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The Simple Life
Millions visit "Amish country" each year to enjoy the relaxed family atmosphere of this unique culture. What can we as "English" (non-Amish) people learn from this lifestyle? Wanda Brunstetter, author of the best-selling Amish-themed novel The Storekeeper's Daughter, offers sixty intriguing and encouraging lessons in her new devotional The Simple Life. Each reading features a brief story of the Amish, providing a "behind the scenes" insight into their culture; a spiritual lesson, accompanied by scripture, drawn from the story; and a "bonus" of an Amish witticism or recipe. Now readers can enjoy the peace and quiet of Amish country anytime, anywhere.
192 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2006
12 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
215 books2,326 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 28, 2020
Wanda E. Brunstetter states, in the introduction of this book, that she wanted to give readers a glimpse of the Amish culture and allow them a chance to experience the joy and peace that comes from living a simple life. Well, she's certainly succeeded...the sixty devotionals in this book definitely show the benefits of living such a life!
Brunstetter is a favorite author of Amish fiction fans but her non-fiction books are popular also. The Simple Life is a wonderful devotional filled with delicious recipes, Amish sayings, and funny anecdotes that inspire and entertain and it's written so that each of the devotionals follow the same format: a beginning Bible scripture, a short story/essay, Food for Thought, and Food for the Body. My budget doesn't allow me to purchase every book that I want but I did buy this as a digital copy and I recommend it to all who enjoy devotionals and recipe collections!
Brunstetter is a favorite author of Amish fiction fans but her non-fiction books are popular also. The Simple Life is a wonderful devotional filled with delicious recipes, Amish sayings, and funny anecdotes that inspire and entertain and it's written so that each of the devotionals follow the same format: a beginning Bible scripture, a short story/essay, Food for Thought, and Food for the Body. My budget doesn't allow me to purchase every book that I want but I did buy this as a digital copy and I recommend it to all who enjoy devotionals and recipe collections!
September 16, 2017
I loved this devotional, there were excellent stories in this book. There were sixty Amish stories. It gave me a better insight into the Amish culture. I highly recommend this devotional you will love it.
January 1, 2023
Lovely devotional and stories. A book that you may want to have in your library.
November 12, 2014
Wanda E Brunstetter's The Simple Life Devotional: Devotional Thoughts from Amish Country is a must have. I thought it is so uplifting for an everyday devotion. It is small and easy to hold and easy to carry with you wherever you go.
In this devotional, you will find sixty daily devotions with an Introduction and Final thought from Wanda E Brunstetter. Each devotion is really short, only about 3-4 pagees long and include:
A Bible Verse
A Short Story with an Amish theme
A Food For Thought section that has an Amish Proverb
A Food For The Body section that has an Amish Recipe.
In the back, there are two indexes; one for the Scriptures and one for the Recipes. There is even a bookmark included.
I really like this devotional. All of the devotions are really easy to read and short, giving your time to do your daily devotions.
I highly recommend this devotional!
5 stars.
In this devotional, you will find sixty daily devotions with an Introduction and Final thought from Wanda E Brunstetter. Each devotion is really short, only about 3-4 pagees long and include:
A Bible Verse
A Short Story with an Amish theme
A Food For Thought section that has an Amish Proverb
A Food For The Body section that has an Amish Recipe.
In the back, there are two indexes; one for the Scriptures and one for the Recipes. There is even a bookmark included.
I really like this devotional. All of the devotions are really easy to read and short, giving your time to do your daily devotions.
I highly recommend this devotional!
5 stars.
July 5, 2015
I enjoy devotional books a lot and have been reading a lot of Amish fiction lately. I was happy to see my library had this in their stacks and just finished it this morning. I was able to buy the second one on amazon.com for a penny! The stories are short and sweet with a biblical lesson tied in, along with a scripture reference.
October 14, 2019
I enjoyed this devotional. I liked how she started out with a scripture, then presented a fictional vignette teaching a principle found in the verse for the day. Each day's reading ended with a 'food for thought' kind of challenge to help us apply the scriptural principle in our lives. (There was also an Amish recipe for each day's reading as well.)
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August 7, 2021I the book The Simple Life, Wanda gives the reader a look into the Amish lifestyle. She has written 60 short stories that shows one aspect of the Amish lifestyle, a spiritual lesson, a bible verse and either a Amish recipe or witticism. This is a great book for learn about the Amish culture with the added bonus of a bible verse. It makes a an enjoyable read and for some great recipes!
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February 25, 2020I loved this book and it ended too quickly to me! I love Wanda Brunstetter and the Amish way of life. I used this book as a daily devotional and spending time with God. It is not well published; if you can get your hands on it read it today.
January 9, 2020
I've read through this devotional at least 3 times now. I love the simple lessons and recipes. I've even given out a copy as a Christmas gift. I really love this book!
September 26, 2020
Wanda's books are so good! This is another one of her lovely books about the Amish. This one is a devotional.
March 10, 2021
This is a very sweet devotional. I love that each devotion ends with a recipe.
September 29, 2023
Meant to be read slowly, one day at a time. Do not rush through it but meditate on the messages.
November 6, 2014
Wanda E. Brunstetter has compiled a beautiful collection of stories of life with the Amish as a devotional. I love the sweet stories based on the simple life of the Amish that is featured in this devotional. There are delightful stories involving families collecting eggs from the chickens, mishaps of daily life, baking and working together, and more. Each page has a story of Amish life, a scripture verse, and a Bible lesson based on the story and scripture. Then to make this book even more exciting, each page features an Amish proverb and a recipe from an Amish cook. There is even a pullout bookmark . The bookmark shows an Amish buggy and Psalm 42: 5-6, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." and a "Remedy for Discouragement": "Reach up as far as you can, and God will reach down the rest of the way." What beautiful words to lift readers up and encourage them.
I particularly appreciate this Amish proverb, shown as "Food for thought": "God does not shield us from life's storms; He shelters us in life's storms." The recipes are listed as "Food for the body". Some of the recipes you may want to try include: Bread and Butter Pickles, Chicken Corn Soup, Date pudding, No-Peek Stew, Plate Salad, Rhubarb Cream Delight, Tangy Vegetable Dip, and Woodchopper's Hash and OF COURSE, there is a recipe for Whoopie Pies, a traditional Amish dessert. I rate this devotional 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers. It would make a lovely gift.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing, Inc, and Wanda E. Brunstetter for my copy of this book.
I particularly appreciate this Amish proverb, shown as "Food for thought": "God does not shield us from life's storms; He shelters us in life's storms." The recipes are listed as "Food for the body". Some of the recipes you may want to try include: Bread and Butter Pickles, Chicken Corn Soup, Date pudding, No-Peek Stew, Plate Salad, Rhubarb Cream Delight, Tangy Vegetable Dip, and Woodchopper's Hash and OF COURSE, there is a recipe for Whoopie Pies, a traditional Amish dessert. I rate this devotional 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers. It would make a lovely gift.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing, Inc, and Wanda E. Brunstetter for my copy of this book.
December 11, 2014
Wanda E. Brunstetter has an abundance of knowledge regarding the Amish culture, beliefs and customs. She and her husband, Richard, share numerous Amish friendships throughout the Amish communities around the country. This devotional is beautifully crafted. Each entry begins with scripture and a daily lesson gleaned from an Amish friend, followed by "Food for Thought," an Amish recipe to enjoy. These lessons are intended to assist in slowing down our lives in order to enjoy the simpler way of life.
This book also features beautiful photography of the Amish countryside all across the country. These photographs were taken by Wanda's husband, Richard, who possesses a wonderful penchant for the beauty throughout these Amish communities. This very special devotional would make a lovely gift for a family member or friend. The contents are filled with enjoyable lessons about Amish life, and mouth-watering recipes you're sure to enjoy.
Also included on the back cover of this book is a lovely bookmark to be used with this devotional or any book you happen to be reading. I cherish this book, and highly recommend it!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
This book also features beautiful photography of the Amish countryside all across the country. These photographs were taken by Wanda's husband, Richard, who possesses a wonderful penchant for the beauty throughout these Amish communities. This very special devotional would make a lovely gift for a family member or friend. The contents are filled with enjoyable lessons about Amish life, and mouth-watering recipes you're sure to enjoy.
Also included on the back cover of this book is a lovely bookmark to be used with this devotional or any book you happen to be reading. I cherish this book, and highly recommend it!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
November 5, 2014
A Devotional Book Worth Keeping!
Devotional thoughts from Amish Country.
When I received this devotional in the mail I was thrilled. This one I will keep to read over and over.
The photographs in this book are breathtaking. Love them!
The devotions are heartfelt. I love the message in the devotions I have read so far. I have a couple of devotional books that I read each morning, I saved this devotional to read at night. Soul soothing!
Included after each devotional is a meaningful saying called, Food For Thought. I also love this. It definitely causes you to stop and ponder.
After Food For Thought, comes Food For The Body, this includes a special recipe!
I can’t forget to tell you that there is also an inspirational tear-off bookmark!
After four days of nightly reading, I know this is a devotional book that I want to keep.
This devotional would make a great Christmas gift. Don’t forget to get one for yourself too!
My thanks to Barbour Publishing and Author Wanda Brunstetter for allowing me to read and review this devotional. The opinions expressed are mine alone.
Devotional thoughts from Amish Country.
When I received this devotional in the mail I was thrilled. This one I will keep to read over and over.
The photographs in this book are breathtaking. Love them!
The devotions are heartfelt. I love the message in the devotions I have read so far. I have a couple of devotional books that I read each morning, I saved this devotional to read at night. Soul soothing!
Included after each devotional is a meaningful saying called, Food For Thought. I also love this. It definitely causes you to stop and ponder.
After Food For Thought, comes Food For The Body, this includes a special recipe!
I can’t forget to tell you that there is also an inspirational tear-off bookmark!
After four days of nightly reading, I know this is a devotional book that I want to keep.
This devotional would make a great Christmas gift. Don’t forget to get one for yourself too!
My thanks to Barbour Publishing and Author Wanda Brunstetter for allowing me to read and review this devotional. The opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 7, 2014
I just finished reading The Simple Life Devotional and can only say, Wanda has crafted a meaningful, wonderful and inspiring book of Devotional thoughts. The book follows a pattern with a short story telling of some Amish experiences and then a section called "Food for Thought" containing an uplifting thought followed by a section called "Food for the body". Food for the body includes a wonderful recipe. Some looked so tempting I couldn't wait to try them.
The 60 devotional stories are proceeded by a scripture pertaining to the story. The devotionals are all based on experiences of her Amish friends with each giving you an uplifting feeling. I read every devotional and saw many that I wanted to apply to my own life.
Wanda is such a good writer and I feel really happy and blessed to have been able to read this excellent book! I highly recommend it.
5 stars for Wanda's new book!
The 60 devotional stories are proceeded by a scripture pertaining to the story. The devotionals are all based on experiences of her Amish friends with each giving you an uplifting feeling. I read every devotional and saw many that I wanted to apply to my own life.
Wanda is such a good writer and I feel really happy and blessed to have been able to read this excellent book! I highly recommend it.
5 stars for Wanda's new book!
May 9, 2017
"The Simple Life" Devotional by author Wanda Brunstetter is a delightful paperback that contains sixty devotions or two months of daily reading. The book comes with a tear-out bookmark. The devotions consisted of scripture, an Amish story, and then a recipe. Everything ties together for inspiration and encouragement.
I loved this little 192 page devotional. It was a nice was to begin my day. Author Brunstetter knows her way around Amish Country and her gift for writing is obvious. This book is evidence of both. If you need a devotional gift for Mother's Day, Christmss, or a Birthday or simply want some encouragement for yourself, I would highly recommend this lovely devotional. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.
I loved this little 192 page devotional. It was a nice was to begin my day. Author Brunstetter knows her way around Amish Country and her gift for writing is obvious. This book is evidence of both. If you need a devotional gift for Mother's Day, Christmss, or a Birthday or simply want some encouragement for yourself, I would highly recommend this lovely devotional. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.
November 11, 2014
My Thoughts On The Book: Loved! Loved! Loved it! This book is a wonderful mixture of scripture, quotes, Amish stories, and wonderful Amish recipes. I cannot wait to try the recipes out. No matter what religion you may be this is a refreshing book to uplift your spirit. A must have and it would be a great gift for a dear friend.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Netgalley Publicity Group as part of their Book Review Blogger Programs. 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 Netgalley Publicity Group as part of their Book Review Blogger Programs. 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!
May 30, 2009
This is a very refreshing book. I enjoyed the stories of the simplicity of the Amish lifestyle and I felt their strong faith in the provision of God no matter what the situation may be.
I bought this book a few years ago while visiting Amish country in Kidron, OH. I liked that there were devotionals and Amish recipes, but it took me a while to start reading it. I started it a few weeks before Lent this year so I made it a part of my Lenten discipline, reading a passage a day. I finished the book a week or two after Lent. In a time where the church focuses on waiting I found that one aspect of waiting is to think simply, trusting in God.
Now I need to try the recipes!
I bought this book a few years ago while visiting Amish country in Kidron, OH. I liked that there were devotionals and Amish recipes, but it took me a while to start reading it. I started it a few weeks before Lent this year so I made it a part of my Lenten discipline, reading a passage a day. I finished the book a week or two after Lent. In a time where the church focuses on waiting I found that one aspect of waiting is to think simply, trusting in God.
Now I need to try the recipes!
November 26, 2014
The Simple Life Devotional by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a cute little book. This small book is packed with wisdom and recipes. On each simple 2 page devotional Wanda includes a verse with some words of wisdom and a short example from the Amish life style. Between each devotional is a delicious sounding recipe. I can't wait to try most of the recipes. The 60 devotionals included are perfect for a short daily read.
December 16, 2015
I love this little book of simple devotional thoughts. Very inspiring. It made me sit and think about my everyday life and to sit back and enjoy what I have, to learn to live with the things that happens in my everyday life and the people around me.
I enjoyed some of the recipes that are in the book also.
Wanda Brunstetter is an excellent author and the few books I have read from her have made her a favorite of mine. So far, her books have not disappoint me.
I enjoyed some of the recipes that are in the book also.
Wanda Brunstetter is an excellent author and the few books I have read from her have made her a favorite of mine. So far, her books have not disappoint me.
May 21, 2011
Wanda E. Brunstetter's view of the Amish way of life is touching, understanding, and interesting. The Amish do not live as we do; they work without the use of electricity and technology, the way they believe life should be: simple, hence the title of the book. This collection of down-to-Earth stories that represent the simple life makes this a definite to-read for everyone.
September 17, 2014
I was recommending this book before I even finished reading, so yeah...I liked it. The gift edition is indeed lovely, and would make nice addition to one's bookshelf. The way the bible verses played out in the stories was enjoyable and relate-able. Recipes are simple home cooking (not necessarily health conscious), but some are quite yummy.
August 6, 2014
Can't say enough about this book! Charming, facinating, heart warming devotional stories of the wonderful Amish people and their way of life and faith. This book will make your heart feel good and bring you back to what life is really supposed to be about. Many great recipes are also included. Will cherish this book always.
July 31, 2015
Actually 3.5, but I got more out of Fisher's "Amish Peace", and the recipes included here were mostly not something I'd make, but that's just my taste. So: simple stories with a small good message, and a recipe at the end(s). More of a companion to other Amish books, not a 'just a one book to own on this subject'. Anyway, not a bad book. :)
July 6, 2016
This wasn't exactly what I was looking for but it was okay. The devotions read a little more like mini fiction stories and I was looking for something along the line of non-fiction. The light illustrations are nice in this book; but I must have purchased a most unfortunate copy because every time I turned the page it came out! Glad it was on sale
January 11, 2014
It's a sweet little book, really really simple and basic, but it's nice to read before bed because it does manage to take you out to Amish country which seems so peaceful and beautiful. Plus there are recipes in there which sound really yummy.
December 7, 2014
What a nice little devotional book! It is so handy to carry with me. I love the short stories that stir up good thoughts while I'm reading about true events. I've even tried a couple recipes including Shoofly cake that turned out really good. I like this book!
October 25, 2011
Very enjoyable reading. Good thoughts for all of us.
June 6, 2016
Wonderful book! Wanda Brunstetter is awesome!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews