Mormon Diaries

I was completely riveted by Sophia Stone's moving spiritual memo

I was completely riveted by Sophia Stone's moving spiritual memoir about growing up--and away from--her Mormon faith. It's an intensely personal, never polemical story of her struggles to grasp promised spiritual rewards that remain always out of reach.

Her quick mind and sensitive heart shine through this well-paced, beautifully written narrative. As she awakens to the abuses in her church, which ties one's eternal destiny to one's earthly family, her whole world shifts. It's deeply satisying to watch Stone change from timid pleaser to a brave voice in the wilderness who won't be silenced any longer. And yet her abiding desire to truly know God remains a steady pulse throughout.

I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who's ever struggled to be "good enough" for God's love.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

First, the writing is gorgeous. In perfectly chosen language and

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.

The tale of her 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.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Succinct and sincere

I was rooting for this sincere lady.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Stone tells an important story of wrestling with the faith tradi

Stone tells an important story of wrestling with the faith tradition of her family and coming to terms with a difficult reality. She captures her own story in a way that invites the reader in while at the same time capturing a glimpse into her experience of Mormonism with all its gifts and challenges. She captures well a profound experience of discovering God's grace. A good read that takes you along on her emotional journey.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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