Inside the Simple Life by Susan Hougelman

 Inside the Simple Life

Book Summary

A simpler way of life is possible. In this fast-paced and ever-changing world full of chaos and uncertainty, many seek a place where steadfast truth, godly values, and biblical principles are being lived out. That world exists among the Amish. Inside the Simple Life welcomes readers into a tight-knit community where peace and tranquility abound, where love thy neighbor means more than just waving hello, and where all needs are taken care of by each member of the community. Be inspired by real stories paired with stunning photographs of Amish life as told by an Englisher who has been welcomed into the private and fascinating world of the Old Order Amish. Let author Susan Hougelman's heartwarming stories of their simpler way of life stir you to embrace meaningful change through biblical principles lived out by the Amish people.

My Thoughts

Inside the Simple Life:  Finding Inspiration among the Amish by Susan Hougelman gives a look at the Amish through the eyes of an Englisher.  We get to see the true sense of community.  If someone is sick, for example, and they are unable to do their chores or plow their feeds.  The rest of the community will help them.  They will also provide meals, take care of their animals, do laundry, and clean their home.  They will also help with the medical bills.  If someone loses their barn or home, the community will come together to rebuild it.  Susan Hougelman gives us an inside look at Amish life and shares her memories.  There are beautiful photographs throughout the book as well.  I enjoyed reading Susan Hougelman’s recollections as she met the Amish people in her area and developed relationships with them.  We learn about some of the rules, rituals, and philosophies of the Amish in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania.  I liked that while the Amish may dress differently and live differently from us, there are many similarities.  The author’s writing style is like she is sitting next to me chatting.  I can tell that Susan Hougelman respects the Amish and genuinely cares for them.  Inside the Simple Life only portrays the positive side of the Amish.  It is not a balanced perspective.  I did find that there was some repetition of details.  I would have liked the author provide information about the Amish that is not common knowledge.  I think our society and families would be better if we adapted some of the ways of the Amish.  Technology may help improve our lives in some ways, it can also be detrimental to families (less together time).  Overall, I enjoyed reading Inside the Simple Life.  Those readers who enjoy Amish fiction, will like getting to learn more about the Amish people of New Wilmington.  Inside the Simple Life is an interesting book filled with the author’s reminiscences of how she started her business and got to know the Amish of New Wilmington.

Inside the Simple Life publishes December 7 (originally it was November 16) and is available for pre-order from Amazon*.  Thank you for stopping by today and reading my review.  I will be back tomorrow to share my thoughts on But Knot for Me by Betty Hechtman.  It is the 8th A Yarn Retreat Mystery.  I hope everyone has a joyful day.  Take care, be kind, and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

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