Describes the history and doctrines of the Latter-Day Saints, and discusses their way of life and their relationships with the outside world and with their own fundamentalist fringe
This was an interesting read. It's a bit dated, but it has some useful information on the origins of the LDS church, as well as some of the controversy that has swirled around the church for the past century or so. The actual tone of the book is admirably middle-of-the-road. James Coates is a former journalist, so he does his best to present all sides of the story in an unbiased manner.
It's a good read for anyone whose interested in sociology, theology, the formation/ growth of religions, or LDS history.
I read this book 15 years ago for the first time, and recently re-read it. It's a straight forward and fascinating view of the history of the LDS church. So happy I found this great book at a local thrift shop and bought it for $1.50. Great rediscovery!