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To Richard and Joan K. Ostling,
Authors of Mormon America,
Allow me to introduce myself.
My name is [_____], and I have been a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, more commonly referred to as the Mormons. For the past few years, one of my hobbies has been what is commonly known as “apologetics” work.
I had heard a few people discussing Mormon America, with each of them praising it for being a serious and scholarly work. As I am constantly trying to learn more about my own faith, I eventually decided to splurge when I spotted a copy of the second (2007) edition at the local Borders.
To my chagrin, however, as I began to read it I started noting several instances where the material presented in the text was unclear (such as whether or not certain works were considered canon) or even incorrect (such as several instances where the material was not updated since the 1999 edition, IE the divestiture of ZCMI). I found myself sorely disappointed, as I was expecting a more accurate, more academic work.
To this end, I have compiled an “errata” list in which I note those areas where I feel revisions should take place. My intention is simply to generate a discussion on these points in the hopes of furthering the accuracy and academic value of the work should a third edition be planned.
It was my hope to discuss the matter in a more direct fashion, such as through e-mail, in order to minimize any possible miscommunication between us. Unfortunately, I was informed by Harper One that this initial communication must be sent through them. As such, I am including a printed copy of my list. Should the list be missing pages or not arrive, please notify me and I will attempt to re-send the list through whatever method you prefer.
It is clear that a definite attempt was made to research the presented issues, but I feel it unfortunate that the inaccurate information was able to reach print. Again, I do not wish to belittle the work; I only wish to discuss potential problems so that they can be corrected.
Respectfully,
Authors of Mormon America,
Allow me to introduce myself.
My name is [_____], and I have been a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, more commonly referred to as the Mormons. For the past few years, one of my hobbies has been what is commonly known as “apologetics” work.
I had heard a few people discussing Mormon America, with each of them praising it for being a serious and scholarly work. As I am constantly trying to learn more about my own faith, I eventually decided to splurge when I spotted a copy of the second (2007) edition at the local Borders.
To my chagrin, however, as I began to read it I started noting several instances where the material presented in the text was unclear (such as whether or not certain works were considered canon) or even incorrect (such as several instances where the material was not updated since the 1999 edition, IE the divestiture of ZCMI). I found myself sorely disappointed, as I was expecting a more accurate, more academic work.
To this end, I have compiled an “errata” list in which I note those areas where I feel revisions should take place. My intention is simply to generate a discussion on these points in the hopes of furthering the accuracy and academic value of the work should a third edition be planned.
It was my hope to discuss the matter in a more direct fashion, such as through e-mail, in order to minimize any possible miscommunication between us. Unfortunately, I was informed by Harper One that this initial communication must be sent through them. As such, I am including a printed copy of my list. Should the list be missing pages or not arrive, please notify me and I will attempt to re-send the list through whatever method you prefer.
It is clear that a definite attempt was made to research the presented issues, but I feel it unfortunate that the inaccurate information was able to reach print. Again, I do not wish to belittle the work; I only wish to discuss potential problems so that they can be corrected.
Respectfully,
In early November 2007, I was browsing through the local Borders when I saw an updated edition of Richard and Joan Ostling's "Mormon America." Despite having just been laid off, owing to all the hype the book had been receiving I decided to splurge and pick it up.
To say that I was "disappointed" is an understatement. A mere surface reading (reading it like a normal person would) was enough for me to compile an errata list so astonishing in size that IMHO it challenges their credibility as writers and journalists.
As the publisher refuses to allow people to contact their authors directly during the first communication, last summer I sent this cover letter and the errata list to the publisher as part of a bundle, addressing the padded envelope to the Ostlings c/o the publisher.
I've not heard back from either the Ostlings or the publisher since, and so I'm putting the material out here for the public to see.
To say that I was "disappointed" is an understatement. A mere surface reading (reading it like a normal person would) was enough for me to compile an errata list so astonishing in size that IMHO it challenges their credibility as writers and journalists.
As the publisher refuses to allow people to contact their authors directly during the first communication, last summer I sent this cover letter and the errata list to the publisher as part of a bundle, addressing the padded envelope to the Ostlings c/o the publisher.
I've not heard back from either the Ostlings or the publisher since, and so I'm putting the material out here for the public to see.
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