Product Description
For the Amish, baking is an art form, a pleasure, and a way of life. The emotion they bring to baking is at the heart of The Amish Cook's Baking Book. Together, celebrated Amish cook Lovina Eicher and her editor, Kevin Williams, introduce a new generation to Amish baking.

This baking book is filled with 80 beautiful photographs and over 100 classic Amish recipes for sweets that have been handcrafted in Lovina Eicher's Amish kitchen. The Amish Cook's Baking Book includes the following chapters: Pies; Breads, Rolls, and Pastries; Cookies; Cakes; Bars 'n' Brownies; and Special-Occasion Baking. Home cooks get an extra treat with sidebars from Lovina's children as well as interesting insights into Amish life both inside and outside the kitchen.

"Baking is something my mother taught me, much like sewing and ironing, or gardening. Now, as a mother of eight children of my own, I am beginning to teach them how to bake. I have many cherished memories of baking throughout my life." --Lovina Eicher ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Speaks to my heart
I'm in love with this book, and the complete and simple way it is written.I love the child's stories, too.It speaks to my heart, and the inner baker in me.I'm working my way through it, page by page.If they can do all these things without all my modern conveniences, surely I can do as well.

A truly BEAUTIFUL book!
I have been so impressed with this cookbook!
First off, what a lovely peek into the Amish life and their kitchen! I feel privileged to have this inside look and for all that is shared in this book. Such an honest and real book, just lovely! I nice balance of stories, photos, tips and insight, with the majority focused on recipes, and believe me, there are A LOT of recipes. They all are so appealing including a ton of recipes for cookies, bars and brownies that you just cannot go wrong with!
One of my favorite parts of this cookbook is found in the back, "The Amish Cook's Baking Tips and Table". This includes all sorts of substitutions such as if you don't have brown sugar, cake flour, what to use in place of shortening, etc. What a lifesaver when you're into a recipe and realize you're missing something! I plan on making a copy of this page to keep or post in a convenient location.

A lovely book that did not dissapoint! Thank you to the authors for such an intimate look into the Amish kitchen and the role baking plays in their lives.

Super Find
I was so excited to get this book.It was worth the wait - it is a beautiful book and was like brand new!!!I have already cooked several items out of the book and they are delicious!!!I loved the author's story behind writing the book and the relationship he has with the Amish communities that provided the recipes and their stories behind the recipes.I loved reading as well as cooking from this colorful book! This is one you will want to share with your cooking friends!!!

The Amish Cook's Baking Book
I LOVE this book!I love the recipes, the stories and the insight given by the author.This book has very interesting facts about the Amish way of life and it makes one almost envious while reading about all of it.And the recipes!So basic and so much better than what one would find in many books. I'm in a "back to the basics" mode in my life and this book really hit home!I admire the strength and the tenacity of the Amish people and of how they have not let go of their way of life.

Could this be more useless?...uh....nope
I love cookbooks.I pick them up at estate sales, yard sales, used book stores, etc.I probably have over 100 of them.I got this one as a gift from a friend and was anxious to start using it.I'm recently retired and a novice baker, and I'm thinking the other reviewers were more experienced or they would have seen the major shortcomings of this book.

The first recipe I checked out was 'Homemade Bread'; this was included in the list of ingredients...'enough bread flour to make a soft dough'..huh?How much is that exactly?Is it two cups...or three...or four...or ?The first bread recipe was deemed useless.

Then, I saw the recipe for 'Double Cinnamon Bread'; sounded yummy!It takes a whopping 7 to 8 cups of flour...for ONE LOAF?This recipe has the bread rising four times.Four times? First you let it rise for 10 minutes uncovered; then you kneed it for...uh...how long?Doesn't say.Then you let it rise for another hour and 'punch it down' for how long?Doesn't say.Then you let it rise for another half-hour.Then you roll out this massive dough ball and put a quarter cup of butter on it...yup an entire 1/4 cup of butter.Then after you add the cinnamon and sugar you roll it up, and, you guess it..you let it rise for another half-hour!

Well, if you are an experienced bread-maker you will realize that putting this huge thing in the recommended 5 x 9 pan was a challenge at best, and when it baked it got HUGE.When it came out of the pan?It totally collapses; nice brown top, gooey mess in the middle.

Other recipes didn't look much better, and some others, when compared with recipes in other cookbooks, also seemed to have incorrect measurements and missing ingredients.I also compared the cookie recipes with others, and found that there were none that I either didn't have in other books, or had downloaded from allrecipes.

Having said that, if you like a lot of homey stores and pretty pictures, you will love this book.If you are a very experienced baker you might love it too since you will spot the errors and correct them through experience.If you are a novice baker?Not so much. ... Read more

Product Description

Highly acclaimed in previous editions, this classic work by John Hostetler has been expanded and updated to reflect current research on Amish history and culture as well as the new concerns of Amish communities throughout North America.

Customer Reviews (17)

All You Wanted To Know About The Amish
A very interesting and informative look into the history of the Amish religion. Their trials and tribulations to acheive the simple life. The way they were treated in their native country and the way that they were accepted here in America. Their fight to keep what they believe in as a way of life is awe inspiring. The way they have been treated and they can still be non- conformist and non- violent is a tribute to their religious upbringing. A very good read and an eye opener to these "plain people".

Definitive, Complete
I have many books on the Amish, but this volume is the keystone of the collection.Nothing will advance your understanding of the Amish more than reading this book - nothing.Written by a college professor born into an Old-Order Amish community (the most conservative), the author doesn't just describe the Amish and how they live, but explains why they live as they do and how they think and make decisions about modern life and technology.Along the way he destroys the notion that the Amish are rooted in the past.In fact, they are firmly in the here and now - but deliberately disconnected from the non-Amish world.They use power, motors, machinery, electronics and computers, modern transportation, and more, but in ways that ensure separation.

Amish Society gives perspective on how the Amish developed from their Anabaptist roots and where they fit in the modern Anabaptist spectrum.He describes how individuals and families move from one "level" to another and why.The fine distinctions among Amish communities are fascinating.The author gives an example, using Mifflin County, PA, showing 13 levels of Amish and Anabaptist "committment" (for lack of a better word).Starting at the center with the Old Order Amish, it proceeds to Old School, Byler Church, Peachey Amish, New Amish, Beachy Amish, Beth-El Mennonite, Holdeman Mennonite, Allensville Mennonite, Locust Grove Mennonite, Bretheren in Christ, Maple Grove Mennonite, and finally Protestant.All are instantly distinguishable to an Amish person by things as subtle as the width of a hat brim.

The most unfamiliar content for anyone not familiar with Amish life will be on religious ceremony and practice.Topics such as meetings, hymn singing (absolutely unique), sermons, choosing clergy, weddings, funeral practices, and so on are described in detail you won't find anywhere else.

On the personal end, the author describes the kinds of things that an Amish person thinks about, worries about, gives comfort or threatens, and how they view the outside world.In fact, this book is as much a look at the Amish from within as it is an examination of them from without.

Again, the best single volume on the Amish by a long shot.Very highly recommended.

Reads like a college Sociology textbook
Very informative book. Definitely not a light read but will leave you with a good understanding of the Amish. Without doubt, it is the first book to read when starting your study of these fascinating people.

A "Must Read"
After reading Brad Igou's "The Amish: In Their Own Words" I then came to this book by Hostettler - and am glad I did. This book "fills in" the portrait of the Amish by providing a very clear, readable, though factual history of the Amish "progression", if you will. With the Amish existence being much more fragmented than many people think as they lump them all under the term "Amish", this book really brings about an enlightened understanding of the range of the sects and their relation to each other and "the outside World" over the course of their development. It also offers the reader a very gracious, very real portrayal of the Amish that, thankfully, dispels many of the traditional misconceptions about these kind and earnest people.

Insightful and interesting
I purchased this book to educate myself for an upcoming vacation to Pennsylvania Dutch country. I had a basic understanding of Amish beliefs and cultures, but was totally astounded at the differences between the sects. Mr. Hostetler provides first-hand knowledge that no one else has in any other book I've read pertaining to the Amish & Mennonites. ... Read more

Product Description
This cookbook couldn't bend to the fast pace of our e-mail driven world. Like a slow Sunday pot roast, it had to simmer . . . culminating many months of conversation, writing, and Amish wisdom." --Kevin Williams

Part almanac, part cultural overview, part culinary calendar, The Amish Cook at Home is the harbinger of a new era in home cooking.

As the follow-up to Elizabeth Coblentz's The Amish Cook, The Amish Cook at Home by her daughter, Lovina Eicher and her editor and friend Kevin Williams introduces a new generation to Amish cooking and culture.

Structured around the four seasons, which heavily influence Amish life and cooking, The Amish Cook at Home offers recipes teaming with seasonal vegetables, fruits, and meat. Culinary traditions like Dandelion Jelly, Asparagus-Potato Soup, Chicken and Dumplings, and Concord Grape Streusel Pie are featured alongside Amish history, culture, and lore. Stories of Old Order days and glimpses into events like weddings, funerals, tax time, and the holidays are included, as well as anecdotes from Lovina's own family life shared with her husband Joe and their eight children.

The Amish Cook at Home offers a welcome return to nature and community that is centered on the family table. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Nothing inspiring here--canned soup and processed cheese?!?--In an Amish cookbook?!?
This cook book--as a compilation of recipes--is a major loser.I was hoping to find some unique and vintage, handed-down-through-the-generations recipes.I have surely been disappointed.(There is one recipe for dandelion flower jelly that I will try in the Spring.)The sour dough recipe is not distinctive, neither are the pie recipes, (neither are most all of the recipes!) and I was dismayed when I found recipes using canned soup and a well-known processed cheese spread--don't get me wrong, both have their uses, but to find these ingredients in an Amish cook book really startled and upset me!I thought the Amish were "of and from the soil", kind of a connection to their faith.Canned soup doesn't get ME there.

Reading recipes using canned soup and processed cheese, then leafing through a few more pages and finding a picture of a pantry loaded with jars of home-grown and home-canned produce, made me wonder WHAT WAS THIS AUTHOR AND HER EDITOR THINKING?!?Where are the beautiful, old recipes for all that home-canning?

I did come to attention when I read about the butchering of the chickens, which is done twice a year--once for young broilers (for meat) and once for older hens for broth).But there are no recipes for the broth!And the rest of the chicken recipes are pathetic!

While reading through the book, searching for inspiration, I felt I was reading the words of eighth graders.Seriously.I don't mean to offend anyone and I'm sorry if I have, because I believe this book was written in good faith.But it really doesn't cut it as a cook book.And I hope there are better books out there explaining the Amish culture.

I should have known better, just looking at the book's cover--a berry pie with a FAKE lattice top crust....

Savor the Photographs not the recipes
While the photographs are truly a feast for the eyes,sadly the recipes are not a feast for the tongue or tummy.The Amish have a reputation as superb cooks and bakers and I was looking forward to trying some truly delicious,wholesome recipes.Imagine my surprise when I found the recipes filled with ingredients such as Velveeta,hot dogs and Miracle Whip!!!!Many of the recipes are just not appetizing, ie chicken slopped with condensed soup and cheese.However as I don't think it is fair to review a cookbook without trying at least a few of the recipes, I made two,the strawberry pie and the rhubarb dessert.The pie was the bigger disappointment. The filling was gummy and did nothing to enhance the flavor of the berries. The crust which contained cooking oil and milk was not flaky.The rhubarb concoction is pretty much a meringue topped bar.It was passable but not something I would add to my repertoire of recipes.

Visually, the photographs are stunning.Most are of pastoral scenes, animals and produce.Very few are of the recipes.The text is wildly uneven, with inane remembrances and almost embarrassing essays by the author's kids.However there are some interesting tidbits about the Amish religion and practices and some lovely prayers.I could have done without the description of the chicken butchering where the children partake by pulling out the innards.

If you chose to get this book savor the photos,skim the text and skip the recipes.

The Amish Cook at Home
Another excellent cookbook has been added to my collection.And yet, this book is so much more than a cookbook.The author gives you information on the ways of the Amish and dispels many preconceived notions about the Amish.I love the internet and so many modern conveniences but one can sure be tempted with a much simpler way of life after reading this book!

Delightful and Informative
I wish there was an option for 4.5 stars. This book is delightful. It has great and informative stories of the Amish way of life. I read this like a novel and thoroughly enjoyed the short sections of writing about the daily goings on of life for the Amish.

The only thing that kept this book from getting a 5 star rating was the lack of recipe photos. Although this cookbook is punctuated with many beautiful photos of Amish life, there were less than 5 recipe photos, making it hard to picture just what some of these recipes were intended to look like, even for an experienced cook.

Photos aside, I highly recommend this book. The recipes are great, well written and easy to follow.

Good value, great shipping and customer service
Product arrived as promised.Fast shipping and the cookbook was better than described.I will use this merchant again when I am looking for other books. ... Read more

Product Description

Ruth Irene Garrett was the fifth of seven children raised in Kalona, Iowa as a member of a strict Old Order Amish community. She was brought up with rigid rules and intense secrecy in a world where the dress, buggies, codes of conduct, and way of life differed from that of other Amish societies a mere one hundred miles away. Her community uncompromisingly avoided all interaction with "the English" -- everyone who lived on the outside. As a result, Ruth knew only one way of life, one way of doing things.

This compelling true tale offers a striking look inside a hidden community as a woman comes to terms with her discontent and ultimately leaves her family, faith, and the sheltered world of her childhood. She bravely crosses over to a new and unfamiliar reality in hopes of better understanding her emotional and spiritual desires. The result is a powerful and inspiring story -- a search for meaning and the extraordinary lessons learned along the way.

Customer Reviews (61)

Interesting Read
This book was an interesting look at one person's experience with growing up Amish. I recommend it to anyone trying to learn more about the culture of the Amish.

On Leaving a Tight Religious Community

Ruth Irene Garrett grew up in a stern unsmiling Amish community and also had to contend with an abusive father. Like the famous father in Growing Up Bin Laden: Osama's Wife and Son Take Us Inside Their Secret World [With Earbuds] (Playaway Adult Nonfiction), Mr. Miller has full community support for anything he chooses to do with or to his family. In both families, a religious culture forces the wife/mother into submission which results in re-enforcing the abuser's power.

Amish communities may be fertile ground for studying how closed communitities preserve themselves.They foster negative beliefs about outsiders ("The English") and make members believe that not following their rules has short term and eternal consequences.If someone can find a way out, members become even more manipulative to bring them back and re-enforce the loyalty of those remaining. Irene Garrett describes how this worked in her instance.

I lived near Pennsylvania Amish communities and felt sorry for children who couldn't visit the bookmobile or mix with other children at estate auctions.Adults were known to sneak phone calls in houses of non-Amish and there were several stories of those who left communities being unable to ever see their families. Given attractive alternatives of modern life, it's expected that extreme pressure and group think techniques are needed to keep members inside the circle.

Ruth's escape was enabled by feeling the love she never had. Most women would not give her suitor (more than twice her age, overweight and married 3 times before) a second look, but she had never been held or kissed. He was able to give her the love she never had. She was embraced not only by him, but also his family. They were Christians who showed her the difference between God's laws and man's laws. They opened a whole new world to her.

The book covers a lot emotional ground. It's a narrative of the feelings of loss and separation and how she and her family handled this. I was not expecting any resolution, but it ended abruptly. I'd like to see this book updated. The Kalona community seems to interface with the outside world (livestock markets and horse shoeing for examples), which suggests the possibility of more defections.

Amish insight
This was a good story, and some parts of it were very moving.There are certain parallels to my father's life and I gave the book to him after I read it.The writing was acceptable, but, honestly, it could have been better-written.The view the author has of Old Order Amish society as being a cult is apt, in the end, and this is a new revelation to me.
Some people are too smart and independent to be sheep, and this brave woman decided to demand more for herself.Having a husband partner in life helped her to break away and create a living space for herself as she was put in the ban by her Amish community.
The irony of the author's rebirth struck me while I read this book.Christians speak of being "reborn" or "born again" when the assume the Christian faith.The author had her more significant rebirth when she escaped from repressive Christianity and crossed over into the English world.The Amish, who came to the New World in order to be allowed to shut the rest of the world out, have some among their midst who are individualistic enough to stand alone, even at large social cost.Talk about an act of faith!

a different perspective
I'm fascinated by the Amish, and enjoyed a different point of view of the other books I've read.I enjoyed this book very much.

Amish escape
This was surprisingly intriguing.I took it along to the beach, thinking my friend would like to read it, started it out on our balcony just because it was there, and didn't put it down until I was finished.A quick read, but it was interesting AND I learned a few things.

I'm not normally "into" these types of books, but for some reason, I obtained a copy thinking I might, maybe, some day be interested in it, and I read it through in one sitting.

The only thing I didn't like is that it doesn't really end.I mean, this woman is still alive and still on her life's journey, but the book was written in 2001, and it kind of just....stops.I would have liked more of a conclusion or something, I don't know.

But I was interested enough that when I return from the beach, I will do some searching on the internet to find out what she and her husband have been up to since 2001.:-) ... Read more

Product Description
Presents the deep and rich hertiage of the Amish people. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

History of the Amish
This book answered many of my questions about the origin and lives of the Amish people. I would like to read more accounts of this wonderful group of people.

A Fascinating Minority Group
A HISTORY OF THE AMISH will absorb you into the Amish world.You will learn how they began in 1693, deal with their divisions/splits, and discover their current problems.It's a history book that is an easy read, but not light on both the negative and positive facts.You'll feel like an expert--though far from it--after your read.You will come to appreciate the uniqueness of this semi-separatist clan/sect.

This subculture is also an interesting study in social studies class--either by the whole class or as an individual or group project, and there's so much realia available.An emotional read-aloud for the intermediate grades is PLAIN GIRL, which deals with the contrasting issues between being a dedicated Amish and "English" (non-Amish).

A Non-Workbook, Non-Textbook Approach to Teaching Language Arts: Grades 4 Through 8 and Up

excellent service
I ordered this book for a friend so cannot comment on the contents. But the service was excellent.

Knowlege...Good
A well written book on the history of the Amish. From their beginings in Europe to the present day. Tons of information.

Frozen in time
Nolt does an excellent job of opening up the early beginnings of the Amish to their present day frozen in time establishment.He follows many unique families as they struggle for survival, and a home.My only wish would be is additional focus on doctrines and beliefs; and the problems that are created.I realize though, that that was not the objective of the book. There is a large bibliography, end-notes, and it is fully illustrated.

We begin in 17th century Europe with the founder, a man named Jakob Ammann.Knowledge on Ammann is obscure.After struggles with doctrines, the Amish, along with the Mennonites branched off from the Anabaptists.After this schism occurred over doctrines, many petty, the Amish found themselves looking for a new homestead.They spread over Europe; many were persecuted, some left freely from Switzerland and eventually found themselves settling in Pennsylvania.

Small settlements can be found all over the eastern half of the United States to this day.It is a testament to their resolve that they survived at all.In time, decreased numbers would force mergers.They still live on the "edges of American society" with their close knit structure.The encroaching world continues to challenge their Christian faith.Though, through all this they are still growing and expanding.

My thoughts, well, I think they are an example for all: their faith in the inerrancy of the Bible, moderation, love, kindness, and forgiveness.But, they have allowed old customs to stand in the way of growth.They have taken certain scripture as literal when it is meant to be taken figuratively.Where does it say that we should live in the 17th century?Sharing of their faith is greatly needed in this broken world, but they choose to isolate themselves.
Blessings
Scott

... Read more

Product Description

Since its publication in 1989, The Riddle of Amish Culture has become recognized as a classic work on one of America's most distinctive religious communities. But many changes have occurred within Amish society over the past decade, from westward migrations and a greater familiarity with technology to the dramatic shift away from farming into small business which is transforming Amish culture. For this revised edition, Donald B. Kraybill has taken these recent changes into account, incorporating new demographic research and new interviews he has conducted among the Amish. In addition, he includes a new chapter describing Amish recreation and social gatherings, and he applies the concept of "social capital" to his sensitive and penetrating interpretation of how the Amish have preserved their social networks and the solidarity of their community.

Customer Reviews (13)

good review
ok.. i get it..if you read this you can figure out that you would or would not make a good amish participant.

The Riddle of Amish Culture
This is a great book.I used it in a reference to my Technology of History class.It is a great product to use to learn abotu the Amish culture and their meanings behind their way of life.

Insightful analysis of seemingly arbitrary standards
Kraybill's treatment is an necessary extension of the work Hostetler began.Kraybill's book analyzes more specific examples of what "Moderns" see as hypocritical behavior among the Amish and provides the historical and doctrinal framework for understanding the rationale.There are no arbitrary decisions made regarding the prescriptions and proscriptions.As he concludes, the Amish are actually more advanced in their thinking than Moderns give them credit for.

I would have rated this 5 stars, however, I think there are some points where Kraybill restates the same points needlessly; i.e. he will make a point, and then restate it in 2-3 different ways.Then, revisit that point again later in the book within a different context, and restate it again, 2-3 different ways.

Hoofbeats Into My Heart
There is so much we urgently need to learn from the Anabaptists that this book becomes a "must read". With our economy sliding down an ever more slippery slope and the very structure of global society changing uncertainly we can very profitably take some pages from here, to use, to give us a footing in this troubling time. We "English" may have plenty to worry about, but the Amish will simply go on about their business. They will hardly notice if the lights go out, the banks close and fiat money becomes worthless. They have nourished core sociatal values which have been sadly abandoned during the years of our "liberation" and the designation of the US as "the world's consumer". They already keep it simple, their family structures are unusually sound, their children are cherished and safeguarded. They are nonviolent and a persons word is their bond. The barter system as well as doing unto others as they would be done by works very well. They believe in hard work in caring for what they have, and really, caring for the land and the family is really what grows our own roots. Blindly racing after more "stuff" and "toys" has begun to pall with many of us in the "me first" lonely world. Or it has for me. I've a degree in Sociology and have always found the Plain People of prime interest and as the years have passed I have been honored to study them. This book is really one of the best, in my humble estimation. You will learn much about what makes these people do so well, but I also urge you to read this book especially with an eye for enriching your own life in what may be coming in our personal paths. It may make the difference between misery and peace. Several years ago I found a small very conservative Mennonite Church which I visit some 50 miles from me and the round trip is time well spent. They have a delightful bright, sparkling clean school there too. Children could not be more lovingly educated. If anyone thinks that the 8th grade isn't enough, I've got news for you! That entire congregation will give any intellectual out there a real run for their money. They all speak 3-4 languages and are very well traveled. Their manners are as polished as the shining windows of the classrooms without the faintest hint of pride and respectful visitors are most kindly treated. I have found this book to be of endless value in understanding my friends as well as giving new structure and peace to my own life. This book will take you much further than sitting on a tour bus staring at what many barely understand, but on a deeper level long for.

Biased author makes living on writing and lecturing on the Amish.
It is very important for this particular author to play down or avoid delicate subjects that pertain to the Amish.His own religious background is sympathetic to these oft times not so peaceful people and in order for him to continue to be allowed entry where most outsiders aren't he obviously has to tread gently.It's time for a book on child abuse among the Amish - but not written by their spokesman, Donald Kraybill. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

When Strawberries Bloom
Lizzy was a but shy around boys and had never had a date.She was seventeen and wanted to be the next

school teacher in the Mennonite school where she had gone and her siblings were still going.But she was only seventeen and would the school board think she was too young?She just knew she could be the best teacher they could choose.Lizzy love Mondays as she and her sister Mandy could talk about all that happened over the week end.Her oldest sister Emma was already engaged and knew what she wanted out of life.

Lizzy liked boys but they never liked her back, she always choose those that had other girls in mind.But Stephen really liked her and she just though of him as a friend.She started to teach school and loved every minute of it until they build a new school and she had more students then the older boys started to give her some trouble.

Mandy Lizzy's younger sister already had a steady boyfriend and she was only sixteen, what was wrong with Lizzy?She was so jealous of the girls that always got the boy she liked, but maybe she was not looking in the right place.Her Mama told her that God always knew what was best and she would know when the right one came along.

The school board had some to her school to observe her and the students then they asked her to be the teacher the next year.What will Lizzy decide? Will she continue to teach school or will she give up that dream so that her wish for a husband and family can come true.In the Amish schools the women teachers could not be married, so they had a choice to make.


Great book and it was sent to me Julie at FBA Associates for review.

... Read more

Product Description
New, from Barbour's best-selling author of fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter, is the must-have cookbook of the season. Her Amish Friends Cookbook collection is a treasure trove of recipes and interesting facts from the heart of Amish country. With recipes divided into sections including breads and rolls, desserts, main dishes, sides, jams and jellies-and more!-you'll find only the best of home cooking between the pages of this delightful book. As an added bonus, you'll find featured facts about Amish life preceding each section of mouth-watering recipes. Topped off by one amazing package and an even more amazing price, cooks of all ages will have a hard time passing this one up! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Great pumpkin roll.
The Pumpkin Roll recipe is terrific even without rolling it up.The other recipes look good too.

Amish Friends Cookbook.
Good recipe book.Copy is in excellent shape - good value.
Will order the 2nd Amish recipe book by WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER at a later date.

Amish Friends Cookbook
This is a wonderful cookbook. The Amish always provide plain very good recipes.
I have several of their cookbooks and this one is great.

more good Amish recipes
Another good Amish recipe book. I enjoy reading all the recipe information and then trying some new ideas. I collect Amish recipe books. The recipes are easy to follow. Also any Amish pictures are nice to view. Looking forward to the next book coming in September in the cousins series.

Amish Friend's Cookbook
This cookbook has beautiful photography of Amish life and is well organized (recipes are easy to read with one on each page).There are nice quotes and words of wisdom scattered throughout. There are a lot of recipes for jams and pickled things however, and I would have liked to see more entrees. ... Read more

Product Description
Amish and Mennonite cooking feeds the soul as well as the body. The delicious, traditional recipes in this very popular collection produce dishes that are sturdy and basic, yet full of flavor, affection, and warm memories.Here are easy-to-follow, from-scratch recipes for breads, soups, salads, vegetables, meats and main dishes, casseroles, pies, cakes, cookies, and desserts, as well as jams, jellies, and relishes, candies, beverages, and snacks. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Not enough basic meal recipes
I just received this book today, so am recording my first impression after leafing through the book.Half of it is devoted to desserts!I'm disappointed with that aspect, as I was looking for good plain cooking re: meats, vegetables, etc. If anyone can suggest a "down-home" cookbook concentrating on those, I'd love to hear it! I do look forward to trying some of the recipes here!

A favorite cookbook
I've used this cookbook often and just ordered a copy to send to my Mom because she liked mine so much.

Excellent!
This book contains a multitude of hearty old-timey family dishes. This food is very earthy and perfect for our family's wintertime menus. The recipes are very easy to follow and concoct so this book is just as good for beginners as for advanced cooks. Everything that I have tried so far has turned out stunningly well and will become a regular part of our menu plans.

cooking simple
This is by far the best Amish cookbook I have come across.Plain and simple recipes that are easy to make and are delicious.A lot of them can also be made in a "lighter version" as I have done.

Classic Home Cooking
This is a great cookbook.It reminds me of the home-style cooking in my mother's1950's Betty Crocker cookbook.The recipes are not fancy and stylish...they are homey and comforting. ... Read more

Product Description
The Amish Cook

Recollections and Recipes from an Old Order Amish Familyby Elizabeth Coblentz with Kevin Williams

Ten years ago, aspiring newspaper editor Kevin Williams convinced Elizabeth Coblentz, an Old Order Amish wife and mother, to write a weekly cooking column called "The Amish Cook." Each week Elizabeth shares a family recipe and discusses daily life on her Indiana farm, spent with husband, Ben, and their eight children and 32 grandchildren. THE AMISH COOK, a full-color cookbook based on Elizabeth’s columns, compiles more than 75 traditional Amish recipes, photographs of the Coblentz farm, practical gardening tips, cherished family tales, and firsthand accounts of traditional Amish events like corn-husking bees and barn raisings. A truly unique collaboration between a simple Amish grandmother and a modern-day newspaperman, THE AMISH COOK is a poignant and authentic look at a disappearing way of life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

A Bit Clunky
Many who read the newspaper series by Elizabeth Coblentz will likely enjoy this book more than I did. But for me it had a very clunky delivery. This is not Elizabeth's doing, but rather falls on the publisher of the book.

There are far too many things going on...from recipes to stories from Elizabeth to snipits of her favorite poems to commentary from the Editor....it become jumbled and provides a rather clumsy reading experience. The recipes themselves are strong and are a good collection to have.

I would highly recommend the book written by Elizabeth's daughter, Lovina, titled "The Amish Cook at Home". It had a much more reader friendly and relaxed style while having a definate direction.

The Amish Cook-beautifully done!
This is such a wonderful book. it isn't the typical turisty type of Amish book, but REAL. It is beautifully written and true to life of an Old Order Amish family. Well done, Kevin Williams. RIP Elizabeth Coblentz.

Delightful
This cookbook has wonderful recipes from the Amish but it is much more.
It readslike a diary of Elizabeth Coblentz's life as an Amish wife, mother, and grandmother. Very interesting details like how she used to make 9 loaves of bread every week and would have them coming out of the oven when her 8 children came home from school. She takes the reader along on a wonderful read of the Amish life; quilting, canning, church, gardening, and much more.

The Best Home Cooking Ever!
These recipes are great in this book, and the best thing about these recipes is that you do not have to go to a specialty store to find the ingredients. Everything in this book you will probably already have in your pantry, and everything in this book is wonderfully flavored. The recipes are for a large group of people, so if you make a recipe make sure to have a lot of people ready to eat. There are some really interesting stories about the cook and her family in the book too. Well worth the money!

Getting to understand the Amish
I checked out this book from the library and after reading most of it, I decided I had to have my very own copy so I purchased one on Amazon the very next day.It is a wonderful explanation of how the Amish got their name, how they arrived in PA and there are many delicious recipes, too many to copy. I can't wait to try them as I love to cook from scratch.I purchase Amish food often and was pleased to find these recipes.The recipes consist of everyday ingredients most have on hand.I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to eat well.The little stories are wonderful too. ... Read more

Product Description
This book reveals and describes the genuine virtues and values that best depict the Old Order Amish to non-Amish readers. The estimated 225,000 Old Order, horse and buggy driving, no church house, Amish Americans have been largely overlooked by historians and social scientists. Authors who have written about the Amish generally view them as people of great integrity and goodwill, but have often exploited their uniqueness. This book is concerned with their positive, genuine values, ways and customs as observed by those best qualified to do so - the author as a former Old Order Amish sect member along with Amish children and adults who are current participates in the Amish faith. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Amish Answers
A very good book spelling out the lives and customs of the Old Order Amish. Written by a former Amish, this dispells some of the stories of these gentle people. Interesting information of the customs of these people, Their lives are spelled out for them by their church. All down to the last letter, no questions. Interesting reading.

Amish beliefs and lifestyle
An informative book that gives a true picture of the Amish, their beliefs and how they live their lives.
I thought I was well informed about the Amish as a quilter, reader of The Budget (their newspaper) and visits to Amish areas.
I realized there was so much I didn't know.
The writer presents the fact in an easy to understand and very readable manner.
Thebook presents stories and reports by Amish adults and children (names left out) which makes the reader even more aware of the thoughts, beliefs and the way they live their lives.
After reading this book I have an understanding about and a deep appreciation for The Gentle People.

The answer -- technology-savvy monastics
This is a concise, sympathetic and useful description of the Old Order Amish by a man who himself grew up as one. I'd imagined there were perhaps 5000 Amish in the US tucked away in some remote corner. No, there are over 20 times that, and growing rapidly. The book caused me to think about what the Amish have to offer the culture at large?

Our culture would be well served by greater civilizational values, such as a culture of attentiveness to virtue, less personal tolerance for ugliness in all its forms (advertisement, professional welfarism, addiction,...). All of these the Amish exhibit in spades. But what price is to be paid for it? Some of them, I would not to have visited upon my family: 1) the view that women are inferior to men and that they should therefore do what men require without question (I can't imagine that this does not on occasion translate into sexual humiliation), 2) the discouragement of education, innovation and curiosity, 3) radical rejection of non-Amish - my concept of loving your brother involves interacting with him.

The beauty of the culture is sustained only by paradox. If they did not isolate themselves, they would disappear. The greatest virtue as they see it is humility, and yet in isolating themselves from the world are they not implicitly degrading it? The Amish as a group have achieved something heroic in maintaining this way of life amidst the most fiercely materialistic of cultures, but paradoxically communal greatness is accomplished only by shutting down individual greatness. The imposition of virtue among the Amish falls under the purview of the state. Our Founders took the opposite and radical view that virtue that is not voluntary is no virtue, that the individual has a direct line to God through which he can be relied upon to seek virtue.

The fact is that social stability has traditionally involved subjugating women by keeping them ignorant, and the divorce rate and crime rate skyrocketed in the wake of WWII when women were increasingly emancipated. This fear of the anarchy of the emancipated woman probably underlies our breach with the Muslim world. How do we address this issue? The state will end up stepping in where individuals fail.

The technological revolution has condensed into a laptop many of the things which once belonged in a luxurious life - a sizeable library, intimate contact with exotic places, musical instruments, an artist's studio, a stock broker, a theater. The luxurious life comes increasingly to resemble the monastic life. Perhaps what is called for is a new sect of well educated, technology savvy hermetics who dress modestly, invest green, eat healthy food and tear down the billboards?

A good "first book" to read about the Amish
Though I've read four or five other books about the Amish I wish this had been the first one. Wittmer states openly that it will focus on the "positive" without delving into "negatives", and it does. But he does so without sounding like some Madison Avenue promoter or some Pollyanna trying to hype the topic. That is a good thing because much of the "negative" about the Amish is quite subjective and belongs in much different formats.
The careful, open-minded reader will pick up on a wealth of valuable, fairly-presented insight into the Amish psyche and Amish ways. That, in turn, will provide an accurate foundation upon which the information and opinions expressed in other books can be settled against.
"The Gentle People" is a gentle, interesting, highly informative read - it's style clearly showing the Gentility of the author's Amish upbringing yet also displaying the very credible Objectivity one would expect from a "secular" scholar. Perhaps most importantly - you will enjoy "The Gentle People" no matter what level you read it at.

The Gentle Peoples
Such a good book with so much insight into the Amish world, a must read for everyone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

the amish
very interesting, i live just a close drive to the amish,here in PAand this book has informed me of a lot of things i did not know about the amish. wonderful read!

THE AMISH "In their own words"
This is letters to editors from an Amish magazine, "Family Life" from its first 25 years beginning in 1968.Although this is somewhat out of date the subject matter and problems would basically be the same although it would be an interesting to have a sequel up to the current times to compare problems and answers.

These letters are dated and presumably all from amish people.They are candid and somewhate surprising as to the problems they have and the temptations they face.

The book is broken up by letters by subject such as family life, the youth, amish congregations etc.

I believe it is an excellant book to read to better understand all phases of amish life.

From the Heart
You will find this book engaging on several planes. There is a Sadness and a Joy, a Quaintness and a Moderninity. And don't be too surprised if you find yourself thinking there is a little Amish hidden inside yourself.

The Amish
How better to learn about the ways and lifestyle of the Amish than from their own words? Very informative and interesting! I feel all books are priced too high though and for that reason I am giving only four stars!

Honest look inside
We drove into Lancaster Cnty. yesterday to "see the Amish."I picked this book up (for a bit more than it is offered here at Amazon) and breezed right through.It is interesting - to say the least - and quite provocative.It debunks many of the idealized stereotypes I had of the Amish and portrays them as 'normal' people who have deliberately (and sometimes not deliberately) chosen a very separate Christian walk.Very inspiring, too.I highly recommend this for anyone interested in the Amish & Mennonites as well as all Christians.We can learn much from the quiet people in the land. ... Read more

Product Description
A homespun, authentic collection of Amish recipes collected over the years by Beverly Lewis. Many are from her grandmother and other family members as well as dear friends from the Amish world she writes about with such power and authenticity. Now she lovingly shares these with her millions of readers who have come to treasure her fictional insights into Amish life. The additional Amish sayings and line drawings make for an appealing gift. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Beverly Lewis Amish Heritage Cookbook
I use mine frequently, and have purchased others to give as gifts.
A great book, worth buying, great recipes!

Beverly Lewis Amish Heritage cookbook.
It was a used book, however it was in perfect condition.
Unlike most of my cookbooks.I am very happy with the
service and conditions of the folks who sell used books.
It helps me to buy more books than if I had to purchase
new.Thank you for this service.

Amish Food and Fun!
I bought two copies of this book as a lark, simply because my best friend and I are big Beverly Lewis fans. My friend and I love to cook, but we already had all the cookbooks we would ever need. Nonetheless, I have made several recipes just for fun. What a surprise! This is the first time ever that I have made the perfect loaf of bread! I followed the recipe for Irene's bread, a whole wheat recipe. I cut the recipe by 2/3, as it makes 6 loaves. The bread was picture-perfect - light, large, fluffy loaves that rose well over the sides of the pans. Another favorite is the oatmeal cake with a caramel coconut frosting. It's absolutely delicious! The recipe calls for the cake to be baked in a loaf pan, but I used a 10x10 square pan. This was the perfect size. In addition to the recipes, there is a bit of history and advice. I recommend this book to anyone who likes to experiment with food from different cultures. Beverly Lewis fans will love it!

Does not live up to the Amish Heritage
I was disappointed in this cookbook.Some recipes seem to be authentic. Many were not.I though I'd see some of the very things Lewis writes about in her novels. Very few. I went from cover to cover to mark things I wanted to try, and I only had 3 recipes in the whole book.This one will stay on the shelf, sadly, collecting dust.

Amish Heritage Cookbook
I am very pleased with the cookbook.It has alot of good recipes in it that I have tried, and alot more that I want to try.Also I like the little notes that are in the book.It gives you a feeling of being right there in an Amish community.I am very much into cooking and baking from scratch.I recomend this book for anyone that likes Beverly Lewis books and cooking.As in her books not being disappointed with her writings you will also enjoy the cookbook.This was the first item I ever ordered off of Amazon.com, I am so pleased with the product, and the service with them that I have ordered more items from Amazon.com and continue to be pleased with the items and the service. ... Read more

Product Description
At first glance, Amish quilts may appear curiously similar to works by the great abstract artists of the twentieth century. With their vibrant colors and bold geometric forms, the handcrafted designs seem reminiscent of paintings by Joseph Albers, Mark Rothko, and Frank Stella, among others. This visual coincidence invites a deeper appreciation of the quilts and the communities in which they were created. Closer examination reveals that the principles of the Amish faith--simplicity, humility, discipline, and community--are masterfully stitched into each design. Colorful and dynamic, the remarkable quilts radiate the harmony and dignity of Amish life while providing a window onto the history of American art and textile traditions.

Published in conjunction with the exhibition organized by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Amish Abstractions: Quilts from the Collection of Faith and Stephen Brown explores the origins, techniques, and context of these visual masterpieces. More than seventy-five quilts originating in communities throughout Pennsylvania and the Midwest from the 1880s to the 1940s are presented with contributions by three quilt experts: Joe Cunningham, a well-known quilt artist, author, and lecturer; Robert Shaw, an independent curator of numerous quilt exhibitions; and Janneken Smucker, a doctoral candidate at the University of Delaware specializing in quilts from the Amish and Mennonite traditions.

Includes Collector's Note by Faith and Stephen Brown. 128 pages with more than 90 color images. Size: 9 x 10.5 inches. Smyth-sewn casebound book, with jacket. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

gorgous
an absolutely beautiful book full of beautiful quilts. I love the fact that there aren't just traditional examples of what you'd expect from Amish quilts but also some real originals made by innovative thinkers. Very inspirational and lovely to look at over and over and over again.

Amish Quilts At Their Best - A Truly Unique Collection
I have been enamored with Amish Quilts for more years than I care to admit to! My obsession with them began with an exhibit of Amish Quilts at the Whitney Museum in New York City in the 1970's.I have always thought that Amish quilts represent the height of quilt artistry and I've collected books on Amish quilts for many years. I am, therefore, thoroughly delightedto review this new book from Pomegranate Communications!

"Amish Abstractions: Quilts From The Collection of Faith & Steven Brown" is a lush, beautifully printed, book presented by the San Francisco Fine Arts Museums and is, as mentioned above, published by Pomegranate Communications . I have known about Pomegranate as a purveyor of fine cards, book marks and calendars, but I was not aware of their extensive, very beautiful, line of art books. Their catalogue is impressive!

The forward to "Amish Abstractions" is written by John E. Buchanan, Jr. Director of Museums/ Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. Faith & Steven Brown have written an excellent `Collector's Note' about their superb collection and the book contains essays written by noted quilt historians; each essay is both interesting and very informative.

Janneken Smucker, quilt historian, presents an excellent, very enjoyable, essay entitled `Quilts In Amish Contexts : Traditions and Adaptations' in which she explains a bit about the history of the Amish, the Amish aesthetic, and how the tradition ofAmish quilt making began. This essay offers a compact history of how the Amish began making quilts, initially large scale patterns made from fabrics left over from clothes making - progressing to how the Amish ultimately used more mainstream patterns in their quilt making.

The eminent quilt historian Robert Shaw has contributed an essay entitled "Fundamentally Abstract: The Aesthetic Achievement of Amish Quiltmakers". This is a well written essay that describes the evolution of Amish design work and the historical differences between the quilt styles of various Amish sects. From the Lancaster Amish and their brilliant central diamond designs that feature large open spaces filled with beautiful feathered quilting patterns to the Midwestern Amish quilt makers who favored blue & black, used pieced patterns, and used more main stream cottons and other fabrics as opposed to the wools used by Lancaster County quilters - this essay is an excellent preview to the history of Amish quilt patterns.

An essay contributed by Joe Cunningham, another noted quilt historian, is entitled "All In The Details: The Making of Amish Quilts". It's a concise, well presented introduction to the history of the quilt patterns that were most often used by the Amish.

What I enjoyed the most about this book is that the Brown's collection of Amish quilts contains some amazing examples of quilts that I have seldom seen. The plates in this book offer some prime examples of the large, beautifully quilted, wool quilts of the Lancaster Amish, but there are also some spectacular examples of quilts made from main stream patterns. Amish crazy quilts, abstracts, nine-patch and variations, ocean waves, hole in the barn door, broken dishes - all `main stream' patterns that, in the hands of the Amish, become works of art. The Amish aesthetic and their utilization of colors make the patterns sing and their use of juxtaposed colors raise the patterns from traditional patch work to artistic masterpiece. I think that the artistry in Amish quilts is what has always fascinated me about them - they are brilliant, bold, aesthetically pleasing and, to my eye, they always represent the epitome of quilt artistry.

I highly recommend this book for quilt enthusiasts in general but most certainly quilt historians and those who admire Amish design will be especially pleased with the Faith & Steven Brown Amish quilt collection presented in this book. The color plates are very well done and the text portions of the book are excellent reading. I could go on and on about the patterns and color plates in this book - but it is probably best if you just buy the book! All in all, although I seldom provide the rating, I believe that this book deserves five stars!




... Read more

Product Description
Includes nearly 200 family recipes from America's heartland, a culinary folk history of the Indiana Amish and Mennonites. This celebration of farm life is a companion volume to the PBS series hosted by Adams. 64 full-color photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (33)

Great recipe book from the Amish
Lovely read and great recipes. I have owned this book for many years and I use it often.

Cooking from Quilt Country
This is my favorite cookbook.This comes from someone that has many many cookbooks.I have purchased one for my daughter and my granddaughter.They both turn to this cookbook all the time.

Pretty Good (no pun intended :)4.5 stars really
I got the cookbook last week, i took 3 days to tab the recipes/pages i wanted to try. I had a ball cooking all this weekend; it really was fun! These are the results, in the order that i made them:
Hot Water Pie Crust: 0 stars! 1 cup of lard made the dough, my hands and everything smell like lard by the time i got done. After refrigerating it overnight, smelling it in the morning with intention to prebake it for the Brown Sugar Pie recipe, i decided to toss the dough in the trash instead. Yuk.
Apple Pancake: 5 Stars! Really good.
Pat-In-Pan Pie Crust: 5 Stars! Excellent EZ crust!
Amish Brown Sugar Pie: 5 Stars! YUMMY!! It stuck to the sides of the glass dish really bad but the pie was soooo good that it didn't matter. OH, if you try making it, it is SUPPOSTO' be kinda runny, but if you wait at least 6-8 hours it thickens more and overnight in the fridge it actually solidifies pretty good.
Asparagus Pie: 1 star. The overly thick sauce stayed put on top like mashed potatoes (but without the good flavor of the potatoes and never ran between the asparagus or eggs, it just sat on top :P , and having eggs there was a bit odd but okay. The flavor was nothing great. Definitely won't be making that one again!
Dandelion Greens w/ Hot Bacon Dressing: 4.5 Stars. Really tasty, just way too thick; using 1/2 flour will fix the recipe next time. Definitely will make again.

That's what i've cooked this weekend, along with a roast and pork chops etc. It was a fun weekend experimenting with the Amish cooking. Overall i give the recipes 4 stars, but mind you, if i was grading it on a curve i'd give it 5.5 stars because any cookbook that you find several recipes that have potential to become favorites is actually doing pretty-excellent.

Best Whole Wheat Bread Ever!
The Whole Wheat Bread in this book is superb!! I have tried for YEARS to make a decent bread that wasn't as dense as a brick. I was so excited when I finished this recipe that I was actually jumping up and down in my kitchen. The bread is nice and spongey inside and a great soft crust on the outside. I think using the mashed potato in it is the secret, no? The peanut butter cookies in Marcia Adams other book, "New Recipes from Quilt Country" are also excellent. I'm not taking these books out from the library any longer- I'm ordering them now!

Amazing recipes
Wow, the recipes are so delicious. I have tried almost every recipe in the book and not disappointed yet. ... Read more

Product Description
When Karen Imhoff finds a beaten man lying unconscious by the road in her Amish community, she doesn't hesitate to help. "John Doe" needs a place to stay while he regains his memory, and she has a room to rent. The handsome Englisher proves invaluable around the family farm, yet his presence wreaks havoc with her emotions. Karen has her younger siblings to care for. She can't fall for an outsider who doesn't know his own identity. But as Christmas draws closer, the simple grace of this life—and this woman—could inspire John to make Karen's dreams come true…. ... Read more

Product Description

Just about everyone is fascinated by the Amish—their simple, family-centered lifestyle, colorful quilts, and hearty, homemade meals. Straight from the heart of Amish country, this celebration of hearth and home will delight readers with the pleasures of the family table as they take a peek at the Amish way of life—a life filled with the self-reliance and peace of mind that many of us long for.

Readers will appreciate the scores of tasty, easy-to-prepare recipes such as Scrapple, Graham “Nuts” Cereal, Potato Rivvel Soup, Amish Dressing, and Snitz Pie. At the same time they’ll learn a bit about the Amish, savor interesting tidbits from the “Amish Kitchen Wisdom” sections, find out just how much food it takes to feed the large number of folks attending preaching services, barn raisings, weddings, and work frolics, and much more.

The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook is filled with good, old-fashioned family meal ideas to help bring the simple life home!

Customer Reviews (4)

I must be the missing what the other reviewers see.
I just ordered 5 cookbooks from Amazon, and this was one of them. I got it mainly hoping for old family type dessert
recipes. It does have a few.

My gripe is that this book does not seem Amish. There are alot of hamburger recipes.Canned pie fillings, etc.

It struck me as a cookbook someone who is'nt Amish threw together. What i was hoping for was old fashioned homestyle recipes. There are some good recipes, but overall I'm just not that impressed with it. Maybe it will grow on me.

A very highly recommended addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections
The Amish community is noted for the simplicity of their family-centered and devout lifestyle. That elegant simplicity clearly extends to their cuisine as evidenced by the recipes assembled in "The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook: Plainly Delicious Recipes from the Simple Life", a spiral bound 272-page compendium of thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes ranging from Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy; Honey Oatmeal Bread; Mennonite Stew; and Baked Acorn Squash with Hamburger Filling; to Busy Day Ham Casserole; German Meatballs with Sauerkraut; Amish Vanilla Pie; and Crackletop Molasses Cookies. Each recipe is clearly put forth with a complete list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions allowing even the most novice of kitchen cooks to successful prepare and serve this dishes which are as nutritious as they are delicious -- and suitable for any and all dining occasions. "The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook: Plainly Delicious Recipes from the Simple Life" is a very highly recommended addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Simple home cooking done with love
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (05/10)

There is much to be said about home cooking and "The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook" certainly falls into the category of being one of the best in selection, available ingredients, and ease of preparation. This spiral bound cookbook covers breakfast treats, breads/rolls/doughnuts, soups/stews, salads/dressings, vegetables/side dishes, and deserts.It also has a miscellaneous section as well as substitutions/measurements and resources.

For the purpose of the review we are asked to try three recipes.The first one I chose was "Cream of Cabbage Soup."I remembered my mother making this soup when I was a small child and this certainly brought many memories. The sweetness of the cabbage combined with the bacon and onion was wonderful.Accompanied with a slice of bread we found the soup filling and it certainly made a wonderful simple dinner.

The second recipe I made was "Strawberry Pie."This was much like any strawberry pie but the difference was spreading cream cheese on the bottom crust. This certainly added the special touch, and also prevented the mixture to create a soggy crust.I found the pie a little too sweet so the next time I make it I'll cut back the sugar.

My third recipe was "Liver and Vegetable Skillet." Cooking liver can be tricky and can be rubbery.I hesitated, but craving liver I decided to go ahead and make this dish.It was delicious!!The liver was tender and the mixed veggies took on a flavor that is hard to beat.

There are many recipes in "The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook" that I will be making.I like the simplicity of the recipes as well as the preparation being easy and not time-consuming.In our busy world a cookbook like this will give us the desired "home cooking" flavor as well as give us time to do other things rather than spend them in the kitchen.

Delicious recipies
When I saw the title of this cookbook, I knew it was going to be wonderful. The Amish are known for their simplicity, home cooking, love of family, and dedication to God. This book did not disappoint me. It more than met my expectations. For most people, home cooking has become a way of the past. I love to cook but must admit that I`ve also fallen prey to the ease of prepared foods.

Reading the recipes in this book made my mouth water. Most of the recipes were easy to prepare; they run the gamete from soup, breakfast cereals, main dishes, desserts and more.

The names of many made me curious. How did they get their names: Hasenpfeffer Stew, Knepp Soup, Stonaflesch, Shipwreck Stew, and Potato Rivvel Soup? I can hardly wait to try out the recipes.

This book meets my criteria for a good cookbook. It has a spiral binding, making it easy to leave the book open to a particular recipe without fear of it closing. The cover is easily wiped clean and there is an excellent index, a substitute and measurement page and a resource page.

Along the sides of each page are notes. Some of the notes are recipe hints, information concerning the Amish, prayers, and space for the reader's notes. The soup recipes look delicious. The recipe for Church Cinnamon Rolls will be one of the first I try along with Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake. This cookbook will make a nice gift! ... Read more

Product Description

Two of today's most popular genres--Romance and Amish fiction--together in one volume.

"Healing Hearts" by Beth Wiseman: Levina Lapp and her husband Naaman are alone for the first time in 30 years. When Naaman left to visit cousins in Ohio, Levina wasn't expecting him to be gone a year. Now that he's back, will they be able to move beyond this estrangement and fall in love again?

"What the Heart Sees" by Kathleen Fuller: A tragic accident rocks a peaceful Amish community, leaving Ellie Chupp blinded and Christopher Bender's future shattered. But they find love and forgiveness in a place they least expect.

"A Marriage of the Heart" by Kelly Long: Rachel Yoder is tired of her Amish lifestyle and her domineering father's ways. When handsome Joseph Lambert comes back from the Englisch, she lies to force a marriage of convenience, providing the perfect means to escape her father's rule. But Rachel never imagined she'd fall in love with Joseph so quickly or irrevocably.

Product Description

Customer Reviews (31)

Fascinating topic, tedious book
The subject certainly is interesting, but the book is poorly written and tedious to read. There appears to be no organizing principle, and as a result we get one anecdote after another, many of them redundant.

There are glaring omissions--the author says next to nothing about their language. They all seem to speak English. Although he makes occasional offhand remarks about certain people speaking Pennsylvania Dutch occasionally, he does not bother to mention it otherwise. I was left wondering how widespread the use is, whether or not everyone is bilingual or whether or not it is on the verge of dying out. Sorry, not mentioned here. That's just one example of what's wrong with this book.

rumspringa
I liked all the facts that I got from this book and statistics type things.But it gave a wilder view of the Amish teen than I'd read in other books.It was still a good book.It followed several different situations,and would again pick them up throughout the book.I don't realy think it was off theme,but what am I to know.I'm not college educated.

Rumspringa
This was a really interesting book to read. It came to me in good condition, and was delivered quickly!

very interesting and readable
I knew nothing about the Amish, but I'm interested in adolescence so I picked up a copy of this book and was very quickly absorbed in this story of the fascinating custom rumspringa - the time when Amish teenagers are expected to go out into the world and spend time among non-Amish people before they decide if they want to be baptised into the church and thereby join the Amish community permanently.Shachtman has his psychological theories right and his extensive interviews with Amish teenagers are very engaging.I highly recommend this book.

Very good reading
I appreciated both the interviews and descriptions of Rumspringa and its role in Amish culture, but also the extensions to, and comparisons with, adolescent development and transitions to adulthood in our general American culture.Well written and enjoyable reading. ... Read more

Product Description
In a book that highlights the existence and diversity of Amish communities in New York State, Karen M. Johnson-Weiner draws on twenty-five years of observation, participation, interviews, and archival research to emphasize the contribution of the Amish to the state's rich cultural heritage. While the Amish settlements in Pennsylvania and Ohio are internationally known, the Amish population in New York, the result of internal migration from those more established settlements, is more fragmentary and less visible to all but their nearest non-Amish neighbors. All of the Amish currently living in New York are post-World War II migrants from points to the south and west. Many came seeking cheap land, others as a result of schism in their home communities. The Old Order Amish of New York are relative newcomers who, while representing an old or plain way of life, are bringing change to the state.

So that readers can better understand where the Amish come from and their relationship to other Christian groups, New York Amish traces the origins of the Amish in the religious confrontation and political upheaval of the Protestant Reformation and describes contemporary Amish lifestyles and religious practices. Johnson-Weiner welcomes readers into the lives of Amish families in different regions of New York State, including the oldest New York Amish community, the settlement in the Conewango Valley, and the diverse settlements of the Mohawk Valley and the St. Lawrence River Valley. The congregations in these regions range from the most conservative to the most progressive. Johnson-Weiner reveals how the Amish in particular regions of New York realize their core values in different ways; these variations shape not only their adjustment to new environments but also the ways in which townships and counties accommodate and often benefit from the presence of these thriving faith communities. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Finally
I have been waiting for years for a sociologist to come out with a book about NEW YORK Amish - who are much different from the Anabaptists in other states. Growing up with a camp in St. Lawrence County, the Amish have always fascinated me as community. Karen M. Johnson-Weiner's 25-year study has compiled a brief history of who they are and where they came from; how they have dealt with persecution from the Catholic Church, the Protestants, and national governments; and how they maintain their culture in our modern (dominant) world.

Johnson-Weiner answers all those questions I had a child and an adult. Well done. ... Read more