A sweet book. I'm sure I read this years ago, but I don't find any record of it. It felt very familiar. Noticing the original pub date, perhaps I read it as a child. Lovely illustration by Charles Geer. A chance to see two kids grow up and learn the treasure the values they've been raised with. ( )

Despite her father's objections, a young Amish girl secretly looks forward to attending public school where she makes a best friend and gains a new perspective on her family's way of life.

Pensylvannia law forces Esther's parents to send her to school. Her father is especially reluctant to do so as school played a large part in her brother leaving the Amish community. What follows is a gentle, old fashioned story suitable to thoughtful young readers. While this reviewer cannot say if this is an accurate portrayal of 1950's Amish life, this book is a much better introduction than any reality show. While grounded in this time, place, and culture, Esther's introspection and conversations with others about tradition and identity touch on the universal. While some young readers might have trouble relating to the lifestyle portrayed, this actually adds value to the book since portrayals of the Amish are few and often sensationalized. This book is a safe bet as nothing objectionable could be found. Additionally, those seeking Christian fiction may be pleased with Esther's reflections on biblical passages. Worth keeping around despite low circulation and a good choice for Christian or Catholic schools. ( )

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