| Torn by God: A Family's Struggle with Polygamy | |
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Author |
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Publisher |
H.O.T. Press |
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Date |
2009 |
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ISBN |
0923178066, 9780923178062 |
Torn by God: A Family's Struggle with Polygamy is an autobiographical novel by Zoe Murdock.
Plot Summary[]
Zoe Murdock’s riveting family drams takes place in 1959 in a small Mormon town in Utah. It chronicles the devastation brought upon the Sterling family when the father has a vision which leads him to become involved with a local polygamist group run by a self-serving fundamentalist. The father comes to believe that the Mormon Church never should have rescinded polygamy. Even though the practice is now against the law and grounds for excommunication, he feels it is something God demands of him. Twelve-year-old Beth watches helplessly as her mother sinks into depression and illness. When her father leaves town to build a church for the polygamists, the family is cast off by the Mormon community and it is up to Beth to take care of her sick mother and her little brother. The story delves deep into the controversial association between mainstream Mormons and fundamentalist off-shoot groups such as those led by Warren Jeffs. It explores the power of indoctrination and religious control. It is a story inspired by true events.
Reviews[]
- Our Visions, Our Voices Mormon Womens Literary Tour
- Zoe Interview by Lisa at Feminist Mormon Housewives
- Review by Gabi Kupitz at Association for Mormon Letters, June 1, 2009
- Review by Jeffrey Needle at Association for Mormon Letters, June 4, 2009
