Leaving the Saints

Leaving the Saints is a powerful memoir that follows Martha Beck's journey as she returns to her Mormon community after years of atheism, and eventually uncovers a dark truth about her past. Through her engaging and competent prose, Beck explores themes of identity, forgiveness, and personal faith, while contrasting her perceptions of the institutional church with the warmth of her Mormon community. The memoir is punctuated with dark humor and glimpses into Beck's struggles with anorexia, suicidal thoughts, and alleged abuse. Leaving the Saints is a poignant exploration of one woman's search for truth and healing.