Without the Mask (Charlie Bird)

Why I have this book: I borrowed it from DBS+ as an audio book.

I really liked this book written by a former (very popular) mascot of BYU sports - Cosmo the Cougar. I mean, Cosmo didn't write it, but the man who wore the Cosmo costume did. Charlie was a mostly closeted gay man during his years at BYU, but now he's openly gay, and still an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He chooses to live a chaste life and to keep the covenants he's made with God.

If I could give it a 4.5 on Goodreads, I would. Since I can't, I gave it five stars. I thought the author's thoughts were excellent, and it actually helped me with some of my spiritual struggles lately. (I'm not gay, but spiritual struggles can be similar even when brought about by different circumstances.)

I admire Charlie for being able to (at least at this point in his life) stick to his convictions of morality when he knows he'll never be able to have the life that feels comfortable for him as far as relationships go. I also understand why some choose another path as lgbtq members of the Church. It can't be easy either way.

Clean. 

I, Eliza Hamilton (Susan Holloway Scott)

Why I have this book: I bought it on sale for Kindle after someone recommended I read it before watching the musical Hamilton on Disney Plus.

Oh, my gosh. So boring.

I seriously pushed myself to about 35% (?) and I've chosen to stop. I'm a third of the way through and it's still a chore to pick it up each night. (I have no interest in picking it up in the daytime, either.)

So done and such a relief to get it off my reading pile. (Reading pile = books on my Kindle.)

Clean'ish so far. There's a mention or two of Hamilton being a womanizer and he and Eliza doing a bit of groping before marriage and loving the marriage bed after, but none of it is descriptive.

Planted: Belief and Belonging in an Age of Doubt (Patrick Q. Mason)

Why I have this book: I borrowed the audio version from DBS+.

I gave this five stars on Goodreads. I think the author does a great job at validating those who are questioning their beliefs and their faith. In my opinion, this book is so helpful for those who are doubting and also for the people who love them.

Does it answer every question? Not even close, and the author doesn't pretend that he can explain away the things that cause people to question or doubt. 

I recommend it for anyone who is a member of the Church. If you're doubting, this might help you feel supported and understood. If you have family members or friends who are doubting or leaving, this might help you understand their reasons.

Clean.