This book is a 226 page biography / autobiography of the lives of Mary-Ann and her family. First, let me explain that Hutterites are a branch of the Anabaptists and they live in communities that share everything. Kirkby begins the book by depicting the lives of her parents and how they met and started a family. Then we see the tension build as her family experienced tremendous difficulties and conflict within the colony. Finally, when the decision to leave is made, we witness the financial, emotional, and social changes that challenged them for the coming years.
My thoughts about the book: The book was interesting and read more like a novel than an autobiography. I appreciated the detail that drew you in and made you feel empathetic for the characters. However, I didn't appreciate God's name being taken in vain several times throughout the book and some other inappropriate language that was included. In addition, the ending seemed abrupt and left the reader with questions.
(Thomas Nelson provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a fair critique.)
My rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Hi, It's been some weeks since I've read this book, I can't recollect God's name being used in vain. I wonder how I missed that?
ReplyDeleteI was born and raised in a Hutterite colony, and actually still live in one. I have my personal review of this book posted on my blog. Check it out if you can find the time...
http://blogs.allhutterites.com/lightofevenstar
You probably didn't notice it b/c it was done mostly in German.
ReplyDeleteYes, I noticed that you had commented on some other blogs and so I've visited your blog a little. I do have a question, if you don't mind...what do Hutterites believe concerning salvation? What do they believe is necessary? That is one thing that in reading this book and doing some of my own research I have not been able to totally figure out.