Beyond the Plain and Simple: A Patchwork of Amish Lives

by Pauline Stevick, Freiman Stolzfus (Illustrator)

A series of vignettes describing Amish people and customs Pauline Stevick has visited more than 50 Amish homes in numerous Amish settlements across the country. She has attended weddings, viewings, school sessions and programs, family gatherings, and more than a dozen church services. She has ridden in Amish carriages and has even slept in Amish homes. Through her close association with the Amish, she has gained unique perspective and is able to provide keen insight into a culture that is misunderstood by many. Beyond the Plain and Simple reminds readers that although the Amish dress in almost identical clothing, they have distinct personalities and convictions. In vignettes and reflections she reveals the ways in which members of the Amish community live out their faith against the background of their communal culture, all the while emphasizing their individuality. Topics range from Amish family values to women to a retirement community in Florida to an Amish intellectual. Stevick’s eloquent narration is descriptive rather than expository as she often draws comparisons between Amish society and mainstream society, sometimes preferring the Amish ways and at other times questioning them. Beyond the Plain and Simple portrays the Amish as dynamic people who experience struggles, failures, and successes not unique to their community.

176 pages, Hardcover

First published November 29, 2006

Reviews

[Dawn Baer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book to read to learn details of Amish life from someone who became a real friend. The vignettes really keep your interest. I wish there was another book to follow this one. I’d like to know what happened to some of the Amish people later in their lives and read more stories of others.

[David L. Marden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truth

Awesome simple truth. I have one friend that is Amish, and a fellow bee keeper. He is one of 4 ministers, and a father to a large family.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what I was checking out when I picked this book - a book about Amish quilts. Well, it was that but more of a research of their quilts from the author's personal history dealing with the Amish people. Some parts were boring and repetitive but overall, I enjoyed it and learned some interesting history and facts about the different sects of the Amish (and Mennonite) religion.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful portraits of Amish individuals. Even in a culture that values conformity, certain people stand out.