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Amish Knitting
The Amish Doll: Amish Knitting Novel
Raven Meadows was raised on the Allegheny Indian Reservation in New York but placed in foster care after the death of her grandparents. Moving from one foster home to another, she's had two constants in life: knitting and her ragdoll. Now at 24, she works as a social worker in a foster home for boys. To her surprise, Amish families from Cherry Creek, NY apply to be foster parents. She quickly bonds with one Amish woman, Susanna Yoder, a knitter waiting for a kidney transplant. Susanna shows Raven her prayer shawl, and seeing what comfort it brings, Raven eagerly knits prayer shawls and eventually helps start a knitting circle. Over time, Raven discovers her ragdoll is really an Amish doll that unravels the mystery of her birth. Will this revelation lead her to a new found faith, forgiveness, and love?
302 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
193 people are currently reading
428 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 13, 2012
So far, this is my favorite of Karen Anna Vogel's books. The story is refreshingly different from other authors and rather well written. I'm not 100% finished yet but I will update my review when I am. Needless to say, it will be nothing less than glowing, I'm sure. She has delivered a wonderful book that is rich in characters as well as storyline. Thank you, Karen, for this delightful addition to our Amish fiction genre. Clearly, you are a force to be reckoned with and I'm honored to be in the same literary circles with you! Kudos for a job well done, indeed!
November 10, 2012
I've said it before, I cannot get enough by this author. Her love and knowledge of the Amish is so evident in her heartfelt stories. This one is unlike her others, but every as touching and every bit as believable to the people of the culture. Loved this story!
January 23, 2018
The Amish Doll is one of those books that really makes me happy with how everything, even the little things, all tie up for a bigger, grander plot. I was slightly irritated about the insta-love in the beginning of the story, and some of the editorial mistakes. But I was really impressed how everything wrapped up.
What I Loved In This Story:
1. The strong character's goals and back stories. Nothing was put in this book just for space filler, no, everything is used to create one grand plot. :-) I really loved how this worked out.
2. The strong use of side characters. I love the side characters in this book. The foster boys took my heart and kept it. They were so kind and loving towards others and their faith in God was so refreshing. And such caring love that Marilyn and Jim had for the boys. Lawrence was the pastor and he seemed to always be available for everyone. And Susanna, she was just wonderful of how she treated people, with her prayers, with what she did for everyone despite her illness. I just want these people to be real and meet them. :-)
3. The faith elements. The main one that stuck up to me was about forgiveness. How forgiveness and feelings are two different things. That forgiveness is like a seed that starts small at first before growing into something beautiful.
4. How the book discusses more of the Amish faith.
5. The uniqueness from other Amish novels.
6. The prayer shawl. The idea is very intriguing, even though I don't know how the knit. The idea of each stitch is a prayer said for the person you're making it for, is very caring and cool.
7. Joshua. The way he put others before himself.
What I Didn't Like:
1. The insta-love. I mean really? Joshua was like in love with Raven by chapter 3. I was hoping for some more development....
2. Raven saying she didn't like the Amish, but then her mind changing like overnight. I was okay with her liking the Amish, don't get me wrong. But with some of the baggage she was carrying, I would've liked more development here.
3. The editorial mistakes. I mean no book is perfect, but occasionally this book seemed to bring me out of its story because of the mistakes. It had misuses of words, missing words, I think there may have been some missing quotation marks, phrases that may have read better if it was in italics but wasn't, and switching from a third-person POV to a first-person POV. I just found some of these mistakes a little distracting.
Content In Book:
1. Mentions of abuse. (Child abuse, women being abuse, and even men being abused).
2. Mentions of alcohol and getting drunk. (A few times a man got drunk and slept with a girl.)
3. Mentions of women getting pregnant out of wedlock.
4. An almost rape scene. (The girl is only grabbed and roughly kissed, the guy doing it suggested that they go to her bed with her not wanting to, nothing happens as other people got involved just in time.)
5. Manipulation and lies. (This almost caused someone to get married into abusive marriage when the person didn't really want to.)
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who want a good Amish read in the viewpoint of Englisher. Those who like strong books period (you know, strong plots, strong characters, strong faith elements.) No really, read this book! I really enjoyed it! =D
What I Loved In This Story:
1. The strong character's goals and back stories. Nothing was put in this book just for space filler, no, everything is used to create one grand plot. :-) I really loved how this worked out.
2. The strong use of side characters. I love the side characters in this book. The foster boys took my heart and kept it. They were so kind and loving towards others and their faith in God was so refreshing. And such caring love that Marilyn and Jim had for the boys. Lawrence was the pastor and he seemed to always be available for everyone. And Susanna, she was just wonderful of how she treated people, with her prayers, with what she did for everyone despite her illness. I just want these people to be real and meet them. :-)
3. The faith elements. The main one that stuck up to me was about forgiveness. How forgiveness and feelings are two different things. That forgiveness is like a seed that starts small at first before growing into something beautiful.
4. How the book discusses more of the Amish faith.
5. The uniqueness from other Amish novels.
6. The prayer shawl. The idea is very intriguing, even though I don't know how the knit. The idea of each stitch is a prayer said for the person you're making it for, is very caring and cool.
7. Joshua. The way he put others before himself.
What I Didn't Like:
1. The insta-love. I mean really? Joshua was like in love with Raven by chapter 3. I was hoping for some more development....
2. Raven saying she didn't like the Amish, but then her mind changing like overnight. I was okay with her liking the Amish, don't get me wrong. But with some of the baggage she was carrying, I would've liked more development here.
3. The editorial mistakes. I mean no book is perfect, but occasionally this book seemed to bring me out of its story because of the mistakes. It had misuses of words, missing words, I think there may have been some missing quotation marks, phrases that may have read better if it was in italics but wasn't, and switching from a third-person POV to a first-person POV. I just found some of these mistakes a little distracting.
Content In Book:
1. Mentions of abuse. (Child abuse, women being abuse, and even men being abused).
2. Mentions of alcohol and getting drunk. (A few times a man got drunk and slept with a girl.)
3. Mentions of women getting pregnant out of wedlock.
4. An almost rape scene. (The girl is only grabbed and roughly kissed, the guy doing it suggested that they go to her bed with her not wanting to, nothing happens as other people got involved just in time.)
5. Manipulation and lies. (This almost caused someone to get married into abusive marriage when the person didn't really want to.)
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who want a good Amish read in the viewpoint of Englisher. Those who like strong books period (you know, strong plots, strong characters, strong faith elements.) No really, read this book! I really enjoyed it! =D
June 17, 2019
I've given this book 5 stars because I enjoyed it so much - but there are one or two editorial/typo errors which were a little irritating. I found the characters very realistically portrayed, especially the Amish - they were human with human failings but a desire to do better. And the six boys were great! The Christian elements were informative not pushy or icky as they can sometimes be. I've read very little like this, and it's one of the first books I've come across that is anything like my own. I'm definitely going to be reading more by this author.
BTW, my books are fantasy, but if you enjoyed this, you might find them worth trying.
BTW, my books are fantasy, but if you enjoyed this, you might find them worth trying.
September 29, 2019
Raven is hired to work at Appleton, a foster home for boys set in the heart of Amish country. Raven has something in common with the boys ; she grew up in foster care and never felt like she belonged anywhere The only link to her past are memories of what her grandmother taught her, and an Amish doll. Reuben, Suzanna & Joshua accept her into their lives and teach her about the love of God. Several sub plots keep this very interesting. A good read.
September 11, 2017
Wunderbar ! ! !
This story was so deeply refreshing and food for my soul! One of the reasons I read Amish fiction is because, tho I am not Amish, reading is my passion, I am also keeping God on my mind. I remember scripture during the day, that I can apply unexpectedly when issues come up. This was one of the best I've ever read!
This story was so deeply refreshing and food for my soul! One of the reasons I read Amish fiction is because, tho I am not Amish, reading is my passion, I am also keeping God on my mind. I remember scripture during the day, that I can apply unexpectedly when issues come up. This was one of the best I've ever read!
December 4, 2017
Captivating
I started this book not truly knowing what I would be thinking of feeling while reading this book. Many times I had to stop and think about how my life has been changed by having the same values and principles as the Amish. I believe God can heal all things. I try to give him all my worries to take care of them, they are small to him while huge to me.
I started this book not truly knowing what I would be thinking of feeling while reading this book. Many times I had to stop and think about how my life has been changed by having the same values and principles as the Amish. I believe God can heal all things. I try to give him all my worries to take care of them, they are small to him while huge to me.
November 27, 2024
Forgiveness and reconciliation
Karen does a wonderful job of explaining the importance of forgiveness in this book. Many times, we hold grudges whoch then lead to more problems. Raven with the help of Eb and Joshua and others was able to unpack her situations and make good choices for her life.
Karen does a wonderful job of explaining the importance of forgiveness in this book. Many times, we hold grudges whoch then lead to more problems. Raven with the help of Eb and Joshua and others was able to unpack her situations and make good choices for her life.
July 19, 2018
Realistic
The Amish beliefs and way of life were portrayed in a more realistic manner than in much of current fiction. They are no more flawed or perfect than any other of God's children. The discussions about living out scripture certainly have me food for thought.
The Amish beliefs and way of life were portrayed in a more realistic manner than in much of current fiction. They are no more flawed or perfect than any other of God's children. The discussions about living out scripture certainly have me food for thought.
September 10, 2018
Loved this.
What a great story. It covers many avenues such as Love,foster care, adoption it shows compassion and covers the Amish and Native American cultures. Highly recommend this story.
What a great story. It covers many avenues such as Love,foster care, adoption it shows compassion and covers the Amish and Native American cultures. Highly recommend this story.
September 6, 2018
Raven Meadows was raised on the Allegheny Indian Reservation in New York but placed in foster care after the death of her grandparents. Moving from one foster home to another, she’s had two constants in life: knitting and her ragdoll.
September 22, 2018
Very unbelievable to me, this conversion and all. Giving up freedom and independence for such a strict life where women are submissive to men, not my thing. a simple life is good, but sticking your head in the sand and ignoring progress is just sad.
May 21, 2024
A charming Amish story of love. The characters are well developed and believable. First book by this author I have read but I am sure to look for more of her books. A nice relaxing read. Enjoyed it a lot . Hope you enjoy it also.
September 20, 2017
Loved this book
I enjoyed travelling along with Raven as she grew to live for and love the Lord. Forgiving those who have wronged us is not an easy thing to do
I enjoyed travelling along with Raven as she grew to live for and love the Lord. Forgiving those who have wronged us is not an easy thing to do
January 5, 2018
Lovely story
I enjoyed reading this book from start to finish. It was predictable and a little too good to be true, but I liked it just the same!
I enjoyed reading this book from start to finish. It was predictable and a little too good to be true, but I liked it just the same!
September 11, 2018
Excellent Read
I really enjoyed reading it was such a good read I hope to read more books by this author I really enjoyed this book.
I really enjoyed reading it was such a good read I hope to read more books by this author I really enjoyed this book.
July 8, 2019
Great read!
What a great story of redemption. I enjoy books by this author and look forward to reading more. I definitely recommend this book.
What a great story of redemption. I enjoy books by this author and look forward to reading more. I definitely recommend this book.
August 11, 2019
Nothing but ridiculous religious proselytizing and god-talk-UGH!
November 4, 2020
Good book
December 3, 2023
Very nice
This was a very well written Amish !I've story. I enjoyed all of it and would recommend it for anyone.
This was a very well written Amish !I've story. I enjoyed all of it and would recommend it for anyone.
August 27, 2016
Great Amish Fiction Read!
I wasn’t even at the end of the first chapter of this book before my eyes welled up with tears. I found this book to be filled with twists, turns, and surprises. This book is so different from your normal Amish read and I liked it.
I found the orphaned boys to be simply adorable, fun loving, pranking, boys. They will quickly capture your heart.
Raven has most assuredly been through a lifetime of hurts. Will she learn to love and trust again? Will she allow God back into her life? More importantly can she forgive?
It is amazing how loving, caring, people can change your life. I loved how open and caring Jim and Marilyn were. The love they have for children and adults alike is truly a gift from God.
The Yoder family will tug on your heartstrings too. Such love and dedication they have for one another and others too.
This book was enjoyable to read, tears and all. If a book doesn’t make me cry, happy or sad tears, it isn’t a good book in my opinion. I had lots of tears reading this one!
This is the first book I have read by author Karen Anna Vogel. I’m excited to say it won’t be the last.
I highly recommend this great read! It gets 5 stars from me!
I wasn’t even at the end of the first chapter of this book before my eyes welled up with tears. I found this book to be filled with twists, turns, and surprises. This book is so different from your normal Amish read and I liked it.
I found the orphaned boys to be simply adorable, fun loving, pranking, boys. They will quickly capture your heart.
Raven has most assuredly been through a lifetime of hurts. Will she learn to love and trust again? Will she allow God back into her life? More importantly can she forgive?
It is amazing how loving, caring, people can change your life. I loved how open and caring Jim and Marilyn were. The love they have for children and adults alike is truly a gift from God.
The Yoder family will tug on your heartstrings too. Such love and dedication they have for one another and others too.
This book was enjoyable to read, tears and all. If a book doesn’t make me cry, happy or sad tears, it isn’t a good book in my opinion. I had lots of tears reading this one!
This is the first book I have read by author Karen Anna Vogel. I’m excited to say it won’t be the last.
I highly recommend this great read! It gets 5 stars from me!
February 23, 2016
Pluses:
- Knitting pattern included for an Prayer Shawl -- quite simple to make.
- 2 Amish recipes
- List of recommended reading.
- There is a separate book list for those want to learn more of the Amish life. However, there is a two or three books in the recommended reading list that also should be included if that is a goal.
Cons:
- I had a bit of a problem with the Indian character as it was used; however, I give pluses to the author for researching the Seneca (as well as providing a research reading list on the tribe).
- Three errors where a wrong word was used.
- Loss of a full rating point because a character in the book during a flu outbreak never caught the flu. ANYONE would have got the flu having done with an extremely sick flu victim what this character did. Not having this person become ill was not realistic.
The book was okay and acceptable for a free Kindle download.
- Knitting pattern included for an Prayer Shawl -- quite simple to make.
- 2 Amish recipes
- List of recommended reading.
- There is a separate book list for those want to learn more of the Amish life. However, there is a two or three books in the recommended reading list that also should be included if that is a goal.
Cons:
- I had a bit of a problem with the Indian character as it was used; however, I give pluses to the author for researching the Seneca (as well as providing a research reading list on the tribe).
- Three errors where a wrong word was used.
- Loss of a full rating point because a character in the book during a flu outbreak never caught the flu. ANYONE would have got the flu having done with an extremely sick flu victim what this character did. Not having this person become ill was not realistic.
The book was okay and acceptable for a free Kindle download.
November 7, 2013
This book was refreshingly different. Raven Meadows was given to family to be raised and then put into the foster care system. She grows up and becomes a social worker to help and give kids in the foster care system a better chance Raven takes a job at Appleton Farm in NY. Appleton is a place that houses 6 boys in temporary foster care. Appleton House is also surrounded by Amish. Raven is still looking for answers...who were her parents and why did they abandon her. This was a complex story that kept me reading. Can she ever find her way back to God and forgive her relatives and foster care experiences. Can she help place these boys into permanent loving homes. What is the connection with an old Amish doll she has had since childhood? Will she ever find what happened to her bio parents?
July 11, 2013
Technically,this is not the most perfect of novels, as it features many typographical, grammatical and editorial errors. However, for all that, I did find myself enjoying this work almost from the word go. Raven's journey from minimal-Agnostic to passable Christian to devoted Amish is beautifully told and often I found myself reliving and reassessing my own on-again-off-again relationship with my particular Christian faith.
One character in the novel I particularly enjoyed was Eb as he endured his shunning and emerged through the other side. This difficult topic was handled with sensitivity and kindness.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable read that affirms belief in a loving God is nothing to be ashamed of.
Oh, and I took up knitting again and am currently making a shawl :)
One character in the novel I particularly enjoyed was Eb as he endured his shunning and emerged through the other side. This difficult topic was handled with sensitivity and kindness.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable read that affirms belief in a loving God is nothing to be ashamed of.
Oh, and I took up knitting again and am currently making a shawl :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2014
A great book! God works in amazing ways!
January 5, 2016
Easy read
This was an easy read. Christianity was a large part of this Amish story. It was a good book to pass time and wasn't a downer either.
This was an easy read. Christianity was a large part of this Amish story. It was a good book to pass time and wasn't a downer either.
January 23, 2016
Good read
They should say recipes not bonus knitting pattern included I could not find it. But regardless the book was still enjoyable.
They should say recipes not bonus knitting pattern included I could not find it. But regardless the book was still enjoyable.
December 10, 2016
nice book
July 7, 2017
The Amish Doll is a novel written by Karen Anna Vogel. This is an Amish Knitting novel. When this story first opens and we meet Raven I thought I was going to dislike her. Well sometimes first impressions are completely wrong. Most of the characters in this book are very likeable but for me there was a young Amish girl that I knew from the start was going to be trouble. She did cause alot of stress for several people.
We learn quite a bit about Amish traditions, Native American customs, and how the foster system works. I loved the mystery surrounding Ravens parents and when the truth came out I was in tears. With all the smaller storylines in this book it makes the story move right along and keeps the readers interest. You will find strength, love, abuse, and mystery thru out this book. But family, faith, and values are strongly portrayed. I didn't want the story to end. I am hoping for another book so we can see how some of the characters turn out.
I have rated this book with five stars even tho it deserved many more. I am always happy when a book meets my expectations. This was a strong amazing story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own. I HIGHLY recommend this novel to all those who love an extremely special story involving the Amish.
Congratulations to Karen Anna Vogel on delivering another outstanding story for her readers. I am sure I will find more books by this author to read!
We learn quite a bit about Amish traditions, Native American customs, and how the foster system works. I loved the mystery surrounding Ravens parents and when the truth came out I was in tears. With all the smaller storylines in this book it makes the story move right along and keeps the readers interest. You will find strength, love, abuse, and mystery thru out this book. But family, faith, and values are strongly portrayed. I didn't want the story to end. I am hoping for another book so we can see how some of the characters turn out.
I have rated this book with five stars even tho it deserved many more. I am always happy when a book meets my expectations. This was a strong amazing story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own. I HIGHLY recommend this novel to all those who love an extremely special story involving the Amish.
Congratulations to Karen Anna Vogel on delivering another outstanding story for her readers. I am sure I will find more books by this author to read!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews