Building the Kingdom: A History of Mormons in America, by Claudia Lauper Bushman and Richard Lyman Bushman

This book was written for non-Mormons--evident because it covered the basics of Mormon history so thoroughly--but was interesting and detailed enough to appeal to Mormons as well. I've heard most of this history a million times before, but the Bushmans still managed to make it interesting, mostly through good writing, use of primary sources, and a more fair and balanced approach than church lessons usually give--they mention, for instance, that the Mormons fought back in Missouri. Though the section on modern Mormonism is far too short and simplified, that can be forgiven considering the amount of history they were trying to cover; I only hope that they someday write another book focusing on the church from 1890-on.

Highly recommended--readable history, interesting stories. It makes me proud to be a Mormon.