Accidental Terrorist : Confessions Of A Reluctant Missionary by William Shunn

Finalist for the 2015 Association for Mormon Letters Award, this captivating book presents a remarkable true story that will leave you both entertained and deep in thought. Renowned author Cory Doctorow describes it as “my favorite true-life amazing-but-true tale,” emphasizing the unique blend of humor and provocation found within its pages.

The narrative begins in the year 1987 when an uncertain missionary named Bill Shunn finds himself imprisoned in Canada, accused of hijacking and facing the daunting possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars. Fast forward to 1844 and we encounter Joseph Smith, a frontier prophet who also finds himself incarcerated, this time in Illinois, facing charges of treason and the imminent threat of lynching.

So, what connects these two seemingly unrelated individuals? This memoir intricately weaves their stories together, creating a captivating tapestry of deception, desperation, and defiance. The memoir delves into their experiences, evoking emotions of hilarity, provocation, and exhilaration along the way. The enthralling nature of this memoir promises to change the way you perceive a Mormon missionary forever.

William Shunn’s writing skill is nothing short of exceptional. The reader is immediately immersed in the book from the first page, and the grip never loosens. The strikingly beautiful pacing and fantastically written prose create an experience that feels more like reading a riveting novel than a memoir. The author’s personal involvement in these incredible events is evident, making the tale even more remarkable. This book is a testament to Shunn’s talent as a writer and his resilience as a human being.

If you’re seeking a captivating read that will challenge your perception of reality, look no further. “The Accidental Terrorist” is a must-read memoir that will leave you in awe of the remarkable journeys and experiences of its protagonists.

“The Accidental Terrorist: Confessions of a Reluctant Missionary”

In this article, I will share the story behind my memoir “The Accidental Terrorist: Confessions of a Reluctant Missionary.” It recounts my experience as a 19-year-old Mormon missionary in Canada, including my arrest and conviction for felony mischief. Despite no longer being a practicing Mormon, my intention is not to critique or defend the faith but to provide insight into the lives of young missionaries. The book took 17 years to write and publish, but it was driven by my desire to write about my missionary experience and the unique challenges I faced.

Much of the content discusses the process of self-publishing and the efforts I undertook to ensure a high-quality final product. I wanted the book to look professional and not resemble other poorly produced self-published works. This meant educating myself in book design, typesetting, and manuscript formatting. I wanted my book to be visually appealing and comfortable to read.

The article also touches on some memorable incidents during my mission, such as a prank-filled rivalry with fellow missionaries and a misadventure involving a stolen Christmas tree. These stories highlight the more colorful aspects of mission life that contrasted with the idealized image I had before embarking on my mission.

Throughout the article, I emphasize the importance of understanding the craft of book design and self-publishing. I explain the steps I took to create a high-quality physical book and e-book versions. I stress the significance of having a professional editor to fine-tune the manuscript and the significance of creating an engaging cover.

In concluding the article, I mention the surreal experience of discovering a photo taken during my mission that perfectly fit the book cover I envisioned. It felt like a sign that my younger self had some subconscious foresight that I would one day write this memoir.

While the article covers various topics, from self-publishing to humorous missionary anecdotes, I hope it gives readers a sense of the journey I took to bring “The Accidental Terrorist” to fruition. It is a reminder that hard work, determination, and a commitment to quality can lead to the realization of a long-held dream.