John Andrew Hostetler (1918–2001)

I spied this book while browsing through the shelves of a local library. Since I not only teach U.S. history but also live in Sarasota, which has a large Amish/Mennonite population, I thought the book was worth a look.

It is a really delightful compendium of lore, pictures (bible plates and samplers, as well as a few paintings by members of the Amish community), letters and journal entries spanning the War of 1812 through 1986. While this book is NOT a linear history of the Amish in America, show more it is even more valuable than that, because it is a view of Amish life, beliefs, and customs in their own words.

After reading through the book (and renewing it two times from the library) I decided I had to acquire it for my own classroom -- and I'm awaiting its delivery any day now.

For those interested in this unique group of Americans, I highly recommend this work. Clearly laid out and easy to follow, it would also make a great book for short read-alouds to social studies classes from middle school to college level. show less

Very insightful, and an interesting/ entertaining read too. If you don't know much about the Amish, this is the book that will give you a good overview into Amish history as well as their lifestyle and beliefs.

3538. Hutterite Society, by John A. Hostetler (read Feb 11 2002) I found this book, which is carefully researched and open-minded, surprisingly interesting. There are Hutterite colonies not too far from where I live, and I was at one once briefly, and my sister-in-law was a public school teacher at one for years. This book is a 1974 book and I wondered how much had changed since then.

The author grew up in an Old Order Amish family, so he is something of an authority in a personal sense. It covers just about every aspect of their lives as well as their origins and their struggles to preserve their way of life.