Ruth Wariner’s memoir, The Sound of Gravel, is an eye-opening story and raw look into the lives of practicing polygamists. Being the thirty-ninth of her father’s forty-two children, the author explores her life as she recounts the hardships that she once faced. Written from the perspective of her five-year-old self, Wariner establishes an element of innocence that only adds more depth to her story. Whether it is when she describes her fondness for her mother, or the difficulty in raising her younger siblings, one cannot help but continue reading. With relatively short chapters, the story is constantly growing and becoming more diverse. This novel was published only recently and is Wariner’s first book, but it holds the potential of being a bestseller. Throughout the memoir, the reader is brought into the world of a polygamist cult and the damage that comes with being a part of it. Wariner’s struggle between upholding her church’s values and wanting to live a more fulfilled life is evident in her voice. Her complete devotion to her family is admirable, but heartbreaking when she is continuously disappointed by the people around her. One cannot help but get attached to her story, as its personal and intense details take control of the reader’s complete emotions. Anyone interested in taking a look into the secret life of polygamist cults and the endeavor of a young women to become a new person should read The Sound of Gravel. This inspirational story is bound to leave its readers with a new outlook on life and a feeling of gratitude for the world around them.
Throughout the memoir, the reader is brought into the world of a polygamist cult and the damage that comes with being a part of it. Wariner’s struggle between upholding her church’s values and wanting to live a more fulfilled life is evident in her voice. Her complete devotion to her family is admirable, but heartbreaking when she is continuously disappointed by the people around her. One cannot help but get attached to her story, as its personal and intense details take control of the reader’s complete emotions.
Anyone interested in taking a look into the secret life of polygamist cults and the endeavor of a young women to become a new person should read The Sound of Gravel. This inspirational story is bound to leave its readers with a new outlook on life and a feeling of gratitude for the world around them.