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Called to Be Amish

Light years ago I went to graduate school in Religion. I enjoyed my undergraduate studies very much, but graduate school was very different. I entered directly from college and the great majority of my colleagues had already finished graduate degrees. Most of them had families and were ministers and priests with their own congregations, and above all they were much more focused and mature. I soon realized I was not a scholar. I did find classes I enjoyed, especially American Religious History and a course in spiritual autobiography. The latter class was still heady -- I remember one of our texts was St. Augustine's "Confessions" -- but I enjoyed the stories of spiritual searching. Though I very quickly veered away from the study of theology I've kept an interest in memoirs that have a spiritual focus.   


Thanks to my friends at the Litfuse Publicity Group I was happy to have the opportunity to read and write about Marlene Miller's spiritual journey in "Called to Be Amish." There are many novels that are set in Amish communities, where the characters are Amish, but this memoir tells a unique story of moving from a secular family to becoming an Old Order Amish wife and mother of ten children. There is a good mix of stories of happiness and hardship and discussions of faith. There are times I wish the editing was a little tighter, but the style kept the authenticity of the author's voice. I'm glad that I added it to my reading this spring and grateful for the opportunity.

Please stop by tomorrow for Wedding Wednesday. The pictures will be some of the best from Japan.

As ever, thanks for visiting and take good care.


Please note, I was given the opportunity to read "Called to Be Amish" by the Litfuse Publicty group. The opinions are all mine. 

11 comments

Saleslady371 said...

I enjoyed hearing about your earlier days! I bet you learned a lot from this book. The Amish are interesting people.

TARYTERRE said...

Although you did not become a religious scholar your insight into the subject is far deeper than most. The book sounds fascinating, indeed.

Joy said...

I am sure that book is interesting to read!

Terra said...

I like to read memoirs of spiritual journeys too.

Paula said...

I want to add this book to my to be read pile! Thanks for the review

The Cranky said...

The book sounds interesting; I had a dear friend who was Old Order Mennonite; it would be enlightening to compare his views with hers. =)

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

My dear friend grew up Mennonite and I will refer this book to her. She no longer follows any religion but is one of the kindest persons I know and loves to read about other' people's spiritual journeys.

Theresa said...

That looks like a book I would love to read:) Enjoy your day dear friend, HUGS!

Sola Scriptura said...

Thanks for telling us about this book. I'll add this to my reading list :)

Marie Rayner said...

I am not a scholar either Carol, but that doesn't stop me from learning or wanting to learn. I hope that I am learning until the moment I die. I want to read that book now. I have always been very interested in Amish culture. I had never heard of anyone becoming one! My interest is piqued! Thanks! xoxo

Anne Payne said...

Wow...going to Old Order Amish must have been tough. Sounds like an interesting read. Thanks for sharing your opinion!