Crossing Over : One Woman's Exodus from Amish Life

Rating:
Summary: One Person's Opinion
Review: The book "Crossing Over" by Ruth Irene Garrett and Rick Farrant, is very interesting. The co-authors keep ones attention by giving details of the life of Ruth Irene Garrett. I enjoy studying other cultures therfore I enjoyed this book, which explains the customs of the Amish people. There is drama, facts, and a love story all in this book, which makes it more appealing than just reading a factual account of the Amish traditions and history.
Ruth Irene Garrett grew up in the strict traditions of the Old Order Amish. She tells about the struggles that she had trying to be an independent woman in a male-dominated household. She educated herself beyond the realms of her isolated existence, which drove a wedge between her and her family. This is definitely a "must read" book.

Rating:
Summary: good book, but negative picture
Review: This was a good well written book. From the start I was disapointed on how negatively she portrayed the Amish. She had a strict father and I am sure that was difficult, but not all Amish are the same. I am mennonite and have spent quite a bit of time around the Amish. The Amish is a very close knit community, but not nearly has harsh and bad as described. Of course their are some who leave the Amish unhappy with the lifestyle, yet look at how many remain with the Amish pleased with the quiet peaceful life they live. She said women had no real worth in the Amish, but most of the Amish women are happy (yet they won't admit pride) with being good mothers, excellent cooks, seamstresses, etc. I would encourage anybody to get to know the Amish before judging this book and then decide for yourself.

Rating:
Summary: Crossing Over: One Woman's Escape from Amish Life
Review: This was an excellent book! I am very happy for Ottie and Irene! It took(and probably still does) take God's Grace and a lot of courage to leave the Amish.
I would highly recommend this book!