THE 19TH WIFE

Ebershoff’s story moves between the past and the present to reveal much about the practice and inner politics of polygamy through the ages. Ann Eliza, Brigham Young's nineteenth wife, has divorced her husband and advocates the end of polygamy. Quotations from Young’s 1875 writings merge with the narrator's driving voice to convince listeners of her powerful personality, her belief in her right to equality, and her anger at the cold treatment she receives from her community. Just as strong is the depiction of Jordan, the son of a contemporary nineteenth wife who is accused of murdering her husband. The narrator’s portrayal of Jordan conveys his sadness at having been abandoned by his mother, as well as other aspects of his heartbreaking past that belie his strength as he seeks to prove his mother's innocence. S.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]