Book Description

Heather Curridge has it all, and she loves her stuff. But every year she thinks there must be more to life--she must be made for more than this.

Heather is coming unhinged, and people are starting to notice. What's wrong with a woman who has everything, and yet still feels miserable inside?

Yet when Heather wrecks her Suburban and spends the summer with two Quaker spinsters and a crusty nun in a downtown homeless shelter, she suddenly finds herself at a crossroads.

Sometimes you have to go a little bit crazy to find the life you were meant to live.

Customer Reviews (19)

See Yourself In This Life Changing Page Turner!
Heather Curridge is going crazy; at least that is what her husband Jace, son Will and her friends seem to think. And at times Heather thinks so too.

On the outside Heather seems to have it all, a loving doctor husband, a great fifteen year old son, a house by the lake and things, possessions but all of a sudden Heather starts questioning why she puts her husband through all her spending, spending, spending. Up till now she's justified it well saying she likes to help people but really it's just a way to move up to more, more, and more and the big question as to why she needs so much.. Jace tries to work hard to pay for it all but he's wearing down and wants to go back to his life's dream which he feels he can't tell Heather about.

Than one night Heather crashes her big Suburban on the way home from yet another St Matthews' dinner for the private school she insisted Will attend, and makes her way to the home of Annie and Liza ninety some year old sisters. Heather finds being with them having a calming effect upon her as well as questioning her walk with God.

While Jace is out of town and Will stays with his grandparents Heather spends a few weeks with the ladies who are Quakers, and comes in close contact with an inner city nun and the people living there. Heather begins to come to terms with so many things her past, her dad, the possessions and the rat race of life.

Christy award winning author Lisa Samson does an amazing job with Quaker Summer, her first novel with WestBow but her nineteenth overall. A definite 5 plus wow factor as you'll find yourself within the pages of this page turner that you won't be able to put down. The story unwinds and is so real you'll think you are Heather or she's your best friend, an awesome character we all can relate to.

Voted 2007's Women of Faith's Novel of the Year tells you how amazing this book is ( Women of Faith is an organization dedicated to encouraging women of all ages to grow in faith and spiritual maturity with Christ ). There is even a reading group guide in the back of the book as this book would be perfect for reading groups. You'll love the mixture of everyday life with the Bible and how each section ties in with the Beatles such as "Fool on the Hill" and "the Long and Winding Road", even if you don't know who the Beatles are you'll catch the comparison. Actually the style of writing puts the reader in mind of the writings of Erma Bombeck, an awesome writer of the seventies. A must read for adult women, especially those who question life and God. So come on an amazing journey and give this book a chance, listen to God and your heart it will really set you free!

Great story of redemption without preachiness
I just loved this book.It's the first I've read from the author, I was really impressed.I don't care for Christian fiction that gets all preachy.This does not.The characters are three dimensional and easy to identify with.Along with the main character, I particularly loved the older Quaker women that played a small but significant role.The whole book was truly inspiring and a page turner.I was very sorry to finish it. I hope for a sequel or even a trilogy featuring these characters!I highly recommend it!!!

Thought Provoking
IT is awesome. At first I was hestiant to read it because I did not know what to expect. It was deep and thought provoking but I still enjoyed reading it. I took a break or two to think but I did not want to put it down. It really made me think "Do I really need all the stuff in my house"? It made me want to downsize my earthly belongings.At first I wanted to get rid of everything(okay most) but I came to my senses and realized I couldn't.All of the characters are well developed and became real to me by the end of the story. I felt like I went on the journey with Heather and the other characters. This is the first book of Lisa Samson's that I have read and it will not be the last.

I highly recommend this book.

A MUST READ

God has been speaking to me over the last couple of months about getting out of my comfort zone and ministering to those who are enslaved...enslaved by sin, addictions, poverty, and abuse. He has used QUAKER SUMMER by Lisa Samson and the movie AMAZING GRACE to open my eyes to the fact that though slavery may no longer be legal here in America, there are so many who are enslaved in other ways. They need to be set free...they need the Father's grace and power to remove the shackles that bind them up.

But how will they know if those of us who are already free do not go and show and tell?

In AMAZING GRACE the movie, the story is told of William Wilberforce and others who poured out their very lives to fight against the slave trade. Their's is a historically true story...a profound story of God's grace and power.

QUAKER SUMMER is a fictional story, but it is still very true. For in it is a message of truth. The protagonist, Heather, is a woman who "has it all". She has a devoted husband, a great teenage son, a beautiful home, and all the other stuff and fluff that money can buy. But she's empty inside and all the "good stuff" in her life is enslaving her in a gilded cage.

Through a God-ordained "accident", she finds herself slammed with the reality of how the "other half" lives. She meets Godly women whose lives are not dedicated to living "the good life" but to DOING good to and for others. She begins to finally see that all the stuff in the world will never fill the void inside...the void that only God and being about His business can fill.

Heather must make some scary choices. She must be willing to sacrifice and change. She must be willing to break out of HER chains that bind in order to help set the captives free.

And through it all, Heather learns that its only in giving away does she really receive.

Quaker Summer
Heather Curridge, the protagonist in Lisa Samson's Quaker Summer, seemingly has it all: a handsome husband who loves her and whose salary provides the means for her shopping compulsion even though he doesn't share her desire to keep up with the Joneses, a great kid, a lakeside mansion, and a lifestyle that fits every worldly definition of success. She doesn't attend church any longer but is Volunteer of the Year at her son's private Christian school and reaches out to her widower neighbor. She "gets" Jesus but doesn't always think about him in the space between her two favorite times of day: taking the first bite of a hearty breakfast and slipping between her designer sheets. Yet as much as she loves her stuff and her comfortable life, a part of her recognizes the foolishness and emptiness of their material-driven, superficial lifestyle and knows it isn't the life she's been called to lead. She believes she has a purpose waiting outside of her current existence if she will only open the door and meet it face to face.

God's providence leads Heather to two spunky sisters, a tough nun, and a few people she'd actually prefer not to associate with. With support from her husband, her son, and her closest friends (including one you will recognize if you've read Women's Intuition), she begins to put her faith into action. The reality differs from her expectations, and she discovers that following the Spirit's leading to help those in need can be very uncomfortable; the sometimes back-breaking, often heart-breaking work God calls us to do isn't necessarily appreciated or understood by others, even believers. She also learns that God uses His servants not just to help those in need but to help the servant.

As always, Samson's characters seem real and her storytelling is poetic and thought-provoking. Even if we will never live in a mansion and make plans to add a tennis court to our mansion, most of us can relate to the fear of leaving our comfort zone and willingly going into situations that will get our hands dirty. And like Heather, some of us would rather wait for a notarized letter from God assuring us of His calling rather than put our faith into action. Too often there's a disparity between what we say we believe and how we actually live our lives.

This is definitely a book to chew on after you read it, and I highly recommend it! ... Read more

Amazon.com
During a traditional Quaker meeting, the Friends sit in silent meditation. No one speaks unless they are moved to do so through the "still, small voice" of God within. As a result, spoken words are often spare, clear, and wise. A Quaker Book of Wisdom reads like the voice of a Sunday morning meeting. Author Robert Lawrence Smith is a lifelong Quaker and former headmaster of the Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C. (Chelsea Clinton's former alma mater). Reflecting on topics such as silence, simplicity, business, and family, Smith offers guidance on how to "let your life speak"--an important premise to the Quaker life of service. Smith's humble self-disclosures make this slim book especially endearing and accessible. In the chapter "Conscience," he divulges battlefield horrors that rival those in Saving Private Ryan--images that still haunt him long after he chose to fight fascism during World War II instead of becoming a conscientious objector, as many Quakers did. In the next chapter, "Non-Violence," Smith writes of an eye-opening shopping trip to Toys R Us where the action-figure warmongers are far more attractive to his grandson than the checkers game they were planning to purchase. In the final chapter, Smith offers "Ten Life Lessons" that he wishes someone had shared with him when he was growing up. Indeed, these lessons are even more valuable and certainly more provocative than the ones we learned in kindergarten. --Gail Hudson Book Description
"The most valuable aspect of religion," writes Robert Lawrence Smith, "is that it provides us with a framework for living. I have always felt that the beauty and power of Quakerism is that it exhorts us to live more simply, more truthfully, more charitably."

Taking his inspiration from the teaching of the first Quaker, George Fox, and from his own nine generations of Quaker forebears, Smith speaks to all of us who are seeking a way to make our lives simpler, more meaningful, and more useful. Beginning with the Quaker belief that "There is that of God in every person," Smith explores the ways in which we can harness the inner light of God that dwells in each of us to guide the personal choices and challenges we face every day. How to live and speak truthfully. How to listen for, trust, and act on our conscience. How to make our work an expression of the best that is in us.

Using vivid examples from his own life, Smith writes eloquently of Quaker Meeting, his decision to fight in World War II, and later to oppose the Vietnam War. From his work as an educator and headmaster to his role as a husband and father, Smith quietly convinces that the lofty ideals of Quakerism offer all of us practical tools for leading a more meaningful life. His book culminates with a moving letter to his grandchildren which imparts ten lessons for "letting your life speak." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Nice Book
A Quaker Book of Wisdom is a delightful, simply worded, autobiography of a Quaker.Smith explains through the recounting of his life what it means to be a Quaker.As a very small minority within the religious landscape, Quakers are misunderstood by the mainstream and few Americans understand the great contributions they have made to our society.The prohibition of slavery, the humane treatment of the mentally ill,the advocacy of the rights of prisoners, opposition to war, and opposition to the death penalty are all manifestations of the Quaker faith which have helped shape our world.

Smith conveys his personal experiences and insights on what it means to be a Quaker in simple worlds, gentle prose, and honest introspection.This book is an enjoyable read for people of all faiths and non-faiths alike.

A Quaker Book of Wisdom
I happen to be a Quaker.This book, however, is practical inspiration in a very readable form, from a very wise man, for anyone.I like to keep it next to my bed to read a bit before going to sleep. Excellent insight to help guide our very busy and sometimes confusing lives.I have bought 5 copies, and given them to my favorite people.

Wisdom for all
This is a clearly written book about the basic tenets of the friends. It offers wisdom for all.

Good, general information
As the author states, this is a book written by an older man for his grandchildren and others their age.It is a good general book with stories about how to live out various aspects of Quaker tradition.It is not a reference book nor does it offer a great deal of historical information.I found it a bit "light" for a mature reader, although it does not talk down to younger people.I passed it on to someone younger and it was just what they were looking for.I don't wish to give the impression that it was a bad book.It was just more of an appetizer when I was looking for dinner.

I'm going to buy it
I borrowed this book from my library and now that I have read it I'll definitely buy a copy to keep because it is such a treasure. To me, whether Robert Smith is a Liberal Quaker, as some reviews here have stated, or mainstream, what he has written in this little book spoke to me as Truth. This is Christian thought and living at it's enlightened best. ... Read more

Book Description
The Quaker parrot is becoming one of the most popular companion parrots as bird owners discover that it is easy to train, has a colorful and endearing personality, and often develops human speech imitation almost spontaneously. This volume provides the details of parrot behavior training, best begun when the bird is still in its baby stage. Patterning and positive reinforcement are applied to balancing human and territorial bonding, maintaining status in the pecking order, and "potty" training. The author also gives general advice on cages, bird toys, grooming, diet, and protecting against household accidents. Potential problem areas are also discussed, including aggressive behavior, molting, excessive noisemaking, and sexual behavior. There is a special chapter on physically imperfect Quaker parrots, advice on recapturing escaped birds, and background information on Quakers as pets in Brazil. The text is enhanced with dozens of full-color photos and line art. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Excellent resource guide
This has been the Bible of parrot information!Extremely helpful and useful information; concise and interesting reading.

great guide for the novice quaker owner
I found this book helpfull and informative. It better helped me to understand some of the behaviours i had already noticed in my quaker.

Pretty good book
I liked this book and it has a lot of information in it about the Quaker. The only thing that I wasn't happy with was the fact that I felt like the book deals too much with baby Quakers. The Quaker that I bought was already 7 months old and had already gone through many of the stages of learning that are talked about in the book. However, if you are bringing home a baby Quaker or just have general care questions about the Quaker, then this book is for you.

Great Resource
What a great resource -- huge, vass information on Quakers in particular -- just what is needed for those researching a soon to be Quaker parent.Gives great information on rehabilitation for those of you who are considering a rescue.Thank you.Definetely worth the money!!!

No real food guidance for beginners
The book overall is a great book, however, there really is no food guidance on what you should feed your Quacker.As a new parent to an adult quacker I really needed something that gives more detail in food does and don'ts.

It did help explain some of the behavioral issues and how to solve them that we noticed in our Quacker.

Overall, I would recommend this book, but if you are looking for a book on feeding, you may want to buy an additional book.This book is very helpful in other areas! ... Read more

Book Description

Simplicity in forms of worship, opposition to violence, and the importance of compassionate living and thoughtful listening are hallmarks of the spirituality of the Quakers. From their beginnings in seventeenth–century England to today, the Friends have attempted to live out their belief in the presence of God's spirit within their hearts. This book features the writings of some of the most influential and inspirational Quaker thinkers –– George Fox, John Woolman, Caroline Stephen, Thomas Kelly, and others –– providing a vivid portrait of the beautiful, simple spirituality of the Quakers.

Customer Reviews (2)

Quaker Library addition
This collection of writings is a great addition for your library or reading list -- whether or not you are a Friend, you'll find a collection of thought provoking writings with an interesting view.

This book has both historical and philosophical views.Though much has changed in the world, and in the opinions of 'modern' Quakers, the core beliefs remain the same -- those who are new to Quakerism, those considering it or those just interested in another view will find this book of help.

Quaker wisdom
The Quakers are known for their deeply personal approach to spirituality. The writings of this volume convey just that.This is an absolutelybeautiful collection of reflective writings by men and woman who found theSacred within them.The anthology begins with selections from the"Journal" and the letters of George Fox (1624-1691), the figure around whomthe original Quaker movement crystallized.This anthology includes someselections from the laudatory preface to Fox's "Journal", written by noneother than William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.The anthology thenincludes the works of other Quakers from the 16th to the 20th centuries. One of the surprising gems of the book are the writings of Thomas Kelly(1893-1941), an American mystic whose life and work are too littleappreciated.Kelly's writings radiate with the power of his mysticalexperience.Overall, this is a profoundly inspirational collection. ... Read more

Book Description
This is our seventh set of Happy, Healthy Pet titles. Like the others, they are books pet owners can turn to for the essential information they need to raise a healthy pet. All books contain information on

• feeding
• housing
• grooming
• health care
• what to expect from the pet
• basic training

In addition, owners of more unusual pets will particularly appreciate the expert advice in these books because professional care for their animals may be difficult to come by. As always, the instruction is from experts—people who know their pet intimately, but also remember what it was like to have one for the first time. Happy, Healthy Pet guides are rich with professional quality color photos and are designed to be enjoyable and easy to learn from. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Covers a wide variety of subjects
Alot of information from choosing the right parrot, taking care of it, training, and health. Very helpful.

Solid but Generic
There is very little to take issue with in this book-- but if you didn't know the title you might just as well think you were reading a book on Amazons, Greys, or any number of other parrots. The information isextremely generic with the exception of a few passages here and there. Ireally don't think this is the author's fault- and the info is useful- butif you want a really good feeling for what it's like to own a QUAKER- youshould also buy Mattie Sue Athan's outstanding book.That said, the onething I do object to here is this author's claim that any household withcats and Quakers should have the cats declawed. That may be fair to thebirds but is an incredible injustice to the felines.If you can't keepthem separate, you might be better off not having one or the other. Overall, a solid book but if I didn't already have a Quaker this book wouldnot have shown me how amazing these birds are! They are incredible.

Excellent for the novice bird owner
When I first bought my Quaker, I didn't know the first thing about parrots.Fortunately for both of us he was so young he couldn't come home yet.I bought this book and read every page religiously.She gave me somuch insight into what my bird would behave like, look like, eat, want, youname it.Her writing was easy to read and understand.She herself ownsQuakers, so she is accustomed to their behavior, behavior problems, quirks,eating habits, likes, dislikes, etc.By the time I was done reading thebook, I felt like the expert; from cage purchase to food selection to anattention schedule.My bird and I are a happy family now, and I stillrefer to my book when I need help.I highly recommend it to any QuakerParrot owner.

Excellent Resource for New or Prospective Quaker Owner
An experienced parrot owner and breeder myself, I found little to disagree with in this book. Ms. Higdon's writing is clear, informative, and easy to understand. She obviously knows her subject, and she writes well. Her sly but gentle sense of humor is evident and enjoyable. The information presented is accurate, up-to-date, and covers most of the things a new Quaker owner will need to know. She portrays the personality and characteristics of the Quaker quite well and makes several excellent points, such as the fact that talking ability should be a secondary rather than primary concern when choosing a parrot for a pet, that are seldom made in other books. The focus of this book is quite different from Theresa Jordan's handbook - it contains no information pertaining to breeding and may not be of interest to the breeder or experienced Quaker owner. If, however, you have newly acquired a Quaker or are considering getting one, I would highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (4)

Just about the best overview of Quaker practice
I have read quite extensively in investigating Quaker faith & practice and this is just about the best introduction I've found. This is the one that finally got me to get ... off the couch and seek out a meeting. Elegant, understandable, and personable writing by a guy with an obviously sweet spirit. Wholeheartedly recommended for those seriously considering a move toward Quaker-ism or those who are just interested in making the Quaker spirit part of their life's journey.

Simplicity defined
This simple yet complete book provides an explanation of many aspects of Quakerism. Pym's (38 page) introduction alone was a wonderful overview of this most-intereting religion/way of life. I found that the explanation and description of the Meeting for Worship answered so many questions that I had about this aspect of Quakerism.

I liked reading the "Advice and Queries" and learning about Pym's journey towards becoming a Quaker. I would recommend this book to anyone who might want to incorporate some Quaker beliefs into his/her life.

Exceptionally clear introduction to Friends
As an attendee of a local meeting for the last year, I have learned a great deal about Quakerism but Jim Pym's book has put all the pieces together for me in a clear, interesting and easily understood style that has significantly enhanced the value I recieve from 'sitting in the light.'From readers merely curious about Quakerism to Confirmed Friends, I highly recommend this wonderful book to anyone with an interest in the Religious Society of Friends.

Beautiful Simplicity
Jim Pym gives a beautiful and straightforward account of his Quaker faith, and how this affects his everyday life.

An important part of Jim'spersonal faith comes from the Buddhist tradition.Despite this, he gives alucid and positive account of the Christian roots of Quakerism.

Thebook makes significant use of "Advices and Queries," one of thecentral documents of the Quakers in Britain Yearly Meeting.These arereproduced in full in an Appendix, and this adds to the value of thebook.

A superb, highly practical book, expressed in clear and simplelanguage. ... Read more

Book Description
A systematic theological reflection on Quaker beliefs. Widely used in theology courses. Includes questions for use in group discussions and a glossary of theological terms. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Living Faith: An Historical and Comparative Study of Quaker Beliefs.
For anyone interested in becoming acquainted with traditional/classical Quaker beliefs by reading a single clearly and well-written book, this volume has few peers (none known to me). As with any single-volume work of modest length that deals with a complex theological and social phenomenon that has endured for over 350 years one can find fault, but that would be either a churlish or academic thing to do. The author very clearly sets out his goals, and meets them in an exemplary fashion--by the end of the book one has a clear retrospective of Quakerism.

Each chapter deals with a specific question in the history of Quakerism, starting with the history of the movement and ending with "Future Prospects." Each chapter is a gem of succinct exposition. And, while the sympathies of Prof. Cooper clearly lie with the conservative, Christ-centered view of Quakerism; on the whole he fairly represents the liberal view. There is a dearth of information on Universalist Quakerism, and its opposite of extreme evangelism, but the author clearly warns the reader that his intent is only to present the "mainstream" range of Quaker history.

My one criticism of the work is that in presenting the possible future of Quakerism, Dr. Cooper does not go far enough in laying out its potential. It is obvious that he shares, as I do, Rufus Jones' view that Quakerism is the seed of a movement and not just a Christian sect. But we diverge in our views, in that Wilmer Cooper views Quakerism as the core or essence of Christianity, while I see it as a movement that has transcended its original Christian roots. In my view George Fox, has had the same impact on Christianity as Jesus did on Judaism. Perhaps George Fox still lacks his St. Paul. But that is a matter for another article. For now, I recommend this wonderful volume.

great reference book!
I use this book the most when I do any historical or "beliefs" articles on Quakers.As a Quaker, myself, it is true to what I believe, and especially shows what testimonies we value as a people.I would recommend this for Quaker education in your meeting.Great book, get it and read it, especially if you want to learn more about Quakers!

Divine Light
How I wish there were more books like Cooper's.I wish there was anything like Cooper's.For the first time I found a book that could be called a systematic theology of Quaker beliefs.And as I'm relatively new to the Friends, I still think systematically.This book was incredibly helpful. Cooper explores in detail Quaker understanding of the sacraments, God, Jesus, the Light, the church, testimonies (like commitment to Peace and Truth and Social Justice), and the end times.And while I wish there was a more full investigation of some aspects like the Peace Testimony, this was a fully satisfying work.

Much of the book covers what I already believe, and knew what Friends believe.But it organized it in an understandable manner, helping me to more fully make sense of the disparate beliefs, within Friends, and within myself.And some portions I had still never fully understood till I read the book.For instance, Cooper's discussion of the sacred in all things, while I have heard it referred to in passing, I have never seen in so well explained, so clearly, so convincingly.

The beauty of Cooper's treatment is that it's not just expository of Friend's beliefs.He encourages us to become more, to change- not into something different, but to grow to become more fully Friends.He gives a very balanced treatment of all friends, from different countries, and different persuasions- the more Hicksite, universalist Friends General Conference, and the more Christ-centered Friends United Meetings and (my own) Evangelical Friends International.Cooper fully affirms that all are Friends, with different paths, and both shoots of the Quaker tree contain part of the original Truth of George Fox.

I have never seen another book that is so easy to read and simultaneously so fully shows the beliefs of the Friends.

Reasons for Hope: The Faith and Future of the Friends Church

Good study of Quakerism
This is a good study of Quaker faith from a historical perspective.Written by a graduate professor, it is useful both for the student and for a more general audience.It is good for group study, with discussion questions on each chapter. ... Read more

Book Description
From the best-selling author of Plain Living: A QuakerPath to Simplicity comes Practicing Peace: A Devotional Walkthrough the Quaker Tradition, a guide to the Quaker discipline ofpracticing peace for spiritual seekers of any religious tradition. Storiesof successful nonviolent movements throughout history are partnered withquotes mined from over 350 years of Quaker teachings on peace. Queryquestions lead readers on a journey to self-discovery and through thestages of practicing peace: first by focusing inwardly, then turning theireyes to practice peace in the world around us. Includes a brief biographyof each Friend quoted in the book, a glossary of common Quaker terms aswell as additional online resources. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Profound Insights in Bite-Sized Pieces
I don't know if I've written a book review since high school or college 30-40 years ago but I loved this book when I first read it in draft, and even more now, so I just have to say so.As I'm anything but an egghead, it's a delight not to have to plough through Kierkegaard or other heavyweights and yet to still get a chance to think about several centuries of profound insights in bite-sized pieces.Plus it makes me laugh--not a lot, to be sure, but every once in a while I'm startled into laughing right out loud.

The book builds so gently with carefully-organized chapters, from loving ourselves and spiritual renewal through parenting and money--I particularly appreciated the one on beauty and joy--and by the time it gets to the terrifying bits, like people sacrificing their lives for peace (Jesus, for one, of course), it still manages not to overwhelm me with guilt for the world's plight but invite me ever so lovingly to consider what I might do.The author was what we Friends call "clerk" of my meeting when I first met her, and she is one of those who not only sees the best in us, but makes it come true by her having seen it there.Her book is like that.

On the other hand, one of the modern quotations in it (on page 195) echoes what the original Quakers knew, that "many people hate [the light of God within us] because it condemns their behavior."I was surprised by the bit of behavior of mine that the book brought to my attention to be condemned.It was in the chapter about fear.Now when I was young I had driven the Quaker van around burning barricades in Belfast and felt upheld by God's love and the love of the people on the ground who took me and my frightened vanload in until the gunfire calmed down.I had not feared the chapter on fear.And yet, it struck home in an unexpected way---the "fear of looking stupid" (page 171).In meeting for worship a little while after reading that and the chapter on the costs of witnessing, I saw that it is not the fear of getting my name "on the suspect-lists of patriotic watchdog organizations" (page 232) but the fear of being unpopular with my congregation (also page 232)--my very own meeting--that has kept me too silent in the past year.

Finally, I like the typeface and layout of the book.The stories are short enough that I can remember the gist to tell friends at dinner when various topics arise and the book is easy enough to read that I can pull it from my bag and flip through it quickly to find a precise quote when I want it, and so far I've wanted to do that quite often!
... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2001
Catherine Whitmire's book of contemporary and historic Quaker voices reads like an antidote to consumer-driven despair. We all know the spiritual downfall of compulsively acquiring material goods (or what Quakers refer to as "cumber"); how it leads to a frantic-paced lifestyle built around working long hours so we can buy more stuff. In assembling Plain Living, a collection of paragraph-long quotes, Whitmire offers readers a simple and soothing alternative--the path that Quakers call "plain living." "We have chosen lives that crowd our appointment books, fill our email boxes, and overload our answering machines, even as we long for a plainer way of living--one that will free us from the strain and activity of these times," writes Whitmire. "The Spirit is speaking through the whirlwind of modern life, and if we listen quietly to the cool, calm Center within, there is an invitation to plain living awaiting us."

In the early chapters readers will find inspiration for laying down their interior and exterior cumber. The book's wisdom eventually expands into other important Quaker values, such as "Parenting and Mentoring," "Practicing Non-Violence," and "Listening to the Earth." Ultimately, this is a book with a long shelf life, offering timeless quotations on living the life worth living. --Gail Hudson Book Description
Most of us living in this complex and time-pressured era havemoments when we wish we were living simpler, more meaningful lives. Sometimesthese wishes are fleeting desires, but for many today the search for a life ofgreater simplicity and meaning has developed into a deep longing.

There are many routes to simplicity. This book focuses on and provides directionto the gimmick-free spiritual path followed by Quakers.

For over three centuries Quakers have been living out of a spiritual center in away of life they call "plain living." Their accumulated experiences anddistilled wisdom have much to offer anyone seeking greater simplicity today.

Plain Living is not about sacrifice. It's about choosing the life you reallywant, a form of inward simplicity that leads us to listen for the "still, smallvoice" of God.

This book goes beyond the merely trendy to make the by now well-worn Quaker pathto plain living accessible to everyone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Plain Living--A Quaker Path to Simplicity
Plain Living is a book of quotes by Quakers from the far past to the more recent past.The quotes are divided up under headings to assist a person looking for quotes by subject area, such as death, time, suffering, etc.There are also questions at the end of the chapter to help a person think about what was read.I like quotes, and many of the quotes were not only useful but well written.A person does not have to be a Quaker to like this book.

Simply Quotable
Whitmire has assembled thoughtful quotes from generations of Quakers whose vision has helped shape the community of Friends.I found this book extremely informative for those who might be attempting to simplify a busy, stressed-filled life, and find a different way.It could be used effectively as a personal devotion resource or for group conversation.Very helpful in helping discern the difference between needs and wants, between things that you choose and things that have chosen you.A great place to start to rid your life of the stuff that weighs you down, both physically, mentally and spiritually.- Rev. Susan Langhauser

Wonderful reminder
As one who grew up in the Quaker tradition, it was wonderful to reconnect with my roots in such an accessible way. While packed with food for thought, this book on simplicity exemplifies its subject by paring down the text into short, representative quotations to get your own thinking started. It reminds me of poetry.

As a book that can be read/used over and over, I bought a copy for my daughter and my siblings as well, and I hope it will be a source of inspiration (as well as understanding of our upbringing) for them as well.

Next time I read it, I'll try to take time to ponder some of the "queries" at the end of each chapter. This is also in the manner of "Friends," in terms of truthfully asessing where we stand and where we have room for growth.

Health food for life's journey
This book is a welcome gift for anyone looking for spiritual and moral renewal.It is a library of wise quotes from the Quaker tradition that lead the reader to find peace and inner cleansing.I have read it three times, in short, quiet doses, and will return again for more.More substantial than shelves of self-help books, less strident than relentlessly positive cheerleading, it quietly takes you to places where you can have rewarding "aha!" moments and grow within.

Quote Book
This book is a compliation of quotes that express Quaker ideas.The author lists these quotes, by topic, in separate chapters.There is no unifying prose within this book.I was disappointed because I was expecting the kind of book you can sit back and read.This is JUST and bunch of quotations.If I had wanted a reference book to pull quotations from I'd bought a 'book of quotations. ... Read more

Book Description
This book shows how the Quakers shaped the basic distinctive features of American life from the days of the founders and the colonies through the revolution and up to the civil rights movement. It also points out how Quaker values like freedom, equality, straightforwardness, and spirituality can be seen in modern day peace advocates. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

If you destroy the bill of rights---
If you destroy the Bill of Rights in American Constitution,United Nations
lose its foundation of 1948, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights,and will be lost soon. Then,what will happen
to the Earth or Humanity? I love Quakers.We,Japanese,have Pacifist Constitution.

Disappointing
Like many Americans, most of what I knew about the Quakers until a few years ago was related to their pacifism and emphasis on good works.I lumped them together with groups like the Mennonites, Bretheren, Shakers, and even the Amish, without much knowledge of the theological differences between them.After lapsing from the Presbyterian upbringing, I found a new and natural home with the Quakers about two years ago.As a "convinced" Friend, I'm still learning about the historical tradition of the Quakers in America, so this book seemed promising at first glance.

I finished reading it today, and I have to say that it was a major disappointment.Unlike Howard Brinton's rewarding and very thorough "Friends for 350 Years," or even the somewhat dry "Silence and Witness," this book appears to primarily be a disorganized mixture of the author's impressions of the faith.After coming to sweeping, and often inaccurate, generalizations about Quakers, the author attempts to draw connections to core American values.

There are many flaws with his approach.First, his observations are clearly personal and not based on a particularly careful reading of historical documents or sources.As a rule of thumb, if he, his wife, and their clerk of meeting think something, the author then assigns it to all Quakers.There is a bibliography, but the author's understanding of historical documentation is very limited, and his "expertise" is primarily backed up by reference to having been invited to give lectures at various places.

Second, the author has a strangely static understanding of core American values. Misunderstanding colonial America, he idealizes Pennsylvania under the Quakers, and then directly ties tolerance today to tolerance in that colony, as if the civil rights movement, immigration, and other social movements have had no place in history.I respect early Quakers as much as anyone, and can only hope to live up to examples like Woolman as a new Quaker myself, but Yount's account is simply fantasy.

Third, even if he was making better supportive arguments, it would still be difficult to follow the author's main theme through the book.Over and over, the writing turns into strings of only loosely related sentences.It is choppy and unpleasant to read, and in several instances, two sequential sentences directly contradict each other. Even when he tries to sum up an earlier book by referring to ten points about living in the moment, at least two of the points are logically inconsistent with each other.As if trying to reach a page quota, he also quotes excessively in several chapters.

I could go on, but there's not much of a point.I suggest Brinton's book, or others with multiple strong ratings on Amazon.This one isn't a good choice.

Lots to Learn in just 144 Pages
I heard the start of a radio interview with the author.I picked up and then quickly lost the signal from a North Carolina NPR station, but the topic prompted me to order the book.If you are a non-Quaker and you have attended a Quaker school even just for a couple of years, this book can help you understand how Quakers may have influenced your way of thinking.The book also provides a good amount of historical context along with explanations of aspects of the faith and practice like regional differences. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A wider audience can now appreciate these lively vignettes of early crime.
Collections strong in regional American history - particularly New England regional history - will want to add THE NAKED QUAKER: TRUE CRIMES AND CONTROVERSIES FROM THE COURTS OF COLONIAL NEW ENGLAND to the collection. It comes from a historian and former trial lawyer who uses court records to provide over twenty true stories previously published in his column for New England Ancestors journal. A wider audience can now appreciate these lively vignettes of early crime.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Naked Quaker reveals history
Whoever still thinks history is boring probably hasn't been paying attention - and certainly hasn't read Diane Rapaport's The Naked Quaker: True Crimes and Controversies from the Courts of Colonial New England (Commonwealth Editions).
Since human history is largely a by-product of human nature, court dockets are bound to be filled with intriguing goings-on in any era.

In this collection we encounter community leaders like Thomas Danforth dealing with neighborhood squabbles (that could escalate to witchcraft charges); neighbors from Hell(like Bacon the pig thief); and humble folk who might otherwise never have been recorded at all (like enslaved Sylvanus Warro fighting for his freedom).

Endnotes provide the scholarly basis for the tales which cast an uncommon light on a frequently stereotyped part of our nation's past. The stories themselves provide a darned good read.

Marilynne K. Roach author of The Salem Witch Trials: a Day-by-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege
The Salem Witch Trials: A Day-by-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege

The seventeenth century -- ready for prime time
Who'd imagine that a little book about court cases in seventeenth century New England could be so completely enchanting?Yes, this little volume is the product of historical research.Diane Rapaport, a trial lawyer-turned-storyteller, combed through paper archives, microfilm, and other archival sources to collect these real-life tales. Her magic touch turns them into a quirky, irresistible read.

Rapaport's twenty-five tales are grouped by subject, and you won't know which chapter to turn to first, since part of the fun is in her titles.Chapter 1, Witches and Wild Women, gives us "The Witch at the Top of the Stairs" -- a bad-neighbor situation that blew out of proportion and ended up in court.Chapter 2, Coupling, includes "The Scottish Rogue" and "The Wandering Wife" -- two sleazy tales that would fit right into prime time if you put them in modern dress.

Other stories you'll read with relish are "The Purloined Pigs" (in which the aptly named Michael Bacon lets his hogs run wild); "To Drive Away Melancholy" (a young couple fall afoul of the law by hosting sinful card games in their remote cabin); and "Drinking With The Drummer" (the town drummer tops up his four-pound salary with bootlegging).

The title story, "The Naked Quaker," leads with the details of Lydia Wardell's 1663 protest in Newbury, Massachusetts.Lydia and the rest of the Massachusetts Quakers were persecuted and penalized, and sometimes banished or even executed.Attendance at the Puritan Sabbath services was mandatory, and Lydia chose to protest by taking off her clothes.This form of protest, according to the author, was "popular among dissenting Quakers ... in 1650's England, as a way to symbolize the spiritual nakedness of their persecutors."Lydia "was ordered to be severely whipped" and soon after this punishment she and her husband relocated to the more tolerant New Jersey wilderness.

For all its entertainment value, this book is a serious piece of historical research that provides a wealth of insight into the past.It's our good luck that Diane Rapaport has the talent to create such a readable little book out of it all. Highly recommended!

... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

I could not set this book down.
This was a great book. Besides all else mentioned already,it reads like a story. No theoretical arabesques, just nitty gritty factual details so you can see connectednesses for yourself. Baltzell's very factual illustrations of idealisms' realities and human tensions towards cultishness versus civic participation serve as a useful lense and compass to me ever since reading this book. I recommend it whenever I can, particularly to someone who, like me, may at one time, be shocked by a human experience or contrast and want to ask why. I'd recommend it to any one ever involved in a cult. Its readability is comforting and enthralling, and it is deeply seated in a sense of the continuity of history and human nature. I found it a healing book. I'm sorry Mr. Baltzell is no longer alive so I can thank him. Read every crumb of this book. Its thick, but allot the time.

Fascinating study of social leadership in America
Digby Baltzell uses the history of Philadelphia and Boston as very real examples of two types of leadership.In Boston, the "BostonBrahmin" elites formed a strong upper class that was not tolerant,certainly, but took responsibility for community life and exercised atremendous influence on American culture, politics, arts, and science. InPhiladelphia, the "Proper Philadelphians" were charming,tolerant--and deeply irresponsible, abandoning any role in governing thecity and making it by common agreement the worst run city in the UnitedStates. When Philadelphia needed a mover and shaker, it imported some onefrom outside, like Ben Franklin.

Baltzell takes these difference back tothe colonial period and the dramatic differences in the viewpoints of thePuritans who founded Boston and the Quakers who founded Philadelphia. Healso sees these changes working forward as the old upper-class socializeimmigrant elites into their respective patterns, producing the Kennedy clanout of Boston, and Grace Kelly out of Philadelphia.Many of the pointshere can also be seen in David Hackett Fischer's Albion'sSeed.

Baltzell's bedrock conviction is that every society needs an upperclass and is going to get one whether it likes it or not (the history ofrevolutions proves this rather conclusively).Those who see the very factof social stratification as an personal affront will of course getaffronted.The interesting point he makes though is that many thingsanti-elitists think are opposites actually go together.As he shows fromhis examples, social tolerance goes together with a much more blatantlymoney-conscious and just plain richer upper-class, and societies withwidespread hostility to "elites" also show deep cynicism abouttheir leadership and society in general, a cynicism merited by thegenerally short-sighted and narrowly (as opposed to broadly) selfishbehavior of the upper class.

Does this sound familiar?Baltzell's finalpoint is that in the wake of the sixties, which he compares to the Englishcivil war (1640-1660) environment that spawned the Quakers and released"a host of self-righteous seekers" on the land," Americanleadership has moved much closer to the nakedly plutocratic andirresponsible leadership model found in Philadelphia.And along with thischange in the upper class has grown egalitarianism, openness to immigrants,cynicism, leadership gridlock, and social tolerance. The irony of communalutopianism producing results exactly opposite of what was intended wouldnot have surprised de Tocqueville, Baltzell's great mentor insociology.

Don't think that this book is just about grand theory--it isfilled with a host of fascinating portratits of the two cities' upperclasses, and so contains a good deal of the achievers of America fromcolonial days to World War II. The simple quantitative analysis iseffective and not off-putting. ... Read more

Book Description

Known best for their long-standing commitment to social activism, pacifism, fair treatment for Native Americans, and equality for women, the Quakers have influenced American thought and society far out of proportion to their relatively small numbers. Whether in the foreign policy arena (the American Friends Service Committee), in education (the Friends schools), or in the arts (prominent Quakers profiled in this book include James Turrell, Bonnie Raitt, and James Michener), Quakers have left a lasting imprint on American life. This multifaceted book is a concise history of the Religious Society of Friends; an introduction to its beliefs and practices; and a vivid picture of the culture and controversies of the Friends today.

The book opens with lively vignettes of Conservative, Evangelical, Friends General Conference, and Friends United meetings that illuminate basic Quaker concepts and theology and reflect the group's diversity in the wake of the sectarian splintering of the nineteenth century. Yet the book also examines commonalities among American Friends that demonstrate a fundamental unity within the religion: their commitments to worship, the ministry of all believers, decision making based on seeking spiritual consensus rather than voting, a simple lifestyle, and education. Thomas Hamm shows that Quaker culture encompasses a rich tradition of practice even as believers continue to debate a number of central questions: Is Quakerism necessarily Christian? Where should religious authority reside? Is the self sacred? How does one transmit faith to children? How do gender and sexuality shape religious belief and behavior? Hamm's analysis of these debates reveals a vital religion that prizes both unity and diversity.

Customer Reviews (3)

Learn About Your Neighbors!
It is important to realize that The Quakers in America by Tom Hamm is part of a series on religions in America, and isn't about all Quakers everywhere.It can be easy for non-Quakers in the U.S. to assume that it is a predominantly American religion.However, this is not the case, and therefore to get a true understanding of who Quakers are, it would be more prudent to read something from outside this series.Therefore, considering the confines of the topic, Hamm commendably realizes the necessity of starting the history with the beginning, even though the founder of Quakerism, George Fox, was an British.

In fact, Hamm does a thorough job of exploring everything a person would want to know about American Quakers.He takes special care to explore the diversity of the sects and divisions among Quakers based on differing beliefs and practices.He explains these tendencies both currently and throughout American history.Also in American history, Hamm explores the various ways Quakers both were influential and were influenced.The Quakers were heavily involved in the history of Pennsylvania, in abolitionism, in women's movements, and several key figures in American history were Quakers, such as Alice Paul, Herbert Hoover and Richard Nixon.

Most of the book, however, focuses not on Quakers in the spotlight, but on the lives of more typical Quakers.In this way, Hamm invites the reader into the world of being Quaker in America.He has essentially created a guidebook for what one will find upon voyaging into the meetinghouses and listening to discussions of the internal politics or participating in the practices.

Essentially, what this book is perfect for is finding out more about the pacifist users of consensus who value silence, who may or may not be Christian, who believe that God speaks through everyone, and are your neighbors.

a book about diversity
In his book, The Quakers in America, Thomas Hamm attempts to balance unity with diversity, a task as daunting in the writing of a book as in the actual practice of Quakerism. Hamm sets out to write a "scholarly work that trie[s] to describe and explain contemporary American Quakerism in its considerable diversity" (Hamm, vii). His challenge lay in expressing the incredible diversity of a group that is commonly collected and understood (at least from the outside) under a single term. Hamm approaches American Quakerism as a single "it" that can be both described and explained, but he constantly opposes the concept of a "typical" Friend. Hamm writes a detailed and sufficiently objective account of Quakerism in America, orchestrating a careful counterpoint between commonality and divergence in past and present manifestations of American Quakerism.
Although the book focuses on Quakerism as it is today, Hamm believes that any understanding of contemporary Friends necessitates an overview of the movement's history. He dedicates two chapters to the development of Quakerism, from its roots in England in the 1640's through its many divisions after 1800. His history devotes many pages to the Pennsylvania colony.Hamm's discussions of Quaker governmental roles in Pennsylvania provide a precedent for future examinations of the ways in which Friends deal with government and the peace testimony.The history also establishes the origins of certain characteristic practices such as quietism.Hamm examines the divisions that led to the diversity of Quaker groups now in existence.
The Quakers in America is a catalogue of Quaker beliefs, practices, and institutions.No group is missing from Hamm's exhaustively researched work. The chapter entitled "Quaker Faiths and Practices" focuses on the diversity of Quakerism. He details, among other beliefs and practices, worship style of both pastoral Friends and unprogrammed Friends. Following this chapter is a discussion of contemporary Quaker debates. Hamm treats the varying convictions held by contemporary Quakers about such controversial issues as sexuality and leadership. Hamm also examines the question: "how have some Quakers concluded that [Quakerism] is not necessarily Christian?" (Hamm, 122) Those Friends who argue that it is not comprise a relatively small portion of the whole, but Hamm, after the style of consensus seeking, grants them various pages.
Thomas Hamm's main arguments are compounded by the topics he chooses for his introductory chapter and his afterword. His book begins with a tour of four different congregations bearing few similarities to one another.He then asserts that they are all Quaker.He writes: "neat categories for these Friends are difficult to create, and labels can be confusing" (Hamm, 9). Hamm ends his book with a list of "important" Quakers.He writes that they "are not intended as a listing of the fifteen best known Quakers in American history...None can be considered a `typical American Friend.' As a group, they exemplify the diversity of American Quakerism, past and present" (Hamm, 203). Thus, Hamm may be attempting above all to portray Quakerism in a way that does justice to all its diversity, while maintaining a degree of unity and perhaps looking towards future reconciliation.
The strongest areas of The Quakers in America are, ironically, some of the weaker areas also.Hamm's emphasis on diversity provides an extremely wide base of understanding for the newcomer to Quakerism.It may also broaden the knowledge of those more familiar with only some groups of Friends. Hamm dispels stereotypes by showing the great and often unrecognized variety within Quakerism.However, Hamm's attention to diversity sometimes leaves the reader wondering if there is anything that can unite American Friends.Some paragraphs feel like a series of switchbacks and conceptual hairpin turns as Hamm is cautious of absolutes and careful to show how divergent Quaker ideologies compare to one another.
Hamm is a historian. As such, the book is filled to the brim with specifics: names, dates, and acronyms.Hamm has based his book upon an amazing degree of research.The wealth of information allows Hamm's book to be used as a reference if needed.The information feels very reliable, and Hamm is successfully objective.Readers who do not familiarize themselves with Hamm's background may have a hard time guessing his personal perspectives. Hamm's attention to detail requires a close reading, and the book may not give up all its treasures even after a couple readings.
While Hamm's book is quite readable for Quakers and non-Quakers alike, it does merit a fairly close reading, as it is replete with Quaker acronyms, Quaker terminology, names and dates. The Quakers in America provides an incredible amount of well-documented information; it is not a fast read.However, for those who desire to learn something of Quakerism, Hamm's book allows one to take from the reading what they will. The Quakers in America is an effective portrayal of the diversity within Quakerism.

Too Much for a Beginner
The Quakers in America, by Thomas Hamm, gives a detailed look at the current state of affairs of Quakers in the United States. The book gives a brief history of the Quaker tradition, then goes on to touch on a variety of topics relevant to Friends today, from the American Friends Service Committee to political tendencies to homosexuality, looking at the different viewpoints expressed by various groups of Friends. The focus is on the diversity of Quaker thought and tradition in America today, stressing the idea that Quakers cannot be lumped together under any single heading or even set of beliefs. The book is very representative of all different types of Friends and aspects of the Quaker tradition, but is too specific for someone who does not have a general understanding of Quakerism to benefit from.
The Quakers in America is too focused and does not provide enough background knowledge to be of much use to someone who does not already have a fundamental grasp of the Quaker tradition. The history of the religion is covered quickly, as are the basic tenets of Quakerism. The book gives only the briefest outline of the building blocks of Quakerism, and then launches in to a more analytical view of the different branches of Quakerism and how they differ. For a beginner who is looking for the general sense of the religion, the central ideas and what they mean, this book is very confusing. It goes into some detail on specific meetings and movements that don't have much meaning for someone who knows very little about Quakerism. For the more advanced reader, however, the specific information is sure to be interesting. The focus on not putting any single label on the entire group of Friends is helpful and provides a lot of food for thought on what the essence of the Quaker tradition is, what defines a Quaker, what beliefs are the most important to the religion, and what direction the religion is taking, as well as more pragmatic issues such as if and how to boost the population of Friends. A newcomer to the ideas of Quaker faith is going to want to look at it in a much broader and looser sense. The specific nature of the book makes it more attractive to those who have deeper background knowledge.
The range of topics covered in the book is both a blessing and a curse. It is good in that it provides a very comprehensive look at the religion, but also bad because on every topic there is so much difference of opinion that the overlying impression left after reading the book is more a sense of the divisiveness of the religion rather than specific knowledge about which branches of Quakers fall on which side of an issue. By covering so many different issues each one is given less attention and explained less thoroughly. Prominent issues such as leadership, identity, and sexuality are covered in only a few pages, which is not nearly enough to do them justice or even to completely explain why groups of Friends have different ideas on each issue. The result is that the reader is left with a jumbled sense of what he or she has just read, with the impression that it is so much diverse information condensed into such a small space that he or she has learned a little about a lot, but a lot about nothing. The good part about including so many topics is that it really drives home the idea that Quakers, in many ways more than other religions, cannot be simply defined and do not all agree on any single idea, even something as central to the tradition as the peace testimony. Reading about the differing viewpoints on each topic makes this idea very apparent.
The Quakers in America gives enough diversity of opinion on a wide range of issues to be interesting and informative for the slightly more advanced reader of Quaker texts, but is too focused on the more political side of the religion to be very useful for a beginner. Someone with no or very limited knowledge of what Quakerism means would come away from this book with a stronger impression of how divided Friends in America are, without getting a strong enough sense of the foundations and basics of the religion to really understand how or why these divisions came about and what they mean. For someone who is more grounded in the basic aspects of the faith, this focus on division, why it happens, what it means, and if and how to stop it, is much more interesting and really forces thought on these issues. Overall it is a well-researched, honest, and unbiased view of Quakers in America today that leaves the reader with much to think about, both about Quakerism and religion in general. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

good reading, but not complete
This is an excellent book, and I think anybody with a serious interest in Quakerism should find a copy. The early coverage is very good, and the excerpts from George Fox's journals are excellent; there is also a really stunning excerpt from the journal of a Quaker who visited John Brown.

I confess I am a little disappointed by the coverage of the 20th century, which is a little light, and does not, to me, fully address contemporary spiritual concerns from a Quaker perspective. In other words, West has done a wonderful job, but there is still a pressing need for a compilation of 20th century Quaker writing.

Great reading, but a very minor criticism...
I loved this book.However, I did notice that it seemed a bit light as regards the founders of the early Quaker movement.This is a very minor criticism though, and I happily award the book a 5 star rating.All in all, The Quaker Reader gives a wonderful view of Quakerism as it has developed through the centuries.I highly recommend it.

For those who (like me) are interested in the development of the early Quaker movement, I can heartily recommend Rosemary Moore's 'The Light in Their Consciences', which is an in-depth look at the early charismatic Quaker movement.

Quakerism 101
It isn't easy to find information telling you what Friends believe.Our history is traced primarily through the words of George Fox and John Woolman. Later, here in the US, there were splits dividing believers into liberal and conservative groups.

This book does a very good job of giving the reader an understanding of the Quaker faith by offering the reader essays and journal bits from William Penn (a well-known Pennsylvania Friend!) and others, both inside the faith and out.

For those interested in the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), those newly convinced, or for those who just like to read about the beginnings and progress of Quakers, The Quaker Reader is a basic for their library.

For other books about Quakers, be sure to read Robert L. Smith's A Quaker Book of Wisdom; and The Quakers by Jean Kinney Williams

A Rich and Artful Historical Overview
This book provides a fairly thorough history of the Quaker faith and its evolution over time. While some of the essays are by external observers, the book is mostly writings by Quakers, often in the form of journalexcerpts. Pithy and insightful commentary by the editor introduces eachwriter, the time in which they lived and the issues facing the ReligiousSociety of Friends during that era.

I loved this book.It led me to myfirst Quaker meeting and a faith that is right for me. However, even if youdo not find stories or concepts in this book that resonate with your ownexperience of God, it is worth reading. William Penn (who was a Quaker) andmany others less well-known played a far more significant role in thehistory of the United States than their numbers would suggest.

An Excellent Series of Essays on Quaker Theology and Conduct
This books contains a variety of short essays on Quaker theology and conduct.It also contains important excerpts from the Journal of George Fox.

The book specifically and fairly acknowledges the scarcity ofFriends' "theology" as an historical matter.However, this isamply supplanted by readings from the works of William Penn and others whowere in a position to speak about the conduct of the Quakers and theireffect on those around them.This 'third-person' perspective provides aunique insight into the lives of those known as the 'Quiet Rebels' in earlyAmerican history and provides for a stimulating and educational readingexperience.The editor should be credited with her fine selection ofQuaker readings.

In short, the book is an excellent survey of Quakerthoughts and actions throughout history.By the time one reaches the endof this book, the reader should find themselves in the rather enjoyableposition of feeling as though they know a 'Quaker'. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Generational Change
Silent Friends is a novel composed of short stories that detailsthe generational changes of a Quaker family in Iowa from 1877 to the 1960s.The changes that it focuses on are primarily cultural and religious in nature.The Quakers in the novel were part of a very small conservative sect of the religion that existed primarily in the midwest.They attempted to hold on to the older ways of the religion, dressing like the Amish, using a distinctive language that subsituted <> and <> for <> and <>, and worshiping in silence without the aid of a paid minister.As the years wore on these traditions came under fire from younger members of the religion, and gradually, the religion was transformed.This novel does an excellent job of showing how these traditions eroded.At the same time, the book focuses on the personal struggle of what it means to be part of a family, and the difficulty of finding one's place there.Unfortunately, some of the characters are not completely developed - it is difficult to do so in only 110 pages.However, several characters, particularly the mentally-ill Uncle Abner have a great deal of depth.The book was a great read, and it should be of particular interest to Quakers and residents of Iowa. ... Read more

Book Description

One nineteenth-century commentator noted the public character of Quaker women as signalling a new era in female history. This study examines such claims through the story of middle-class women Friends from among the kinship circle created by the marriage in 1839 of Elizabeth Priestman and the future radical Quaker statesman, John Bright.

The lives discussed here cover a period from the late eighteenth to the early twentieth centuries, and include several women Friends active in radical politics and the womens movement, in the service of which they were able to mobilise extensive national and international networks. They also created and preserved a substantial archive of private papers, comprising letters and diaries full of humour and darkness, the spiritual and the mundane, family confidences and public debate, the daily round and affairs of state.

The discovery of such a collection makes it possible to examine the relationship between the personal and public lives of these women Friends, explored through a number of topics including the nature of Quaker domestic and church cultures; the significance of kinship and church membership for the building of extensive Quaker networks; the relationship between Quaker religious values and womens participation in civil society and radical politics and the womens rights movement. There are also fresh perspectives on the political career of John Bright, provided by his fond but frank women kin.

This new study is a must read for all those interested in the history of women, religion and politics.