Future Mormon

In my profession I have many opportunities to read and ponder my thoughts on specific and general gospel principles. For the most part, my musings are limited by the level of understanding I can share with my students, so I don’t spend a lot of time preparing deep conversations with them. Fortunately, in my personal study there are times when I can focus on subjects that are of interest to me on a more abstract or thoughtful level.

Some time back I received a copy of a book called “FutureMormon” by Adam Miller, a professor of philosophy at Collin College in Texas and a faithful Latter-day Saint. The book contains a series of essays that invite readers to search their hearts, minds, and souls on a number of topics relating to Mormonism. Admittedly, a few of the essays are somewhat difficult to comprehend and wade through (I suspect that this is a requirement for most philosophy professors), but there are also many that spark the mind and soul to think and invite the Spirit to testify of truth. I found that as I pondered and tried to apply the message of these essays, truth was revealed, and hope increased with a better understanding of the deeper principles of light. Miller’s engaging style and thoughtful commentary makes even the most difficult concepts palatable to the heart and soul.

Some of the topics covered in “Future Mormon” include thoughts on grace as understood by Latter-day Saints, a discussion of materialism and its impact on man, an interesting examination of the message found in Jacob 7 of the Book of Mormon, and a well thought view on Teryl and Fiona Givens book, “The God WhoWeeps.” I am aware that there are some who have read Miller’s work and claim he speaks from the ‘outskirts’ of Mormonism, but careful examination of his writings leads me to believe those in that camp are not truly understanding what he is saying. The message of each essay is to invite members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to look to Christ and follow the teachings He has given through modern and ancient prophets.

For those who are interested in a deeper dive into some of the doctrines of the Restoration, this delightful book will be a serious adventure in learning. And those who may have some fear – take a chance and see if some of the essays might be worthwhile. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

You may also want to take a look at this review of the book from Jeff Lindsay at the Interpreter website. He has much more to say and digs a little deeper into the book.... and he's smarter than I am so it will probably make more sense. ;-) mw

The Summer of Broken Things

From time to time, I receive books from publishers for reviewing purposes. Most of the time I take some time and write a short blurb for Amazon or GoodReads and post them for others to see. But recently, I have had a few books that have been better than average.

SO, I thought I might share a few of the books I have read on this blog. It might get me to remember to do a little more work and also help others find something interesting to read.

Here's the first of, I hope, many reviews to come.

The Summer of Broken Things 
by 

Margaret Peterson Haddix

I received this book from the publisher and, frankly, was not that excited about reading or reviewing it. Sometimes books just don't 'look' or 'sound' like they are going to be interesting, but "The Summer of Broken Things" was surprisingly deep, poignant, and inspiring in its content. 

Despite my early reservations, I am very impressed and touched by the story and especially the writing depth of feeling in the book. My experience with the Margaret Peterson Haddix has been pretty good over the years, but this particular story was much more moving and powerful than her other works. It was almost like she had discovered a new level of writing that opened up to a very personal world.

"The Summer of Broken Things" is about two young women: 16-year-old Kayla Butts (sometimes referred to as "butt-girl") and Avery Armisted, a talented, socially adept 14-year-old soccer player. Though the two girls are aware of each other, and even spent time together when they were much younger, their connections have waned over the years. Kayla is a bright, friendly, caring, and attentive young woman who is little overweight and takes lots of teasing from kids at school. Avery is just the opposite -- popular, athletic, and part of the 'in-crowd.' So, when Avery's parents inform her that they have invited Kayla to be her 'companion' during a summer trip to Spain with her father, Avery's world takes a difficult and mysterious turn. 

Both girls are reluctant to make much of a 'friendship commitment' but as the days pass, a level of trust begins to develop and life becomes easier. Until..., events caused by Avery losing her passport change the whole nature of the trip and threatens the relationship between the girls and Avery's parents. Secrets that have lain hidden for years are revealed, and loyalties are tested as all those involved try to decide what to do. In the end, both girls find out important things about themselves, their families, and the connections that they never knew they had. 

Haddix has approached a difficult subject with tenderness, humor, and a large dose of reality. Readers will learn to love Avery and Kayla, just as the girls learn to accept and maybe even care for each other. There are a few surprises and many tender moments, but this is more than a "Kleenex" story. There is a message in this tale about very sensitive topics, approached with care and compassion and regular doses of humor. And all this is done with characters who are true to themselves and those they love. 

As was mentioned earlier, I have read many of Haddix's books but this, by far, is the most interesting and thought provoking story in her library. Those who take the time to introduce Kayla and Avery into their lives will not be disappointed. Congratulations to Margaret Peterson Haddix on a powerful, uplifting message.