Presented to: Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
For: A Midwife's Tale
Discussing this award, the judges stated, "Although A Midwife's Tale by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich has already received numerous biography and history awards, this book most deserving of an award based on literary quality and style. The success of this endeavor is based on the artful crafting of a story surrounding bits, pieces, and notes of journal entries. By utilizing complementary sources, Ulrich has skillfully drawn readers into an amazing woman's story. The literary creativity makes this story engrossing and unforgettable. Martha Ballard's contribution to American history is documented by an intelligent blending of primary documents into a readable text. Sentences are beautifully cadenced, words carefully chosen. For its style, its metaphor, its basic literary brilliance, the Association of Mormon Letters recognizes and honors A Midwife's Tale."