Author of 'Why I Left the Amish' to Speak at Whittemore Library

The is proud to announce a very special author event coming up on Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 6:30 p.m. Please join us as we meet author Saloma Miller Furlong and listen to her discuss her recently published memoir Why I Left the Amish.

I just finished reading the book myself, and found it quick and interesting. Furlong tells her story as a series of memories which are brought to mind as she makes a trip back to the Amish community of her childhood following the death of her father.

I found the story to be much more than the expected account of typical Amish beliefs and traditions. Instead, the facts of Furlong’s life present layers of hardships, reaching far deeper than her struggle to accept the Amish way of life.

Her family was burdened with mental illness, but received little support from the community which values obedience and productivity. In recounting her childhood, the author gives us a glimpse into how complicated the family dynamic can be in an abusive household, and how confusing and difficult a decision to leave or seek help can be. To me, this kind of conflict rings true not only for Amish communities, but for all communities. Though the circumstances of her childhood occurred in a small Amish community in Ohio, it seems that this family’s story has likely played out in every community in the United States, from wealthy to poor, urban to rural.

Apart from the issues within her own home, Furlong also struggled to reconcile her own personality against the demands of her religion. From just a glance at young Saloma’s playful, smiling face on the front cover of the book, you can tell this girl was not one to hold herself back or quietly submit to rules such as “no photographs.” Somehow she was able to find joy and blossom despite the heavy hand she had been dealt.

Despite occasional clunky dialog, Why I Left the Amish would make a good book club selection because it presents so many conversation-starters. I imagine many fine discussions sprouting from this book on topics like human nature and the role of institutions such as family, religion and society, and I am looking forward to hearing what Furlong has to say about her work and her life. There is no doubt that her talk will be fascinating and worthwhile.

Though books will be available to purchase at the event, you may bring your own copy to have signed by the author. The Whittemore library will have copies in circulation prior to the event as well. This program is free and open to the public, so bring a friend or two and make an evening of it.

For more information, visit the author’s website at salomafurlong.com, which includes recipes, handicrafts, and other aspects of Amish culture.