Non-fiction Amish book suggestions.. Fiction too..NEW Add-on's 9/20!!

[C.Ann]

I am both fascinated and disturbed by Amish culture at once. It is on one hand a peaceful, simmple way of life, where hard work is valued and family is paramount, but on the other some of their beliefs about women, the idea of shunning, and many of the more repressive restrictions on dress and behavior bother me immensely. I don't think I could live in a culture where laughing too much gets you into trouble. So I guess I find things to admire and things I would never condone in thier lifestyle. They are a paradox of sorts to me.

But if you really, really think about it, can't you find equally repressive restrictions in other cultures and religions as well? I know we're not allowed to discuss religion here, but I will simply state that I was once a practicing Roman Catholic but no longer am - due to restrictions I found repressive and actions I found cruel..

Of course I also believe that for someone who has not been born into the Amish culture, it would be extremely difficult to enter into that lifestyle after having lived another- although it has been done by some.. Yet if you are "born" into the culture, it seems perfectly normal because you've never experienced anything else.. Also keep in mind that there are different orders - Old, New, etc. - that are more - or less - restrictive..

I've done quite a bit of reading and research about the Amish and I can't recall coming across anything at all that states laughing too much gets them into trouble - unless perhaps it was during their religious service.. Can you tell me where you read that so I can look into it? I'm so fascinated by the Amish, I am open to learning/reading everything there is to know.. Thanks!

 

[princessmom29]

But if you really, really think about it, can't you find equally repressive restrictions in other cultures and religions as well? I know we're not allowed to discuss religion here, but I will simply state that I was once a practicing Roman Catholic but no longer am - due to restrictions I found repressive and actions I found cruel..

Of course I also believe that for someone who has not been born into the Amish culture, it would be extremely difficult to enter into that lifestyle after having lived another- although it has been done by some.. Yet if you are "born" into the culture, it seems perfectly normal because you've never experienced anything else.. Also keep in mind that there are different orders - Old, New, etc. - that are more - or less - restrictive..

I've done quite a bit of reading and research about the Amish and I can't recall coming across anything at all that states laughing too much gets them into trouble - unless perhaps it was during their religious service.. Can you tell me where you read that so I can look into it? I'm so fascinated by the Amish, I am open to learning/reading everything there is to know.. Thanks!

I was "born into" a repressive culture, and never found it to be normal at all. I ALWAYS questioned why some things were not ok. Nothing as extreme as Amish culture, but still repressive. Their belief as I had it explained to me by someone raised in that culture is that to much levity (laughing, joking ect) was not acceptable. I meant that you were not taking your responsibilites and faith seriously enough if you had time for jokes and laughter. There is a constant focus on sobriety, not in the drugs and alcohol sense, but as a general discription of a person's behavior. The idea is that a mind that is properly focused on matters of work, faith, and family has no time for foolishness. Have you ever spoken to anyone who was ever practicing? It can be a very enlightening experience. You learn much more than people writing about it are willing to reveal.

 

[C.Ann]

I was "born into" a repressive culture, and never found it to be normal at all. I ALWAYS questioned why some things were not ok. Nothing as extreme as Amish culture, but still repressive. Their belief as I had it explained to me by someone raised in that culture is that to much levity (laughing, joking ect) was not acceptable. I meant that you were not taking your responsibilites and faith seriously enough if you had time for jokes and laughter. There is a constant focus on sobriety, not in the drugs and alcohol sense, but as a general discription of a person's behavior. The idea is that a mind that is properly focused on matters of work, faith, and family has no time for foolishness. Have you ever spoken to anyone who was ever practicing? It can be a very enlightening experience. You learn much more than people writing about it are willing to reveal.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on that.. Although it isn't quite in line with what I have come to understand, I do appreciate you taking the time to explain that point of view..

With any luck, I hope to visit an Amish community not far from here sometime this fall before I head back to my DD's for the winter.. One of my lake neighbors (a former apple orchard owner) has been to that community on a number of occasions - purchasing produce and such - and has found that the Amish there are very willing to chat about their lifestyle (minus any signs of a camera, of course..) Since my neighbor is already known to them, I may drag her along (LOL) as an ice breaker of sorts and hopefully will be able to learn more "right from the horses mouth", so to speak..

As for what is written - if it's tell-all type books, then I would agree that some of the information might not be 100% accurate (or even true), but in terms of books that are a result of serious research, I would assume there is more truth than fiction, as there would be no reason that I can think of to manipulate what is being written - know what I mean?

Again - thanks for your view point.. It's always interesting to hear what others have to say..

 

[Luvchefmic]

Good points both of you but absolutely Princess is correct re- the sobriety/state of mind ( it may be totally forbidden or frowned upon depending on the specific order) I was told this by the aforementioned people that ran the B & B and I'm sure its mentioned in a few of Wanda B's books too...will have to see if I can find where. After I stay up all night trying to remember the name of that place..a mind is a terrible thing to lose

 

[iNTeNSeBLue98]

C.Ann...

I've read all of the books by Beverly Lewis except her most recent series as I still have to purchase the final book.. I won't start reading the series until I have all 3 books because I like to read them one right after the other..

Cindy Woodsmall is great!! I'm not 100% sure - I read so many Amish books last year - but I think the Sisters of the Quilt Series is 3 books.. I really enjoy her writing style.. Thanks for telling me to look for the third in this series. What a wonderful series to read! I read all three in less than a week - couldn't put them down.

A few other authors to look into for Amish fiction would be:

Wanda Brunstetter
Beth Wiseman
Carrie Bender
Amy Clipston
Marta Perry
Karen Harper (Amish set mysteries)
Jerry Eicher

All good reads - and many have series available..

Enjoy your reading!

 

[BellePrincessBelle]

I don't know if this has been posted but the Kaufmann Amish Bakery Series is good.

 

[Motherofboys]

Yes - especially the world of the Amish.. It's soooooooo peaceful and relaxing.. What I find even more helpful though is their outlook on life - so simple - so calm - so appreciative.. It really makes you stop and think why "our" society tends to get so overly anxious and irritated about even the smallest of things.. So much to be learned from these people.. Makes me wish I was born into an Amish family..

LOL, I'm always telling DH that if it wasn't for the religious part - I would go run off and be Amish!!

It is a gift to be simple and to appreciate what matters in life.

We have visited the Shaker Village in Kentucky and Amish towns in Indiana - both are fascinating to me. Comparative religious studies - now that is a great topic to discuss...if you want people to run from you at parties and gatherings!

I love the study of the history of religion in America - some of the most interesting courses I have ever taken!

 

[X and G's mom]

With any luck, I hope to visit an Amish community not far from here sometime this fall before I head back to my DD's for the winter.. One of my lake neighbors (a former apple orchard owner) has been to that community on a number of occasions - purchasing produce and such - and has found that the Amish there are very willing to chat about their lifestyle (minus any signs of a camera, of course..) Since my neighbor is already known to them, I may drag her along (LOL) as an ice breaker of sorts and hopefully will be able to learn more "right from the horses mouth", so to speak..

Just an FYI. My dad is good friends with a lot of Amish people (here in WI). He was helping my kids a few years back with their Flat Stanley project and they let him take pictures of their horse and buggies (He was at an Amish auction). He said it was ok because he asked first and there were no people in the pictures. I'm not sure if all Amish are like that, but the Amish that let him take the pictures are very strict Amish.

Thanks for posting these books. I really like learning about different lifestyles also! Especially Amish, since we have quite a few in the area where I live.

I did a search for these books and they were available at my local library! So, I'm off tonight to pick up some good reading material
Thanks again!

 

[AndreaDM]

Well I work in the world's largest Amish community and have many, many Amish friends and neighbors and I haven't met one that doesn't like a good joke or a laugh. I'm a bit of an expert you could say since I've lived here most of my 40 years.

 

[MAKmom]

I just found this tread... Thanks Carol Ann.

 

[C.Ann]

I don't know if this has been posted but the Kaufmann Amish Bakery Series is good.

I read the first in this series last summer and really enjoyed it.. Have they published another book since then?

Well I work in the world's largest Amish community and have many, many Amish friends and neighbors and I haven't met one that doesn't like a good joke or a laugh. I'm a bit of an expert you could say since I've lived here most of my 40 years.

I have to agree with this.. I recently finished reading three non-fiction books about the Amish - written by a man who was/is a long-time close friend and neighbor; a doctor who treated the Amish for many, many years; and a mid-wife for the Amish.. The one book in particular mentioned the fallacy of the Amish not being allowed to laugh and/or smile - or getting into trouble for "laughing too much" (except during church services, of course).. He was speaking of the Swartzentruber Amish (the strictest of all Amish orders) and said they all got quite a good laugh out of the assumption that this was true..

The doctor - and the mid-wife - had some pretty good stories about the "jokesters" they encountered among the Amish - and how much fun it was to work with or for them..

I also have several non-fiction Amish books - that are 99% photographs (taken with a long distance zoom lens) - and it clearly shows adults and children alike laughing and smiling and having a good time while "working" in the fields; at the Farmer's Market; etc..

I think there are a lot of misconceptions about the Amish - but I'll know for sure after I have my own personal encounter with them come fall..

 

[C.Ann]

Right now I am reading a fiction series by Carrie Bender.. There are 5 books in the series..

(Miriam's Journal)

A Fruitful Vine
A Winding Path
A Joyous Heart
A Treasured Friendship
A Golden Sunbeam
------------------------------

I am beginning book #4 right now - and thoroughly enjoying this series.. Initially I was a bit confused - as some of the things I read were not quite the same as what I have read in other Amish fiction - but now that I am reading so much non-fiction at the same time, it's clear that she is in a different Order than most of the books I've read..

The last book in this series was written (published) in 1996.. Does anyone know if she has written any new series since then?

I still have plenty of books sitting here waiting to be read, but I also like to keep a running list of additional books I can purchase when I start getting low..

 

[C.Ann]

Some Amish fiction I read over the weekend - in between my research and reading of non-fiction - and really enjoyed!!!

"The Angels Trilogy" - Lurlene McDaniel (3 books in one)

"A Cousin's Promise" - Wanda Brunstetter (book 1 of Indiana Cousins series)

"Love Finds You In Charm Ohio" - Annalisa Daughety

"Plain Perfect"
"Plain Pursuit" - both by Beth Wiseman (There is a 3rd book to this series that I still have to order. The first 2 were really, really good!)

Enjoy!

If anyone else has suggestions, please feel free to add them..

 

[BellePrincessBelle]

I read the first in this series last summer and really enjoyed it.. Have they published another book since then?

Book 2 is out book on the way.

 

[Chipperdini]

House Calls & Hitching Posts as told to Dorcas Sharp Hoover

Dr. Elton Lehman was my husband's doctor growing up. DH and I went to school with his children, and I attended the same church as the Lehmans. Wonderful family.

 

[C.Ann]

Dr. Elton Lehman was my husband's doctor growing up. DH and I went to school with his children, and I attended the same church as the Lehmans. Wonderful family.

Oh my goodness! Are you serious?? Have you ever read the book? He truly does sound like an amazing doctor - as well as an amazing man..

He did so much for the Amish.. Is the Mount Eaton Care Clinic (aka birthing center) still there?

I wonder if your DH or his family is mentioned in the book.. Of course without permission, I'm sure that many names were changed..

Can't believe this - talk about a small world!!

 

[C.Ann]

Book 2 is out book on the way.

Thanks for the heads up..

I have quite a long list of books already that I'm planning on purchasing from half.com, but I'll add that as well.. Right now I'm trying to order them according to how important they are to have at the moment.. I have at least 4 series here that I have to buy the additional books for - as well as the non-fiction that I need/want..

As long as these Amish books keep coming out, I'll keep making my list longer and longer.. LOL..

I'm hoping that the non-fiction book I ordered that deals specifically with the Amish communities in NY arrives tomorrow.. I splurged and purchased that book brand new on Amazon because I had to order two other items (which put me over the edge to get the free S&H) - and I just didn't want to wait until it was available as "used".. I'll be visiting at least two of the areas here in NY in the fall - and possibly others - depending on the distance involved..

 

[SunFloridaDisney]

Lessons for Living:
A Practical Approach to Daily Life from the Amish Community
by Joseph F. Donnermeyer


another suggestion for you, written by a relative of mine!

 

[C.Ann]

Lessons for Living:
A Practical Approach to Daily Life from the Amish Community
by Joseph F. Donnermeyer


another suggestion for you, written by a relative of mine!

Really?? On the list it goes!!

Thanks for sharing..

 

[Chipperdini]

Oh my goodness! Are you serious?? Have you ever read the book? He truly does sound like an amazing doctor - as well as an amazing man..

Yes. Yep, acquired a copy and read it some years ago.

He did so much for the Amish.. Is the Mount Eaton Care Clinic (aka birthing center) still there?

He has also went on many foreign medical mission trips, and I believe he still does.

As far as I know it is, but I haven't lived in the area for a couple decades now so I'd have to look it up or ask family to be sure. I know Dr. Lehman's son currently practices in the area, and one of my SILs now goes to see him for general medical care.

I wonder if your DH or his family is mentioned in the book.. Of course without permission, I'm sure that many names were changed..

Nothing in the book about DH's family that we could tell, but I didn't think there would be due to the Amish focus of the book. My FIL was Amish (I'm not certain what "flavor"/order), though, until his family left the Amish church and became Mennonites when my FIL was a teenager. If I'm not mistaken (and I might be), my MIL was Beachy Mennonite/Beachy Amish Mennonite growing up. Both my FIL and MIL can (and still do when necessary) speak Pennsylvania Dutch, but they are "English."

It's not an Amish tale, but I can tell one story about DH being helped by Dr. Lehman. When DH was young (6? 8? 10?), he tried to keep a dime away from a sibling by putting it in his mouth (and he might have tried to swallow it? not sure). IIRC, he was on his back when he did this, and somehow managed to get the dime stuck up in his nasal cavity(?). He tells me that he could tip/tilt his head and feel the dime moving/rolling around, but he and his folks were at a loss as to how to get it out. They took him to Dr. Lehman, who retrieved the dime via my DH's nose. When it had been extracted, Dr. Lehman asked my husband if he wanted the dime back. DH declined.

Can't believe this - talk about a small world!!

It's a small world after all.