Growing Into Myself, currently in press, tells the remarkable story of the redoubtable Grethe Ballif Peterson, small town girl, adventurer, professional woman, wife, mother, feminist, Church leader, and public benefactor. Candid, warm, funny, and insightful, Grethe’s story is a masterclass in living joyfully, creatively, and faithfully during challenging times.
I was riveted. Adding the historical context that influenced Mom and Dad’s lives was amazing. This memoir has enriched my life in a very personal and satisfying way. It has opened up to me so many beautiful facets of Mom’s life and reflections. It’s a work of heart and a work of art. You have created something I treasure. I look forward to its impact on many more and future generations in the family.”
Stuart Peterson, Grethe’s son.
Fascinating and well-worth reading.”
Laurel Thatcher Ulrich, author of Well-Behaved Women Seldom Make History
Ordinary Pioneers tells the story of the Secrist family, Anabaptists who fled Switzerland for Alsace before migrating to Pennsylvania in 1727. Converted to the Church of Jesus Christ in the 1830s and 40s, family members were present at key moments in Church history, including the Missouri and Nauvoo persecutions, crossing the plains and settling the Salt Lake Valley, early missions abroad, and navigating the complicated heritage of polygamy. Commissioned by Alan and Leslie Layton, the book was published in 2021 and is available through Digital Legends.
This is – a masterpiece! It’s even better than the drafts I remember reading. It’s just wonderful! I just wanted to reinforce to you our deep satisfaction for all that you’ve done. I think it’s going to take an important role in church history.”
Alan and Leslie Layton
Excerpt from research report concerning the adult life of “John Smith,” a farmer active in northern Utah and Idaho from roughly 1900–1953.