Edward L. Kimball (1930–2016)

As a twelve-year-old bassist I shared the stage of the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. with many singers and other instrumentalists. The concluding speaker was a short, bald, white-haired man who paused every so often to drink from a glass of water by the podium. I decided to listen. After the meeting ended, I neglected my musical duties and went up to him sure that I would be reproved, but wanting to shake his hand. The friendly warmth of his greeting remains with me to this day. show more And to this day this is a book I cannot reread without without being deeply stirred and wanting somehow to be a better person. show less

President Kimball’s biography, which was written by two of his sons, Edward and Andrew Kimball, opened my eyes to the sincere, gentle, and kind man he strived to be.

Because his biography was written by his two sons, they provided a personal view of the man who was to be called as prophet. They had access to his many decades of journals, but they also provided insights in the man they grew up with. Obviously, they wrote with love but they wrote with themselves at a distance: I never felt show more the book was overly sentimental in terms of the authors’ narration. Rather, I think they provided interesting insights from their memory that gave the book depth and interest. Further, they addressed Spencer Kimball’s failings and problems throughout the book: it was not a perfect rosy picture of a perfect man. Instead, as I read, I came to know much better a human who happened to be called to serve his God and who I revere as a prophet in this latter-day age of the world.

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This Biography of President Kimball was surprisingly candid in sharing his desires, experiences, shortcomings, health challenges and diligence. I was amazed at all that he endeavoured to do during his life and his humility and capability to do so much. His "do it" attitude was inspiring. I highly recommend this book.
Ryan

Great detailed biography of Spencer W. Kimball, a great LDS leader and loving person.