Review
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Title: Diary of Two Mad Black Mormons: Finding the Lord’s Lessons in Everyday Life
Author: Zandra Vranes & Tamu Smith
Publisher: Ensign Peak
Genre: Biography/Religious
Year Published: 2014
Number of Pages: 221
Binding: Hard Bound
ISBN10: N/A
ISBN13: 978-1-60907-839-3
Price: $21.99
Reviewed by Allison McKenzie for the Association for Mormon Letters
Authors Zandra and Tamu are witty, charismatic and captivating. They have such a refreshing and fun style. From the introduction of the book through the “shout outs” at the end of the book, it feels like you are sitting down with these women, casually chatting and laughing.
I understand these women have an on-line blog. I have no doubt they have a large following. They communicate their stories and experiences in such a lively way. I found even more value in their attitude and perspective on their stories. They truly have been able to “make lemonade out of lemons.” It definitely made me reflect on personal experiences and perhaps look for blessings and lessons that I might have missed.
In Chapter 3 of the book, these ladies suggest “sometimes you gotta start a food fight to get through tribulation, cause God says we can throw small mustard seeds at big problems and make’em move.” It was just so much fun to read their breakdown of the scripture story of the mustard seed and that with small faith we can do big things. Then again in Chapter 4, the authors talk about Service. Fun stories and lessons learned are shared and as the authors suggest, “If you don’t serve with love, then you’ll never love to serve.” These sistahs in Zions really do help the reader find the Lord’s lessons in everyday life.
Chapter 6 reflects on relationships. The sistah’s share that those little girls on MTV’s Teen Mom think they have it hard; however Mary, the mother of Jesus was engaged, pregnant and having to tell people that God is the baby daddy. They discuss the dysfunctional families of Joseph of Egypt and Abraham. They affirm that we are not the only ones who have dysfunctional relationships. From the beginning of time, there has been dysfunctional families. They share how they deal with their dysfunctional situations and help the reader make resolves. I loved their quote: “Make sure you know the difference between a friends and family discount and discounting your friends and family” (pg. 143).
These Sistahs in Zion suggest that “in life we should look for the lessons and acknowledge the blessings.” (pg. 14). This book is fun, light, and a quick read, but it speaks gospel truths. I thoroughly enjoyed their stories, their perspective, and their attitude of gratitude. These strong women provide a sanctuary from, and better understanding of, life’s challenges. I am so glad they choose to reach out and share their strong foundation of faith. This book definitely helped me see life in a brighter light. I would highly recommend this book to any friend. I hope there is more to come.