Under the Banner of Heaven

by Jon Krakauer

True Crime

Religious History

400 Pages

"Krakauer's investigation is both meticulous and deeply unsettling—this book opened my eyes to the dangerous extremes of religious fundamentalism."

Synopsis

Under the Banner of Heaven investigates the shocking 1984 murders of Brenda Lafferty and her infant daughter in Utah, committed by fundamentalist Mormon brothers who claimed they were acting on divine revelation. Jon Krakauer uses this horrific crime as a lens through which to examine the history and practices of Mormon fundamentalism, tracing the roots of religious extremism from the early days of the Latter-day Saint movement through contemporary polygamist communities. The book alternates between the investigation of the Lafferty murders and historical accounts of Mormon history, including the violent conflicts between early Mormons and the U.S. government, the practice of blood atonement, and the development of polygamist sects that broke away from mainstream Mormonism. Krakauer explores how fundamentalist interpretations of religious doctrine can lead to violence, examining the psychological and social factors that enable ordinary people to commit extraordinary acts in the name of faith. Through extensive interviews with family members, law enforcement officials, and members of fundamentalist communities, he reveals the complex web of beliefs, family dynamics, and social pressures that contributed to the tragedy. The book raises broader questions about the relationship between religious freedom and public safety, the role of extremist beliefs in American society, and the ways that fundamentalist communities can become isolated from mainstream social and legal norms.

Our Take

Under the Banner of Heaven represents Jon Krakauer at his investigative best, demonstrating his exceptional ability to weave together true crime narrative with broader social and historical analysis. Following his acclaimed works Into the Wild and Into Thin Air, Krakauer tackles one of his most controversial subjects with meticulous research and unflinching honesty. His background in journalism brings credibility to his investigation while his narrative skills make complex religious history accessible and compelling. The book's exploration of how religious extremism can lead to violence echoes the investigative depth found in The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson and Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi, but with Krakauer's distinctive focus on the intersection of faith and fanaticism. His balanced approach examines fundamentalist Mormon communities without broad condemnation while clearly identifying the dangers of extremist interpretations of religious doctrine. The book sparked significant controversy within Mormon communities, but Krakauer's careful sourcing and extensive documentation support his conclusions. Perfect for readers interested in true crime that explores deeper social issues, investigative journalism that tackles controversial subjects, and anyone seeking to understand how religious fundamentalism can turn dangerous. This book remains essential reading for understanding the complex relationship between faith, freedom, and the potential for violence in American religious communities.