I first read Linda’s work in the 1970s, and found her style evocative and deceptively simple. She was a remarkable woman, and fearlessly tackled such difficult issues as sexual abuse (Secrets Keep) and the Mark Hoffman case (Salamandar). She was also a fine poet and a kind, generous person. To say she will be missed is so much an understatement as to be ridiculous. I thank God for Linda, for her good life, and the ways her talent has furthered the path of Mormon literature. Please feel free to add your reflections on Linda’s life and literature.
Amazing how coincidences (or not) happen: I’ve been reading through "Bright Angels and Familiars" online at Signature’s website, and the next short story was ‘Windows on the Sea’ by Linda. I’d never heard of her before, but after just now reading that story (which also deals with a difficult issue) I can say that I will miss her too. I’ll have to look up some of her other stuff as well. Sorry to hear of her passing.
I didn’t know, so I looked it up.
For those who want to know more, there is an article at Deseret News online: http://www.deseretnews.com/mobile/article/700023133/Former-award-winning-Deseret-News-reporter-Linda-Sillitoe-author-dies.html
For those who are interested in seeking out Linda’s work, here is a link to her Mormon Literature Database entry: http://mormonlit.byu.edu/lit_author.php?a_id=444
I was aware of her poetry and short story collections, but didn’t know that she had published two novels.
A beautiful tribute by Kristine Haglund on http://www.bycommonconsent.com
http://bycommonconsent.com/2010/04/09/in-memoriam-linda-sillitoe/
Here is Linda’s obit written by Peggy Fletcher Stack. Sadly, the comments include some misogynistic or anti-Mormon rantings, though most are civil. Definitely worth reading the obit:
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_14848736?IADID=Search-www.sltrib.com-www.sltrib.com
I never had a chance to meet her. I only knew her through "Salamander." She was an exceptionally good writer. Margaret catches it exactly — deceptively simple. It would be wonderful if others could follow her example.
Condolences to all family and friends. A beautiful light has been extinguished. Fortunately, her work–and her family–survives. I know she will be deeply missed.