Benjamin Park will discuss his new book, AMERICAN ZION, at Lost City Bookstore, followed by an audience Q&A and signing.
"American Zion is the tale of how a homegrown faith birthed through a family in crisis became a global religion that remains closely connected to American culture. It shows how the tradition has been shaped by two hundred years of culture wars, clashes that took place both inside as well as outside the institution. While prominent figures like Joseph Smith and Brigham Young receive extensive analysis, American Zion also gives attention to marginalized figures typically overlooked in grand syntheses. The book therefore provides background to how Mormonism became socially conservative, politically Republican, and culturally diverse. Such an investigation has only become possible in recent years as an increasing number of crucial sources have become available at the Latter-day Saint church’s archives. Reviews have called the work “respectful but not uncritical, as well as an “engrossing read.” The first major history history of the religion in over a decade, American Zion reveals a profoundly divided faith that has nevertheless shaped the nation."
Accessibility note: This event is up two flights of stairs and Lost City Books does not have an elevator.