Mission to America

by: Walter Kirn

Published by: Doubleday

Reviewed by Janelle Martin

The shrinking population of the Aboriginal Fulfilled Apostles (AFA) has led to a crisis--new bloodlines must be introduced into the community if they wish to continue--as it has for more than 147 years.

This isolationist sect has lived, tucked into the hills of rural Montana and led by matriarchs who follow the edicts of their Seeress to maintain a life of modesty and nutritional vigilance. Ennis Lauer, the only wealthy member of the faith, has handpicked a group of young men for an unheard-of mission--seeking out "brides" in mainstream America.

Mission to America tells the story of one of these pairs: Mason LaVerle and Elder Stark, as they leave Bluff, Montana and travel to Colorado, bringing their message of clean living to world-weary Americans.

Walter Kirn's fifth novel focuses on Mason, a naif bewildered by the choices and depravity as they begin their journey. They try Ennis Lauer's sale-closing techniques often used by con men and used car salesmen.

Where Mason is naive and calm, Elder Stark has sharp edges and chaotic energy. Asserting his leadership early on,Stark quickly develops an appetite for reality television and America's junk food. These appetites are what make him the natural choice as Lauer's ambassador in his bid to usurp leadership of the AFA.

When lampooning America's hunger for spiritual gurus, author Kirn is at his best. Using Mason to mirror America's lack of moral compass works to illuminate the fear and dearth of spirituality at the core of most of the selfish choices made each day. In a post 9-11 world, this novel can be an indictment of the spiritual journey many Americans claim to have embarked on, although in reality, they are caught up in the soulless world of reality TV and idle consumerism.

Armchair Interview says: Mission to America leaves the reader questioning the nature of faith, the quest for understanding and wondering how much of Kirn's early childhood experiences with the Mormon church are reflected within the character of Mason.