Train Gone–A Coda Ex-JW Memoir

Memoirs.  I’ve always loved reading other people’s stories, but who wouldn’t? More than interest and entertainment, there’s always something to learn from another person’s personal experiences, intimate knowledge and wisdom. There’s always something to take away. Sometimes you feel good and hopeful, other times angry and needing a tissue. But I’ve never finished a memoir, tossed it aside and forgot about it.

This year I discovered a writer whose words were so edgy and real, I had to reach out to her. To my delight, she wrote back to me, and I am both pleased and honored to say that she’s a friend. She’s also a fellow writer and now an indie author. 

When I learned about her memoir, I couldn’t wait to read it. And, I confess, it was difficult being patient until she was ready to release it. I understood, and when she told me she pushed that publish button, I rushed to buy it. 

Please allow me to write my review on Rebekah Mallory’s stunning debut work, her memoir titled Train Gone. 

I’ve been following Rebekah Mallory’s blog for awhile, and I fell in love with her edgy, authentic, unapologetic writing. I thought, here’s a woman born to write. I anticipated her memoir and knew it would be filled with more amazing writing. But I didn’t know I would be sucked in so completely that her story remained on my mind even after I reluctantly put the book down. 

The little details, the pictures she paints with just the right words, created a world I felt a part of. I loved the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s nostalgia and learning all the fascinating facts about the deaf community, ASL and the world of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I have known other Witnesses and knew some of their beliefs, but Rebekah gives it all to us. She is honest, brave and fair in writing about her childhood and young adult life. 

I enjoyed how she presented her story–including conversations with her therapist and recalling her experiences on her own. I love that her therapist, who reminds her of Larry David, becomes both part of her story and her champion. I smiled, laughed, cried and wanted to hug her on several occasions. 

I also appreciate her vast knowledge and experience with cult mind control. Many people don’t understand how badly we all yearn to be a part of something, feel important and loved, and many are drawn into organizations and situations where we give up who we are just to feel good, if only for awhile.

I respect how Rebekah doesn’t sugarcoat anything in her story. I am inspired by her strong and brave heart and soul. She is a light for the darkness that insists on creeping into this world. Her story of finding inner strength, truth, hope and independence is one that everyone can relate to and should definitely read. 

By far, my favorite memoir. It’s going to be difficult waiting for the sequel. 

If you’re intrigued, or know anyone who would benefit from Rebekah’s story, you can buy it here.