Returning Home

The Pletts #1

by Loreen Plett

Based on historical accounts, Returning Home follows the life of Johann Plett, born in Prussia in 1765, son of a wealthy landowner, and heir to an estate so vast he could not survey it all in a day’s ride. Johann’s harrowing journey leads to political intrigue, poverty, and devastating loss until, driven to despair, he must choose either to reject the God of his youth or return to Him. His decision would affect his family for generations to come. Loreen Plett was asked to be able to prove 13 scenarios and she proved 12 of the 13 amazing happenings with evidence

Genres: Historical, Christian

344 pages, Softcover

Reviews

[wanderer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my grandma's paperback, and she talked about it a lot when she first read it.

The book follows some of my ancestors (church/faith ancestors, if not actual ancestors) from villages in Germany (now Poland) to Mennonite settlements in Russia (now Ukraine). It mentions my family last names, and I have been to some of the villages mentioned in the book.

I have read so much history on these people, but very little fictionalized/creative nonfiction about them. The author did tons of research.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical story, with some fiction added, is the life story of Johann Plett. His family’s wealth and Mennonite heritage only created questions for him. His life’s journey will remain with readers after finishing the book, as it was went from one extreme to the other over the years. How, who and what will bring Johann to see his need for salvation and a faith in God?

This was a book I purchased a few years ago in a store in Amish country. The title appealed to me and I’m sorry I didn’t read it sooner. I have shared my own opinion even though a review was not required.

[Trish Boese · Rating 3 out of 5]

3* This is an interesting historical account of a Mennonite family in Russia. The main character, Johann Plett, is an ancestor to many of us with Mennonite background. His life was at times very heart-breaking. The author mixed fiction with facts about the Plett family, making a well-written story.

[Marla Toews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a thought provoking book about my ancestors. Katharina Plett is my great-great grandmother on my Grandma Alice's side of the family. Very interesting to read about the Mennonite history in Prussia. I found the story well written and hard to put down.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is a really, really good book. I've looked at in the catalogue for years and wondered what it's like. But the description wasn't really that grabbing, so it's taken me this long to decided to buy it... But, it was definitely worth it. It's made it on to my list of favourites for sure. :)