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A Simple Singing summary
Brief summary
A Simple Singing by Leslie Gould is a captivating story set in an Amish community. It follows the lives of two women, one in the present day and the other in the 1840s, whose stories become intertwined through their love for music and their search for belonging.
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A Simple Singing
Summary of key ideas
An Amish Woman's Journey
In A Simple Singing by Leslie Gould, we meet Marie Bachmann, a young Amish woman living in Pennsylvania. She is a talented singer and has a passion for music. Despite her love for singing, she lives a simple life on her family's dairy farm, abiding by the strict rules of the Amish community. Her life takes a turn when she meets Gordon Martin, a Mennonite farmhand, who shows an interest in her.
Marie's mother sends her to Florida to stay with her aunt, hoping to separate her from Gordon. In Florida, Marie meets Eli Jacob, the bishop's son from her hometown, who has left the Amish community. Marie is torn between her feelings for Gordon and her connection with Eli. She must also navigate her love for singing, which is discouraged in her conservative community.
Struggles and Revelations
Back in Pennsylvania, Marie is courted by Gordon, who is now working at a local homeless shelter. Her relationship with Eli becomes complicated when he returns to the Amish community. Marie's struggle to fit in and follow the Amish way of life becomes more pronounced when she takes a job at a local bakery, which allows her to sing publicly, but is frowned upon by her community.
Marie's life takes another turn when her aunt reveals a family secret - her ancestor, Annie Bachmann, was a Civil War-era nurse who defied traditional gender roles to care for wounded soldiers. This revelation prompts Marie to question the limitations placed on her as a woman in the Amish community. She begins to see the parallels between her life and that of her courageous ancestor.
Decisions and New Beginnings
As the story progresses in A Simple Singing, Marie must make a choice between Gordon, who offers her a life outside the Amish community, and Eli, who represents her Amish roots. She is also faced with the decision of whether to embrace her musical talent or continue to suppress it to conform to the Amish way of life.
In the end, Marie decides to stay true to herself. She chooses to pursue her love for music and her relationship with Gordon, despite the disapproval of her family and community. Marie's bold decision to leave the Amish community is a reflection of her ancestor's bravery and independence, and it marks a new beginning for her.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
In conclusion, A Simple Singing is a compelling story of a young woman's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through Marie's experiences, we witness the challenges of adhering to tradition and the struggle to break free from societal expectations. The novel also highlights the importance of embracing one's talents and passions, even if it means going against the grain.
As the book ends, Marie leaves the Amish community to start a new life with Gordon, embracing her love for singing and a future filled with uncertainties. Her journey serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most difficult decisions lead to the most rewarding outcomes, and that staying true to oneself is the ultimate path to happiness.
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What is A Simple Singing about?
A Simple Singing by Leslie Gould is a heartfelt novel that delves into the lives of two very different women, one in the 1840s and the other in present day. Through their intertwining stories, the book explores themes of love, faith, and the power of music. It is a beautiful and poignant tale that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
A Simple Singing Review
A Simple Singing (2010) is a captivating novel that intertwines the lives of two young women in an Amish community. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Explores the complexities of family dynamics and relationships in a close-knit community, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline.
- Delicately weaves themes of forgiveness and redemption throughout the narrative, resonating with readers on a profound level.
- With its rich cultural details and heartfelt storytelling, the book immerses readers in a world that is both familiar and enchanting, ensuring a pleasurable and engaging read.
Who should read A Simple Singing?
Readers who enjoy Amish fiction and stories about faith and love
Individuals looking for a heartwarming and relatable novel with well-developed characters
People who appreciate a blend of traditional values and modern challenges in a captivating narrative
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A Simple Singing FAQs
What is the main message of A Simple Singing?
The main message of A Simple Singing is the power of forgiveness and redemption.
How long does it take to read A Simple Singing?
Reading A Simple Singing takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in minutes.
Is A Simple Singing a good book? Is it worth reading?
A Simple Singing is worth reading for its heartwarming plot and relatable characters.
Who is the author of A Simple Singing?
The author of A Simple Singing is Leslie Gould.
What to read after A Simple Singing?
If you're wondering what to read next after A Simple Singing, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
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- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher