Tuesday

Plain Wisdom by Cindy Woodsmall & Miriam Flaud



Book Description:  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.


My Review:  Plain Wisdom by Cindy Woodsmall (Englisher, of this world) & Miriam Flaud (Old Order Amish) is like reading two friends' diaries; howbeit, both friends are writing in the same book.  So, grab a cup of tea or coffee and be prepared to laugh, sniffle and feel the embracing hug of a friend.
The daily life of an Amish mom/wife is not much different than that of the English mom/wife except that we, English, use electricity and vehicles.  Okay . . . Maybe that's a BIG difference !
To me each chapter is like a journal entry from Cindy and then one from Miriam.  Both ladies address the same subject giving us a look at two points of view or rather an Amish view and then an English view.  Interesting to view the similarities and feelings that stem from both ladies.
The chapter entitled, "Laundry Anyone" made me laugh.  Cindy's laundry story was very English and I could relate but Miriam's laundry story made me laugh.out.loud simply because her son acted as "any teenager" might in the same situation.  The Amish have a great sense of humor!
This is a great-tastic read filled with heart warming and down home views of two different worlds that aren't so different after all!
The recipes in this book all look fantastic and are worth a try whether you're an Englischer or an Amisher!
This book is also brings great encouragement.  It's wonderful to know that all of us, humans, are struggling with the same everyday life situations, trying to rear our children to be God fearing and to cook wonderful meals while keeping up with the laundry!
This is one of those books that you won't want to miss!  A beautiful look at friendship and a fantastic 5 star read!
*This book was provided for review by Waterbrook/Multnomah*

About the Author(s):


CINDY WOODSMALL is a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightlineand on the front page of The Wall Street Journal. She is the author of The Bridge of PeaceThe 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.

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