This is almost two books:
The section that contains the notes from Joseph's discourses shows two things. First, it shows the humanity of Joseph Smith. You can almost see the smile, hear the expression in his voice, and feel the emotion behind the words. Secondly, women haven't changed much. They're still opinionated, hard workers, contributors, and wanting to be involved-- and the leaders of the church are just as willing as Joseph to have them involved.

The first half of the book contained thoughtful essays from two of my favorite strong women-- each strong in her own way. It's a nice piece of work.

I devoured this book, which I didn't really expect. I found a lot of ideas I have been contemplating eloquently addresses. I would definitely recommend it!

This is great stuff, and it's definitely one I would recommend to read as a companion to Daughters in my Kingdom. Go Eliza R. Snow for taking such notes and carrying them to Utah with her! The accompanying essays by Virginia Hinckley Pierce and Sheri Dew are wonderful and do acknowledge and try to tackle some of the honest questions many LDS women have about their history and their relationship with priesthood power.

I've read some reviews by folks I know who felt this was underwhelming. But it is such a small, and lovely, book, that I started it anyway---and then found myself overwhelmed with pertinent thoughts and inspiration. Perhaps it's my recent call to be ward RS president? Or something. But a lot of what I read here really resonated with me and made me feel it was intended as instruction for me and the sisters I'm assigned to love and care for. My copy is already heavily annotated and highlighted.

Beautifully written and insightful. Full review July 24. www.ldswbr.com and www.minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com

This book should have been published a long time ago. We finally have Joseph Smith's teachings to the women of the Church at those early meetings of the Relief Society in Nauvoo. These words should be studied and taught repeatedly so Mormon women know who they are and what they should be doing. Too many women still just don't get it and we could really use some unified spirituality and a strong force of knowledgeable women in the LDS Church.

Virginia Pearce writes beautifully about recognizing our womanhood, motherhood, and the joy of serving one another.

Sheri Dew writes scholarly using scriptures and quotes to drive home her testimony.

Mostly, we need to value, study, and apply Joseph's words.