Plain Wisdom Book Review

An Invitation into an Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women

SUMMARY:  Two friends from different worlds - one Old Order Amish, one Englischer - share the truths that bring them together.

     Best-selling novelist Cindy Woodsmall might seem to have little in common with Miriam Flaud, a woman immersed in the culture of Old Order Amish.  But with nine children and almost sixty years of marriage between them, Cindy and Miriam both have found the secrets to facing life with strength and grace.  Whether enduring financial setbacks, celebrating new babies and times of prosperity, grieving the crushing losses in the deaths of family and friends, or facing disappointments with their respective communities - through it all they find guidance for each day by looking to God.

     With poignant recollections, unexpected insights, and humorous tales, the two women welcome you into their unique friendship.  Youll also gain a rare glimpse into the traditions and ways of the Amish as iriam recalls special occasions and shares family recipes throughout the book.

     Plain Wisdom is a heartwarming celebration of God, womanhood, and the search for beauty that unites us all.  So grab a warm drink and your quilt and settle in for a soul-comforting read with Plain Wisdom.

REVIEW:  When I first saw this book, I wondered what it would be like since the authors are from two completely different backgrounds - what they would have to share that would be of interest to me.  What I found was two friends sharing their lives, backgrounds, family stories and, most importantly, God's love.  I felt like these women had become friends of mine as they shared their hurts, heartaches, concerns for their families along with the joy they found with their families, friends, celebrations, and the day in and day out things like cooking, laundry, and living.  God and His work in their lives is very evident throughout the book as they share how God has touched them, guided them when they needed direction and stood beside them in difficult times.  This book is a great read with short chapters.  It also includes some of Miriam's recipes that sound delicious.  I have marked a few to try later, especially when my zucchini comes in.  :-)

This book was provided by Waterbrook Multnomah for review without compensation.

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author of several novels whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightline and on the front page of the Wall Street Journal.

Miriam Flaud is an Old Order Amish woman who has lived within one of the most structures societies in the United States.  She's experienced the abundant joys of that lifestyle as well as troubled times.  She and her husband have six children and several grandchildren.