Mennonite in a Little Black Dress

So 2. 5 months ago I said I had to books to give you reviews on and was excited to do so. And then....what happened? I can't actually say. I can't even remember what books those are! But tonight, I have one for you. Largely because it is a book that may or may not be done at the Library book club once I'm gone and moved on, and it was on my to read list anyway. It was a fun book, and here is my review.

And for the record I hope that this will get better once I am no longer trying to work full time, take care of the dogs, sell a house and be pregnant. I am hoping that I can settle back in to some semblance of a normal reading schedule in the somewhat near future. But that could also be my naiveness as a new first time mom too. Who knows.

OH! I just remembered one of the books from 2.5 months ago...And I shall review it. I will work on it immediately following this post. It was another non fiction and I loves it. My husband loved it. I almost gave it to my brother for Christmas. Anyway-that one is by Mary Roach. I love her.

Now, back to Mennonite in a Little Black Dress

At first I was sorely disappointed. If I’m going to read non fiction I want to feel educated, like I understand something new for reading it. Hence, I expected this book to give me an insight into the Mennonite culture…and I’m still not sure I really got that. I got sarcasm. I got humorous stories. I got a world that is full of contradiction and different viewpoints-not unlike my own (which was refreshing in its presentation). Sure there were some culture specifics-terms that are never explained, unique foods and hymns. But I didn’t come away feeling I knew anything more about the Mennonite culture and faith, nor really about the author, something essential to me in a book calling itself a memoir.

But Chapter 10 kind of saved the book for me. What she does examine is religion and this is a great chapter where she changes her voice and brings you into the discussion. She challenges you to consider things, as she did. She shares anecdotes that finally feel meaningful. That I enjoyed. And even as the rest of the book proceeds there is a new “coming together” of most of the rest of the book.

The sarcastic appendix was of little help to anyone wanting serious answers though.

The book is self depreciating, humourous and read like chick lit. Not a waste of my time but something I am still up in the air about actually recommending. I think if someone who traditionally enjoyed Sophia Kinsella and ilk but wanted something different, I would suggest this. It would be a great book club book for a club who likes mostly lighter reads but wants something different and doesn’t mind approaching the topic of religion. I still stand by that I was expecting I am Hutterite by Mary-Ann Kirkby with a slight sense of humor and got Sophia Kinsella with a touch of culture.

Now to go review the stuff from 2 months ago!