Reviews

The Crucible of Doubt: Reflections On the Quest for Faith by Terryl L. Givens, Fiona Givens

kthomaswrites's review

4.0

Overall I really enjoyed this book and felt benefited for reading it. There were many things he brought up that I hadn't really considered before, but were very enlightening. Throughout the book there are many powerful phrases that really cut to the heart of a topic. The reason for four stars instead of five is a bit hard to explain. There were many parts where the writing seemed to simply be odd. It seemed like the text was hard to understand for no apparant reason. I enjoy complicated text when there is a point and it enriches the content, but at many points throughout the book the writing was pulling me away from the intent of the authors. I also don't fully agree with the authors on some minor points, but that's trivial really.

raehink's review

5.0

I consider this a companion volume to The God Who Weeps and believe the two should be read in tandem. I love that two Mormon scholars who are trying to live the faith can also acknowledge that there are those who doubt. This book is a gift to anyone who struggles with any faith tradition, but especially the LDS faith.

Terryl and Fiona give wise and loving counsel here regarding what to do with those doubts and how to approach the deep questions that have perplexed humanity for centuries. They examine hero worship, abuse of scripture, difficult historical events, confusing doctrines, and asking questions from within an incorrect paradigm. All that they offer is done so within a very loving framework of love and trust in God.

I think that whatever the Givens' write is magical. I'm a huge fan. They make me think, they comfort me, they help me see things in a different way, they articulate my own feelings and misgivings, they validate my questions, and they give me hope. We are blessed to have their writings.

A most lovely read.