Mormonism has been the subject of both derision and curiosity since the founding of the faith in the early 19th century, The assassination of the Mormon Prophet,, Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum at Carthage Jail has long been the source of rumors and speculation. With the book American Crucifixion the reader is taken through the period of time leading to the assassination and some of the reasons why it occurred,

In June 1844, a mob attacked the jail in Carthage, Illinois. Before they were through two men would be dead. Those men were Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, and his brother Hiram. American Crucifixion tells the story of Joseph Smith and new faith. It is an even handed account that examines Smith, his origins, and the story of the founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The book is not a hagiography. In tells the failings of Smith as well as his qualities. He could be exasperating as well as charismatic. This is a very informative and interesting look at a true American phenomenon.