"Porterfield calls attention to certain continuing touchstones underlying all the enormous variety of patterns and traits in major religious traditions and movements, each shaped by cultural modifiers. This is a 'reader' with an interpretive point, an abundant and lively but directed collection." Rowland A. Sherrill, Indiana University / Purdue University "This collection of well-chosen primary sources and essays ... Read moreby major scholars illuminates the diversity of the American religious experience in its historical development as well as its contemporary manifestations. It will undoubtedly become a widely-used resource in teaching about American religious history." Peter W. Williams, Miami University "Porterfield has skillfully constructed this wide-ranging collection of historical essays and documents to demonstrate how the American religious experience has manifested over time both an amazing diversity and an underlying thematic unity." Ava Chamberlain, Wright State University "I enjoyed reading this book; I found the selections interesting and challenging and I believe students would as well. Porterfield has written her introductions to each section fairly and with integrity. This is a fine reader, with the potential to raise important questions about both religious history and personal belief." H-Net Reviews Show Less