Under the Banner of Heaven

by Jon Krakauer
Under the Banner of Heaven cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Investigative Journalism
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  • ID: 884
  • Added: 2025-09-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781405033756
  • Publisher: Macmillan
  • Published: 2003-01-01
  • Formats: 23
  • Reviews: 4

Under the Banner of Heaven delves into the disturbing world of Mormon fundamentalism, revealing the violent and extremist factions that have emerged from the religion's history. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book explores the 1984 murder of Brenda Lafferty and her daughter, Erin, by her brother-in-law and his brother, who believed the act was a divine command. The narrative weaves together historical context, psychological insights, and investigative journalism to expose the dangerous intersection of faith and fanaticism. /n/n The book also examines the broader implications of religious extremism, questioning the boundaries between faith and violence. It challenges readers to consider the nature of belief and the potential for ideology to justify unspeakable acts. With its blend of true crime and historical analysis, Under the Banner of Heaven offers a chilling and thought-provoking look at the dark side of religious conviction.

Reviews
nytimes.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
harrowing 4.50

Under the Banner of Heaven explores the dark side of Mormonism, revealing a history of violence and extremism. The book is a chilling account of how religious beliefs can lead to horrific acts, and it's a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of faith and crime.

Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer is a deeply unsettling exploration of the darker aspects of Mormonism. Krakauer delves into the history of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, uncovering a disturbing pattern of violence and extremism that has been largely overlooked. The book focuses on the Lafferty brothers, who committed a brutal double murder in the name of their faith, and uses their story to illustrate the dangerous potential of religious fundamentalism. They found the book to be a gripping and thought-provoking read, but also a harrowing one, as it forces readers to confront the ways in which religious beliefs can be twisted to justify horrific acts. They would recommend this book to anyone interested in the complex relationship between faith and crime, as well as those who want to understand the darker side of American religious history. However, they would caution that the book's graphic content may not be suitable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    The book is a chilling account of how religious beliefs can lead to horrific acts.

    Krakauer delves into the history of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, uncovering a disturbing pattern of violence and extremism.

    The book focuses on the Lafferty brothers, who committed a brutal double murder in the name of their faith.

londonreviewbookshop.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-22
harrowing 4.50

Under the Banner of Heaven explores the dark side of religious extremism, focusing on the history of the Mormon Church and the violent acts committed in its name. The book is a chilling examination of faith and fanaticism, raising questions about the dangers of unchecked belief.

Jon Krakauer's Under the Banner of Heaven delves into the disturbing world of religious extremism, particularly within the Mormon Church. The book chronicles the history of the church, highlighting the violent acts committed by some of its members in the name of faith. Krakauer's thorough research and compelling narrative make for a harrowing read, as he explores the psychological and social factors that lead to such extremism. The book is not just a historical account but a timely examination of the dangers of unchecked belief and the potential for violence when religion is taken to its most extreme conclusions. They found the book to be both enlightening and unsettling, offering a deep dive into a subject that is often shrouded in secrecy and misinformation.

Quick quotes

    The book is a chilling examination of faith and fanaticism

    Krakauer's thorough research and compelling narrative make for a harrowing read

    The book is not just a historical account but a timely examination of the dangers of unchecked belief

reddit.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
intriguing 4.50

The book is enthralling and thought-provoking, exploring the dark side of religious extremism within Mormonism. It raises questions about faith, obedience, and the nature of religious belief.

This book is a gripping exploration of the violent and extreme aspects of Mormon fundamentalism. It delves into the history of polygamy and violence within the Church of Later Day Saints, leaving readers with a sense of indignation and confusion about faith. The narrative challenges the comfort of blind obedience and the removal of personal responsibility that strict adherence to religion can provide. It also raises important questions about the nature of faith and the dangers of religious extremism. The book is recommended for those going through a personal crisis as it provokes deep thought and discussion.

Quick quotes

    I couldn't put it down. It was enthralling.

    There is a certain appeal to having no choices. Sometimes religion is comforting because obedience to a provided list of rules removes personal responsibility.

    I will never follow a religion that doesn't encourage me to question everything.

bookbrowse.com · Unknown · 2025-09-23
thought-provoking 4.50

Jon Krakauer's 'Under the Banner of Heaven' explores the dark side of Mormon fundamentalism through the chilling story of the Lafferty brothers, who committed a brutal murder based on divine revelation. The book delves into the psychological and historical context of religious extremism, drawing parallels to global terrorism and raising questions about faith, violence, and the influence of scripture.

Jon Krakauer's 'Under the Banner of Heaven' is a gripping exploration of the violent undercurrents within Mormon fundamentalism. The book centers around the horrific 1984 murders committed by the Lafferty brothers, who believed they were acting on divine orders. Krakauer masterfully sets the stage by providing historical and scriptural context, illustrating how religious extremism can lead to acts of violence. The narrative is both chilling and thought-provoking, as it draws parallels between the Lafferty brothers and Islamic terrorists, raising important questions about the nature of faith and the fine line between religious fervor and insanity. The book is a powerful examination of how religious history and modern conditions can fuel extremism, making it a compelling read for those interested in the darker aspects of religious belief.

Quick quotes

    Krakauer provides enough raw material for a seminar on post-9/11 questions.

    What drives people toward fundamentalism, and then toward violence?

    By setting Mormon fundamentalism in its historical and scriptural context, and by powerfully illuminating Dan Lafferty's mind, Krakauer provides enough raw material for a seminar on post-9/11 questions.

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