Leonard Arrington (1913-1999) was one of the most noteworthy historians of his era, and has been credited with revolutionizing how Mormon history is written. Topping (history, Salt Lake Community College) offers a biography of the historian that focuses on his intellectual career, the aspects of his life that influenced his view of history, how his Idaho farm background affected his interests and values, and how his upbringing was different from that of other young Mormons. The author also provides a critical appraisal of Arrington's methods and interpretive work. Annotation 2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
