The Amish Research Guide: Crafted for the Englisher Writer and Non-Writer (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780994827005)

Who exactly are the Amish? Are they a religious cult? A bunch of reclusive kooks? Or are they a legitimate Christian denomination? When you use the word Amish, more questions than answers materialize. Do they really believe that forswearing electricity makes a person "holier"? How can they be so cruel as to shun, ostracize a fellow member for wearing a hat that has a slightly too narrow brim width? Do they major in minors?

The Amish are a source of interest worldwide, although today, they are found only in North America. They are both admired and reviled for their dogged determination to remain separated from the world, to stay true to their Anabaptist roots. Family, friends, faith are principles that guide and shape them. They seek to incorporate their interpretations of Biblical teaching into every aspect of their day-to-day lives.

Because of the popularity of all things Amish, non-Amish "Englishers," especially writers, are being challenged to learn all they can about their way of life. This is difficult when the subjects are determined to live off by themselves, effectually caught off from modern-day society. Solid research becomes crucial, especially for non-Amish writers who have little to no personal experience with this self-isolated group. The Amish Research Guide was written with the Englisher writer of fiction and/or nonfiction in mind but is also of value to the reader who wants to learn more about the elusive group. This book compiles facts and useful information into one reference tool that will save valuable time when completing that required research. Written by an Englisher who has been hired to ghostwrite Amish fiction and spent hours researching in order to ensure accuracy, The Amish Research Guide will help the writer finish researching and get on with writing as swiftly as possible, or give the interested reader a richer insight into all things Amish.