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The Plainspoken Series
Simple Pleasures: Stories from My Life as an Amish Mother
Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family's life and Amish community. The mother of four young children and wife of a storekeeper, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers across the United States and Canada. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Yoder finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.
Hear straight from Amish people themselves as they write about their daily lives and deeply rooted faith in the Plainspoken series from Herald Press. Each book includes "A Day in the Life of the Author" and the author's an
Hear straight from Amish people themselves as they write about their daily lives and deeply rooted faith in the Plainspoken series from Herald Press. Each book includes "A Day in the Life of the Author" and the author's an
192 pages, Paperback
Published March 29, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 12, 2016
If you are interested in Amish life and you are tired of those Amish fiction books that lack authenticity produced by the mass market, then "Simple Pleasures" is a must read for you. Marianne Jantzi offers fascinating slices of her Amish life in Milverton, Ontario in these witty, charming, and plainspoken stories. Because she is authentically Amish, you will not find photos in this book, but you won’t miss them, either. Marianne ‘paints’ pictures in vivid details with her prose. Her stories evoke nostalgia for the “simple pleasures” we often associate with a bygone era.
As I was reading this book, I often felt like I was having afternoon tea in Marianne’s kitchen with her as her little ones slept. The stories she tells evoke nostalgia for my own Amish childhood. Who knows, had I grown up in a family like the one she is raising, I might be one of those Amish grandmothers living in a Dowdy Haus with her grandchildren next door.
Marianne is clearly contented with her Amish life. She finds reasons to be grateful throughout the book. On page 59 she writes: One day we were like the children in Dr. Suess’s 'The Cat in the Hat' who thought it was too wet and cold so they sat inside and did nothing.” A few paragraphs later, she writes: “Later that week, I breathed deeply and reveled in the beautiful morning. The vehicles hummed by on the pavement, the sun burned the mist off the river, and the birds busily ate breakfast.”
I loved these poetic moments. However, at times I wanted more ‘dutchy’ words. Most Amish people cannot help but use them, but Marianne has clearly honed her writing style and it seems she has made an effort to edit these expressions out. Still, there were a few such nuggets. On page 26 she writes about spending time with relatives during hunting season: “Even though we didn’t come back with any buck stories…” I do believe the only time I’ve ever heard the term “buck stories” is among Amish men. A few pages later, she writes about caribou hunting. She gives a sense of the great distance the hunters need to travel from Milverton, three-fourths of the way up to the top of Quebec, “to where the road ran out.” I chuckled with delight when I came across her occasional Amish way of saying things.
There is only one place in the book in which the reader gets a glimpse of the author longing for something not allowed in her community. On page 121, she writes, “It’s not uncommon to wish to do things we can’t. Like type. I wish I could type my own 'Connection' (a publication she writes for) letters. That would relieve someone of the job of typing each of my handwritten letters.” She then pivots around to being thankful for being able to write in cursive.
Marianne offers a contrast between her Amish life and the mainstream culture on page 116, when she cites an article from her local newspaper about the stress level of women in the mainstream culture: workplace stress, finding sitters for their children, dropping them off and picking them up, and striving to do things perfectly. Marianne writes: “We live beside this stressed-out region. Thankfully, most of the women’s stress factors are not mine. I am not a provider; I do not have a job away from home, nor do I plan a schedule for my children.”
Marianne’s viewpoint is interesting. In the mainstream culture we equate liberation with having abundant choices. Marianne is finding liberation in not having to make these tough choices. However, she also realizes that Amish people are not exempt from the urge to be perfect. “We want well-behaved children with clean, neat clothes. Our gardens are hoed, lawns are mowed, and homes are scrubbed well, while our children are peppered with, ‘What would people think if they saw this mess?’ Mother is in a tizzy because company is coming and they must not see lack of management.”
Marianne has hit on a key aspect of Amish life. It seems like it is part of the fabric of the culture, even though most Amish don’t recognize it. The author tells a story that illustrates this well.
One day a visitor brought gifts for the children, including a coloring book for daughter, Alyssa. Marianne listened as Alyssa told the visitor, “I can’t color… I just scribble.” The visitor explained that when she was three, she scribbled too. She sat down with Alyssa, encouraged her, and soon Alyssa was confidently coloring her page. Marianne writes: “Her watching mother knew exactly why Alyssa was sure that she couldn’t color. My standards were too high for her abilities. I would outline her picture and instruct her not to go over those lines. After all, I wanted my little girl to know how to properly color when she went to school.”
I commend Marianne for her courage to admit this to herself and to share it with her readers.
I find one fault with "Simple Pleasures." I found it disorienting that the stories are arranged thematically rather than sequentially. Her third child shows up on page 36 like this: “… I took my third-born, a fourteen-month bundle of energy…” I said, “Huh? Where did that baby come from?” A few pages later, “Eric had a coughing fit from a spray Allan had used.” Two things hit me here. Eric had not yet shown up, unless he was that fourteen-month old from earlier, and what in the world was Allan spraying?
Several pages later, Marianne writes: “We were in the hospital again. What a wonderful place to be when your baby is blue and white and limp as a Raggedy-Ann doll.” First of all, I felt that she skipped the traumatic part of this story by abruptly plunking the reader into the scene at the hospital. Then, in the following sentence, the reader discovers it is Eric who is the baby who couldn’t breathe. I find it odd that one doesn’t actually read about Eric’s arrival into the world until another 59 pages later.
One cannot help but be impressed with all that Marianne manages to do: mother four little ones, including gardening and canning, run a shoe shop, and still find time to write (all without modern conveniences). I am most likely not the last reader who will be happy she has enough energy to share her stories with us.
Disclosure: I received a copy of "Simple Pleasures" from Herald Press in exchange for an honest review.
As I was reading this book, I often felt like I was having afternoon tea in Marianne’s kitchen with her as her little ones slept. The stories she tells evoke nostalgia for my own Amish childhood. Who knows, had I grown up in a family like the one she is raising, I might be one of those Amish grandmothers living in a Dowdy Haus with her grandchildren next door.
Marianne is clearly contented with her Amish life. She finds reasons to be grateful throughout the book. On page 59 she writes: One day we were like the children in Dr. Suess’s 'The Cat in the Hat' who thought it was too wet and cold so they sat inside and did nothing.” A few paragraphs later, she writes: “Later that week, I breathed deeply and reveled in the beautiful morning. The vehicles hummed by on the pavement, the sun burned the mist off the river, and the birds busily ate breakfast.”
I loved these poetic moments. However, at times I wanted more ‘dutchy’ words. Most Amish people cannot help but use them, but Marianne has clearly honed her writing style and it seems she has made an effort to edit these expressions out. Still, there were a few such nuggets. On page 26 she writes about spending time with relatives during hunting season: “Even though we didn’t come back with any buck stories…” I do believe the only time I’ve ever heard the term “buck stories” is among Amish men. A few pages later, she writes about caribou hunting. She gives a sense of the great distance the hunters need to travel from Milverton, three-fourths of the way up to the top of Quebec, “to where the road ran out.” I chuckled with delight when I came across her occasional Amish way of saying things.
There is only one place in the book in which the reader gets a glimpse of the author longing for something not allowed in her community. On page 121, she writes, “It’s not uncommon to wish to do things we can’t. Like type. I wish I could type my own 'Connection' (a publication she writes for) letters. That would relieve someone of the job of typing each of my handwritten letters.” She then pivots around to being thankful for being able to write in cursive.
Marianne offers a contrast between her Amish life and the mainstream culture on page 116, when she cites an article from her local newspaper about the stress level of women in the mainstream culture: workplace stress, finding sitters for their children, dropping them off and picking them up, and striving to do things perfectly. Marianne writes: “We live beside this stressed-out region. Thankfully, most of the women’s stress factors are not mine. I am not a provider; I do not have a job away from home, nor do I plan a schedule for my children.”
Marianne’s viewpoint is interesting. In the mainstream culture we equate liberation with having abundant choices. Marianne is finding liberation in not having to make these tough choices. However, she also realizes that Amish people are not exempt from the urge to be perfect. “We want well-behaved children with clean, neat clothes. Our gardens are hoed, lawns are mowed, and homes are scrubbed well, while our children are peppered with, ‘What would people think if they saw this mess?’ Mother is in a tizzy because company is coming and they must not see lack of management.”
Marianne has hit on a key aspect of Amish life. It seems like it is part of the fabric of the culture, even though most Amish don’t recognize it. The author tells a story that illustrates this well.
One day a visitor brought gifts for the children, including a coloring book for daughter, Alyssa. Marianne listened as Alyssa told the visitor, “I can’t color… I just scribble.” The visitor explained that when she was three, she scribbled too. She sat down with Alyssa, encouraged her, and soon Alyssa was confidently coloring her page. Marianne writes: “Her watching mother knew exactly why Alyssa was sure that she couldn’t color. My standards were too high for her abilities. I would outline her picture and instruct her not to go over those lines. After all, I wanted my little girl to know how to properly color when she went to school.”
I commend Marianne for her courage to admit this to herself and to share it with her readers.
I find one fault with "Simple Pleasures." I found it disorienting that the stories are arranged thematically rather than sequentially. Her third child shows up on page 36 like this: “… I took my third-born, a fourteen-month bundle of energy…” I said, “Huh? Where did that baby come from?” A few pages later, “Eric had a coughing fit from a spray Allan had used.” Two things hit me here. Eric had not yet shown up, unless he was that fourteen-month old from earlier, and what in the world was Allan spraying?
Several pages later, Marianne writes: “We were in the hospital again. What a wonderful place to be when your baby is blue and white and limp as a Raggedy-Ann doll.” First of all, I felt that she skipped the traumatic part of this story by abruptly plunking the reader into the scene at the hospital. Then, in the following sentence, the reader discovers it is Eric who is the baby who couldn’t breathe. I find it odd that one doesn’t actually read about Eric’s arrival into the world until another 59 pages later.
One cannot help but be impressed with all that Marianne manages to do: mother four little ones, including gardening and canning, run a shoe shop, and still find time to write (all without modern conveniences). I am most likely not the last reader who will be happy she has enough energy to share her stories with us.
Disclosure: I received a copy of "Simple Pleasures" from Herald Press in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2016
Marianne Jantzi gives a wonderful opportunity to look into the home and life of a young Amish woman, and her family. The book takes us with her and her daily life, and a very busy one at that.
We are given a chance to see through Marianne’s eyes what she does each day, and you will need to come up for air, she seems to be the energizer bunny. Of course, life is not always easy, as with everyone, and she has had her struggles, and times of rushing her son with asthma to the hospital. Loved how honest she is with sharing, like a lot of Mom’s his medicine with her younger son. She suspected that Karl with his barking cough has developed the same aliment as Eric, and she used his puffer, in the end she has to take Karl to the hospital and finds he has croup, so like the rest of us.
You are given a rare opportunity to be privy to this busy woman’s life, and although sometime it is a bit rambling, I enjoyed my time with her.
Life isn’t just riding around in buggy, especially when you have four you children, and a shoe business to tend. Loved her thoughts when she admitted as a school girl she loved going back to school, and leaving the endless work behind, but in the end as an adult she enjoyed doing all the cooking, cleaning, gardening, canning, etc.
If you have an interest in Amish family life, don’t miss this chance to really be absorbed into their home.
I received this book thought Liftuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are given a chance to see through Marianne’s eyes what she does each day, and you will need to come up for air, she seems to be the energizer bunny. Of course, life is not always easy, as with everyone, and she has had her struggles, and times of rushing her son with asthma to the hospital. Loved how honest she is with sharing, like a lot of Mom’s his medicine with her younger son. She suspected that Karl with his barking cough has developed the same aliment as Eric, and she used his puffer, in the end she has to take Karl to the hospital and finds he has croup, so like the rest of us.
You are given a rare opportunity to be privy to this busy woman’s life, and although sometime it is a bit rambling, I enjoyed my time with her.
Life isn’t just riding around in buggy, especially when you have four you children, and a shoe business to tend. Loved her thoughts when she admitted as a school girl she loved going back to school, and leaving the endless work behind, but in the end as an adult she enjoyed doing all the cooking, cleaning, gardening, canning, etc.
If you have an interest in Amish family life, don’t miss this chance to really be absorbed into their home.
I received this book thought Liftuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
April 25, 2016
Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi feels like sitting down and reading a letter from a cherished friend. Anecdotal glimpses into her life as a mom, a wife, a sister, and an Amish woman provide a delightful way to spend a few hours curled up in your favorite reading spot. Though I am neither Amish nor a mom, I was easily able to relate to Marianne’s life because we do share two important things – womanhood and faith in Jesus.
And that brings me to what is the highlight of the book for me. Through each snippet of Marianne’s life, through the ebb and flow of her thoughts and the congenial conversation we had as reader and author on the page, came also the reminder that, for all our differences, we aren’t really so different after all. A truth that our world could stand to remember more often.
Bottom Line: Easy to read & perfect to accompany your morning hot beverage of choice, Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi gives a refreshingly authentic glimpse into Amish life. It’s in turns heartwarming and convicting but always enjoyable and sure to put a smile on your face! Perfect for fans of Amish fiction as well as anyone who loved the writing style of Laura Ingalls Wilder in her Little House books.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
And that brings me to what is the highlight of the book for me. Through each snippet of Marianne’s life, through the ebb and flow of her thoughts and the congenial conversation we had as reader and author on the page, came also the reminder that, for all our differences, we aren’t really so different after all. A truth that our world could stand to remember more often.
Bottom Line: Easy to read & perfect to accompany your morning hot beverage of choice, Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi gives a refreshingly authentic glimpse into Amish life. It’s in turns heartwarming and convicting but always enjoyable and sure to put a smile on your face! Perfect for fans of Amish fiction as well as anyone who loved the writing style of Laura Ingalls Wilder in her Little House books.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
March 25, 2016
About the Book:
Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family's life and Amish community. The mother of four young children and wife of a storekeeper, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers across the United States and Canada. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Yoder finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.
My Review:
We see the Amish and we are enamoured by them. They seem to exist happily serving their God and their community and they survive solely on those two thing, as well. I myself, have said numerous times that I wish I could live as simoply as they do. When you are on the outside looking in things with them seem virtually effortless, but this is far from the truth. Simple Pleasures is a book that shows the world that the Amish live a lot like we do.
While they seem quiet and reserved and their children seem very well mannered they have many of the same problems that we all do. I think we are wrongly holding them to a standard that they themselves have trouble equating themselves too. As I read Marianne's words I realized that we are very much alike and I was grateful in a way to see that she as I am is just a mom trying to survive in this world and it was all good. She wants to be the best "me" she can be while serving her one true God as well as her family.
Simple Pleasures is a breath of fresh air! It's simplicity is equally beautiful as it is normal. I enjoyed this read, tremendously!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family's life and Amish community. The mother of four young children and wife of a storekeeper, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers across the United States and Canada. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Yoder finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.
My Review:
We see the Amish and we are enamoured by them. They seem to exist happily serving their God and their community and they survive solely on those two thing, as well. I myself, have said numerous times that I wish I could live as simoply as they do. When you are on the outside looking in things with them seem virtually effortless, but this is far from the truth. Simple Pleasures is a book that shows the world that the Amish live a lot like we do.
While they seem quiet and reserved and their children seem very well mannered they have many of the same problems that we all do. I think we are wrongly holding them to a standard that they themselves have trouble equating themselves too. As I read Marianne's words I realized that we are very much alike and I was grateful in a way to see that she as I am is just a mom trying to survive in this world and it was all good. She wants to be the best "me" she can be while serving her one true God as well as her family.
Simple Pleasures is a breath of fresh air! It's simplicity is equally beautiful as it is normal. I enjoyed this read, tremendously!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
April 22, 2016
About the Book
Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family s life and Amish community. The mother of four young children, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the family store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Jantzi finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.
Hear straight from Amish people themselves as they write about their daily lives and deeply rooted faith in the Plainspoken series from Herald Press. Each book includes A Day in the Life of the Author and the author s answers to FAQs about the Amish.
My Review
Simple Pleasures was a very interesting look into the world and life of young Amish mother, Marianne Jantzi. This would be a great book for those like myself who are tired of Amish fiction and want something from the perspective of a woman who actually lives the lifestyle. The readers get a peek into Marianne's life and raising her children. The only thing I would say about Simple Pleasures is the Amish have a very distinct Dutch backgrounds and heritage and I wish there had been more of that and the dutchy language. Simple Pleasures is a great non-fiction piece about the Amish lifestyle and Amish motherhood.
Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family s life and Amish community. The mother of four young children, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the family store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Jantzi finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.
Hear straight from Amish people themselves as they write about their daily lives and deeply rooted faith in the Plainspoken series from Herald Press. Each book includes A Day in the Life of the Author and the author s answers to FAQs about the Amish.
My Review
Simple Pleasures was a very interesting look into the world and life of young Amish mother, Marianne Jantzi. This would be a great book for those like myself who are tired of Amish fiction and want something from the perspective of a woman who actually lives the lifestyle. The readers get a peek into Marianne's life and raising her children. The only thing I would say about Simple Pleasures is the Amish have a very distinct Dutch backgrounds and heritage and I wish there had been more of that and the dutchy language. Simple Pleasures is a great non-fiction piece about the Amish lifestyle and Amish motherhood.
April 24, 2016
"Simple Pleasures" was a breath of fresh air. Having read many fiction novels about the Amish and their lifestyle, I found this book to be incredibly well written and quite relateable. The Amish live in the same world we do, except with a more simple life style, yet they struggle with the same things we do. I think our world and culture has put high expectations on their lifestyle and the way they live, but I could help but find myself think as I was reading Marianne's words, "we've got it all wrong." In fact, our society has mis-interpreted the Amish community thinking we are very different, yet we aren't.
I love when she talks about the art of listening. Her and I are a lot alike. I am talker and so is she. I could learn to listen more and talk less. I found this book to be straight from the heart, as almost as if I was sitting having coffee with an old friend. Marianne writes this book in small chapters like words of wisdom and you can read this as a devotional or all at once. I took it in small bites as a devotional and loved her words. I give this book 5/5 stars for the authors ability to make me laugh, feel like I was chatting over coffee and being able to connect with her about our faith in God. This book isn't like any Amish book I have ever read before. I highly recommend it. Thank you to Plainspoke for allowing me to review this book. I was not compensated for a positive review.
I love when she talks about the art of listening. Her and I are a lot alike. I am talker and so is she. I could learn to listen more and talk less. I found this book to be straight from the heart, as almost as if I was sitting having coffee with an old friend. Marianne writes this book in small chapters like words of wisdom and you can read this as a devotional or all at once. I took it in small bites as a devotional and loved her words. I give this book 5/5 stars for the authors ability to make me laugh, feel like I was chatting over coffee and being able to connect with her about our faith in God. This book isn't like any Amish book I have ever read before. I highly recommend it. Thank you to Plainspoke for allowing me to review this book. I was not compensated for a positive review.
May 1, 2016
This book is written in a very different style. What I liked about it was that you got a real look at Amish living. You get to see it for what it is and real life is very different from its fictional counterpart. The reader gets to "see" what happens day to day and that part for me was really great.
But I had some problems with the book. I'm not sure if it was how Marianne intended or how the publisher put it together but the book jumps around. A lot. The writer will start on one topic, like how her daughter found a new word and used it often. The next paragraph will take a sharp left and talk about squirrels in a bird feeder. The chapters don't flow together with a particular theme. You will bump and jump around. I had a problem with this and had to stop and regroup myself or remember who was what frequently. I think they were trying to go for a letter style book but didn't quite make the mark.
So if you are interested in hearing Amish life from an Amish perspective and you don't mind the topics bouncing around and changing this book is worth checking out.
But I had some problems with the book. I'm not sure if it was how Marianne intended or how the publisher put it together but the book jumps around. A lot. The writer will start on one topic, like how her daughter found a new word and used it often. The next paragraph will take a sharp left and talk about squirrels in a bird feeder. The chapters don't flow together with a particular theme. You will bump and jump around. I had a problem with this and had to stop and regroup myself or remember who was what frequently. I think they were trying to go for a letter style book but didn't quite make the mark.
So if you are interested in hearing Amish life from an Amish perspective and you don't mind the topics bouncing around and changing this book is worth checking out.
July 26, 2017
Marianne Jantzi is a Canadian Amish Mother living in Milverton, Ontario who writes a column for the Connection magazine. Her book Simple Pleasures is a compilation of her column writings put together giving us a glimpse into her daily life.
July 28, 2025
Amish seems an interesting way of life but I don't think it's for me
April 25, 2026
very good book
April 12, 2016
"Amish novels, Amish tourist sites, and television shows offer second and third hand accounts of Amish, Mennonite, and Hutterite life. Some of these messages are sensitive and accurate. Some are not. Most are flat-out wrong.
Now readers can listen directly to the voices of these Anabaptists through Plainspoken. In the book in this series, readers get to hear Amish, Mennonite and Hutterite writers talk about the texture of their daily lives: how they spend their time, what they value, what makes them laugh, and how they summon strength from their Christian faith and community." (Introduction, Author's Note)
In Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi, readers get to read from the journal writings of a family of four Amish to gain an inside and true-life memories of what one woman captured and began a column in the Collection, an Amish-Mennonite newspaper. If you are looking for well-writing fiction, you will not find it in this book. These are moment by moment memories of what one woman captures in her life as a Canadian Amish woman working in her own business and home with her family and community. From how she deals with being stuck inside on very cold days and wishing it was warm out, to having an appreciation for where you're at in life. How they occupy their time, and how their house isn't as organized as they would like when company comes calling. To dealing with their children who want pets, to sometimes dealing with the hardships when death comes to early.
Here is a sample of what you'll find inside.
I was reading an article about baking bread; the writer mentioned that her husband carved her a bread spoon. I read on, intrigued. A bread spoon? Who ever heard of such a thing, and what could its purpose be? The husband had carved it from a piece of soft maple a little over twelve inches long. It gently curved outward to an almost-flat bowl a little more than three inches wide, somewhat like a paddle. Its shape worked very well in beating together bread ingredients. So that's what it was! That 'odd-shaped wooden spoon we received as a wedding gift." It's always what I grab to mix buns, rolls and the occasional donuts. A bread paddle, no less! No wonder it works so well. Then again, maybe it's not. Maybe I'm guessing wrong. I've done that before." (pg. 75).
I received Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Herald Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved the simplicity of what you'll find inside. Just like opening an Amish journal and who would have ever guessed that there are Amish in Canada? I love getting an honest look at how wonderful these communities are and how they aren't as put together as some fiction books might have you believe. They are just as real as you and I without all the modern conveniences. For me this one rated a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There are even some great recipes tucked inside I can't wait to try! This is the fourth book in the Plainspoken Series of books.
Now readers can listen directly to the voices of these Anabaptists through Plainspoken. In the book in this series, readers get to hear Amish, Mennonite and Hutterite writers talk about the texture of their daily lives: how they spend their time, what they value, what makes them laugh, and how they summon strength from their Christian faith and community." (Introduction, Author's Note)
In Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi, readers get to read from the journal writings of a family of four Amish to gain an inside and true-life memories of what one woman captured and began a column in the Collection, an Amish-Mennonite newspaper. If you are looking for well-writing fiction, you will not find it in this book. These are moment by moment memories of what one woman captures in her life as a Canadian Amish woman working in her own business and home with her family and community. From how she deals with being stuck inside on very cold days and wishing it was warm out, to having an appreciation for where you're at in life. How they occupy their time, and how their house isn't as organized as they would like when company comes calling. To dealing with their children who want pets, to sometimes dealing with the hardships when death comes to early.
Here is a sample of what you'll find inside.
I was reading an article about baking bread; the writer mentioned that her husband carved her a bread spoon. I read on, intrigued. A bread spoon? Who ever heard of such a thing, and what could its purpose be? The husband had carved it from a piece of soft maple a little over twelve inches long. It gently curved outward to an almost-flat bowl a little more than three inches wide, somewhat like a paddle. Its shape worked very well in beating together bread ingredients. So that's what it was! That 'odd-shaped wooden spoon we received as a wedding gift." It's always what I grab to mix buns, rolls and the occasional donuts. A bread paddle, no less! No wonder it works so well. Then again, maybe it's not. Maybe I'm guessing wrong. I've done that before." (pg. 75).
I received Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Herald Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved the simplicity of what you'll find inside. Just like opening an Amish journal and who would have ever guessed that there are Amish in Canada? I love getting an honest look at how wonderful these communities are and how they aren't as put together as some fiction books might have you believe. They are just as real as you and I without all the modern conveniences. For me this one rated a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There are even some great recipes tucked inside I can't wait to try! This is the fourth book in the Plainspoken Series of books.
April 26, 2016
Full review at Mama Bear Reads
Anyone else have a healthy curiosity when it comes to the Amish? Am I the only one?
Seriously, I have tons of cookbooks and memoirs written by the simple folk. I am completely intrigued by the life that they live, and wholly respect it. I'm fascinated by such simplicity that I can only wish to accomplish in my own home. The sewing. The cooking. The homesteading. The child rearing. I love learning about it all. The Amish know so much about things that most of us don't-and that peeks my interest each time I read about them.
In Marianne Jantzi's book, "Simple Pleasures" , she gives us an in-depth look at Amish living through the eyes of a mama. From the first chapter, I had to press on.
And honestly, telling you why this book is so interesting doesn't even make sense to me. There's nothing absolutely extraordinary- it's just snippets of normal, everyday life. It's like being a fly on the wall through all the seasons.
But, there is one thing that kept me going-she's a mama, just like me. No really. When you think of Amish mothers, what do you think of? Don't you think of someone poised who does it all from sun-up to sun-down with grace and meekness?
Well, most of that is still what's in my head, but Marianne definitely showed me that a mama's heart is just that-no matter what kind of life you're coming from. She bridged the gap by showing how we share the same.exact.feelings. when being in the house for days on end:
"I'm one of those homemakers who sends her man off to work each morning, then spends one day after the next cooped up inside with the little ones. Before you know it, you feel dull and listless and oversugared from eating and eating the cookies you made for the lunch box."
Wait? SHE gets tired of being cooped up? SHE gets that"dull" feeling? What??
"I'm a procrastinator. That is, I used to be a procrastinator. I've been trying to change my habit every since I stumbled across an article in an old 'Reader's Digest'."
This totally made me giggle. This sounds like something I've said after reading a Pinterest article.
Marianne shares her heart and her days. She shares bad days, poems that inspire her, the quirks of her children, and how each season brings its own joys and chores.
"Without winter, wouldn't we miss crunchy snow in the moonlight, the world covered in hoarfrost, glorious sunrises, and red-nosed children? Besides, when would I enjoy my lazy hobbies if it never got cold?"
This doesn't read like a book-it reads almost like a journal. There is just something precious in such transparent and, well, normal. Just because they're different-doesn't mean they don't have the same struggles we deal with. They're life is simple-but it isn't without its hardships.
If you have ANY interest in Amish life-pick "Simple Pleasures" up. I've read a lot on their culture and this has been my favorite. I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would.
5 out of 5 stars for me!
*I received this in exchange for my honest review*
Anyone else have a healthy curiosity when it comes to the Amish? Am I the only one?
Seriously, I have tons of cookbooks and memoirs written by the simple folk. I am completely intrigued by the life that they live, and wholly respect it. I'm fascinated by such simplicity that I can only wish to accomplish in my own home. The sewing. The cooking. The homesteading. The child rearing. I love learning about it all. The Amish know so much about things that most of us don't-and that peeks my interest each time I read about them.
In Marianne Jantzi's book, "Simple Pleasures" , she gives us an in-depth look at Amish living through the eyes of a mama. From the first chapter, I had to press on.
And honestly, telling you why this book is so interesting doesn't even make sense to me. There's nothing absolutely extraordinary- it's just snippets of normal, everyday life. It's like being a fly on the wall through all the seasons.
But, there is one thing that kept me going-she's a mama, just like me. No really. When you think of Amish mothers, what do you think of? Don't you think of someone poised who does it all from sun-up to sun-down with grace and meekness?
Well, most of that is still what's in my head, but Marianne definitely showed me that a mama's heart is just that-no matter what kind of life you're coming from. She bridged the gap by showing how we share the same.exact.feelings. when being in the house for days on end:
"I'm one of those homemakers who sends her man off to work each morning, then spends one day after the next cooped up inside with the little ones. Before you know it, you feel dull and listless and oversugared from eating and eating the cookies you made for the lunch box."
Wait? SHE gets tired of being cooped up? SHE gets that"dull" feeling? What??
"I'm a procrastinator. That is, I used to be a procrastinator. I've been trying to change my habit every since I stumbled across an article in an old 'Reader's Digest'."
This totally made me giggle. This sounds like something I've said after reading a Pinterest article.
Marianne shares her heart and her days. She shares bad days, poems that inspire her, the quirks of her children, and how each season brings its own joys and chores.
"Without winter, wouldn't we miss crunchy snow in the moonlight, the world covered in hoarfrost, glorious sunrises, and red-nosed children? Besides, when would I enjoy my lazy hobbies if it never got cold?"
This doesn't read like a book-it reads almost like a journal. There is just something precious in such transparent and, well, normal. Just because they're different-doesn't mean they don't have the same struggles we deal with. They're life is simple-but it isn't without its hardships.
If you have ANY interest in Amish life-pick "Simple Pleasures" up. I've read a lot on their culture and this has been my favorite. I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would.
5 out of 5 stars for me!
*I received this in exchange for my honest review*
March 15, 2016
When I reflect upon Simple Pleasures: Stories from My Life as an Amish Mother
by Marianne Jantzi, the first word that comes to mind is “sweet” and the second is “comfortable.” Usually a reader of mysteries and action novels, I was pleasantly surprised by this work. It lacks the frenetic pace of fiction, but it pulls the reader along, not by suspense, but by the desire to view more of the daily life of a rural Amish family.
This book is a collection of the author’s journal writings and contributions as a monthly columnist to the Amish periodical “The Connection.” Jantzi is a Canadian, an Amish wife and mother, and a former school teacher. Her book is part of a series called “Plainspoken: Real Life Stories of Amish,” which provides opportunities for outsiders to read about Amish life from the viewpoint of Amish writers.
In an “Author’s Note” at the beginning of the book, Jantzi offers some structure for her non-chronological tales by briefly profiling her family and providing a few explanations of terms specific to her family. Although she provides this essential introduction, it would also have been helpful to provide at least a brief summary of Amish beliefs and customs or to explain them in context. These details could help clarify misconceptions about the Amish way of life. For example, they eschew motorized vehicles. As a non-Amish Christian, I wonder why it is acceptable to go to work via a car with a driver. Perhaps if the writer is Amish, these “irregularities” do not stand out as such.
What this book excels at is allowing the reader a peek at the daily life of an Amish mother of four in a very cold climate. In addition to the normal childcare activities, Jantzi raises fruits and vegetables during the short growing season and preserves them for the long winter. She cooks without electricity, operates a shoe store on their property, and tries to find time to fulfill her passion for writing. She has many social roles and duties in the close-knit Amish community as a woman of God, a wife and mother, daughter and sister by birth and by her membership in the Amish community. She obviously has a good relationship with her in-laws: they share a connected house and even move from one side to the other as their families change in size.
Although Jantzi’s life is different in many ways from that of the typical non-Amish mother, most will be able to identify with certain familiar themes. She finds there is rarely enough time or energy for the things that need to be done. Despite good planning, the unexpected always arises with young children. If you look for the good and the humorous, you will usually find it. Jantzi is an introspective woman of faith, always trying to achieve a closer walk with God through obedience and humility.
I extend my thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Herald Press. They have afforded me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2016
I was out enjoying the great outdoors, thanks to National Parks Week, and I pulled Simple Pleasures, by Marianne Jantzi out to read a little. (If you know me, you know I always have a book handy). As I'm sitting on a big boulder, facing the great Potomac River, with the beauty of the water, the trees and the wildlife before me, not to mention a beautiful Spring day, I'm holding onto this book and stared at the title and the little Amish girl on the cover. Simple pleasures. So true.
"The new door does not have its own special alarm system, but it is solid with a tight latch...Sometimes I forget to be thankful for it, but not as often as I would if I hadn't put up with the ancient one. I guess there's a reason we don't always get what we want right now." (24)
Marianne Jantzi had quickly immersed me into her daily life, with the many instances that are more like memories or like I'm one of the recipients of the Amish family's circle letters. I'm reading her memories, her stories of her daily life with her family of four. As a reader, Simple Pleasures, reminded me of all that we should be thankful for. Yes, we're reading an Amish mother's life and how they work and join in community, yet it also feels authentic and relevant in my life. It's about family, friends, health, sickness, adventures, trips, work, baking cookies, keeping the cold in, enjoying what life is, even with sadness, but always remember that there are many simple pleasures in this world, all blessings. And that, my friends makes Simple Pleasure one pleasurable read.
"No matter what differences we have in privileges and talents, we are all given the great gift of time. Sure, some have been given (or will be given) more time, but it really isn't important how much we have or will be given. What counts, of course is what we do with it." (31)
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog .
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Litfuse Publicity Tours for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
"The new door does not have its own special alarm system, but it is solid with a tight latch...Sometimes I forget to be thankful for it, but not as often as I would if I hadn't put up with the ancient one. I guess there's a reason we don't always get what we want right now." (24)
Marianne Jantzi had quickly immersed me into her daily life, with the many instances that are more like memories or like I'm one of the recipients of the Amish family's circle letters. I'm reading her memories, her stories of her daily life with her family of four. As a reader, Simple Pleasures, reminded me of all that we should be thankful for. Yes, we're reading an Amish mother's life and how they work and join in community, yet it also feels authentic and relevant in my life. It's about family, friends, health, sickness, adventures, trips, work, baking cookies, keeping the cold in, enjoying what life is, even with sadness, but always remember that there are many simple pleasures in this world, all blessings. And that, my friends makes Simple Pleasure one pleasurable read.
"No matter what differences we have in privileges and talents, we are all given the great gift of time. Sure, some have been given (or will be given) more time, but it really isn't important how much we have or will be given. What counts, of course is what we do with it." (31)
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog .
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Litfuse Publicity Tours for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
April 11, 2016
I have always been intrigued by the Amish way of life. They live simply, work hard, love and help their community and still find the time to have fun. Their children are well behaved, and the adults are friendly. But I have never really seen the inside scoop on their way of life other than asking my Amish friend KatieAnn questions from time to time. I have read several Amish novels, but understand those are secondhand and some of it may be interpretation. I enjoyed getting a true glimpse into this Amish house!
I was very surprised to see that a true Amish woman would write a story about her own life and have it published. I always assumed this was against the rules. Thank you Marianne for sharing your story with us so we can get the inside scoop! I do hope there are future installments so we can learn about how your four children are aging.
Although some people may not like the writing style presented here, I actually enjoyed it for something different. It was nice to have little tidbits here and there and I think it kept my interest longer. I assume that Marianne probably wrote these little stories as they came to her and that is exactly how they are presented in the book. Little pieces of their life presented in each chapter, all coming together to complete the puzzle. It felt as if I had a relative reminiscing about their life in front of me. It was real and honest and I appreciated that.
Marianne tried to bring some Amish rules to us here and there although part of me wanted more. I think perhaps that is just my inquisitive mind just wanting to know the whys and how's. Maybe for her next book she could go into more details about that. Overall, I recommend this book for Amish book lovers and those who want to learn a little bit more about the Amish way of life. I think in the end you will find it is not so different than ours.
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review which I have given.
I was very surprised to see that a true Amish woman would write a story about her own life and have it published. I always assumed this was against the rules. Thank you Marianne for sharing your story with us so we can get the inside scoop! I do hope there are future installments so we can learn about how your four children are aging.
Although some people may not like the writing style presented here, I actually enjoyed it for something different. It was nice to have little tidbits here and there and I think it kept my interest longer. I assume that Marianne probably wrote these little stories as they came to her and that is exactly how they are presented in the book. Little pieces of their life presented in each chapter, all coming together to complete the puzzle. It felt as if I had a relative reminiscing about their life in front of me. It was real and honest and I appreciated that.
Marianne tried to bring some Amish rules to us here and there although part of me wanted more. I think perhaps that is just my inquisitive mind just wanting to know the whys and how's. Maybe for her next book she could go into more details about that. Overall, I recommend this book for Amish book lovers and those who want to learn a little bit more about the Amish way of life. I think in the end you will find it is not so different than ours.
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review which I have given.
April 17, 2016
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi was a good book to read. I have read one other book in this series. With that being said it, they are part of a series but not part of a series. Each book is written by a different Amish person, so they are different stories, but all have to do with what it is like to be Amish. I enjoyed the first book which you can read my review on if you click here but I had a hard time getting into this book. I enjoyed this book, but it was slower for me, and it isn’t one that I would want to read again. I think that is because it was most just her talking and not her telling stories. Even with all that being said I did enjoy parts of this book, and it is one that I know some people will love. If you love books written by the Amish and love to get an inside look at what their lives are like I would for sure have you check out this book.
April 29, 2016
Simple Pleasures: Stories from My Life as an Amish Mother was written and shared to display authentic view and insight from an Amish person living in an Amish community. But I'll be honest--I simply related to Marianne as a mom! Here is a woman juggling a business, running a household, raising four children, doing life with her husband, and carving out time to write. I love (LOVE!) how universal those roles are for moms. Yes, we may have different lifestyles and ways of doing things, but at the core we are far more similar than I had ever had thought about prior to reading this book.
Marianne Jantzi (the author) clearly loves her family but isn't afraid to say that her days are often as hectic as mine! Seriously, one of my favorite lines is on page 184: "How did I manage to mess up such an ordinary, not-much-going on Monday?" She goes on to tell the story about that specific day and event, but she already had me nodding and counting her as a kindred spirit.
Yes, there is much within this book's pages about Amish life that is very informative and interesting, but I simply enjoyed getting to know Marianne. The book is not written in chronological order, but it is still pretty easy to follow. I enjoyed the book and the opportunity it gave me in expanding my knowledge and awareness of an Amish Community.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review*
Marianne Jantzi (the author) clearly loves her family but isn't afraid to say that her days are often as hectic as mine! Seriously, one of my favorite lines is on page 184: "How did I manage to mess up such an ordinary, not-much-going on Monday?" She goes on to tell the story about that specific day and event, but she already had me nodding and counting her as a kindred spirit.
Yes, there is much within this book's pages about Amish life that is very informative and interesting, but I simply enjoyed getting to know Marianne. The book is not written in chronological order, but it is still pretty easy to follow. I enjoyed the book and the opportunity it gave me in expanding my knowledge and awareness of an Amish Community.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review*
April 25, 2016
This book was so interesting and so different from the Amish fiction I have read over the years. The reason being, this is the real life of a real Amish woman who lives in Canada. She shares snippets of her daily life and I absolutely loved this book and the writing style of this woman.
Her writings come from the journals and diaries of Mrs. Jantzi and I really loved the glimpse we got into her life with her husband and four young children. She also shares about the store she runs with her husband and about the ups and down of her life. She never surgar-coats her life but shares the frustrations that many of us will relate to. Bickering children and the stresses of every day life that come to us all are shared.
I was so impressed with this book and it was so wonderful to see how much her faith played a part in her life and got her through the hard times. She enjoys the every day things like the bird singing and the sunshine - just like I do. I'm not sure why I didn't realize that she would live very similar to me or feel the same way about things. It was really a great book and a wonderful look into the life of a real Amish woman and her family.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
Her writings come from the journals and diaries of Mrs. Jantzi and I really loved the glimpse we got into her life with her husband and four young children. She also shares about the store she runs with her husband and about the ups and down of her life. She never surgar-coats her life but shares the frustrations that many of us will relate to. Bickering children and the stresses of every day life that come to us all are shared.
I was so impressed with this book and it was so wonderful to see how much her faith played a part in her life and got her through the hard times. She enjoys the every day things like the bird singing and the sunshine - just like I do. I'm not sure why I didn't realize that she would live very similar to me or feel the same way about things. It was really a great book and a wonderful look into the life of a real Amish woman and her family.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
April 21, 2016
Simple Pleasures is a joy to read…
Marianne Jantzi speaks of real life – real day-to-day events, not fiction, not storytelling, but real, honest-to-goodness happenings. I could tell . . . most of the stories are too funny, too sad, or too deep – to be made up.
I confess, sometimes it sounds almost as if Marianne’s husband is telling the story. But I could be wrong (or maybe I was tired and didn’t pay good enough attention) . . . because I read the book without taking a single break. Not one. It was that good.
Warning: if you don’t like learning about how other people live, especially those who don’t live the same type of lifestyle you live, you might not enjoy this book. Then again, you just might. It’s very entertaining. Mostly because it involves small children – and children are almost always entertaining.
I learned a lot. And I’d love to visit Marianne and watch her family. They seem to have so much fun!
Marianne doesn’t hide her relationship with God – she shares it with her readers. I love this!
If you do enjoy reading about Amish life, you’ll love Simple Pleasures!
Happy Reading!
March 8, 2016
After reading several books about forgiveness, I desperately needed a lighter, happier book to read. I turned to this beautifully written reflective book written by a young Amish wife and mother. Marianne Jantzi shares the ups and downs of life largely spent taking care of young children and babies while trying to find time to write and take care of what seems to be a small business.
Like all young mothers, the days are filled with amusing things the children say and the frustrations of being able to accomplish needed chores. Throughout it all, her heartfelt appreciation for her family and her life shines through.
These stories will cause a few smiles to form on the faces of women who have been down the road of being mom to young children who are older now, and young women who are new to parenting alike. This is an uplifting book, and even though it is written by an Amish woman, the stories will resonate with mothers everywhere because our lives are similar in so many ways.
I highly recommend this delightful book for women of all ages.
Like all young mothers, the days are filled with amusing things the children say and the frustrations of being able to accomplish needed chores. Throughout it all, her heartfelt appreciation for her family and her life shines through.
These stories will cause a few smiles to form on the faces of women who have been down the road of being mom to young children who are older now, and young women who are new to parenting alike. This is an uplifting book, and even though it is written by an Amish woman, the stories will resonate with mothers everywhere because our lives are similar in so many ways.
I highly recommend this delightful book for women of all ages.
April 15, 2016
My Thoughts On The Book: I have always had a fascination with Amish life and read a lot of Amish fiction. I asked to review this book because it was stories of an Amish mother and let me tell you, this book was spot on. It was a actual visual of what Amish life is like. Marianne Jantzi shares stories of her personal life as an Amish mother in an Amish community. Each detail of her book gives a vividly painted mental picture of simple pleasures found among the plain world. I loved it. The book reminded me of stories my grandmother would tell about her childhood. A true joy to read!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publishing and Herald Press as part of their Blogging Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publishing and Herald Press as part of their Blogging Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
April 26, 2016
Amish, Hutterite, and plain Mennonite authors use their talents to create the Plainspoken series by Herald Press. They write about their daily life and faith. Marianne Jantzi is one such author and her book is Simple Pleasures.
Marianne Jantzi lives in the Old Order Milverton Amish Community in Ontario, Canada. She is well read and it shows through in her book; she quoted famous people and she talked about various articles she read on a certain subject. She also writes her own column in the Connection.
I enjoyed this book. It has mostly one paragraph snippets that are about her life, her family, and her community. I really got a feel for the person she is by the words she used. What I enjoyed is seeing that the those who are plain are really no different than Englishers in most ways. The last few pages have recipes that were mentioned in the book and one day in the life of Marianne by the hour. I would recommend this for anyone wanting to learn a little more about what real Amish life is like. I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.
Marianne Jantzi lives in the Old Order Milverton Amish Community in Ontario, Canada. She is well read and it shows through in her book; she quoted famous people and she talked about various articles she read on a certain subject. She also writes her own column in the Connection.
I enjoyed this book. It has mostly one paragraph snippets that are about her life, her family, and her community. I really got a feel for the person she is by the words she used. What I enjoyed is seeing that the those who are plain are really no different than Englishers in most ways. The last few pages have recipes that were mentioned in the book and one day in the life of Marianne by the hour. I would recommend this for anyone wanting to learn a little more about what real Amish life is like. I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.
April 16, 2016
Marianne Jantzi's Simple Pleasures provides readers the opportunity for a glimpse into the life of an Amish mother and wife.
Although the author provides some organization of the writings into various aspects of her life, the book is not presented in flowing narrative. Instead, she writes in snippets of information and thoughts, much like she might share in a journal or in conversations with a friend sitting at the table in her kitchen. Joys and challenges of motherhood, details of daily routine, and unexpected events are all mixed in with insights and inspirational thoughts about her Plain life and the God she serves.
If you are looking for a slow, peaceful read with the chance to learn a little about the Amish life from one who lives it every day, Simple Pleasures could be just the thing for you.
Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing this book in exchange for my honest review.
Although the author provides some organization of the writings into various aspects of her life, the book is not presented in flowing narrative. Instead, she writes in snippets of information and thoughts, much like she might share in a journal or in conversations with a friend sitting at the table in her kitchen. Joys and challenges of motherhood, details of daily routine, and unexpected events are all mixed in with insights and inspirational thoughts about her Plain life and the God she serves.
If you are looking for a slow, peaceful read with the chance to learn a little about the Amish life from one who lives it every day, Simple Pleasures could be just the thing for you.
Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 14, 2016
Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi is a sweet book written by a young mother who is Amish. She shares her thoughts and reflections on everyday life with her family. Written in more of a diary form it is an interesting look in to this woman's life. I wish she had gone a bit deeper with back story because occasionally I got lost to where we were. Mind you this reads like a mother's personal thoughts about her family that she pens for her own enjoyment.I enjoyed the moments when Jantzi reflected on her role as a Mom and reminded herself how God gave her that gift to care for her family. I often need that reminder when in the thick of tough mommy days. You can really tell that she loves her family and this life the Lord has given her. This book gives us a unique glance into the life of simple family.
*I received a copy for review purposes - all thoughts are my own.
April 19, 2016
I’ve always been fascinated by the Amish way of life, so it was delightful to read about the daily life of a young Amish mother from her own perspective. Surprisingly, it sounds much like the life of any mother: raising children who are both adorable and exasperating, preparing meals, cleaning and housework, and making a living with her husband. Of course, Jantzi has to make it all work without electricity, computers, television or phones, which raises my admiration for her! But she also seems to have the ability to look on the bright side. Several times, she admits that she’s having a tough time, but then she realizes how blessed she is and focuses on gratitude rather than complaining. This book would make a perfect gift for a young mother who often feels overwhelmed by the demands of her family.
Read
April 21, 2016This book is a wonderful reminder to to savor the every day moments that make up a life filled with love. Her stories are short and sweet and filled with a tangled web of memories that we all so often feel and experience.
Though the writing style is a little disjointed, it ebbs and flows just as conversation with an old friend would go. I find it lovely to read as I sip my morning coffee -- it serves as a great reminder to savor the little hands that seem to always be in need of something (usually related to sugar!). The book is very true to it's title -- it is full of simple pleasure, little memories and all the little moments that make up a life.
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
Though the writing style is a little disjointed, it ebbs and flows just as conversation with an old friend would go. I find it lovely to read as I sip my morning coffee -- it serves as a great reminder to savor the little hands that seem to always be in need of something (usually related to sugar!). The book is very true to it's title -- it is full of simple pleasure, little memories and all the little moments that make up a life.
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
May 3, 2016
If you want to know what life is really like in an Amish home. Then you should read this book. The book is written like a journal. And it will definitely remind you that the life of a mother is very busy. It doesn't matter if she is a soccer mom or if she is an Amish mother. A mother's life is always busy.
I really enjoyed how the author was so insightful. There was a time when she looked around at the church meeting, and she noticed just how blessed she was by looking at the families of others. She was pointing out that we need to appreciate so many of the things we take for granted. But she isn't just insightful, there are also moments where she shows just how humorous life can be.
This book is well written an it is easy to read. And I'm sure that many mothers will enjoy reading this book.
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed how the author was so insightful. There was a time when she looked around at the church meeting, and she noticed just how blessed she was by looking at the families of others. She was pointing out that we need to appreciate so many of the things we take for granted. But she isn't just insightful, there are also moments where she shows just how humorous life can be.
This book is well written an it is easy to read. And I'm sure that many mothers will enjoy reading this book.
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2016
I have always loved reading about the Amish whether fact or fiction there is something about the lifestyle that has always fascinated me. With Simple Pleasures the author provides a look at her daily life as an Amish mother. She shares her story in a simply written journal style where her ordinary days of homemaking and helping run the family store made me feel like I was learning about an old friend. She shares the ups and downs, while also allowing me to sense her strong sense of faith and family. I think anyone who wants a true look at how an Amish family lives will certainly enjoy reading this story. It's the magic of the ordinary days of her life that she shares with us that makes this book so special.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
April 27, 2016
"Simple Pleasures" by Marianne Jantzi is stories from the life of an Amish mother. This one of the sweetest little books from someone day to day life that I have read. Its not like most memoir's where you have something major and bad happen in someones life. Not this one it is just simple little memoir on an Amish's woman's life. Her story was so beautiful written I could just picture her life in her words. I was very blessed to have read this woman's beautiful story. I highly recommend it.
I was given this book from Net Galley for my honest review and not required to give a positive review.
I was given this book from Net Galley for my honest review and not required to give a positive review.
April 19, 2016
This book is a endearing and heartfelt book. Readers will enjoy going through the day with Marianne Jantzi and hearing the stories from her life. This is non-fiction but really allows readers to see what the Amish culture is like without all the "fiction" getting in the way.
From one mother to another I find it fascinating and interesting to see life from her point of view and her life. I am always looking for ways to have simple and joyful moments in our home without all the "distractions" we have today. This book provided some of that.
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
From one mother to another I find it fascinating and interesting to see life from her point of view and her life. I am always looking for ways to have simple and joyful moments in our home without all the "distractions" we have today. This book provided some of that.
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
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