Book: Under the Banner of Heaven

Note: Somehow I never published these comments when I wrote them in July 2008. Ooops.

~ ~ ~

This book, like Into Thin Air, was a great read, and I'm further convinced I should read Krakauer's next book, whatever it might be.

In Under the Banner of Heaven, Krakauer explores Fundamentalist Mormonism, it's history, and it's strained relationship with mainline Mormonism. Having only a vague familiarity with the early beginnings of this religion, it was interesting to read the historical background.

Fundamentalism aside, some of the facts about the Mormon church are just astonishing. It is a fast-growing religion, with evangelism efforts that put the average church to shame. They not only set evangelism as a priority, they back it up with structured programs, and send out a huge number of young people every year on church missions. They are highly trained in the tenets of the faith, and in how to defend it, as anyone who's argued with them on a doorstep knows.

Krakauer is a great writer, and has delivered another compelling read. Highly recommended.

Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith
by Jon Krakauer
--
Originally posted at: http://rebeccasmiscellanies.blogspot.com/