Under the Banner of Heaven, by Jon Krakauer

This is not a light read, as it opens with a graphic description of Utah murders in the 1980s. However, Krakauer has painstakingly researched Mormonism and Latter Day Saints to provide a context and historical background for the religion and culture. He includes more contemporary cases, like the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart (and resulting Stockhausen Syndrome) juxtaposed with detailed accounts of Brigham Young’s travels.

If you are even moderately interested in the history of Utah and Mormonism, I strongly recommend this book. Once you’ve tackled this one, you can check out the other resources we have on Mormonism and religion at the Oviatt.

–Lindsay