I am reading this book about Ann Eliza Young, who managed to get away from Brigham Young after becoming his l9th wife. It is actually three books in one. It is a carefully researched history of the Mormon Church, Ann Eliza's story and the story of a splinter group of Mormon's who still practice polygamy.

The group who split off from the Mormon Church is fascinating. They are so inter-related that they all look alike. They abandon the boys when they are about fourteen, so they won't be competition for the old men who marry the young girls. The police and the church are absolute rulers in the fictional city of Mesa Dale. Followers are told that Europe is devastated as is much of America. They are so brainwashed that they all believe there is no life in the outside world. Few of the girls manage to get away. Somehow, I am inclined to believe this is more fact than fiction. One thing that I am sure is the truth is that since the government only recognizes one wife and the others apply for welfare as single mothers, this enriching these old men who do not h ave to work. As one would expect there is a great deal of jeaousy among the sister wives.

This is a great read. and convinces me more and more that is someone offera to assume the mamtle of caretaler.in most cases it comes with to many string to be a viable Otion.