Mormon America by Richard and Joan Ostling describes the influence of the Mormon church on America, as well as tracing its growth over time. The authors, both religion writers from major publications, use thorough research to present conclusions about things like the financial standing of the church and the number of members.
If you are interested in learning about the Mormon church (or Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints as it is officially known), this is a good title to pick up. It starts at the beginning, when Joseph Smith, an uneducated farm boy, has his revelation in the New York countryside. Then it follows as he gains followers, moves west, is killed, then the church moves out to Utah. It includes information about the religious beliefs and famous members, as well as presenting the good and the bad.
I have been interested in the some of the details of the religion ever since I read Jon Krakauer's Under the Banner of Heaven. It is an interesting story, especially since the religion developed in the United States and fairly recently. The book was a little dry in places, but was packed with information. I have known many LDS members, and it was interesting to get a little more insight into their beliefs and practices.
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