The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding the Amish

By Susan Rensberger

Book Overview

From an author who grew up in a Mennonite community, this is an in depth look at the evolution, religion, and customs of a people who continue to live the pastoral life of their forebears, covering everything from language, clothing, cooking, and furniture to the impact of the modern world on the simple-living "Plain People."

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0028644700
• ISBN13: 9780028644707
• Release Date: June 2003
• Publisher: Alpha
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 1.34 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.9" x 7.3"

Customer Reviews

A balanced, informative review of the amish and mennonites

I am writing this brief review to express my appreciation for the author's thorough and realistic portrayal of the amish and mennonites, their culture and their society.No group of people is all good, or all bad. One reviewer here stated "this is the only book I've ever read that doesn't portray the Amish in a favorable light." First of all, the statement is not true. While few in number, there are a number of books and articles that present a balanced view of the Amish....neither idealizing them nor demonizing them. Second, if the quoted statement were true, it would only serve to point out all the more the need for a balanced view of the amish; one that shows them in a light that is neither favorable nor unfavorable, a light that shows them as they are.As a reader, I want to be treated in a mature manner by an author. When I read a book on a subject, I want to be shown the good with the bad. I want accurate insight into the lives of these people. I want to see it the way it is so that I can form my own opinions. I want the admirable and not so admirable aspects. On all accounts this wonderful little book delivers. If you want to understand this important culture, so often misunderstood and idealized, read this book. You won't regret it.