The context in which this book must be read is given in the first chapter. The author says, and I paraphrase, "This book doesn't ask the question, 'Did Joseph Smith write the Book of Mormon?' This book assumes that he did, and addresses the question, 'How did Joseph Smith write the Book of Mormon?'"
In short, don't look for a fair approach to the first question. That's not what this book is about.

Anderson has a great handle on Mormon history. The insights that he offers into how certain traumatic events in Joseph Smith's childhood could have affected his personality are often enlightening, and always interesting. i.e. The trauma associated with the near amputation of Smiths leg, and the public humiliation of being on trial for being a glass looker. Anderson does a nice job of helping us reflect on Smith's humanity. He helps us see that these events are indeed difficult for a person to go through, and that they can shape how one views the world.

That said, I thought this book also had some fundamental problems. For example, at times Anderson uses the Book of Mormon text to help determine the order or details of certain historical events in Joseph's life. Other times he seems to claim to know exactly what motivated Smith on certain occasions, because of what is written in a part of the Book of Mormon. This seemed too speculative to me. Some of this speculation is interesting theory, other portions seem specious.

Nevertheless, an interesting read. A intriguing theoretical approach.

I wish I could give it four and a half stars. Dr. Anderson takes a fine point to the early life of Joseph Smith. With impeccable care and documentation, he leads us through the childhood of a man who would exhibit a type of genius rarely seen in charismatic leaders. Anderson wisely limits himself to the effects of Joseph's experiences in the composition and contents of the Book of Mormon. By the time the "semi-retired psychiatrist" gets to the end of the book, he barely needs to justify or explain his diagnosis since he's already done so from a variety of angles previously. My only criticism is that occasionally Dr. Anderson extends his theories and suppositions quite far, but he usually does so with qualifications.

Not for the initiate into the arcane world of LDS theology and history. Try "Mormon America" first. But for a guy like me who spent 40 years (two as a missionary) in "the Church," it's a haunting trip into the mind of a very famous, unique American religious leader.

The value of the insights in this book cannot be overstated. The author makes an extremely convincing case that Joseph Smith wrote the Book of Mormon himself, and in the process inadvertently let items from his [Smith's] own life color the narrative, providing a sort of "free association" setting during the dictation. Although the author uses these "colorings" to form a psychoanalytical profile for the Mormon prophet, the listing of parallels alone are well worth the price of the book.

The author's intent is to provide a tentative diagnosis, and he fully explains the inherent weaknesses in such an approach. Although there may be alternative diagnoses for Smith, the evidences themselves outlined by the author that Joseph Smith wrote the Book of Mormon are *not* so weak and will be much more difficult for the apologists to refute.

Much material about Mormonism, pro- and con-, has been hashed and rehashed. This book does not contain any of that. This book offers a refreshing and unique dimension to the pro- vs. con- dialogue. Often I caught myself saying, "Why didn't I think of that?"

I heartily recommend this book.

Though I've studied under Bob Saucy and read this book for his class I confess that it is very poor. It is trite and simplistic in its approach and Anderson thinks everything is demonic and seems to have zero common sense about him. Saucy tries to add some theological substance but it is hackneyed and not well thought out. Don't waste your time with this book when there are countless others that don't hurt so much to read.

I have been a Christian for many years, but like so many, had really struggled with guilt, apprehension etc. as to whether I was "really saved". This book sums up the book of Romans; i.e. Salvation is a FREE GIFT of God. there's nothing you "have to do" (nor anything you CAN do) to "earn" salvation. In fact, it is referred to here as the Galation Heresy to somehow strive to achieve salvation. What Christ did He did for past sin, current sin, and future sin. All one "needs" to do is believe and trust. This is obviously an over-simplified synopsis, but it is just this knowledge that changed me from an anxiety-ridden, guilt-tripping Christian to a celebratory, thankful and victorious one. Read this book and it will change YOUR life, too! I cannot recommend it any more highly. God Bless you as you seek Him.

A lot has changed since 1909 when Anderson's book was first published. Most readers will find either Josh McDowell's 'Daniel in the critics' den : historical evidence for the authenticity of the Book of Daniel' of Joyce Baldwin's 'Daniel' more useful