We're Thankful for the Moisture: A Gay Guy's Guide to Mormon Faith, Family, and Fruit Preservation

by Eli McCann

We’re Thankful for the Moisture contains personal essays by award-winning humor columnist Eli McCann for The Salt Lake Tribune, along with corresponding cartoons by the Tribune’s Pat Bagley. McCann explores cultural Mormonism and his experiences growing up in Utah as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the 1990s, coming out as gay in adulthood, leaving his faith, and navigating life in Salt Lake City with his husband and their young child. Known for his observational humor, nostalgia, and compassion for those in his community who span the religious spectrum, McCann weaves together the silliness that often comes out of communal traditions with the humanity of those who hold those traditions dear. “I still think there’s no better sound than the background noise of neighbors being neighbors,” he writes, ”the simple hum of a people gathered.” While there is much humor to be found in baffling cultural entreaties, like McCann’s grandmother sincerely claiming that nineteenth-century Mormon pioneers wouldn’t trade places with those who live in 2025, or parents justifying a curfew time by insisting “the Holy Ghost goes to bed at midnight,” there is also beauty in what prompts a person to believe such things. McCann’s writings seek to prove just that.

165 pages, Paperback

Published February 17, 2026

Reviews

[Lisa Guzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve followed Eli’s blog for years, ever since he first posted about a wrong number text. He went to law school at BYU with a friend of mine, and that’s how I found him. I’ve read his posts out loud to various family members over the years, because he is just so dang funny. I thoroughly enjoyed this short collection of essays—much is relatable as a kid who grew up Mormon in the 90’s. I’ve already read several out loud to my husband, too.

[Peggy Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eli McCann presents a hilarious and accurate view of (primarily Utah’s) LDS culture from the unique perspective of a former church member embracing his homosexuality. His writing style reminds me of David Sedaris, one of my favorite authors.

Reading Eli’s tender stories from throughout his life, which include his beloved family and friends, makes me wish I was one of his best friends. It is lovely and uplifting to read his brilliant stories of kindness, acceptance, and love. I’m a fan for life!

[Kayti Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area, with only a small collection of California flavor LDS friends (but subsequently moved to Utah, where I am now raising my family) this book is pure delight.

Equal parts self reflection, humor and deseret education, Eli McCann is our very own David Sedaris. I could not have enjoyed this book any more. Moving forward when my friends from other states ask me about how weird it is to live in Utah, I intend to send them a copy of this. (And also Mackay Coppens biography on mitt Romney.)

[Sharla Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started following Eli McCann to support his journey to Ultra A-List TikTok celebrity status. His stories are thoughtful, wholesome, and genuinely enjoyable. I listened to the audiobook early thanks to a happy accidental release and loved it!

[Ashley Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eli is a masterful storyteller with a unique perspective. This book made me laugh out loud and also made my heart feel happy that someone who is such a wonderful person has achieved so many of his dreams. I know Eli has many more delightful stories and I hope he continues to publish them.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a delight

Great read. I wasn't raised Mormon, wasn't raised anywhere near Utah, and I wasn't raised in his generation, but I found his stories of his childhood still so relatable. Hoping for more from this author.

[Lynsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed loudly, cried ugily, smiled constantly through this gem. Anyone who grew up LDS, especially in Utah, should give this a go.

[GaeLynn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Eli McCann and his writing! He's funny, a great storyteller and very heartwarming. Highly recommend this quick read!

[SueAnn Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

So relatable! This could have been my upbringing as a Mormon, I was raised in a very similar family. Loved the stories and it made me rethink the positivities even though I’ve left the church.

[Elizabeth]

Delightful and funny