Though heralded by church members as “the truest, most inspiring book on Earth”, The Book of Mormon is more than a little lacking when it comes to helping us become better people. Believing that it’s making you a better person is one thing (what are people extracting from the plagiarism, racism, repetition, and unrealistically huge wars that I’m missing?), but I’m very dubious that this so-called book of scripture is actually changing anyone outside of the brainwashing that occurs when we make religious text reading a ritual. (I suppose some people may feel that they are more loving or something because of their religious texts, but you don’t need a book of scripture to become more loving!)

I’ve found reading to be extremely therapeutic and helpful at combatting anxiety, depression, and other emotions that 2016 human beings all feel regularly. It’s also a wonderful relief from the stresses of leaving a high-demand religion, so I want to share some of my book recommendations with you all. As always, we’re too poor not to include affiliate links, so turn off your ad blocker so you can see them!

If you want to develop empathy and understand the true value of education:

 

If you want to feel less anxious and be more mindful:

 

If you feel like you’re stuck in a boring life…

 

If you want to understand your own brain better (and others’, so you can help them see sense once in a while):

MY BIGGEST RECOMMENDATION!

 

If you just want to laugh because life is overwhelming and YOU DESERVE IT:

(May be more enjoyable for those who understand the plight of being female)



Zina Jacobs-Smith-Young
Zina Jacobs-Smith-Young
Zina Jacobs-Smith-Young would have been a millennial blogger, but she died in 1901. The wife of Brigham Young, and prior to that Joseph Smith, and prior to that Henry Jacobs, who was sent on a mission by Brigham before he married her, Zina loves writing, long walks on the beach, and playing the field.

google-site-verification: google2cac8eb5ff86e577.html