Review of
Amish Odyssey,
by Bill Coleman ISBN 0912383496
Five out of five stars
Chronicle of a simple life
In his travels
carrying a camera, Coleman encountered a remote valley in Pennsylvania populated
by Old Order Amish. At first, he was treated with the normal suspicion assigned
to an outsider, but over a period of years he was trusted to the point where
they allowed him to chronicle their lives. Being of the Old Order, very little
in the way of modernity is a part of their lives.
The photos are
of course first rate, clearly carefully selected from a large number. While
their lives are simple and there are limits on what they are allowed to do, it
is clear that they enjoy life. The most amusing captions are when a group of
boys are playing Frisbee with their hats. One of the most touching moments is
when Coleman encounters a barefoot young boy standing in the middle of the
road, seemingly doing nothing. However, after a short time a herd of cattle
crossed the road, walking right beside him. All present doing what is expected
of them.
As the world continues
to rapidly change, it is uncertain how long such groups can remain in adherence
to the Old Order. Fortunately, this book will provide a permanent record of
much of their way of life.
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