John Taylor, third president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is well known for his role in the early days of the Church—for his presence at the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, where he was severely wounded; for his contributions as a writer and editor of Church publications; and for his unceasing defense of his religion, which earned him the title "Champion of Liberty." But many other aspects of his life, many of which have had a profound effect on the Church, are not so well known. In John Taylor: Mormon Philosopher, Prophet of God, author Francis M. Gibbons presents a thorough and penetrating portrait of this great leader. He brings to life John Taylor's conversion in Canada, his missionary experiences in England and France, his suffering in the martyrdom of Carthage, his service in the Quorum of the Twelve, his migrations with the Saints, his contributions as Church president, his role as a Mormon philosopher and writer, and his battles with foes of the Church, with a clear understanding of the motivations and influences behind them all. Upon John Taylor's death, his counselors wrote in the Deseret News, "Few men have ever lived who have manifested such unflinching moral and physical courage as our beloved President who has just gone from us. He never knew the feeling of fear connected with the work of God...Every Latter-day Sint always knew beforehand, on occasions when firmness and courage were needed, where President John Taylor would be found."