First, HUGE Thanks to everyone who has (and is) helped(ing) me spread the word about my new book! (see sidebar)
Last week was bananas, but in the middle of it all, I read the most amazing new memoir.
Mormon Diaries is a collection of essays by a good writer-friend that chronicles her life-altering decision to leave that faith.
The essays first appeared during the A-Z Challenge last spring when I had to take a break to write/edit, and apparently they caused such an uproar, she had to disable her comments.
I missed it then, but this book should not be missed now. It's powerful.
First, the writing is gorgeous. In perfectly chosen language and passages, Stone describes her early feelings of doubt. Then as she matures, we experience her fear at questioning her faith, her struggles to be more devoted to her family and deny herself, and ultimately her break.
I'm telling you, the tale of Stone's journey is so evocative, despite my not knowing much about Mormonism, I had tears in my eyes reading.
For the uninitiated, she explains what certain practices mean and why they're significant. Religion can be so entwined in every aspect of our lives that change can be a huge risk. In Stone's case, her decision might ultimately cost her everything--mother, father, siblings... husband, children...
I won't give away the ending, but I will say you're left rooting for her. More importantly, you're rooting for all of us to find a place where it's safe to question entrenched belief systems. Where it's acceptable to have an experience with God that's different from your parents' or even your spouse's.
I highly recommend this book. Despite the title, it's more than a Mormon story. It's a story of how true devotion and true seeking can ultimately lead to real and lasting faith. It's a story of encouragement for anyone looking for answers.
Here's where you can get it:
And if you have questions, Stone has set up an account on Twitter. Follow and ask Sophia Stone @ask_a_mormon.
Have a great week, reader- and writer-friends! I'll be around~ <3
Last week was bananas, but in the middle of it all, I read the most amazing new memoir.
The essays first appeared during the A-Z Challenge last spring when I had to take a break to write/edit, and apparently they caused such an uproar, she had to disable her comments.
I missed it then, but this book should not be missed now. It's powerful.
First, the writing is gorgeous. In perfectly chosen language and passages, Stone describes her early feelings of doubt. Then as she matures, we experience her fear at questioning her faith, her struggles to be more devoted to her family and deny herself, and ultimately her break.
I'm telling you, the tale of Stone's journey is so evocative, despite my not knowing much about Mormonism, I had tears in my eyes reading.
For the uninitiated, she explains what certain practices mean and why they're significant. Religion can be so entwined in every aspect of our lives that change can be a huge risk. In Stone's case, her decision might ultimately cost her everything--mother, father, siblings... husband, children...
I won't give away the ending, but I will say you're left rooting for her. More importantly, you're rooting for all of us to find a place where it's safe to question entrenched belief systems. Where it's acceptable to have an experience with God that's different from your parents' or even your spouse's.
I highly recommend this book. Despite the title, it's more than a Mormon story. It's a story of how true devotion and true seeking can ultimately lead to real and lasting faith. It's a story of encouragement for anyone looking for answers.
Here's where you can get it:
And if you have questions, Stone has set up an account on Twitter. Follow and ask Sophia Stone @ask_a_mormon.
Have a great week, reader- and writer-friends! I'll be around~ <3
28 comments:
I hope her book is a HUGE success. The honesty and power with which she wrote the essays is breath-taking.
I'm posting my review tomorrow. I loved this books as well and for the same reasons.
Really amazing book, isn't it! I have a feeling this book it going to go REALLY well. a lot of curious minds out there.
Even had to disable comments? damn, some people. Faith can be a tricky thing.
I just heard about this book on another blog. Looks good!!
Yeah, I could have wrote that book too... Oh, wait -- I'm thinking of "The Moron Diaries." ;^)
Ok, all kidding aside -- this sounds like an awesome memoir, with a powerful message that's applicable to everyone who seeks to develop their own individual spiritual understanding of God and life. I'm adding it to my TBR list!
Thanks, Leigh!
I found it an amazing book for all the reasons you mention. It IS so much more than a Mormon story.
Wow, this sounds thought provoking and touching.
I worked for a family of Mormons in Alaska. They owned a hotel chain and I learned a lot about the sacrifices of their religion~ Sounds like a powerful read~ Thanks for sharing :D
<3 555
Sounds like a can't miss. Your closing line, "It's a story of encouragement for anyone looking for answers," is beautifully written as well.
I was just reading about this one on someone else's blog, but it wasn't quite as powerful as yours. Wow. i need to read this. I've always been fascinated by different faiths and I've learned a little about Mormonism over the years. It's definitely interesting to see how it differs from mainstream protestant Christianity.
I'm gonna download this one right now.
I didn't know about the blog comments from her A to Z Challenge. I wish more people had a live and let live philosophy. If it's not causing harm, why do people care?
I could probably get into this.
I'll have to check this one out. Sounds intriguing. Congrats to Sophia.
Just bought this book and am featuring it on my blog later this week. Looking forward to reading it!
@Clarissa--It's so moving. Loved it. <3
@Chris--you nut! LOL! It really is a good book, though. I found myself relating to many of the passages just from my own strict religious upbringing. It's hard to ask questions, and in some cases, it takes enormous courage. Good stuff; and all best to the author~ <3
That must have been an incredibly difficult journey. I can't imagine the obstacles faced.
I saw this book on another blog and was incredibly moved by the story. I am looking forward to reading it.
I agree with Jessica. Stories like these get people excited to hear more of the secrets about the religion.
Isn't it great when you read a book that moves you? And it is always neat to read books that offer insight into a world many of us hear about but don't really know. Best of luck to her!
Angela
Sounds like a very interesting read! Kudos to the author for bravely taking on a challenging story.
I'd haven't heard of this, but it does sound like something that would interest me. TBR. ;)
This review kicks butt!
Sounds like a great book! Faith is a powerful tool and I use it too in my stories. Best wishes for Sophia Stone!
@Ciara--it's a true story of bravery. I was crying. :o) <3
@Kari--I think you'll like it. It's as much about being true to yourself in the face of huge risks as anything else. Inspirational. :o)
@Carolyn--I think it's right up your alley! :o) <3
@Angela--Hey! So glad you liked it! <3
This is the second place I've seen this today--it looks like a fabulous book. I missed it during A to Z, too, but I love that a series could generate such fervor that it merited a book.
Great review, the book sounds amazing. Congratulations on the release of The Truth About Faking It. I was about to tell you that I am on my way to Amazon right now to purchase it, but my hubbie just informed me that I have gone a little nuts with book purchase this month. It's okay I will be able to purchase it on Friday and I am looking forward to reading it. Way to go. You have done really well.
What an amazing review! The only memoir I've ever read is Angela's Ashes. And I loved it. This really sounds like something I'd love, too. When I finally have some time to read again, I'll look it up. ;)
BTW, your FAKING IT book cover is beautiful! HUGE congrats on getting it out there! I still haven't bought a kindle, but I have a list of books to read once I do, and yours will be at the top! It looks wonderful!
I'm definitely checking it out!
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