Sunday, August 19, 2012

Almost Amish by Kathryn Cushman

Almost Amish  -     
        By: Kathryn Cushman

Have you ever felt overwhelmed and over committed?  That is exactly what Julie Charlton is feeling. Too many obligations with her two kids' school schedules, her husband's business and keeping up her house have her ready to check out for a while.  When her Martha Stewart sister-in-law Susan offers her and her family a chance to spend the summer on a reality show where they will live as the Amish do, it seems the perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle.

But the summer adventure turns out to be anything but simple.  Julie finds herself enjoying the slower pace while her Susan's drive for perfection leads to friction within the family.  Each new challenge raises new complications and each woman learns unexpected lessons about herself and her family.

This books was not what I first expected.  I have read many books about the Amish and expected this one to follow the usual pattern.  When I found that it was not about Amish at all, I didn't expect to like it much.  However, once I began reading, I truly got into the whole idea of getting back to basics.  I did really enjoy reading.  I don't think that it was very realistic - I don't see 3 teenage kids adapting to the Amish way of life quite so easily and without much complaint, but it made for a very enjoyable read.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers.