Salvation: A Judge's Memoir of a Mormon Childhood

by Katharine English

"Protection from " This is the original Greek definition of “salvation,” and it’s an innate human need that begins at birth. Protection can come in many shapes and forms. Sometimes it is simple, but often it is complicated and confusing. Salvation , Judge Katharine English’s personal memoir, presents a road trip through her tumultuous past that traces the many faces of her journey to protect herself, and eventually others, from harm. Mormonism provides exotic stories, gospels, and doctrines that come to life in English’s childhood imagination—but she confronts confusing contradictions that are difficult to reconcile. Her attentive and devoted father protects her from an abusive, alcoholic mother, but his love takes a devastating turn. As English grows up, salvation drifts farther and farther away from her reality—and rebellion creeps into her life to compensate. Throughout this journey, English digs into her childhood, reveals her dark secrets, and uncovers the forces that have influenced who she’s become—a family court judge—and chronicles her journey toward finding peace. A tribute to parenting challenges, religious complications, and forgiving the wrongs committed to us during childhood, this memoir is ultimately a testament to the true meaning of salvation.

346 pages, Paperback

Published May 10, 2016

Reviews

[Jenny Hardesty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very poignant memoir that could have turned out tragically, but for a few loving adults who shed some light and hope on Katherine’s young life. She recalls her childhood and adolescence with such brutal clarity it propels the story forward. The moving point of the narrative is that out of all the neglect and abuse, she grew up to champion other families in crisis and came to a point of forgiveness for her own abusive parents. I found it to be difficult to read in places, but overall had an encouraging message for every hurting soul.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took courage to write this ...I will remember her true story of quite some time!

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author takes us into her difficult childhood and describes her healing process and how that past has influenced her personal and professional life. Honest yet loving. A great story.