The Book of Mormon Girl: A Memoir of an American Faith
“Oh wow. I double dare you to readThe Book of Mormon Girlin your book club. Bring a casserole and roll up your sleeves for an original, provocative argument about dissent in faith communities! Even if you’re not one of those fine believers who store up food for the Apocalypse, you’re likely to agree that Joanna Brooks has singlehandedly redefined the wordcourage. Prepare to be surprised.” –Rhoda Janzen, author of Mennonite in a Little Black Dress"This gorgeously written, deeply intelligent memoir of an ordinary girlhood in an ordinary Mormon family is one of those most unusual and most valuable of personal stories, simultaneously sweeping and intimate, a book of both broad vision and precise detail. The Book of Mormon Girl is about one particular religious subculture, but it will resonate with anyone who cares about childhood and its echoes in the adult mind of a scholar who’s also a wise and innovative storyteller." --Jeff Sharlet,New York Timesbestselling author ofThe FamilyandSweet Heaven When I Die“Laugh-out-loud funny and break-your-heart poignant. A triumph.”–Carol Lynn Pearson, author ofNo More Goodbyes: Circling the Wagons Around Our Gay Loved Ones"Joanna Brooks captures Mormonism in revealing but tender ways that are sure to resonate with insiders and outsiders alike. Mormonism may not yet have found its Chaim Potok, but it has its Joanna Brooks."--R. B. Scott, author ofMitt Romney: An Inside Look at the Man and His Politics“A pathbreaking and utterly necessary memoir.”–Carolyn Forché, celebrated poet and human rights activist“A compelling memoir of being found and lost and found again. Brooks is a contemporary Mormon pioneer.”–Jana Riess, author ofFlunking SainthoodandMormonism for Dummies“Disarming, funny, wrenching, and inspiring. This is a quietly fierce, authentic, and faithful voice, one that insists her religious tradition is young, and the next chapter yet to be written.”–Phillip Barlow, Ph.D., Arrington Chair of Mormon History and Culture, Utah State University"Enchanting...charming...throughout this heartfelt work [Joanna Brooks] remains braced and true to herself." --Publisher's Weekly"The Book of Mormon Girlis a luminous ode to Brooks' passion for Mormonism, in spite of her church's rejection. It is a memoir written not just for herself, but for others who continue to pursue their faith in the face of abandonment because "No one should be left to feel like she is the only one broken and seeking." --Minneapolis Star Tribune"A balanced, heartfelt memoir of honoring a faith and a heritage while challenging church teachings." --Shelf Awareness"Brooks writes with an urgent intimacy reminiscent of Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love,” coating even the most painful memories with a honeyed warmth." --The Boston Globe"Brooks’s sprightly yet thoughtful prose, her carefully constructed narrative and her passionate yet forgiving activism make hers a rare memoir that ended too soon. It is a triumphal declaration of unorthodox faith and an engaging — if unconventional — introduction to an American religion." --The Washington Post"A thought-provoking, conversation-starting memoir for those interested in Mormonism, feminism, and religion in general." --Library Journal"Joanna writes a beautifully crafted memoir about growing up as a Mormon, how her life as a young kid felt and how it changed over time when she went to college and became a self-proclaimed feminist (not something closely associated with the Mormon Church at the time). The book is a terrific read, especially if you've ever gone through a period in your life where you've questioned your faith and background. You must read it!" --Huffington Post