38 pages • 1 hour read
Dennis CovingtonSalvation on Sand Mountain: Snake Handling and Redemption in Southern Appalachia
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1995A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a non-fiction account that begins with Covington's coverage of preacher Glenn Summerford's trial for allegedly attempting to murder his wife with a rattlesnake bite. The narrative expands as Covington explores the snake-handling churches of Southern Appalachia, immerses himself in the community, and ultimately questions his beliefs and identity while navigating the complex world of faith and redemption. The book discusses themes of domestic violence and religious extremism.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is both praised and criticized by reviewers. Its vivid storytelling and deep exploration of faith and culture in the Appalachian snake-handling community are highly lauded, with Covington's personal journey adding further depth. However, some criticize it for lacking critical distance. Overall, it is considered a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Salvation on Sand Mountain?
Readers who appreciate Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington are typically intrigued by American religious movements, Southern culture, and personal spiritual quests. Fans of Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance and The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls may find this memoir compelling for its investigative journalism and intimate portrayal of snake-handling churches.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
980LBook Details
Religion / Spirituality
History: U.S.
History: World
Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality
Southern Literature
Journalism
Biography
Southern Gothic