The author, John Sorenson, with the publication of this book, became the trailblazer in the area of Book of Mormon geography. All succeeding books addressing this subject must deal with the foundational principles that he explicated as the basis for his proposals on "an ancient American setting" for the Book of Mormon. His view of the Book of Mormon as a family chronicle, his understanding of the "two Cumorah" theory, his requirements for what must be present to geographically locate the happenings of the Book of Mormon (written language, a substantial infrastructure, specific geographical reference points) and numerous other seminal proposals - all have formed the basis for, and shaped the character of, the subsequent debate. This volume is a primary acquisition for anyone interested in better understanding the topic. ( )