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In the Hands of the Lord: The Life of Dallin H. Oaks
Dallin H. Oaks may not have seemed the likeliest choice to become an Apostle. His life path had been anything but conventional. He was only seven when his mother became a widow. His young adulthood saw him joining the National Guard and marrying at nineteen. But all along that path, the Lord was preparing him for the call that would eventually come. This engaging biography by noted historian Richard E. Turley, Jr. takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the life of an extraordinary leader. It is filled with stories and photographs detailing his boyhood, his family life, his education and military experiences, and his distinguished academic and law career. Most important, we witness his willingness to set aside that career in favor of a higher responsibility. In 1984, when President Gordon B. Hinckley extended the call to the apostleship, Dallin H. Oaks replied, “My life is in the hands of the Lord, and my career is in the hands of His servants.” His lifetime of dedication to the Lord’s work gives truth to his words and offers inspiration and faith to all who ready his story.
408 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
About the author
Richard E. Turley Jr.
29 books19 followersRichard E. Turley Jr. retired in March 2020 as Managing Director of the Church Communication Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served previously as Managing Director of the Public Affairs Department, the Church Historical Department, the Family History Department, and the combined Family and Church History Department. He also served as Assistant Church Historian and Recorder. An innovator by nature, he helped oversee the creation of the four-volume history Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days, the launch of FamilySearch and FamilySearch Indexing, the building of the new Church History Library, the development of the Joseph Smith Papers, and the formation of the Church Historian’s Press. He acquired key books, documents, and artifacts for the Church’s historical collections, including the 1829 Printer’s Manuscript of the Book of Mormon. He also served for many years on the Church’s Historic Sites Committee.
He has authored or edited numerous books and articles on Latter-day Saint and Western U.S. history, including Massacre at Mountain Meadows: An American Tragedy; Victims: The LDS Church and the Mark Hofmann Case; How We Got the Book of Mormon; and How We Got the Doctrine and Covenants. He was the general editor for The Journals of George Q. Cannon print volumes, as well as coeditor of the series Women of Faith in the Latter Days.
Mr. Turley is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the American Historical Association's Herbert Feis award and the Historic Preservation Medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Mr. Turley received a bachelor’s degree in English from Brigham Young University, where he was a Spencer W. Kimball Scholar. He later graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU, where he served as executive editor of the law review, was elected to the Order of the Coif, and received the Hugh B. Brown Barrister’s Award, given to the student who demonstrates the highest standards of classroom performance.
In September 2023, the First Presidency announced that it had commissioned a new biography of the Prophet Joseph Smith to be written by Mr. Turley.
He has authored or edited numerous books and articles on Latter-day Saint and Western U.S. history, including Massacre at Mountain Meadows: An American Tragedy; Victims: The LDS Church and the Mark Hofmann Case; How We Got the Book of Mormon; and How We Got the Doctrine and Covenants. He was the general editor for The Journals of George Q. Cannon print volumes, as well as coeditor of the series Women of Faith in the Latter Days.
Mr. Turley is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the American Historical Association's Herbert Feis award and the Historic Preservation Medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Mr. Turley received a bachelor’s degree in English from Brigham Young University, where he was a Spencer W. Kimball Scholar. He later graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU, where he served as executive editor of the law review, was elected to the Order of the Coif, and received the Hugh B. Brown Barrister’s Award, given to the student who demonstrates the highest standards of classroom performance.
In September 2023, the First Presidency announced that it had commissioned a new biography of the Prophet Joseph Smith to be written by Mr. Turley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 328 reviews
May 12, 2021
4.75 stars. Almost a 5. Despite some small reservations, everything I wanted from this biography was checked off.
When Dallin H. Oaks wrote Life's Lessons Learned back in 2011, I assumed that satisfied the life history requirement for a General Authority. Happy to be proven wrong.
This feels timely, pertinent, and should help Saints understand his unique background and perspective he brings to his role. I don't look to prophets and apostles for meme-able quotes and warm fuzzies; I seek direct guidance, and am 100% satisfied with how Dallin H. Oaks fills that function.
Seven highlights that will stick with me:
• The theme of changing perspectives based on additional knowledge and experience pokes its head up frequently, and is wonderful to observe. I love the mention of when Henry B. Eyring and Dallin H. Oaks disagree on an undisclosed topic. After the meeting, Oaks thanks Eyring for helping change his perspective. A good life lesson here.
• I love the Oaks children recollecting their parents occasional disagreement or having differing points of view. +10 points to Dallin and June for explaining to their children that "conflict will occur between husband and wife. The important thing is learning to work things out." Many biographies unfortunately suggests this never happens in the lives of religious leaders, which I worry establishes a false expectation.
• I appreciate feeling like Dallin H. Oaks is the General Authority successor to Leonard Arrington's vision for opening up the historical archives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and am grateful for his role in supporting the Joseph Smith Papers Project, the Saints four-volume history, and new publications regarding Mountain Meadows.
• President George H.W. Bush in the early 1990s saying, upon meeting with the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, that "he had never met a group of men with more comprehensive knowledge of what was going on in all parts of the world." It's easy to assume the brethren are unaware of societal trends and world events, and I appreciate a US President recognizing how informed Church leadership is.
• Learning that he has celiac disease. I shared this with my son 9-year old who has Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE) and avoids wheat, as well as many other foods. It meant a lot to him to know that he shares a food intolerance with a member of the First Presidency.
• In 1988, three years after being called to the apostleship, he once spent a lot of time telling stories from the pulpit, after which as he "sat down, the Spirit whispered to him, 'Never do that again.'" This appears to be a key in understanding why Dallin H. Oaks presents his doctrinal messages in such a solemn and serious tone.
• His lack of concern with people who become upset at his messages. Elder David A. Bednar is quoted: "He is fearless, absolutely fearless... He draws a lot of fire..., but he couldn't care less. All he wants to do is please Him whom he serves."
Five areas which left me wanting more, and keep me from a full 5-stars:
• Despite the clear value in a law school education, let's agree that a legal career does not sound exciting when written down (unless you're Atticus Finch). It is what it is, not the fault of the author. This will be known as the "2nd Nephi Isaiah Chapters" section of this biography.
• His experience leading Brigham Young University in the 1970s is nothing more than a blip and feels like a missed opportunity. Henry B. Eyring's biography provides fascinating details about his role at Rick's College during this same time period, and the difficult decisions he was required to make. No mention of possible problems in the transition from Wilkinson's 20-year presidency to President Oaks' 9-year stint, and no significant personal interactions with students or faculty are mentioned. I left this section feeling the author highlighted his accomplishments to avoid stating that President Oaks didn't really enjoy the experience professionally.
• Everybody close to him comments on his sense of humor, but actual examples of this humor in action are few and far between. Assuming one of the purposes of this life story is to counter the somber impression people get from him at the pulpit, such humorous anecdotes would help. Not even a favorite lawyer joke?
• Similar to other church biographies, the detailed life history is 5-stars... until he is called as an apostle, after which it goes to 3.5 stars. The chronological narrative turns into general, themed chapters (except for the chapter on the Philippines). They're written remarkably well, especially the chapters on religious freedom and his letter writing. But still... the change of pace is too apparent to disregard.
• The man's a workhorse, and can rival Theodore Roosevelt in the "use time productively" race. In his adult life, apart from limited time with children, what were his personal hobbies? The author mentions an occasional quiet evening, an 11:00pm tennis match, the occasional garden. No other personal interests to flesh him out? Does Dallin H. Oaks truly have no need to let off steam and unwind in any manner? He quoted Fiddler on the Roof once in General Conference... that's suggests some type of personal association with the arts that's not included here at all.
Despite those small hiccups, a life history commensurate with the man.
When Dallin H. Oaks wrote Life's Lessons Learned back in 2011, I assumed that satisfied the life history requirement for a General Authority. Happy to be proven wrong.
This feels timely, pertinent, and should help Saints understand his unique background and perspective he brings to his role. I don't look to prophets and apostles for meme-able quotes and warm fuzzies; I seek direct guidance, and am 100% satisfied with how Dallin H. Oaks fills that function.
Seven highlights that will stick with me:
• The theme of changing perspectives based on additional knowledge and experience pokes its head up frequently, and is wonderful to observe. I love the mention of when Henry B. Eyring and Dallin H. Oaks disagree on an undisclosed topic. After the meeting, Oaks thanks Eyring for helping change his perspective. A good life lesson here.
• I love the Oaks children recollecting their parents occasional disagreement or having differing points of view. +10 points to Dallin and June for explaining to their children that "conflict will occur between husband and wife. The important thing is learning to work things out." Many biographies unfortunately suggests this never happens in the lives of religious leaders, which I worry establishes a false expectation.
• I appreciate feeling like Dallin H. Oaks is the General Authority successor to Leonard Arrington's vision for opening up the historical archives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and am grateful for his role in supporting the Joseph Smith Papers Project, the Saints four-volume history, and new publications regarding Mountain Meadows.
• President George H.W. Bush in the early 1990s saying, upon meeting with the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, that "he had never met a group of men with more comprehensive knowledge of what was going on in all parts of the world." It's easy to assume the brethren are unaware of societal trends and world events, and I appreciate a US President recognizing how informed Church leadership is.
• Learning that he has celiac disease. I shared this with my son 9-year old who has Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE) and avoids wheat, as well as many other foods. It meant a lot to him to know that he shares a food intolerance with a member of the First Presidency.
• In 1988, three years after being called to the apostleship, he once spent a lot of time telling stories from the pulpit, after which as he "sat down, the Spirit whispered to him, 'Never do that again.'" This appears to be a key in understanding why Dallin H. Oaks presents his doctrinal messages in such a solemn and serious tone.
• His lack of concern with people who become upset at his messages. Elder David A. Bednar is quoted: "He is fearless, absolutely fearless... He draws a lot of fire..., but he couldn't care less. All he wants to do is please Him whom he serves."
Five areas which left me wanting more, and keep me from a full 5-stars:
• Despite the clear value in a law school education, let's agree that a legal career does not sound exciting when written down (unless you're Atticus Finch). It is what it is, not the fault of the author. This will be known as the "2nd Nephi Isaiah Chapters" section of this biography.
• His experience leading Brigham Young University in the 1970s is nothing more than a blip and feels like a missed opportunity. Henry B. Eyring's biography provides fascinating details about his role at Rick's College during this same time period, and the difficult decisions he was required to make. No mention of possible problems in the transition from Wilkinson's 20-year presidency to President Oaks' 9-year stint, and no significant personal interactions with students or faculty are mentioned. I left this section feeling the author highlighted his accomplishments to avoid stating that President Oaks didn't really enjoy the experience professionally.
• Everybody close to him comments on his sense of humor, but actual examples of this humor in action are few and far between. Assuming one of the purposes of this life story is to counter the somber impression people get from him at the pulpit, such humorous anecdotes would help. Not even a favorite lawyer joke?
• Similar to other church biographies, the detailed life history is 5-stars... until he is called as an apostle, after which it goes to 3.5 stars. The chronological narrative turns into general, themed chapters (except for the chapter on the Philippines). They're written remarkably well, especially the chapters on religious freedom and his letter writing. But still... the change of pace is too apparent to disregard.
• The man's a workhorse, and can rival Theodore Roosevelt in the "use time productively" race. In his adult life, apart from limited time with children, what were his personal hobbies? The author mentions an occasional quiet evening, an 11:00pm tennis match, the occasional garden. No other personal interests to flesh him out? Does Dallin H. Oaks truly have no need to let off steam and unwind in any manner? He quoted Fiddler on the Roof once in General Conference... that's suggests some type of personal association with the arts that's not included here at all.
Despite those small hiccups, a life history commensurate with the man.
June 16, 2021
President Oaks is a giant among men. My family has benefited greatly from his personal ministry to us. My grandfather is the Dr. mentioned from his days in Chicago. I’ll never forget when President Oaks attended the viewing of my Grandma and pulled all of us grandchildren aside and talked to us about death and the resurrection. He told us the story mentioned when he could not make it home before Elder Maxwell passed away. I’ll never forget the comfort he brought to our family that day. President Oaks continued to minister to my grandpa throughout my grandfather’s life including attending his 100th birthday party days before he passed away. I have no doubt that President Oaks has been called of God to minister and guide us in the church in these last days and I loved learning more about this great man.
March 16, 2021
I loved learning more about this amazing man. Wonderful book!
March 9, 2021
Such an interesting and enlightening biography of an amazing man. I love seeing how the Lord has not only shaped Elder Oaks into his best self, but the Lord has also shaped him to become extremely useful in God's kingdom on earth. Elder Oaks' talents and experience have been very an important resource over the decades as God's Kingdom and the adversary's kingdom have both grown in comparison with each other. It made me sad to read about the criticism and cruelty he often receives for speaking what the Lord tells him to say. These men truly devote their lives to building God's kingdom on earth. I highly recommend this book. Fantastic!
March 10, 2021
I enjoyed reading more about President Oaks. The first half was particularly interesting to me. I wondered why he didn't include sitting next to me at at table once. Oh well.
October 11, 2023
This was excellent! Highly recommend.
February 28, 2022
How can one not love President Oaks? I always enjoy biographies of apostles because I get to see the professional, church, and general life experiences that have shaped them into the leaders they have become. Dallin Oaks' journey is a little atypical, in that he didn't go on a mission (because of the Korean War), he never served as a bishop, and he wasn't a mission president. His resume instead includes clerking for Chief Justice Earl Warren, the Presidency of Brigham Young University, and time on the Utah Supreme Court. And then he has labored away as an Apostle of Jesus Christ for nearly forty years! His life contributions easily get a solid 5 stars.
For the biography, I give 4.25 stars. Organization of this type of work is never easy. Should an author take a chronological approach, or separate out career from church service? Where should family be discussed? How much room is there for the subject's philosophical introspection? And what is the proper balance between these elements? Turley's finished work isn't perfect, but it's very well done. In comparing In the Hands of the Lord to biographies of Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, and Russell M. Nelson, I felt like I didn't get as much information about what specifically he did during his years as an apostle. Turley spent more time on Oaks' thoughts about the issues facing the church and quoting from his talks and letters, rather than reviewing his administrative functions, and this was perhaps purposeful, as Dallin Oaks himself talks about wanting his apostleship to be less about administration.
I'll finish my review with my favorite quote from the whole book that I think sums up this marvelous human being. In the words of President Oaks:
For the biography, I give 4.25 stars. Organization of this type of work is never easy. Should an author take a chronological approach, or separate out career from church service? Where should family be discussed? How much room is there for the subject's philosophical introspection? And what is the proper balance between these elements? Turley's finished work isn't perfect, but it's very well done. In comparing In the Hands of the Lord to biographies of Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, and Russell M. Nelson, I felt like I didn't get as much information about what specifically he did during his years as an apostle. Turley spent more time on Oaks' thoughts about the issues facing the church and quoting from his talks and letters, rather than reviewing his administrative functions, and this was perhaps purposeful, as Dallin Oaks himself talks about wanting his apostleship to be less about administration.
I'll finish my review with my favorite quote from the whole book that I think sums up this marvelous human being. In the words of President Oaks:
Throughout the remainder of your life will you be a judge and lawyer who has been called to be an Apostle, or will you be an Apostle who used to be a lawyer and a judge?... I knew that if I concentrated my time on the things that came naturally and the things that I felt qualified to do, I would never be an Apostle. I would always be a former lawyer and judge. I decided that I would focus my efforts on what I had been called to do, not what I was qualified to do. I determined that instead of trying to shape my calling to my credentials, I would try to shape myself to my calling.
July 16, 2021
I have to say I was so disappointed in this book. The author wrote it as more of a historical book than a biography for me. I honestly don't need to read every single word the Pres. Oaks has said. The biography on Pres. Nelson is absolutely fantastic. It reads quickly and you can place yourself in some of the stories. Not with this book. It pained me to see the time and effort that Pres. Oaks put into his work. I am sorry but his family had to have suffered because of it. I understand that great people must function this way but it was just sad to me. If the author said one more time, "and then he worked harder" I was going to lose it.
I skimmed the last 50 or so pages because it literally was just quotes by Pres. Oaks. He is a remarkable man don't get me wrong. What he has accomplished in one day I couldn't do in a lifetime but this book is not one that I would ever want to read again.
I skimmed the last 50 or so pages because it literally was just quotes by Pres. Oaks. He is a remarkable man don't get me wrong. What he has accomplished in one day I couldn't do in a lifetime but this book is not one that I would ever want to read again.
May 21, 2021
I knew very little about this man before reading this book. I have greater respect for him no after having read it. This was a very uplifting and inspiring book. I have deeper appreciation and admiration for him as one of the first presidency members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
October 31, 2023
Excellent read. I was highly impacted by the story of Oaks’s life. He was appointed president of a major university at my current age. Provokes a lot of introspection for me! He was an extraordinary man. Humble beginnings having tragically lost his father at an early age and raised by a single mother. First in his class at University of Chicago law school. Supreme Court clerk to Chief Justice Earl Warren. BigLaw associate at Kirkland & Ellis under Robert Bork. And then his transition into academia. I feel a kindred spirit with his attraction to academia and teaching. As well as his interest in meaningful pro Bono work for indigent defendants. He even used Les Miserables in a court proceeding! My kind of guy. He is a deeply spiritual man and I am astonished at the power, status, and prestige he gave up to minister to the one and instead devote his life to God and service to his fellow man. I didn’t know he turned down the D.C. Circuit judgeship that eventually went to Scalia! And that Scalia asked for his recommendation. Remarkable. Oaks easily could have been a Supreme Court Justice. His commitment to the Utah Supreme Court as a Justice during a difficult period for the court was inspiring. And I could see how he enjoyed the “menu” of the common law and general jurisdictional matters in state court. In all, his willing acceptance to be an apostle and his extraordinary service to the Church is inspiring.
Because of this book I have started a daily journal, similar to how he did in his late 30s. Because of this book I am inspired to go into big law and my career with an eye towards what really matters. I did also learn that Oaks is probably a workaholic (the book calls his work ethic as an oft-turned-to “medicine” for the travails of life), but that he tried mightily to make time for family relationships and was supported by a magnificent woman who was his equal in all respects. I also learned that they had “heated” discussions about things in their marriage and that it was a healthy form of robust debate and resolution of things that matter. Not necessarily an indicator of a failing marriage. And I love how he said that the family is the most effective department of health, education, and welfare. In sum, I learned a lot from this book and have taken away many things to incorporate in my own life.
My only misgiving with Rick Turley’s treatment was the inclusion of some unnecessary minutiae. Sometimes it felt disjunct and out of the blue and altogether unimportant in the large scheme of Oaks’s life. But I appreciate that he had to digest a trove of personal history sources and pick and choose. For the most part, he chose wisely.
Because of this book I have started a daily journal, similar to how he did in his late 30s. Because of this book I am inspired to go into big law and my career with an eye towards what really matters. I did also learn that Oaks is probably a workaholic (the book calls his work ethic as an oft-turned-to “medicine” for the travails of life), but that he tried mightily to make time for family relationships and was supported by a magnificent woman who was his equal in all respects. I also learned that they had “heated” discussions about things in their marriage and that it was a healthy form of robust debate and resolution of things that matter. Not necessarily an indicator of a failing marriage. And I love how he said that the family is the most effective department of health, education, and welfare. In sum, I learned a lot from this book and have taken away many things to incorporate in my own life.
My only misgiving with Rick Turley’s treatment was the inclusion of some unnecessary minutiae. Sometimes it felt disjunct and out of the blue and altogether unimportant in the large scheme of Oaks’s life. But I appreciate that he had to digest a trove of personal history sources and pick and choose. For the most part, he chose wisely.
June 19, 2021
Very engaging, loved listening to this one.
April 5, 2022
Enjoyed getting to learn more about President Oaks. I especially appreciated one of the last chapters where it talked about and included excerpts from letters between President Oaks and lay members.
November 18, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. I got it from the library, but now I think I need to own a copy.
His dad died when he was young and his single mom experienced emotional breakdowns, yet he became a wonderful leader who loves Jesus Christ. This book was extremely uplifting and I learned a lot. I also have many screenshots (I read an ecopy) of amazing quotes and thoughts to continually look back on.
His dad died when he was young and his single mom experienced emotional breakdowns, yet he became a wonderful leader who loves Jesus Christ. This book was extremely uplifting and I learned a lot. I also have many screenshots (I read an ecopy) of amazing quotes and thoughts to continually look back on.
March 7, 2021
I loved learning more about President Oaks. I’m grateful that he is such a great journal keeper, there are so many great insights and quotes from his personal journal. It was also fun to get somewhat of an inside look of the life of a general authority and member of the first presidency. I understand more about him and that makes me appreciate his conference talks more, his desire to expound doctrine and speak directly.
March 6, 2021
A fantastic biography. Very well written. I loved the frequent use of Oaks' journal entries as well as the journal entries of others.
President Oaks has not always been a favorite church leader of mine (which is why I decided to read this book! I wanted to understand him better by learning of his life.), but reading this biography has deepened my admiration and respect for him.
President Oaks has not always been a favorite church leader of mine (which is why I decided to read this book! I wanted to understand him better by learning of his life.), but reading this biography has deepened my admiration and respect for him.
July 26, 2022
I loved learning about Pres. Dallin H. Oaks. He lived a life of hard, hard work, excellence in all he did, and lived a life of dedicated service to God and man.
February 6, 2024
This was a beautifully put together book of president Oaks life and ministry. I cried and laughed and felt the spirit testify to me while reading it. My love, appreciation, respect, and gratitude for President Oaks and the other members of the first presidency and quorum of the twelve apostles grew greatly throughout my time reading this. I am grateful for the organization and leadership in the church and the valiant lives of those a part of it. My heart is full and my spirit is inspired as I’ve come to the conclusion of this book.
April 29, 2022
I love reading biographies. I love reading biographies on religious figures, civic figures, educational leaders, and people who have influenced history in ways that I didn't know about before. Welcome to the biography on Dallin H. Oaks! This engaging biography, well-researched and well-written, by Rick Turley (Church historian, former Church communications director) helped me get to know even more about a man I already have deep respect for. A few things I really liked about the book:
* Dallin Oaks' upbringing is really regular--I mean REALLY regular. He's not a prodigy, academic or spiritual. He's just a pretty normal human. I like the fact that he is presented in the book as not really doing anything super extraordinary, especially in the Church, until much later in his life. It's not like he was "groomed" to be a leader in the Church by anyone, except the Lord.
* The author obviously had access to letters, journals, etc. that gave him access to some of the more private aspects and imperfections of Dallin Oaks. It doesn't violate that privacy or amplify those imperfections, but it doesn't downplay them. It's nice to know that he had arguments with his wife, didn't look like the perfect parent, perhaps sometimes spent too much time at the office, and so forth. It might be a little "sanitized," but I appreciate knowing the weaknesses and struggles of people I respect, because it gives me some hope.
* Dallin Oaks doesn't have it all "figured out"--but that doesn't mean he doesn't have anything figured out. He is a prime example of a lifelong learner who has core convictions that guide him in that pursuit of knowledge and truth. He is an excellent example of someone who understands the value and process of counseling with others to receive revelation. He learned and exemplified this in his personal, professional, and ecclesiastical experiences. He understands the importance of learning as much as we can on our own, and simultaneously being humble and open to the revelation that comes from the Lord.
This would be a really helpful book for teachers of Church history in the 20th century, because Dallin H. Oaks' life in the Church covers so much of that and shows some of the change over time that the Church has gone through. Members of the Church who just want to know more about the life of this member of the First Presidency are also likely to enjoy this book. I wonder if those who have negative feelings or are critical of Dallin H. Oaks might benefit from reading this book. I know that when I had pretty negative feelings about Thomas Jefferson after reading biographies on John Adams and George Washington, reading a biography on Jefferson really helped me. It didn't change my mind about Jefferson entirely, but it did help me understand Jefferson a little bit more. People who aren't members of the Church and don't have a testimony that there could be prophets and apostles leading the Lord's Church might not be very moved by this biography. But members of the Church who do have that foundational belief might benefit from reading this book. If someone in that circumstance reads this book and experiences a change of heart about him, let me know!
* Dallin Oaks' upbringing is really regular--I mean REALLY regular. He's not a prodigy, academic or spiritual. He's just a pretty normal human. I like the fact that he is presented in the book as not really doing anything super extraordinary, especially in the Church, until much later in his life. It's not like he was "groomed" to be a leader in the Church by anyone, except the Lord.
* The author obviously had access to letters, journals, etc. that gave him access to some of the more private aspects and imperfections of Dallin Oaks. It doesn't violate that privacy or amplify those imperfections, but it doesn't downplay them. It's nice to know that he had arguments with his wife, didn't look like the perfect parent, perhaps sometimes spent too much time at the office, and so forth. It might be a little "sanitized," but I appreciate knowing the weaknesses and struggles of people I respect, because it gives me some hope.
* Dallin Oaks doesn't have it all "figured out"--but that doesn't mean he doesn't have anything figured out. He is a prime example of a lifelong learner who has core convictions that guide him in that pursuit of knowledge and truth. He is an excellent example of someone who understands the value and process of counseling with others to receive revelation. He learned and exemplified this in his personal, professional, and ecclesiastical experiences. He understands the importance of learning as much as we can on our own, and simultaneously being humble and open to the revelation that comes from the Lord.
This would be a really helpful book for teachers of Church history in the 20th century, because Dallin H. Oaks' life in the Church covers so much of that and shows some of the change over time that the Church has gone through. Members of the Church who just want to know more about the life of this member of the First Presidency are also likely to enjoy this book. I wonder if those who have negative feelings or are critical of Dallin H. Oaks might benefit from reading this book. I know that when I had pretty negative feelings about Thomas Jefferson after reading biographies on John Adams and George Washington, reading a biography on Jefferson really helped me. It didn't change my mind about Jefferson entirely, but it did help me understand Jefferson a little bit more. People who aren't members of the Church and don't have a testimony that there could be prophets and apostles leading the Lord's Church might not be very moved by this biography. But members of the Church who do have that foundational belief might benefit from reading this book. If someone in that circumstance reads this book and experiences a change of heart about him, let me know!
August 2, 2021
As always enjoyed reading about the life of someone the Lord prepared to lead and guide His Church. I now have a much deeper appreciation for President Oaks!
April 3, 2024
Got gifted this one. Straightforward hagiography as the genre demands, and another entry into the canon of American religious biographies that try to balance a traditional Horatio Alger bootstrapping narrative with the need for some foreordination and then divine intervention on the subject’s behalf. What propels our hero to success and happiness? Grace in a general way, and his works more specifically. Many such cases unforch.
May 18, 2021
Once upon a time my husband and I went to a local production of Charley's Aunt. As the lights dimmed, two older couples slipped into the seats in front of us. There was something familiar about the shiny dome in front of me and, looking to the right, I recognized Kristen McMain Oaks(I am still a huge fan). They laughed just as much as anyone in that audience that night. That experience contrasted deeply with young me's comment to my mother that he didn't sound nice. The book talks about this.
This is a solid, surprisingly candid, and transparent book. I got the impression that he just turned his journals and copies of correspondence over to the author. Understandably, it lacked June's viewpoint, but that could not be helped. There was so much that I appreciated, much of which I really can't articulate here because that would require too much of my own backstory.
The last section post-call to the Quorum of the Twelve was more topical than chronological--- which I get. It did lead to some repetition but it wasn't too bad. Just enough to be noticeable.
This is a solid, surprisingly candid, and transparent book. I got the impression that he just turned his journals and copies of correspondence over to the author. Understandably, it lacked June's viewpoint, but that could not be helped. There was so much that I appreciated, much of which I really can't articulate here because that would require too much of my own backstory.
The last section post-call to the Quorum of the Twelve was more topical than chronological--- which I get. It did lead to some repetition but it wasn't too bad. Just enough to be noticeable.
October 20, 2021
I did not actually finish the last 20%, but it was because I ran out of time before the book was returned. I love learning about the lives of our apostles. Elder Oaks has an amazing mind and seems to accomplish more in any given day than I can fathom. I love his dedication and devotion to his call to testify of Christ. I did not love the writing style that Turley used and felt like there were large chunks of dry details. (Not that my life would be exciting to read about, but it made it less appealing to read straight through.) It doesn't change my opinion of Elder Oaks, I am grateful for his service.
March 11, 2021
I highly enjoyed learning more about President Oaks. He is a man of undaunted faith. He possesses a boldness that makes his voice very clear yet he is humble and has given his life to the Lord. I am encouraged that we can be diligent to the end. We can serve and seek excellence in any of our endeavors and the Lord will lead us along and give us opportunities to magnify Him and be magnified. A great biography. Keep a journal!
April 22, 2021
This book was fascinating to me. I think my kids got tired of hearing it the book about President Oaks that I am listening to . . I could really see how his early life, his educational experiences, and professional life really impacted him, especially with the tough things he sometimes talks about.
January 31, 2022
4.5.
Richard Turley's biography of President Dallin H. Oaks starts from his very young childhood, early career, life events, service as a Utah Supreme Court Justice, the president of a university, and as a leader for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It takes its substance from the journals kept throughout his life, which contain his feelings on events, as well as the events themselves. Throughout the book, the amount of substance included is perfect in moderation—it goes into enough detail to be engaging, but not too much as to be tedious and boring. Overall, his life is one that begins fairly normally, and with no clear sense of where he would end up. The book provides insights on his way of thinking—how practical it is, without sacrificing his intuition about a situation. His decisions made in his college years, specifically his degree in accounting, was made on the basis of enjoying the subject. Comments about his view of life only starting to come into focus in his later college years provide context for readers who struggle to find their direction in life. Overall, this book is informative in providing information about President Oaks, and context for a reader's life.
Richard Turley's biography of President Dallin H. Oaks starts from his very young childhood, early career, life events, service as a Utah Supreme Court Justice, the president of a university, and as a leader for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It takes its substance from the journals kept throughout his life, which contain his feelings on events, as well as the events themselves. Throughout the book, the amount of substance included is perfect in moderation—it goes into enough detail to be engaging, but not too much as to be tedious and boring. Overall, his life is one that begins fairly normally, and with no clear sense of where he would end up. The book provides insights on his way of thinking—how practical it is, without sacrificing his intuition about a situation. His decisions made in his college years, specifically his degree in accounting, was made on the basis of enjoying the subject. Comments about his view of life only starting to come into focus in his later college years provide context for readers who struggle to find their direction in life. Overall, this book is informative in providing information about President Oaks, and context for a reader's life.
March 24, 2021
Not to bag on Sherri Dew at all, but Richard Turley is a much more skilled biographer in my opinion. I am particularly contrasting this book to Sherri Dew's recent semi-biography of President Nelson.
I have a difficult time separating the writing and style of the book from the person being written about. President Oaks has long been one of my favorites. His teaching (and probably some of his thinking) resonate well with me and his messages seem to be particularly insightful. On my mission I was so obsessed with President Oaks and his teaching that I downloaded every extant speech / talk / address of his and listened to every last one of them.
Still full of adulation (which I'm indifferent to) for an apostle, the book does show us some human sides of President Oaks and that was much appreciated.
The most powerful part of the book was the passing of his wife June:
The greatest tribute paid to President Oaks (and there were many) was from Elder David A. Bednar:
I have a difficult time separating the writing and style of the book from the person being written about. President Oaks has long been one of my favorites. His teaching (and probably some of his thinking) resonate well with me and his messages seem to be particularly insightful. On my mission I was so obsessed with President Oaks and his teaching that I downloaded every extant speech / talk / address of his and listened to every last one of them.
Still full of adulation (which I'm indifferent to) for an apostle, the book does show us some human sides of President Oaks and that was much appreciated.
The most powerful part of the book was the passing of his wife June:
"She was my best friend, a vital strength to my weaknesses, a loved stimulus to my strengths. In the garden of our marriage, I grew the vegetables and she cultivated the flowers"
The greatest tribute paid to President Oaks (and there were many) was from Elder David A. Bednar:
"President Oaks," Elder Bednar concluded from years of observation, "is a man of integrity. His beliefs and behavior are grounded in gospel principles, and he lives what he believes. Expediency is never an option for him because he is determined to do what is right, even if a course of action does not advance his personal reputation or viewpoint. There are no shortcuts in his life – do things right or not at all"
March 17, 2021
I loved reading this biography of President Oaks. It gave me a better sense of where he comes from and why he emphasizes the subjects that he does.
President Oaks been one of my favorite Church leaders, ever since he came to my stake conference some years ago. I don’t even remember what he said when he spoke to the congregation, though I do remember taking notes. But the main thing I remember is before conference started, he came around to greet as many people as he could. He even came back into the overflow in the gym, where I was sitting by myself. He came to me and looked me in the eye and said “Welcome to conference!” Then he went on to greet the next person.
I didn’t expect to have a full-on conversation with him or anything like that. There were so many people at the meeting and he’s just one man, so the brevity of the encounter wasn’t a surprise. But what did stick with me was a great sense of why he was there and Who he represented. I’ve never forgotten that spiritual impression.
I share that story because I felt a lot of that same feeling as I read this book. It was like the Savior wanted me to know that President Oaks is one of God’s servants and he says and does what God would say and do if He were here. That’s a very comforting thought and definitely something to make you sit up and pay attention. Also, it makes me very grateful that President Oaks is as direct and blunt as he is. The way the world is, we need that example of standing up for God’s standards.
President Oaks been one of my favorite Church leaders, ever since he came to my stake conference some years ago. I don’t even remember what he said when he spoke to the congregation, though I do remember taking notes. But the main thing I remember is before conference started, he came around to greet as many people as he could. He even came back into the overflow in the gym, where I was sitting by myself. He came to me and looked me in the eye and said “Welcome to conference!” Then he went on to greet the next person.
I didn’t expect to have a full-on conversation with him or anything like that. There were so many people at the meeting and he’s just one man, so the brevity of the encounter wasn’t a surprise. But what did stick with me was a great sense of why he was there and Who he represented. I’ve never forgotten that spiritual impression.
I share that story because I felt a lot of that same feeling as I read this book. It was like the Savior wanted me to know that President Oaks is one of God’s servants and he says and does what God would say and do if He were here. That’s a very comforting thought and definitely something to make you sit up and pay attention. Also, it makes me very grateful that President Oaks is as direct and blunt as he is. The way the world is, we need that example of standing up for God’s standards.
March 19, 2021
This wonderful book is full of stories of and teachings from the life of Apostle Oaks. His perseverance and faith during challenges, and his meekness to follow inspiration, combined with his indefatigable work ethic led him to places and experiences where the Lord used him to serve others, build faith, assist the needy, positively influence in a large and visible sphere, and preserve religious freedom. All can learn from his life and teachings to be better and more complete disciples of Christ. A couple of bookmarks include:
i. “What your children really want for dinner is you (parents).” And “there is abundant secular evidence that there is no substitute for the traditional family as the means to create the likelihood of health, happiness, longevity, and prosperity in the parents, and the total well-being of children.” The conversations around the dinner table blended spiritual and secular and modeled knowing what’s going on in the world around us, and discussing how to deal with it, including how the Lord would deal with it. (Ch. 20)
i. “What your children really want for dinner is you (parents).” And “there is abundant secular evidence that there is no substitute for the traditional family as the means to create the likelihood of health, happiness, longevity, and prosperity in the parents, and the total well-being of children.” The conversations around the dinner table blended spiritual and secular and modeled knowing what’s going on in the world around us, and discussing how to deal with it, including how the Lord would deal with it. (Ch. 20)
April 14, 2021
The fascinating and amazing life story of Dallin H. Oaks, an acclaimed lawyer, law professor at the University of Chicago, former president of Brigham Young University, Advisory Board member of PBS, Utah Supreme Court Justice, but most importantly, an apostle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After his father's death when he was young, he was raised by his widow mother, and he learned how to work hard at whatever he did, including becoming the youngest radio operator, his time in the Reserves during the Korean War, his schooling and career, or anything he gave his heart and soul to, especially his service in the church.
His integrity and genius, heart and strength shine through, and the more I got to know his story, the more I was not only impressed by this amazing man, but truly loved him and all that he has taught me and anyone come into contact with in his life. Such a fabulous book!
His integrity and genius, heart and strength shine through, and the more I got to know his story, the more I was not only impressed by this amazing man, but truly loved him and all that he has taught me and anyone come into contact with in his life. Such a fabulous book!
June 3, 2021
Inspiring and Captivating Story of a Man or Remarkable Ability and Faith
There is much to learn from the choices Dallin Oaks made at critical junctures in his life. Here is a scholar, teacher, mentor, litigator and lay minister who chooses to serve others and God over prestigious and lucrative jobs. He is a good father and a companionable husband as well. His was not an easy life after losing his father at a young age and becoming a widower too soon in middle age. I found much to admire and emulate in his equal treatment of men and women, his hard work and sacrifice. Most of all, his faith in Jesus Christ gives him courage to defend unpopular doctrine and as well powers his capacious love for individuals.
There is much to learn from the choices Dallin Oaks made at critical junctures in his life. Here is a scholar, teacher, mentor, litigator and lay minister who chooses to serve others and God over prestigious and lucrative jobs. He is a good father and a companionable husband as well. His was not an easy life after losing his father at a young age and becoming a widower too soon in middle age. I found much to admire and emulate in his equal treatment of men and women, his hard work and sacrifice. Most of all, his faith in Jesus Christ gives him courage to defend unpopular doctrine and as well powers his capacious love for individuals.
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