I found this book to be written well enough to hold my attention, but some of the content seems to be repetitive. I can't imagine growing up in a strict environment like the LDS church, nor can I imagine turning away from all that I learned and promised. The author is a strong, honest person and I appreciate her willingness to share her life. ( )

It's a good work. Would have liked to have it tweaked in parts and given more description. Finding that balance would make this book stronger. However, the thesis of her work, that purity culture and shame do not create a healthy place for children (or adults) to grow and know themselves is ever-present. However, her vulnerability makes this a book that church leaders should read, especially those that work with students. Further, it should also be read by school advocates wanting the best for their students. ( )

Initially the writing style reminded me of an assignment in creative writing. Lots of descriptors, brash fluorescent lighting, unforgiving glass, cold concrete, bookend lanterns. - and that was just in the first two paragraphs. But the flowery descriptors disappeared as the story unfolded.
The story could have been shorter had the author not reminded the reader of her anguish and difficulty in pulling away from the Church in every chapter. However,
I do not mean to diminish the authors heartfelt story - but the book would have more impact with some serious editing. ( )

I hope it was cathartic for Dietz to write this. She lived through a lot of trauma at the hands of the LDS church, her parents, and purity culture's toxic messages writ large. Her story was heartbreaking and also so relatable to those of us who grew up in and around Christian purity culture in America. Notably this isn't invective. She shows the good with the bad.

I'll note that this is a strangely paced book and there is nowhere near the level of through-thread that most memoirs have. It doesn't scratch that itch for the larger reflective narrative. The chapters are disjointed. But if you know this culture, you'll feel what Dietz felt. ( )

Falling From Disgrace is an honest portrayal of one woman’s experience in realizing that the Church of Latter Day Saints was not the path for her life. I can’t help but think that her journey echoes that of many women choosing to leave the church.

Dietz shares her confusion, doubt, determination and heartbreak throughout those formative years of teenage and young adulthood. She illuminates the examples of doctrine, values and female subordination that she recognizes to be contrary to her own. Not a member of this church, I found the teachings and culture based upon control, especially of women, to be very enlightening. Dietz’ honest descriptions of her conflicting feelings in leaving her family as well as the church are beautifully portrayed. The difficulties that she faced not only emotionally but in a survival sense highlight the anguish of having to commit to such an unpopular choice. I was glad to learn that she is not only a survivor but is thriving. Her book is a testament to women facing difficult choices against a powerful culture and I am very glad to have read it. ( )