The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance: A Memoir by Elna Baker

Released: October 2009

This hilarious memoir from Elna Baker is definitely worth the read. The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance -- a title that actually seems like an oxymoron -- tells of Baker's experiences as a single Mormon woman "coming of age" in New York City.

Baker's memoir is genuine, highly entertaining and laugh-out-loud funny throughout its entirety. Considering Baker is under thirty years old at the time of this writing, I'm truly hoping she releases future memoirs and comedic tales. Her style and ability to write humor rivals that of Tama Janowitz and Jenny McCarthy.


For readers who are unaware and clueless about the Mormon religion and lifestyle, this book is perfect; it will appeal especially to young adults and women under thirty who are simply curious. Baker made a smart decision writing this memoir because it taps into subjects that are currently absent on the market. I don't know of any other Mormon women or writers who approach their religion and beliefs with the same light-hearted candor and brutally honest manner of Baker.

Highlights of The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance include Baker's stories of her experiences as an "actress" at FAO Schwartz, her story of Mormons trying to "scare" her by sitting on a bed in the bedroom, and of course her tangerine juggling. In all actuality, the entire book is pure fun, and I highly recommend it to those looking for a great laugh (and insight to a young woman's life within the Mormon religion).

Fans of this memoir will also enjoy Area Code 212: New York Days, New York Nights (2002) by Tama Janowitz and any of Jenny McCarthy's "Laughs" memoirs.