| Author to appear at Book Cellar | |
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BY PATRICE ST. GERMAIN patrices@thespectrum.com | |
ST. GEORGE - Susanna Barlow's first book, "What Peace There May Be," a memoir, was so good that Elaine Tyler can't wait to read the continuation of her story in Barlow's second book. Tyler, president of the Hope Organization, a United Way Dixie partner agency assisting people who have left the polygamous lifestyle safely transition into mainstream society, said she has read almost all the books written by people who were in polygamous family relationships. Barlow's book was, at times, difficult to read, she said, but bottom line, Tyler said the book talking about Barlow's childhood and family relationships was a great book. "It upset me about all the abuse she endured, but she has such a positive attitude," Tyler said. Barlow will be at the Book Cellar bookstore on Thursday at 6 p.m. Information found on Barlow's Web site states that she is the 23rd child of 46 children, growing up in a The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints religious home that shaped her life, her values and her views on everything. Her memoir tells of growing up while suffering abuse in a polygamous family living in Utah. Raised in a sequestered home in a busy city neighborhood, everything beyond the front gate was off-limits. The isolation proved to be a breeding ground for abuse and Barlow struggled to reconcile her desire to escape and her need to belong. The book recounts six critical years of her youth, during which she struggled to come to terms with the conditions of her life. Thursday's event, which includes a talk by Barlow, is free and open to the public. Reservations are requested by calling the Book Cellar. Tyler said of all the books she has read by authors raised in polygamist homes and communities, Barlow's book is one of her three favorites. "Some of the authors point fingers, but she didn't," Tyler said. "She had no childhood but she doesn't sit and gripe and whine. She just seems to see the goodness (in people)." | |
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TheSpectrum.com Originally published September 8, 2009 | |
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