51 pages • 1 hour read
Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith
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Book Brief
432
Book • Nonfiction
Utah • 1980s
2003
Adult
18+ years
1350L
Super Short Summary
In Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer, two brothers, Ron and Dan Lafferty, committed ritualistic murders of their sister-in-law Brenda and her baby daughter Erika in 1984, driven by fundamentalist beliefs rooted in Mormon extremism. The narrative interweaves their story with the history of the Mormon faith, highlighting how radical religious views can lead to violence and abuse. This book contains multiple accounts of sexual abuse and murder.
Mysterious
Dark
Informative
Unnerving
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
222,102 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jon Krakauer's Under the Banner of Heaven delves into religious extremism, presenting a gripping, well-researched narrative. Critics praise its compelling storytelling and meticulous detail. However, some find the portrayal of faith communities overly critical and one-sided. Overall, it's an insightful but controversial exploration of belief and violence.
Who Should Read Under the Banner of Heaven?
Readers interested in true crime, religious history, and investigative journalism will find Jon Krakauer’s Under the Banner of Heaven compelling. Comparable to Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood and Dave Cullen’s Columbine, this book appeals to those fascinated by the intersection of faith and violence.
222,102 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
The founder of Mormonism who claimed an angelic visitation revealed the existence of golden tablets, leading to the creation of The Book of Mormon and the establishment of a new religious faith.
Dan Lafferty
Dan Lafferty
A former devout LDS member whose exploration of fundamentalist beliefs transforms his approach to Mormonism, marked by a strict adherence to what he perceives as the original teachings.
Ron Lafferty
Ron Lafferty
A former LDS church member influenced by fundamentalist teachings, who grapples with revelations he believes are divine, affecting his interactions with his family and community.
Brenda Lafferty
Brenda Lafferty
A vibrant and empathetic young woman who, with her communications degree, attempts to address the increasing religious extremism within her family while staying focused on her loved ones.
Robert Crossfield/Prophet Onias
Robert Crossfield/Prophet Onias
A Mormon fundamentalist who claims to receive divine revelations, leading to the mentorship of followers in his quest to reform the Mormon faith back to fundamentalist roots.
432
Book • Nonfiction
Utah • 1980s
2003
Adult
18+ years
1350L
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