Book review of Lives of the Three Mrs. Judsons

by Arabella M. Willson (Author)

Updated at: 03/03/2025

Arabella M. Willson's Lives of the Three Mrs. Judsons offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of three remarkable women who dedicated their lives to missionary work in 19th-century Burma. The narrative centers on Adoniram Judson's wives: Ann Hasseltine Judson, whose unwavering faith sustained her through imprisonment and the loss of her children; and Sarah Boardman Judson, who continued the mission's vital work after Ann's death, building upon her own prior missionary experience. This biography explores their individual contributions to translating scriptures, educating the Burmese people, and enduring unimaginable hardships, showcasing their resilience and deep commitment to their faith amidst personal tragedy and cultural challenges. It's a compelling story of faith, perseverance, and the profound impact of women in a pivotal era of global missions.

3.1 / 6 ratings

Review Lives of the Three Mrs. Judsons

Oh, "Lives of the Three Mrs. Judsons" – what a fascinating, if somewhat bittersweet, read it was! My daughter recommended it, and I can see why. It’s not your typical breezy beach read, but it’s compelling in a way that stays with you long after you turn the final page. I actually passed it on to my grandson, who’s quite the history buff, and he devoured it. He’s already talking about all the things he learned!

The book's structure, focusing on the lives of these three remarkable women, is really effective. It cleverly weaves together their individual stories, highlighting both their shared faith and their unique contributions to the missionary work in Burma. Ann Hasseltine Judson's story, especially, is incredibly powerful. Her unwavering dedication, even in the face of immense hardship – illness, imprisonment, the loss of her children – is simply awe-inspiring. To read about her perseverance, her unwavering faith, and her tireless efforts in translating religious texts is truly humbling. It's a testament to the human spirit’s incredible capacity for strength and resilience.

Then, we meet Sarah Boardman Judson, a woman who already possessed a deep commitment to missionary work before marrying Adoniram. Her continuation of this service, despite her own personal tragedies and struggles, only further emphasized the incredible dedication of these individuals. The book doesn't shy away from the difficulties they faced – the physical hardships, the emotional tolls, the constant uncertainties – and that honestly makes their unwavering commitment even more impactful. It's not just a celebration of their successes; it's a raw, honest portrayal of their lives, showcasing their faith in the face of adversity. It’s a story of incredible sacrifice, of putting one's belief above comfort and personal gain.

I found myself deeply moved by the excerpts from their personal writings included in the book. They offered such an intimate glimpse into their hearts and minds, providing a deeply personal connection to their experiences. To see how they lived their lives guided by faith rather than by worldly concerns, how they willingly surrendered comfort and security for what they believed was a higher calling, is both inspiring and humbling. They truly were servants of Christ, putting His will above all else. Their consistent humility, even amidst their considerable achievements, is something I found particularly striking and worthy of reflection.

Now, I will say that I did have a slight issue with the book I received – the cover was different from what was pictured online. It wasn't a huge deal, but it was a bit disappointing. Overall though, despite that small hiccup, I found "Lives of the Three Mrs. Judsons" to be a truly enriching and memorable read. It's a book that prompts reflection on faith, sacrifice, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It’s definitely not a lighthearted read, but it's one that I highly recommend for those interested in missionary history or powerful stories of faith and perseverance.

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