Stolen Innocence
Posted by Merry Mao on November 22nd, 2010
Title: Stolen Innocence
Author: Elissa Wall
Publisher: William Morrow, May 2008
Summary: Elissa Wall’s heartbreaking memoir chronicles her life in- and eventual abandonment of- the FLDS church, a polygamist sect of Mormons living in Utah under Warren Jeffs. Elissa’s entire life she has been taught that the only way to get into Heaven is to obey Warren Jeffs (and any other man) without question, get rid of anything the Lord does not approve of (including classical music, friends, and books), and most of all, by “keeping sweet”. As Elissa grows older her family is torn apart by a series of shocking events, including a number of brothers and sisters abandoning their faith.
Elissa Wall’s story will not only shock readers, but keep them in awe throughout the entire book. As frustrating as it can be, the reader feels deep compassion for a young woman caught up in a life of systematic bullying and brainwashing. The book also mentions another prominent family in the FLDS, the Jessops- Carolyn later went on to write her own memoir.
Who will like this book?: People who enjoy memoirs or biographies. Those who are interested in other religions or who would like to know more about the FLDS.
If you like this, read this: Triumph or Escape by Carolyn Jessop, The Lonely Polygamist by Udall
Recommended by: LB, Circulation Assistant