This fine book is written from the perspective of a member of the churches of Christ. It is somewhat of a classic and finds itself frequently quoted in Stone-Campbell heritage histories.

The reader will find a good summary of the issues (and players) relating to societies (chap. 8 - "Early Efforts at Organization," chap. 9 - "The American Christian Missionary Society," and chap. 10. - Alexander Campbell and the Missionary Society").

A summary of the issues and interested persons relating to "Instrumental Music" (chap. 17) is very useful.

Civil War history buffs will appreciate chap. 18 - "The Chruch During the War."

In addition, the reader will appreciate the brief profiles of a number of early restoration leaders, in addition to Stone and A. Campbell, such as: Ben Franklin, Samuel Rogers, Tolbert Fanning, Jacob Creath, Jr., John T. Johnson, Phillip S. Fall, "Racoon" John Smith, W. C. Huffman, Moses E. Lard, John W. McGarvey, and others.

The development of institutions of higher education is reviewed in chap. 15. - "Educational Enterprises."

The book includes a number of photos. It also has a brief index. ( )