Academics rarely lay the groundwork for feature films. But George Mason University's John G. Turner might consider retaining an agent, given the quality of his new biography of Brigham Young. A page-turning drama, Turner's story explores everything in the Mormon leader's life, ranging from the haunting to the inspirational. Readers will understand why Young's legacy is tainted by associations with the early Great Basin community's polygamy and racism. However, they will also appreciate how Young's heroic will propelled him to hold a place comparable to Joseph Smith's in the hearts and minds of the Latter-day Saints.

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