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What others are saying, 'Separate From the World'
Saturday, March 7, 2009
A sampling of reviews for P.L. Gaus' novel "Separate From the World":
DAVID L. NEUHOUSER, THE ENGLEWOOD REVIEW OF BOOKS: The author shows real understanding of Amish culture and also of the culture of academe. And, although he is sympathetic with both worlds, he shows the darker sides of each as well. In the academic world, we read about student cheating, partying and studying; faculty and student protests against war and the police: and the pressures of presidential fund raising. Town/gown problems are evident here as well. Amish beliefs and culture are portrayed sympathetically but the "English," as the Amish refer to outsiders, are frustrated and sometimes angered by the non-resistance of the Amish. When asked if they are not going to do anything to protect themselves, they answer that they are praying. The Amish show patience and peace throughout their troubles. They believe that suffering is God's will for them and that they will grow through the process.
BARBARA BIBEL, BOOKLIST: The latest in this too-little-known series again combines a fascinating, realistic look at an Amish community in Ohio with a gently satiric take on academic life.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: While Gaus may not be an elegant stylist, a convincing plot and credible, sympathetic characters make another winner in this fine regional series. (starred review)
THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW: With each new mystery, P. L. Gaus treats us to yet another view of life among the Old Order Amish in Wayne County, Ohio. But Separate from the World feels darker than some of his previous books.... (H)e has great admiration for the Amish themselves, writing with quiet gravity about aspects of their lives rarely shown to strangers.
Courtesy of Batavia Newspapers Corporation