NATIONAL BESTSELLER • From the author of Into the Wild and Into Thin Air, this extraordinary work of investigative journalism takes readers inside America’s isolated Mormon Fundamentalist communities. • Now an acclaimed FX limited series streaming on HULU. “Fantastic.... Right up there with In Cold Blood and The Executioner’s Song.” —San Francisco Chronicle Defying both civil authorities and the Mormon establishment in Salt Lake City, the renegade leaders of these Taliban-like theocracies are zealots who answer only to God; some 40,000 people still practice polygamy in these communities. At the core of Krakauer’s book are brothers Ron and Dan Lafferty, who insist they received a commandment from God to kill a blameless woman and her baby girl. Beginning with a meticulously researched account of this appalling double murder, Krakauer constructs a multi-layered, bone-chilling narrative of messianic delusion, polygamy, savage violence, and unyielding faith. Along the way he uncovers a shadowy offshoot of America’s fastest growing religion, and raises provocative questions about the nature of religious belief.
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About the author
Jon Krakauer
Author
Jon Krakauer is an American writer and mountaineer. He is the author of bestselling nonfiction books—Into the Wild; Into Thin Air; Under the Banner of Heaven; and Where Men Win Glory: The Odyssey of Pat Tillman—as well as numerous magazine articles. He was a member of an ill-fated expedition to summit Mount Everest in 1996, one of the deadliest disasters in the history of climbing Everest.
Under the Banner of Heaven
by Jon Krakauer
Books Like Under the Banner of Heaven
If you're looking for books similar to Under the Banner of Heaven, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
In Cold Blood
Truman Capote
A groundbreaking true crime narrative about the brutal murder of the Clutter family in Kansas. Capote meticulously reconstructs the crime, investigation, and eventual capture of the killers. The book explores the psychological motivations behind senseless violence and the impact on a small community. Like Krakauer's work, it delves deep into the minds of criminals and the societal contexts that shape their actions.
Educated
Tara Westover
A memoir about growing up in a strict, isolated Mormon family in Idaho. Westover's story provides personal insights into religious fundamentalism, complementing Krakauer's broader investigative approach. The book explores themes of belief, family, and individual liberation.
The Executioner's Song
Norman Mailer
A comprehensive account of Gary Gilmore, a convicted murderer who demanded his own execution in Utah. The book examines the complexities of crime, punishment, and individual psychology. Mailer's journalistic approach mirrors Krakauer's investigative style, offering a nuanced exploration of violence, belief systems, and societal norms.
I'll Be Gone in the Dark
Michelle McNamara
An investigative account of the Golden State Killer, combining true crime reporting with personal narrative. McNamara's obsessive research and compelling storytelling echo Krakauer's approach to investigating complex criminal cases. The book explores how crime impacts communities and individuals.
Going Clear
Lawrence Wright
A comprehensive investigation into Scientology, exploring its origins, beliefs, and controversial practices. Wright's meticulous research and willingness to challenge institutional narratives parallel Krakauer's approach. The book reveals how religious movements can become vehicles for manipulation and control.
Helter Skelter
Vincent Bugliosi
The definitive account of the Charles Manson murders written by the prosecutor who convicted Manson. The book explores how a charismatic leader can manipulate followers into committing horrific crimes. Similar to 'Under the Banner of Heaven', it examines the dangerous intersection of religious fanaticism and violence.
Columbine
Dave Cullen
A comprehensive investigation of the Columbine High School shooting, challenging popular misconceptions. Cullen's journalistic approach mirrors Krakauer's, offering a nuanced examination of violence, belief systems, and societal dysfunction. The book reveals the complex motivations behind seemingly inexplicable actions.
The Devil in the White City
Erik Larson
A gripping narrative that intertwines the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the story of serial killer H.H. Holmes. The book demonstrates how true crime can be as compelling as fiction. Like Krakauer's work, it combines meticulous research with a narrative that explores the darker side of human nature.
The Stranger Beside Me
Ann Rule
A unique true crime book about serial killer Ted Bundy, written by a woman who personally knew him. Rule provides intimate insights into a murderer's psychology, similar to Krakauer's deep dive into religious extremism. The book explores how seemingly normal individuals can commit extraordinary evil.
Prophet's Prey
Sam Brower
An investigative account of Warren Jeffs and the FLDS Church, focusing on systemic abuse within fundamentalist Mormon communities. Brower's work directly connects to Krakauer's exploration of religious extremism. The book reveals the human cost of unchecked religious fundamentalism.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
John Berendt
A non-fiction work that reads like a novel, exploring a murder in Savannah, Georgia. The book delves into local culture, eccentric characters, and the complexities of a criminal investigation. It shares Krakauer's ability to contextualize crime within broader social and cultural frameworks.
The Family
Jeff Sharlet
An investigative work exploring a secretive Christian fundamentalist organization in Washington, D.C. Like 'Under the Banner of Heaven', it examines the dangerous potential of religious extremism. Sharlet reveals how belief systems can be manipulated to justify power and control.
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