Book Review: I Will Lead You Along by Robert Eaton & Henry B. Eyring

I Will Lead You Along: The Life of Henry B. Eyring, by Robert Eaton & Henry B. Eyring
2013, 560p, LDS Biography
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: Received copy from publisher for an honest review

In 1970, Henry B. Eyring (known to all as “Hal” because his mother didn’t care for the name “Henry”) received an impression to make a daily record of his activities. Years of his journals form the backbone of this intimate biography, a candid look at his walk through life with his beloved companion, Kathy. “The journal shows how a good-but-imperfect man works each day to win divine approval,” write the authors, and this window into his past provides unforgettable insights about the man the Lord has shaped him to become. Henry B. Eyring’s professional, academic, and personal experiences all combined to make him uniquely qualified for the responsibilities that would become his. And Kathy, always at his side, matching his intellect and spirituality, has influenced him profoundly and contributed to his life mission in unmatchable ways. Their story, told largely in his own words, vividly demonstrates the power of the Lord and the example set by one who strives to follow His commands.

I've always enjoyed listening to Pres. Eyring's talks in general conference so I was excited to learn more about who he is and what his life has been like. First of all, I didn't realize he grew up as "Hal" since his mother didn't like the name Henry. It was a family name and she and her husband argued over it until she compromised and said he could be christened Henry but they would call him Hal. 

He's well known for keeping journals and there are a lot of journal entries included. He also enjoys drawing so some of his drawings are included and there are also lots of photos. This book is quite thick and seems overwhelming at first, but the layout is great and so many interesting stories are included that it's easy to get lost in it.

I enjoyed learning how he met his wife (their tennis date made me laugh), how faithful he was in his callings and how he was able to balance his busy schedule with his home life. His wife, Kathy, was very supportive. He is a kind, compassionate, faithful man who tries to do his best and learns from his mistakes. After reading about his life, I feel inspired to be just that much better myself. This is a book I highly recommend!

About the Authors

Robert I. Eaton began serving as president of the Washington Federal Way Mission in summer 2013. Prior to that, he was a professor of religious education at Brigham Young University-Idaho. He is a graduate of BYU and of Stanford Law School. He and his wife, Diane, are the parents of four children.

Henry J. Eyring graduated from Brigham Young University, earning a bachelor’s degree in geology and graduate degrees in business administration and law. He is the advancement vice president of BYU-Idaho and has served as director of the BYU MBA program. He also served as president of the Japan Tokyo North Mission. He and his wife, Kelly, are the parents of five children.