38 pages • 1 hour read
Salvation on Sand Mountain: Snake Handling and Redemption in Southern Appalachia
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Book Brief
288
Book • Nonfiction
Appalachia • 1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
980L
Super Short Summary
Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a non-fiction account that begins with Covington's coverage of preacher Glenn Summerford's trial for allegedly attempting to murder his wife with a rattlesnake bite. The narrative expands as Covington explores the snake-handling churches of Southern Appalachia, immerses himself in the community, and ultimately questions his beliefs and identity while navigating the complex world of faith and redemption. The book discusses themes of domestic violence and religious extremism.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Dark
Reviews & Readership
4,747 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is both praised and criticized by reviewers. Its vivid storytelling and deep exploration of faith and culture in the Appalachian snake-handling community are highly lauded, with Covington's personal journey adding further depth. However, some criticize it for lacking critical distance. Overall, it is considered a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Salvation on Sand Mountain?
Readers who appreciate Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington are typically intrigued by American religious movements, Southern culture, and personal spiritual quests. Fans of Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance and The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls may find this memoir compelling for its investigative journalism and intimate portrayal of snake-handling churches.
4,747 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Carl Porter
Carl Porter
A retired truck driver turned preacher in the snake-handling community, known for being Covington’s spiritual mentor and showing him the ways of the religious practice.
Carolyn Porter
Carolyn Porter
Carl Porter's wife, noted for her bold snake-handling behavior and her outspoken disapproval of restrictive marriage practices.
Glenn Summerford
Glenn Summerford
A preacher whose trial for attempted murder brings attention to the snake-handling community, serving as a catalyst for the story.
Darlene Summerford
Darlene Summerford
The wife of Glenn Summerford, known for being a prominent snake handler and whose circumstances are central to the narrative.
Vicki Covington
Vicki Covington
The supportive partner of Dennis Covington, who encourages his involvement with the snake-handling community and has a nuanced view on gender roles within it.
Melissa Springer
Melissa Springer
A photographer brought on by Covington to document his journey, marked by her dedication and adherence to community dress codes during her work.
Jim Neel
Jim Neel
A photographer and longtime friend of Covington, who shares a history of working together in Central America and participates in documenting the events.
Charles McGlocklin
Charles McGlocklin
An evangelist and snake handler who leads services, with a history marked by hardship and a deep personal faith.
Aline McGlocklin
Aline McGlocklin
Charles's wife, characterized by her mystical presence, spiritual experiences, and ability to handle snakes with a unique grace.
288
Book • Nonfiction
Appalachia • 1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
980L
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