent argument that on several occasions Joseph warned his people that he had not told them everything he knew because they were not prepared to hear it.  Therefore it is not correct to use as a gauge what the Saints knew or reported.   It thought this was not Millet's best effort.  Some of his arguments are not clear, others seem rather superficial.  I had the impression he wrote this at the request of FARMS and did a hasty once-over job. (DWB, 14 September 1998.)

Compton, Todd. In Sacred Loneliness: The Plural Wives Of Joseph Smith, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1997)

  • Anderson, Richard Lloyd and Scott H. Faulring, "The Prophet Joseph And His Plural Wives," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 67-104.

Abstract: The biggest challenge in writing about plural marriage is using reliable information on this private and intimate subject.   This is one of this book's weaknesses because "many of these documentary pieces do not fit together well." (p. 69)  Compton wages a constant campaign against plural marriage, but the question is, is this derived from his research or an expression of his premise?  The authors challenge a number of Compton's evaluations in his prologue about the plural marriages of Joseph Smith.  They reduce the number of wives by four, three of whom were previously married, thus reducing the number of polyandrous marriages from 11 to 8.  They also provide information that significantly modifies the impression given by the list of his "younger" wives.  The unsupported generalization that Joseph's polyandrous marriages were sexual is also challenged.  There is some evidence for believing that in these cases they were for eternity and not time.  An effective rebuttal to the notion that Joseph did not adequately inform Emma about some of his plural marriages is provided.  The review also treats several miscellaneous problems raised in the book such as: 1) the naturalistic tendencies in Compton's historical analysis; 2) the Danites; 3) the authority of the Twelve vs the High Council; and 4) the fate of Joseph's widows. (DWB, 11 December 1998)

  • Bachman, Danel W. "Prologue To The Study Of Joseph Smith's Marital Theology," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/2 (1998): 105-137.

Abstract:  Compton's book is found to have both methodological and conceptual problems.  Compton's biases about plural marriage underlay his thesis and drive flawed methodology used to derive it.  He relies extensively on speculation and generalization which, along with his conclusions, often rest on dubious historical or theological premises and reasoning.  His analysis of texts used to describe a marital theology which allegedly justified both the practice of plural marriage generally and polyandry specifically is shown to be erroneous, unsophisticated and inadequate.  (DWB, 10 December 1998.)

Cornforth, Leon. Meeting The Mormon Challenge With Love. (Marshing, ID.: Cornofrth, 1997)

  • Tvedtnes, John A. "Nothing New Under The Sun," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 264-270.

Crane, Charles and Steven. Ashamed Of Joseph: Mormon Foundations Crumble. (Joplin, MO: College Press, 1993)

Abstract:  Crain claims a missionary on Temple Square, when asked why not much was said about Joseph Smith, replied "We are sort of embarrassed by him today."  Jacobson went to Temple Square to see for himself.  Nonsense.  Notes Crane's failure to examine pertinent data.   He is behind the times on Spaulding and Ethan Smith.  Lots of mistakes, repeating negative stories, accepting them all.  Good list of accusations against Jesus on page 87.  Gives good answers on the negative stories, and negative comments about Lucy's book.  Crane is hypocritical for talking about sharing in love with the Saints with a book filled with insults and half truths.  [DWB, 24 October 1998]

Decker, Ed. Decker's Complete Handbook On Mormonism. (Eugene: Harvest House, 1995)

Abstract:  In this lengthy (67 page) and devastating review/rebuttal, Dan Peterson repeatedly shows what he finally concludes about the author, that he is a demagogue of the worst sort and a resilient professional religious bigot (p. 104).  Peterson catalogues an astonishing array of examples from the spirit of murder in Decker's wish that Joseph Smith had been assassinated earlier (p. 67, n. 75), to his efforts to prevent religious freedom, especially for Mormons, in Africa, South American and Israel.  Decker is repeatedly shown lying to, deceiving, inflaming, frightening, and alienating his audiences against Mormons and Mormonism by telling, or making up, every fantastic tale he can about the Church and its people.   He is inconsistent and maintains a severe double standard which he holds Mormonism to ruthlessly.  Again and again Decker makes assertions and makes up facts without providing evidence or argument.  In dozens of instances Peterson shows how Decker continues to rely on old worn-out and refuted anti-Mormon arguments, either blissfully ignorant or purposefully silent about that literature.  There are so many issues raised in this review it is difficult to capture its essence.  [DWB, 14 August 1998]

Epperson, Steven. Mormons And Jews: Early Mormon Theologies Of Israel. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1992)

  • Judd, Frank F. Jr., and Terrance L. Szink, "The Restoration Of Israel In The Book Of Mormon," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 7/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1995: 106-122.

Farkas, John R. and David A. Reed. Mormonism: Changes, Contradictions, and Errors. (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1995)

Abstract:  The goal of this book is to accept the challenge of Joseph Fielding Smith to detect errors or contradictions of Mormonism through the accepted standards of measurement-the scriptures.  Both men are dedicated anti-Mormons and have co-authored three anti-Mormon books.  Foster finds the authors so intent on their goal that they have allowed shoddy analysis and unrestrained bias turn their work into an incompetent, superficial anti-Mormon book.   The authors even encourage their readers not to pray about the Book of Mormon!  The book's most basic problem is that it is "unapologetically biased, simplistic, and unprofessional."  Foster's examples of the author's ignorance of LDS history and selective use of evidence: a) Joseph Smith and other Church leaders didn't adhere to the Word of Wisdom, b) Contradictions in the D&C's use of code names with Lk. 8:17 which says that nothing is secret nore anything hid, c) two different phrases in the baptismal prayers!, d) that LDS scriptures contradict each other on plural marriage, conveniently leaving out Jacob 2:30, and, e) condemning Mormon plural marriage and ignoring it in the Bible.  As examples of poor logic an analysis he cites: a) Zelph couldn't have been wounded in New York and died in Illinois, b) Jesus wouldn't allow part of his work to be lost, c) the Book of Mormon incidents are unbelievable, but similar things in the Bible are not, and, d) misinterpretation of the Civil War prophecy and concluding it failed because it has not all been fulfilled yet.  Gives extensive list of wars between 1861 and 1961. [DWB, 9 July 1998]

Helland, Dean Maurice. "Meeting The Book Of Mormon Challenge In Chile." (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms International, 1990)

  • Midgley, Louis.  "Playing With Half A Decker: The Countercult Religious Tradition Confronts The Book Of Mormon," in Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 5 (Link currently unavailable) (1993): 116-171.

Holley, Vernal. Book Of Mormon Authorship: A Closer Look, (Ogden, UT: Zenos Publications, 1983.)

Abstract:  Norwood finds that Holley's tone and approach is more moderate than most anti-Mormon works and is "generally void of polemics."  Holley is content to present his findings and allow the reader to draw their conclusions.  His book resurrects the Spaulding theory of the origin of the Book of Mormon.  He provides, according to Norwood's count, about 181 alleged parallels between the Book of Mormon and Spaulding's Manuscript Story.  This is more than any previous author.  However, Norwood questions the significance of the parallels.  At one point Holley even suggests that opposites constitute a form of parallel, which nearly negates the idea.  Norwood writes, "After careful scrutiny of the Spaulding manuscript, I found that some of the parallels mentioned by Mr. Holley do exist while others do not, but never do I find parallels of enough significance to lend credence to the claims of plagiarism." (p. 81)  In addition, Norwood says he has isolated "no less than 100 differences between the two works" which presumably he thinks are significant.  Holley's assertion that there are even doctrinal similarities between chapter seven of Spaulding and the sermon of King Benjamin is disputed.  One of the more interesting innovations Holley comes up with is a map of the Lake Erie-Ontario region of Canada and the United States with 15-17 sites marked on it which are possible parallels with Book of Mormon place names and geography. Norwood provides four brief avenues of rebuttal but in a footnote refers to a more extensive study of his on the subject.  [DWB, 3 July 1998]

Howsepain, A. A. "Are Mormons Theists?" Religious Studies 32 (1996): 357-370.

  • Ostler, Blake T. "Worshipworthines And The Mormon Concept Of God," Religious Studies, 33 (1997): 315-326.
  • Peterson, Daniel C. "Editor's Introduction: Fictionary," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/2 (1998): v-xxii.

Abstract:  Howsepain published what amounts to be an anti-Mormon article in what is usually considered a reputable journal.   He claims that Mormons are not theists, worshipping a God.  This assertion is based on the definition of St. Anselm who argued that God is "something than which nothing greater can be conceived."  Because Latter-day Saints conceive of greater Gods above Elohim, Howsepain claims they are not truly worshiping God.   Peterson shows how both Anselm and Howsepain are too limited in their view of the definition of God and worship is.  He also discusses at length the disastrous consequences that would prevail if this sort of definition were applied across the religious board In addition, he exposes the evidence for anti-Mormon motivations that seem to underlie this attack.  [DWB, 10 December 1998]

Hullinger, Robert N. Joseph Smith's Response To Skepticism. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1992)

Hutchinson, Anthony A. "The Word Of God Is Enough: The Book Of Mormon As Nineteenth-Century Scripture," in Brent Lee Metcalf, ed., New Approaches to the Book of Mormon: Explorations in Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 1-19.

  • Midgley, Louis. "The Current Battle Over The Book Of Mormon: `Is Modernity Itself Somehow Canonical?'" in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 200-254.

Krakauer, Jon, Under the Banner of Heaven, reviewed on the LDS Church web site (Newsroom). 26 Dec 2003

Kunich, John C. "Multiply Exceedingly: Book Of Mormon Population Sizes," in Brent Lee Metcalf, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 231-267.

Langfield, Weldon. The Truth About Mormonism: A Former Adherent Analyzes The LDS Faith. (Bakersfield: Weldon Langfield Publications, 1991)

Larson, Charles M. ...By His Own Hand Upon Papyrus: A New Look At The Joseph Smith Papyri. (Grand Rapids: Institute For Religious Research, 1992)

Larson, Stan. Quest For The Gold Plates: Thomas Stuart Ferguson's Archaeological Search For The Book Of Mormon. (Salt Lake City: Freethinker Press, 1996)

  • Gee, John. "The Hagiography Of Doubting Thomas," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 158-183.

Abstract:  Gee begins by wondering aloud why Larson would write a biography of an apostate, especially when it is written on so narrow of a scope of his life as to exclude other more admirable characteristics.   He shows that Ferguson's exit was based on poor assumptions, logic, analysis and unrealistic expectation-expectations that were unreasonable because of his amateur status as an archaeologist-regarding both the archaeology and geography of the Book of Mormon and because of doubts about the Book of Abraham.  Gee raises a number of questions about Larson's own lack of understanding of archaeology as well because it appears that Larson has adopted the same faulty reasoning that lead Ferguson astray.  He concludes by asking why Larson would want to encourage the Saints away from Mormonism to his brand of atheism, which not only robs them of the joy they find in the gospel, but offers them nothing in its place. [DWB, 10 December 1998]

Marquardt, H. Michael and Wesley P. Walters, Inventing Mormonism: Tradition And The Historical Record. (Salt Lake City: Smith Research Associates, 1994).

Martin, Walter R. The Maze Of Mormonism (Grand Rapids: MI: Zondervan, 1962).

  • Anderson, Richard L. review in BYU Studies 6/1 (Autumn 1964): 57-62.

Matheny, Deanne G. "Does The Shoe Fit? A Critique Of the Limited Tehuantepec Geography," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 269-328.

McKeever, Bill and Eric Johnson. Questions To Ask Your Mormon Friend: Effective Ways To Challenge A Mormon's Arguments Without Being Offensive.   (Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1994)

Metcalfe, Brent Lee. "Apologetic And Critical Assumptions About Book Of Mormon Historicity," Dialogue, 26/3 (Fall 1993): 154-184.

Metcalfe, Brent Lee, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993)

  • Anderson, Richard Lloyd, review of Mark D. Thomas, "A Rhetorical Approach To The Book Of Mormon: Rediscovering Nephite Sacramental Language," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 53-80, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 379-417.
  • Baron, Ross David, "Melodie Moench Charles And The Humanist Worldview," review of Melodie Moench Charles, "Book Of Mormon Christology," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 81-114, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 7/1 (1995): 91-119.
  • Bitton, Davis, review in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 1-7.
  • Gee, John.  "La Trahison des Cleres: On The Language And Translation Of The Book Of Mormon," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 51-120.
  • Maddox, John Wm. "A Listing Of Points And Counterpoints," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 8/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1996): 1-26.

    Abstract:  A response to the criticism that the FARMS review (6/1 and subsequent issues) of Brent L. Metcalfe's New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993), failed to address substantive issues in that book.  Maddox reviewed both and counted the arguments raised in New Approaches that he found responses to in FARMS review.  The article is a listing of 172 these points and counterpoints in summary form.  It becomes a good catalogue of many of the new arguments (or old wrapped in new clothes) against The Book of Mormon.  [DWB, 14 September 1998.]

  • Midgley, Louis. "The Current Battle Over The Book Of Mormon: `Is Modernity Itself Somehow Canonical?'" review of Anthony A. Hutchison, "The Word Of God Is Enough: The Book Of Mormon As Nineteenth-Century Scripture," in Brent Lee Metcalf, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 1-19, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 200-254.
  • Peterson, Daniel C. "Text And Context," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 524-562.
  • Roper, Matthew. "A More Perfect Priority?" review of Brent Lee Metcalfe, "The Priority Of Mosiah: A Prelude To Book Of Mormon Exegesis," in his New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 395-444, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 362-378.
  • Skousen, Royal "Critical Methodology And The Text Of The Book Of Mormon," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 121-144.
  • Smith, James E. "Nephi's Descendants? Historical Demography And The Book Of Mormon," review of John C. Kunich, "Multiply Exceedingly: Book Of Mormon Population Sizes," in Brent Lee Metcalf, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 231-267, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 254-296.
  • Sorenson, John L. "Viva Zapato! Hurray For The Shoe!" review of Deanne G. Matheny, "Does The Shoe Fit? A Critique Of the Limited Tehuantepec Geography," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 269-328, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (1994): 297-361.
  • Tanner, Martin S. review of Melodie Moench Charles, "Book Of Mormon Christology," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 81-114, in Daniel C. Peterson, Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 7/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1995): 6-37.
  • Tanner, Martins S. "Is There Anti-Universalist Rhetoric In The Book Of Mormon?" review of Dan Vogle, "Anti-Universalist Rhetoric In The Book Of Mormon," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 21-52, in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 418-433.
  • Tvedtnes, John A. review in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 8-50.
  • Welch, John W. "Approaching New Approaches," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 145-186.

Metcalfe, Brent Lee. "The Priority Of Mosiah: A Prelude To Book Of Mormon Exegesis," in his New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 395-444.

Owens, Lance S. "Joseph Smith And Kabbalah: The Occult Connection," Dialogue, 27/3 (1994): 117-194.

  • Hamblin, William J. "`Everything Is Everything': Was Joseph Smith Influenced By Kabbalah?" in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 8/2 (1996): 251-325.

Persuitte, David. Joseph Smith And The Origins Of The Book Of Mormon, (Jefferson, N.C.: McFarland, 1985).

Abstract:  Persuitte's book is persuasive in style and uncharacteristically moderate in tone although highly speculative.   The author seeks to discredit Joseph Smith's prophetic calling and he provides the most complete case, to the date of his publication, for the View Of The Hebrews theory of the origin of the Book of Mormon.  Norwood gives a brief history of the theory then focuses on the author's flaws in treating it.  Much of the controversy depends on the significance and value of this comparative approach.  This is not a sophisticated analysis of parallels or their shortcomings as historical tools.   Norwood finds some parallels highly strained and others trivial.  He does find "some compelling examples...the interpretation of which needs further analysis before concrete conclusions can be attained."  (p. 192)  Notably Persuitte's analysis of Mosiah 8.  Norwood also found that according to Persuitte's analysis only one book in the Book of Mormon allegedly received more than 8.09 % influence from View Of The Hebrews and less than 4.5 % of the total book Persuitte's problem according to Norwood is that he starts out with the assumption that there is a direct connection between View Of The Hebrews and The Book of Mormon and he does not allow for any other conclusion that would allow Joseph Smith to be a prophet.   Norwood concludes with a brief response to nine additional mistakes or errors by Persuitte related to the Book of Mormon, but which are not related to the View Of The Hebrews.  [DWB, 6 July 1998.]

  • Welch, John W. review in Pacific Historical Review (August 1986): 619-623.

Quinn, Michael D. Early Mormonism And The Magic World View, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1987).

  • Ricks, Stephen D. and Daniel C. Peterson, "The Mormon As Magus," Sunstone, 12 (January 1988): 38-39.
  • Robinson, Stephen E. review in BYU Studies, 27 (Fall 1987):88-95.

Quinn, Michael D. The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions Of Power, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1997)

Abstract:  Boyce analyzed the first chapter carefully and found so many problems he apparently decided to discontinue reading the book.  In one bit of Quinn's analysis he found that Quinn had reported facts inaccurately four times, distorted the tone of the original report three times, failed to substantiate a claim twice, failed to define key terms which allowed him to create suspicion twice.  In reference to sacred experiences of apostles and their testimony Boyce found Quinn accusing the brethren of bearing testimony in a false and misleading way.  He also found Quinn manufacturing contradictions where they don't exist and to be selective in the use of his evidence, often bypassing that which contradicted his line of reasoning.  He transforms explanation into confession.  For Boyce it is a matter of whether the reader can trust Quinn as a historian.  And in light of blatant misquoting, altering the tone of original reports, making claims without documentation, stretching interpretations of incidents to support claims, ignoring obvious explanations for supposed "problems," reaching false conclusions due to insufficient research, omitting evidence contrary to claims, fabricating contradictions, clinging to contradictions that are easily resolved, drawing conclusions contradicted by the book's own evidence, distorting the record to support them-all in one chapter, Boyce concludes with a resounding "no." Boyce is also persuasive in pointing out that these things are not inadvertent on Quinn's part.  He concludes that Quinn cannot be trusted to analyze carefully and fairly, or report accurately what his sources say.   Nor can the examples he uses and the quality and objectivity of his logic be trusted.  [DWB, 7 August 1998]

Quinn, D. Michael. Same-Sex Dynamics Among Nineteenth-Century Americans: A Mormon Example.  (Urbana: University Of Illinois Press, 1996)

  • Hansen, Klaus J.  "Quinnspeak," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 132-140.
  • Mitton, George L and Rhett S. James. "A Response To D. Michael Quinn's Homosexual Distortion Of Latter-day Saint History," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1998): 141-263.

Ropp, Harry L., with revisions from Wesley P. Walters, Are The Mormon Scriptures Reliable?  (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1987.) Revised edition of Harry L. Ropp, The Mormon Papers: Are The Mormon Scriptures Reliable?  (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1977.)

Abstract:  This is not an detailed nor devastating review or rebuttal.  This second edition of Ropp's book, with revisions by Wesley Walters adds a chapter reviewing "attempted defenses" of Book of Mormon archaeology and a discussion of Joseph Smith's expertise in translating Egyptian.  Wirth reviews some of the main points of Ropp's book, such as the question, "Are Mormons Christian?" but focuses on topics related to Book of Mormon archaeology.  Most things she mentions are standard fare such as: where the Lehite colony landed, barley, reformed Egyptian, the Kinderhook controversy, and geography.  She notes that anti-Mormons have a "fascination with pitting one Latter-day Saint scholar against another."  She also notes that in comparing early editions of the Doctrine and Covenants, on the issue of plural marriage, Ropp/Walters conveniently fail to quote Jacob 2:30 as part of the discussion.  In a "major attack" on the Book of Abraham, Wirth notes that the authors do not take into account that Joseph Smth may have had the ability through revelation go "give a full rendering of Abraham's original intent" regardless of how the papyri are translated.  [DWB, 7 July 1998]

Rudiger, Hauth. Die Mormonen: Seket Oder Neue Kirche Jesu Christi?  (Frieburg: Heider, 1995)

  • Peterson, Daniel C. "Skin Deep," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 9/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1997): 99-146.

Smith, George D., ed., Faithful History: Essays On Writing Mormon History. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1992)

Smith, George D., ed., Religion, Feminism, And Freedom Of Conscience: A Mormon/Humanist Dialogue. (Buffalo, NY, and Salt Lake City: Prometheus Books and Signature Books, 1994)

Southern Baptist Convention, The Mormon Puzzle: Understanding And Witnessing To Latter-day Saints. (Alpheretta, GA.: North American Mission Board Of The Southern Baptist Convention, 1997) Various manuals, a video, and pamphlets.

  • Peterson, Daniel C. "`Shall They Not Both Fall Into The Ditch?' What Certain Baptists Think They Know About The Restored Gospel," in Daniel C. Peterson, FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (1998): 12-96.

Spencer, James R. "The Disappointment Of B. H. Roberts: Five Questions That Forced A Mormon General Authority To Abandon The Book Of Mormon," (Boise, ID: Through The Maze, 1991)

Abstract:  This is a small pamphlet that doesn't merit a review because its arguments are dated and already answered.   Nevertheless, the questions continue to surface.  It poses five questions that B.H. Roberts supposedly said he could not answer about the Book of Mormon.  In addition to treating some of the subjects of the question, there is an extensive defense of the faith of B.H. Roberts in the Book of Mormon.  There are no direct statements from him that he lost his faith.  Brigham D. Madsen, editor of the semi-critical book of his studies says the evidence for B.H. Roberts loss of faith is mixed.  However, evidence is overwhelming that he did not lose his faith.  He was willing to speak up and didn't avoid controversy.  If he had problems he wouldn't have hidden them.   He continued to testify up to his death.  Truman G. Madsen has produced 140 pages of testimony.  Roberts used the Book of Mormon as a missionary tool while mission president from 1922 to 1927.  He intended to gather evidence for the Book of Mormon late n life, but he worked on his magnum opus instead.  [DWB, 23 July 1998]

Taydler, T. W. P. The Materialism Of The Mormons, or Latter Day Saints, Examined And Exposed, (Woolwich: Jones, 1849)

  • Pratt, Orson. "Absurdities Of Immaterialism, -Or, A Reply To T. W. P. Taydler's Pamphlet, Entitled, "The Materialism Of The Mormons Or Latter-Day Saints, Examined And Exposed," The Latter-Day Saints' Millennial Star, 11 (1 June-15 October 1849): 161-307.

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra. Answering Mormon Scholars: A Response To Criticism Of The Book "Covering Up The Black Hole In The Book Of Mormon," volume 1.  (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 1994)

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra. Answering Mormon Scholars: A Response To Criticism Of The Book "Covering Up The Black Hole In The Book Of Mormon," (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 199)

  • Roper, Matthew. "Unanswered Mormon Scholars," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 9/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1997): 87-145.

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra. Archaeology And The Book Of Mormon. (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 1969)

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra, "the Book of Mormon: Ancient Or Modern," Salt Lake City Messenger, 84 (April 1993): 5-10.

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra, Covering Up The Black Hole In The Book Of Mormon. (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 1990).

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra. "Joseph Smith's Use Of The Apocrypha," Salt Lake City Messenger, 89 (December 1995): 1-14.

  • Tvedtnes, John A. and Matthew Roper. "`Joseph Smith's Use Of The Apocrypha'" Shadow Or Reality?" in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 8/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1996): 326-372.

Tanner, Jerald and Sandra, Mormonism: Shadow Or Reality? 5th ed., (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 1987)

Thomas, Mark D. "A Rhetorical Approach To The Book Of Mormon: Rediscovering Nephite Sacramental Language," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 53-80.

Tolbert, Keith Edward and Eric Pement. The 1996 Directory Of Cult Research Organizations: A Worldwide Listing Of 752 Agencies And Individuals. (Trenton, Mich.: American Religions Center, 1996)

  • Midgley, Louis "Anti-Mormonism And The Newfangled Countercult Culture," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 10/1 (1998): 271-340.

Toscano, Margaret and Paul. Strangers In Paradox: Explorations In Mormon Theology.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1990)

Toscano, Paul. The Sanctity Of Dissent.   (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1994)

Tryk, Loftes. The Best Kept Secrets In The Book Of Mormon, (Redondo Beach, CA: Jacob's Well Foundation, 1988)

Van Gorden, Kurt. Mormonism. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995)

Abstract:  This book hd previously been reviewed by Daniel Peterson, but the author and his editor complained that Peterson only dealt with peripheral historical issues and did not take on substantive theological ones.  Norwood therefore, focuses on the theological part of Van Gorden's work.    He found that Van Gorden is fails to live up to the series editor's assertion that its authors have "considerable expertise" on their topics.  Van Gorden is given to "bald assertions," "straw-man arguments," factual errors, ignoring evidence that conflicts with his position, and bad reasoning.  Because he sees the same pattern throughout Van Gorden's treatment of theology, Norwood focuses on the authority of scripture and a closed canon for his analysis.  Here he finds Van Gorden blinded to other views on the subject by his evangelical perspectives, overlooking even other Protestant views of the canon, and engaging in strained exegesis of passages to bolster his arguments against an open canon and the role of Joseph Smith as an inspired prophet.  The conclusion of the review briefly discusses anti-Mormons and their motives and methods.  They possess an "unhealthy arrogance" with the consequences that they experience the "twin devils" of ignorance and rejection.   He also points out that there is a degree of shame attached to being anti-Mormon, as there is with being anti-Semitic or anti-Black.  [DWB, 7 August 1998]

Abstract:  The editor of this booklet, Alan W. Gomes, proclaims that the authors of this series on "cults "are highly qualified, well-respected professional Christian apologists with considerable expertise on their topics."(1)   Moreover a anti-cult talk show personality recommended this book to Peterson as an exception to the rule that most anti-Mormon literature is low quality.    Peterson tested Van Gorden on the Book of Mormon primarily and at points regarding archaeology, reformed Egyptian, Alma 7:10, matters regarding the witnesses and issues about the modern Church.  He found that Van Gorden was anything but an expert.   As to archaeology, Van Gorden presents as evidence that LDS efforts to authenticate the Book of Mormon through archaeology have failed miserably, the lost faith of Thomas Stuart Ferguson, completely ignoring the work of John Sorenson and others.  Van Gorden is unaware of or has also ignored detailed discussions of the Alma 7:10 issue.   He further says Oliver Cowdery denied his testimony of the Book of Mormon and David Whitmer was hallucinating, again unaware of or ignoring an extensive body of research to the contrary.  Peterson reproduces several excerpts from Whitmer's testimony in refutation.  One specifically deals with the possibility of hallucination which Whitmer vehemently denied.  Peterson also points out Van Gorden's error in saying the Church had denied the priesthood to American Indians.  The review concludes with Peterson saying, "Regrettably, Kurt Van Gorden's Mormonism fails in its application of ancient history and archaeology to the Book of Mormon.  It fails in its analysis of early Latter-day Saint history and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.  And it fails even in its understanding of modern Mormonism and of the place of the Book of Mormon peoples within it." (p. 103)  [DWB, 7 August 1998]

Vogel, Dan. "Anti-Universalist Rhetoric In The Book Of Mormon," in Brent Lee Metcalfe, ed., New Approaches To The Book Of Mormon: Explorations In Critical Methodology. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1993): 21-52.

Vogel, Dan. Indian Origins And The Book Of Mormon, (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1986).

Vogel, Dan. The Word Of God: Essays On Mormon Scripture. (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1990)

Abstract: Contains the famous line, "Korihor's back, and this time he's got a printing press."  [DWB, 28 June 1998]

Walker, John Phillip, ed. Dale Morgan On Early Mormonism: Correspondence And A New History.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1986)

  • Novak, Gary F. "`The Most Convenient Form Of Error': Dale Morgan On Joseph Smith And The Book Of Mormon," in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., FARMS Review Of Books, 8/1 (Link currently unavailable) (1996): 122-167.

Walters, Wesley P. The Use Of The Old Testament In The Book Of Mormon.  (Salt Lake City: Utah Lighthouse Ministry, 1990)

White, James. "Of Cities And Swords: The Impossible Task Of Mormon Apologetics," Christian Research Journal, (Summer 1996: 28-35.

Abstract:  Although it is not entirely clear from this review, apparently James White's article was a rebuttal of something William Hamblin had written regarding weapons, specifically swords, in the Book of Mormon.  Roper rebuts White on what may have constituted a sword, drawing swords, stains on and the brightness of the swords, and whether Book of Mormon swords had hilts and points.  Though White would have his readers believe he is a cut above the average anti-Mormon in knowledge about Mormon things, Roper finds him ill-informed on the issues mentioned above, and that he did not read Hamblin carefully or take into account the evidence Hamblin produced.  Inexplicably, Roper devotes several pages to swords made of steel, though he acknowledges that White does not dispute that issue.   Perhaps the justification is that according to Roper, White then insists on the basis of 2 Nephi 5:14 that all subsequent Book of Mormon swords were made of steel, which Roper then rebuts.  [DWB, 7 July 1998]

White, James R. Letters To A Mormon Elder. (Southbirdge, MA: Crowne, 1990)

White, O. Kendall, Jr.  Mormon Neo-Orthodoxy: A Crisis Theology.  (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1987)

  • Midgley, Louis. "A Mormon Neo-Orthodoxy Challenges Cultural Mormon Neglect Of The Book Of Mormon: Some Reflections On The `Impact Of Modernity,'" in Daniel C. Peterson, ed., Review Of Books On The Book Of Mormon, 6/2 (Link currently unavailable) (1994): 283-334.

Williams, Stephen. Fantastic Archaeology: The Wilde Side Of North American Prehistory.  (Philadelphia: University Of Pennsylvania Press, 1991)

Wilson, Luke P. "Does The Bible Teach Salvation For The Dead? A Survey Of The Evidence, Part I," Heart And Mind (January-March 1995): 1-4.

Wilson, Luke P. "Did Jesus Establish Baptism For The Dead?" Heart And Mind, (January-March 1997): 1-4.

1. Alan W. Gomes, "How To Use This Book," in Kurt Van Gorden, Mormonism, (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995), 6.

* Stanley D. Barker (SDB)