The collapse of a schoolhouse puts pressure on Amish families and their long-held educational values. Ella Hilty anticipates marrying Gideon Wittner and becoming a mother to his children. In a whirling clash of values, Ella seeks the solid ground that seems to have slipped away. Margaret Simpson, an English schoolteacher, wonders if she is losing her last chance at love. As the local authorities draw lines in the sand, Margaret puts romance at risk one final time. All eyes turn to Ella to make a sacrifice and accept a challenge that can bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English.
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Sexual Content - 1/5
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Violence - 0/5
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Language - 0/5
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Drugs and Alcohol - 0/5
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Summary
Gideon Wittmer and many other Amish families in rural Ohio are facing a seemingly insurmountable obstacle, the state has demanded that all children must be educated at a state supported school regardless of their Amish faith. In fact, their very livelihood is being threatened with the mandate that children past the eighth grade must remain enrolled in high school, rather than returning home to work family farms with their parents and grandparents. In Geauga County, the local deputy sheriff is serious about carrying out the law to the fullest extent; meaning numerous families could quite possibly face serious legal consequences. Two young women, one Amish and one English are caught in the crosshairs of the education controversy; Ella Hilty, Gideon Wittmer\'s intended bride and Margaret Simpson, a first grade teacher, whom the school board appoints as an intermediary between the county and the nearby Amish community. What sacrifices will both women have to make in order for the issue to be resolved in a peaceful manner? Will Ella have to postpone her dreams and will Margaret Simpson become ostracized for her compassionate, unpopular convictions? This story, with its deep historical roots, demonstrates that the issues of education and religious freedom often intersect, with less than desirable consequences. However, over time our country regained its footing and allowed private institutions to become engrained through-out the educational community. Trail blazers, such as the courageous fictional families portrayed in this book, remain an inspiration to us all. I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.