60. Plain and Simple

By Sue Bender
Rated: ★★★

A had problems deciding what rating to give this book. I hovered between a two star and a three star and finally decided to be generous and give it a three. It's a very fast read and while it was nicely written I felt like this was one of those "all about me" books instead of giving the reader any real insight into the alleged purpose of the book - to better understand the Amish and their culture. Either way, this book wasn't exactly what I was looking for, but it is still a nice, quiet little book that discusses the Amish lifestyle and its effect on the author.

Sue Bender says became fascinated with the Amish way of life when she saw an Amish Quilt on display back in her adolescence. She eventually wheedles her way into an Amish home in order to "experience" their culture. She is pretty upfront about describing this as a personal spiritual journey in order to bring real meaning t to her own life. Lord I hate that phrase. Why do I care? I guess I really was expecting to find more about the daily life of the Amish instead of the daily life of Sue Bender. However when she did get around to describing their life and culture (filtered through her eyes) it was sort of interesting.

It was a quick read and I'm glad I almost finished it before I gave up. Would I recommend it? I don't think so.

Tim - Movie

Based on story by Coleen McCoulough
Rated: ★★★★

This is a wonderful movie starring a very, very young Mel Gibson as Tim Melville, a slightly mentally retarded young man who is hired to do yard work for Mary Horton, played by Piper Laurie in the role of a well-to-do, but lonely, business woman. Mary is also much older than Tim is.

While he does work around her house, Mary gets to know Tim, as well as his working class family. As time goes on, a deep fondness that ripens into love develops between the two. He brings her out of her shell, and she teaches him to read and explains concepts that will enable him to function better in the world around him. Based upon Colleen McCollough's book of the same name, this is a very well acted-film, with fine performances by the supporting cast, as well as the leads.