Carol Lynn Pearson

Carol Lynn Pearson is an American poet, author, screenwriter, and playwright known for addressing Mormon themes and LGBTQ issues in her work. Her writings frequently explore faith, feminism, and family relationships within the context of Mormon culture. Pearson gained widespread recognition for her 1986 memoir "Goodbye, I Love You," which detailed her marriage to and eventual loss of her gay husband Gerald Pearson to AIDS. The book became a touchstone for discussions about homosexuality within Mormon communities and established her as an advocate for LGBTQ inclusion in religious spaces. Her theatrical works include the musical "Mother Wove the Morning" and various plays performed at Mormon and regional theaters throughout the United States. Her children's book "The Order of Things" and poetry collections like "Consider the Butterfly" have found success both within and outside Mormon circles. Throughout her career, Pearson has maintained an active role as a speaker and activist, particularly focusing on building bridges between religious communities and LGBTQ individuals. Her work continues to influence discussions about gender, sexuality, and faith in contemporary Mormon culture.

Readers connect deeply with Pearson's honest handling of difficult topics, particularly in "Goodbye, I Love You." Many reviews mention crying while reading her personal accounts of navigating faith and family relationships. What readers liked: - Raw emotional authenticity in describing complex situations - Ability to address controversial topics with compassion - Clear, accessible writing style that makes poetry approachable - Bridge-building approach between religious and LGBTQ communities What readers disliked: - Some found her poetry collections repetitive in theme - Conservative readers sometimes object to her progressive stance on Mormon issues - A few reviews note her children's books can be heavy-handed with messages Ratings: - "Goodbye, I Love You" averages 4.3/5 on Goodreads (2,000+ ratings) - "No More Goodbyes" - 4.4/5 on Amazon (150+ reviews) - "Mother Wove the Morning" - 4.6/5 on Goodreads (300+ ratings) One reader noted: "She writes about difficult subjects with grace and without judgment." Another said: "Her work helped me reconcile my faith and my support for LGBTQ rights."

The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy (2016) Examines the ongoing impact of plural marriage beliefs on modern Mormon women and relationships.

Goodbye, I Love You (1986) Autobiographical account of the author's marriage to a gay man and his eventual death from AIDS.

Mother Wove the Morning (1992) One-woman play featuring sixteen women throughout history searching for the feminine divine.

Consider the Butterfly (2002) Collection of transformational stories and poems exploring personal growth through life challenges.

The Lesson (1998) Children's picture book about two girls who learn acceptance through their different approaches to dance.

A Stranger for Christmas (1996) Novel about a nursing home resident who pretends to have no family during the holiday season.

No More Goodbyes: Circling the Wagons Around Our Gay Loved Ones (2007) Collection of personal narratives about reconciling religious faith with acceptance of LGBT family members.

The Search for the Light Brigade (1991) Historical investigation of the actual soldiers who participated in the Charge of the Light Brigade.

The Order is Love (1971) Musical theater piece depicting the story of the early Mormon settlement of Orderville, Utah.

Beginnings (1967) Poetry collection focused on themes of Mormon faith and daily life experiences.

Terry Tempest Williams writes about faith, family, and the American West with a focus on Mormon culture and environmental themes. Her memoirs and essays explore spiritual connections to nature and wrestling with religious heritage.

Emma Lou Thayne published poetry and essays centered on Mormon women's experiences and spiritual journeys. She wrote about faith transitions, peace activism, and maintaining hope through personal struggles.

Phyllis Barber creates memoirs and fiction drawing from her experiences growing up Mormon in Nevada. Her work examines cultural identity, questioning faith, and women's roles in religious communities.

Linda Sillitoe wrote journalism, poetry and fiction addressing Mormon feminist perspectives and social issues. Her work documented historical events in Mormon culture while exploring women's voices and experiences.

Judith Freeman produces novels and memoirs about life in Mormon communities and the process of leaving the faith. Her writing examines family relationships, religious identity, and the culture of the Mountain West.