51 pages • 1 hour read
Jon KrakauerUnder the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2003A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
1350L