Joanna Brooks

Joanna Brooks Joanna Brooks is an American author, scholar, and professor of English and comparative literature at San Diego State University, where she serves as associate vice president of faculty advancement. Her work focuses on religious studies, transatlantic literature, and African American literature, with particular emphasis on Mormon studies and Mormon feminism. Brooks gained prominence as a public intellectual and media commentator on faith in American life, especially regarding Mormonism. Her Twitter feed @askmormongirl earned her recognition from Politico as one of their "50 politicos to watch" in 2011, and from 2010 to 2014 she maintained the "Ask Mormon Girl" blog addressing questions about Mormon faith and culture. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a Ph.D. from UCLA, Brooks has established herself as a bridge between Mormon and non-Mormon communities through her writing and commentary. Her work has appeared in Religion Dispatches, where she served as a senior correspondent from 2011 to 2014, and she is frequently quoted in major media outlets on matters relating to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Readers praise Brooks' balanced perspective when writing about Mormon culture and faith, particularly in "The Book of Mormon Girl." Many reviewers note her ability to discuss religious topics with both honesty and respect. What readers liked: - Clear, accessible writing style - Personal storytelling that connects with both Mormon and non-Mormon readers - Fair treatment of complex religious topics - Authentic voice in discussing faith struggles What readers disliked: - Some found her academic works too dense - Mormon readers occasionally disagreed with her progressive interpretations - Non-Mormon readers sometimes wanted more critical analysis of LDS church practices Ratings across platforms: - "The Book of Mormon Girl" averages 3.8/5 on Goodreads (1,500+ ratings) - 4.1/5 on Amazon (200+ reviews) One reader on Goodreads writes: "Brooks captures the complexity of growing up Mormon while questioning aspects of the faith." Another notes: "Her personal narrative helps bridge understanding between religious and secular perspectives."

Saving Alex - Tells the true story of a young lesbian woman who endured conversion therapy after coming out to her Mormon parents at age 15, and her eventual journey to self-acceptance and legal emancipation.

Jana Riess examines Mormon culture and history through a contemporary lens in her books and journalism. Her work combines research with personal narratives about faith transitions and modern religious experience.

Laurel Thatcher Ulrich writes about women's history and Mormon experiences in early America. Her scholarly work illuminates overlooked aspects of religious and social history through detailed primary source analysis.

Fiona Givens explores Mormon theology and its intersections with broader Christian thought and feminism. Her writing addresses faith, doubt, and the evolution of religious understanding within Mormon contexts.

Margaret Blair Young writes about race, identity, and Mormon history with focus on African American Mormon experiences. Her work combines historical research with narrative storytelling to address complex cultural and religious topics.

Carol Lynn Pearson writes poetry and memoirs dealing with Mormon feminism and LGBTQ+ issues within religious contexts. Her work draws from personal experience while addressing broader themes of inclusion and religious reform.