This is an intense, disturbing, well-researched and well-told nonfiction book about a topic about which young people likely know almost nothing. Candace Fleming traces Jim Jones' People's Temple movement from its earliest days to its tragic end when 910 people were killed on one day in 1978. This thorough and thoroughly engaging book expertly engages readers in understanding why people followed Jim Jones initially, how he maintained control, and how the narrative that this was a mass suicide may not be accurate at all. It's a complex and difficult story, and Fleming expertly weaves the stories of participants and survivors together. It's challenging and not for every reader, but curious students will likely find this to be a very compelling read. I know I was hanging onto every word and have been talking about it ever since I read it. Recommended for readers grades 8 all the way up through adults.
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