Chapters 15 and 16 Summary and Analysis

In chapter fifteen, immediately after their decision, Jim and Judy wrestled with the problem of what to do about the children. All their friends were Mormons and all their activities involved the church. Even though the kids were young—Janet was twelve, Steve ten and Kirk four—they decided to hit the issue head on and tell the kids what they had decided and how they came to their conclusions. Janet teared up—she was the president of the Merry Miss club. Steve was worried about having to quit his scout group. Even though the kids were unhappy, Jim and Judy knew they were acting in their best interests.

The next day, Judy and Jim visited Bishop Nelson in his office. Jim wasted no time, immediately telling the Bishop that they were leaving the church and...