Thursday, February 24, 2011

Plain Wisdom

coverPlain Wisdom – An Invitation into An Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women
Written by Cindy Woodsmall and Miriam Flaud
Published at Waterbrook Multnomah

About the book

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 60 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.  You’ll also gain a rare glimpse into the traditions and ways of the Amish as Miriam 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 your cup and your quilt and settle in for a soul-comforting read with Plain Wisdom.

Who is Cindy Woodsmall and Miriam Flaud?

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightline and on the front page of The Wall Street Journal. She is the author of The Bridge of Peace, The Hope of Refuge, and The Sound of Sleigh Bells.
Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families. Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband, their three sons, and two amazing daughters-in-law.

Miriam Flaud is an Old Order Amish woman who has lived within one of the most structured societies in the United States. She is the co-author of Plain Wisdom with New York Times best-selling author, Cindy Woodsmall. She’s experienced the abundant joys of that lifestyle as well as troubled times. She and her husband have six children and five grandchildren.

My Thoughts

This book is almost an answer to prayers in a way.   I absolutely love Amish novels but sometimes I wonder how much truth is there in these.   Are they really based on how the Amish's live?  

Plain Wisdom gives me glimpse of life in a Amish family – a real one on top of that.    I loved reading the stories of Miriam and Cindy and how in a way being a woman is no different whether you are in the Old Order or if you live in the World.  We have emotions, struggles, joy and tears.   We are similar in a way.   To be honest, I think I am a little bit jealous of Cindy for having a friendship with Miriam.   Part of me would love to experience this and develop such a friendship with a woman from whom I am sure I can learn much about being peaceful and more connected with God.  

Reading this book is an eye opener and a blessing.   The stories made me smile and I got tears in my eyes at times.    I also saw the enormous community existing in the Amish community – together and even with the English.   I also appreciate the numerous recipes that Miriam has included in the book.    I will definitively make some of them and I think the first one I will do will be the Overnight Blueberry French Toast.   It sounds so yummy and delicious.   Lip smacking if you ask me. 

I think I will go back to this book on a yearly basis to give me a perspective on my own life while reading about an Amish home.  

I am forever grateful for the fact that Cindy and Miriam decided to team up together to write this wonderful book.   I enjoy it very much and I know that whoever likes reading Amish novels will enjoy it too!

Plain Wisdom is available everywhere even at amazon.ca.

Disclaimer: Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.  All opinions expressed here are only my own.

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