More Than Happy (The Wisdom of Amish Parenting) by Serena B. Miller with Paul Stutzman

More than Happy: The Wisdom of Amish Parenting by Serena B Miller with Paul Stutzman is unique look into the lives of Amish families interviewed by an Englisch (English) friend, Serena.  The author has taken great care in sharing the truths and uncertainties that Amish parents face when raising their children.  The Amish are group of Americans who choose to live without electricity, drive horse and buggy, live mostly on farms, and form strong family relationships.  They are Christian and like all communities have certain rules they follow (some more strict than others).  But above all, they love God and rear their children in a way that draws them close to God too.  As stated by the author, "It is a culture that is intentionally designed to spend time together, help each other and build a sense of purpose together.  That has a profound impact on the way they raise their children."  This book gives a glimpse into how the Amish view family, community, discipline, work, technology and faith.  And after each section, the author gives a few Amish parenting tips for the Non-Amish.

I was very fascinated in reading this book.  I lived in Pennsylvania for a few years when I was younger and I was exposed to the Amish.  I just noticed that they dressed different and drove horse and buggy.  I knew they didn't use electricity and that they lived on big farms.  In reading this book it brought me back to my memories and I also in the depths of my heart wish to live a simple life like the Amish.  Reading this book was like having a conversation with the author.  She spent a lot of time with her Amish friends and asked a lot of relevant questions that parents of today have such as why are Amish children so content?  The stories from the Amish families are interesting, endearing and a breath of fresh air.  I was encouraged and inspired to practice more the of Amish way of living.  I recommend this book for parents to gain a new perspective on how to raise children in a very ungodly world to serve and honor Jesus.

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Howard Books for review.  All opinions are my own.*