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  • Shunned

  • How I Lost My Religion and Found Myself
  • Written by: Linda A. Curtis
  • Narrated by: Emily Ellet
  • Length: 10 hrs and 26 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (14 ratings)

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Shunned

Written by: Linda A. Curtis
Narrated by: Emily Ellet
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Publisher's Summary

Linda Curtis was raised as a Jehovah's Witness and is an unquestioning true believer who has knocked on doors from the time she was nine years old. Like other Witnesses, she has been discouraged from pursuing a career, higher education, or even voting, and her friendships are limited to the Witness community.  

Then one day, at age 33, she knocks on a door - and a coworker she deeply respects answers the door. To their mutual consternation she launches into her usual spiel, but this time, for the first time ever, the message sounds hollow. In the months that follow, Curtis tries hard to overcome the doubts that spring from that doorstep encounter, knowing they could upend her "safe" existence. But ultimately, unable to reconcile her incredulity, she leaves her religion and divorces her Witness husband - a choice for which she is shunned by the entire community, including all members of her immediate family.  

Shunned follows Linda as she steps into a world she was taught to fear and discovers what is possible when we stay true to our hearts, even when it means disappointing those we love.

©2018 Linda Curtis (P)2020 Tantor

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Courageous story of strength and commitment to self

I was riveted from start to finish. Smooth flowing writing style was simple, yet descriptive, making narrative of Linda’s journey easy to follow. The reader could feel her courage through her heartbreaking family shunning shine through in her words. I also really enjoyed listening to the reader of this memoir. Her voice was very expressive and soothing to listen to.

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A great story

This book was great to listen to from beginning to end - thoroughly enjoyed the entire story

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  • Mj
  • 2024-01-30

Beautiful story of strength and loss

I was surprised at how much I loved this story….it was written with such honesty….the pain was palpable through the words of the author….such sadness that a family could shun their loving daughter the way they did…it provided a good understanding of this way of life.

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The accuracy in context to the faith itself and those who are controlled by the organization.

I grew up as a Jehovah’s Witness. Although I was never baptized and I left the faith as a teenager, so much of the story resonated with me. My whole family is still active witnesses so naturally I continue to struggle with much of the authors story. I couldn’t stop listening to the audio book, it only took me a day to listen to its entirety. Thank you to the author for writing your story!

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Great book

Thank you Linda for a detailed view of your journey. Loved it so much. I was sad for you and yet elated for your courage and discovery!

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Brought back memories

I grew up a Jehovah’s Witness. I came to realize how controlling this religion is before I was a teenager. Left it soon after I moved out. It is a sad way to grow up and deal with the loss of the family members who chose to disowned me. This book accurately explains the religion.

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