Ira Wagler on Growing Up Amish: 6-book giveaway
Today, an interview with Ira Wagler on his new memoir, Growing Up Amish.
Ira was born in the Aylmer, Ontario Amish community and grew up in Bloomfield, Iowa.
During his youth and young adulthood he spent time on a Nebraska cattle ranch, Canadian wheat fields, and in Amish communities across the country.
Ira struggled with life as an Amish person before finally leaving for good in his mid-20s. Ira is a friend of mine and has a true gift for writing; the book is a page-turner.
We’ve also got a 6-book giveaway courtesy of the good folks at Ira’s publisher, Tyndale.
Growing up Amish 6-book giveaway
There are three ways to enter the Growing Up Amish giveaway contest:
1) leave a comment on this post=1 chance to win
2) share this contest on Facebook=2 chances to win
3) mention this contest on your blog=3 chances to win
So do all three, and you’ll have 6 chances to win Ira’s book. If you share on Facebook or your blog, drop me a quick email at amishamerica(at)gmail.com letting know you did.
The contest runs for one week. One stipulation: books can only be shipped to US or Canadian addresses.
The six winners will be chosen at random and announced here next Thursday, July 21.
Ira Wagler interview
Amish America: You’re quite blunt in telling your story, both about yourself, and those around you—family, community, church leaders (i.e., the “mad Bishop of Ligonier”, who, unlike most in the book, remains anonymous). How have people responded?
Ira Wagler: Mostly, the response has been from my siblings, so far. And it’s been amazingly supportive. A bit of friction from one or two, but nothing that will estrange us, I think. All of them spoke of the searing trauma of going back and “reliving” those days with me. Of course, they were all on the sidelines, but they were there. Overall, I’ve been surprised and humbled by their reactions.
You’ve spent time everywhere from your birth community of Aylmer to Bloomfield where you grew up, to Pinecraft in Florida to Indiana. Now you live in Lancaster County. How did you end up there? And how is life in Lancaster compared to those other places?
Ira Wagler: Yeah, it is a bit strange. Somehow, even after leaving, I found myself lurking around the perimeters of a large Amish community like Lancaster. I first came in the spring of 1989, after a friend invited me out to work construction during the summer months. That was the year I started college. After that, I returned every summer and grew to love the place. I have considered Lancaster County my home since the early 1990s.
Lancaster has the gamut of them all, from the sternest hard core Amish to some of the most enlightened people I know. Some of my closest friends here are Old Order Amish. I stop by weekly at a couple of Amish homes, just to hang out drinking coffee, and to beg bread and food from the goodwife. It’s a beautiful thing, especially for a guy living alone who can’t cook or bake.
Growing Up Amish seems as much about your relationship with your family as it is about your struggle with being Amish. At one point in the book, you are excommunicated after leaving. What is your status now, and how are things with your family?
Ira Wagler: Today, I am not excommunicated from the Amish church, which would be unfathomable here in Lancaster County. But I left the Amish church in the very progressive area of Goshen, IN, where they are much more enlightened about such things.
I am close to all my siblings. Closer to some than others, of course. But when we get together, we are all genuinely glad to see each other and to hang out with each other. I can’t be thankful enough for that.
There was a time, not that long ago, when our current relationships with each other would have been impossible. But with the passing of time, as we all got older, we’ve recognized the important things in life. And that includes us, me and my siblings, accepting each other, despite our differences in lifestyles.
And what does your family think of your writing? Since your father David is one of the originals at Family Life, it seems the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree?
Ira Wagler: Yeah, I am my father’s son in that respect, for sure. My family always knew I “had it.” Had what it takes. But none probably expected me to actually make it to publication. They are all proud that at least one son followed in his father’s footsteps, if not in lifestyle, at least in writing.
In a pivotal section of your story, you describe your relationship with your girlfriend and eventual fiancee Sarah Miller. One gets the impression that an Amish first date has greater implications that an English one. By how you describe it, it almost seems asking for a first date is a pre-proposal.
But certainly not all Amish marry the first person they date? And how often do relationships end the way yours did?
Ira Wagler: Well, that varies a lot from community to community. In Bloomfield, where I lived at the time, a first date was of course not equated with marriage. But casual dating was also frowned upon, and not done much. So once a couple had that first date, that meant that the chances of them getting married were certainly greater than not getting married.
Some dating relationships fell through, here and there. That’s inevitable, in the normal course of life. But to proceed to the point we did, where we were engaged, then have that break off, that’s a bit rare in any Amish setting. Not unheard of, by any means. But rare.
Your buddies, the “gang of six”, figure prominently in the book. What is social life like for an Amish youth? And what’s become of the gang today?
Ira Wagler: Again, social life varies greatly from community to community. In Bloomfield, the “gang of six” forged its own way, as the settlement was so young, and there had been no wild youth before us.
Of the six, only one remains Amish. Mervin is a preacher today in Bloomfield. Of the remaining five, I guess two would retain some semblance of plainness. That leaves three of us who are completely “English.”
Throughout the book you are critical but also appreciative of Amish life. You’re clear, however, that it’s not for you (some of your final words in Growing Up Amish: “I would never dream of returning”).
But in your opinion what are those strong sides of Amish society?
Ira Wagler: I would boil it down to three things, although of course there are many other factors. Family. Faith. And work ethic.
I can’t stress enough the work ethic, because it affects all else. Amish children are taught to work from almost the time they can walk. Little simple chores. And they get more responsibility as they grow. They learn to work hard, earn their bread by the sweat of their brows, and know no other way.
That’s the primary thing society has lost, at least western society. Work. Pull your own weight. Expect nothing you haven’t earned. Help those who can’t work with your free will offerings. It’s a real shame that so much of that has been lost in the outside world.
And weak sides?
Ira Wagler: The stifling legalism so prevalent in some form in all Amish communities. The Amish use the bann and shunning, because absent that, the culture could not survive. It’s a survival mechanism that has emerged and solidified over the course of many generations. I don’t fault them for it, necessarily. It is what it is. But, over time, that survival mechanism has caused a lot of deep pain and trauma for a lot of people.
If you had somehow remained Amish, where would you be today?
Ira Wagler: Two possible scenarios. I would have believed in and held on to the Amish way in my heart, and would have risen to a position of influence and leadership (perhaps as my father did, by writing). Or I would have gone insane. Probably the latter, in all honesty.
And why aren’t you driving a horse-and-buggy today?
Ira Wagler: Hmm. Well, that’s a pretty open-ended question. For a detailed answer, I guess you’ll have to read the book.
What do you write about on your blog, and where do we find it?
Ira Wagler: My blog is my release valve. I write about anything and everything that happens to be on my mind. Or going on around me. Right now, I’m posting rather sporadically, what with my book coming out and all. You can always find me at www.irawagler.com
What is your next book going to be about?
Ira Wagler: So far there have been no discussions with anyone about the next book. Whether there is even a second book will depend on the sales of the first. That’s the market. And that’s life. I hope to be published again, of course. What writer wouldn’t? In the meantime, though, I will always post my musings on my blog.
Order Growing Up Amish at Amazon.
I would love a chance! This book is on my wishlist, can’t wait to read it.
Growing up Amish 6-book giveaway
I would love to win this book! Thanks for the opportunity!
Looking forward to reading Ira's book
After reading this interview I am more excited and anxious to look forward to reading it, free from the contest or not! So yes, please enter my name in the contest. I’ve also “share”d it on my Facebook. I wondered if this book has a e-book version. I can only read from my nook due to my deteriorating eyesight.
I would love to win a copy of this book. My dad was from the Kalona area. I believe I met Ira once, out in Oregon, maybe in 1987? We were a group of prank-playing school kids, and were so mean to our teacher, who was so kind to us in return.
the book
Just discovered this site and yes would love to win the book. May even decide to mention it on my blog and my twitter account.
2 thumbs up for this writer
I’ve enjoyed Ira’s blog for several years – he has a real talent for storytelling. “Calling Amos” is a wonderfully written and touching post on his blog, and I highly recommend reading that one in particular.
Wow, I’d love to have a copy of the book, and I’ll check the blog soon! ~~mm
Fascinated by varied views on Amish living
As a reader of many books on Amish living and a visitor of the
Lancaster area for the past 30 years I would love to win and read
this account. Good luck to Ira!!!!!!
Book Giveaway
Hi, I would love to be entered in your book contest! I can’t wait to read it, sounds very interesting!
Thanks,
Michelle
Ira Wagler Book
I’ve enjoyed reading Ira Wagler’s blog for quite some time before his book was published ( has to be exciting! ) and Id like to enter the contest to win a copy of his book, please? Thank you!
Hope this isn't a repeat!
Id enjoyed reading Ira Wagler’s blog for a long time, and remember being excited for him when he first found out he was offered a publishing deal for a book about his life! Had to be so exciting for him. Id love to enter to win a copy of Mr Wagler’s book, please! My email is elliefoster7@gmail.com ….. If I accidentally posted before this (Im on a phone – not even a smartphone *grin* – trying to work the comment form), please ignore if it shows my email as an AOL address – thank you, and thank you for the neat contest!
Amish
This looks like a great book.
Ann
Here's my entry
Thanks for running this blog and letting us know of so many great books about the Plain life.
Enter me, please
The book sounds intersting, particularly if it is well rounded and sees the value of a plain lifestyle along with its limitations. I have read a number of editorials and books by his father David and appreciated them very much. As a current Goshen, Indiana resident, I can vouch for the greater openness of some of the local Amish.
book
I would enjoy reading this book, it looks very interesting. Please enter my name in the drawing.
Would love my own copy
A friend lent me this book, (which is excellent, by the way) but I would love to have a copy of my own. Thank you.
Would love to read!
Please enter my name in this drawing. I’ve always found the Amish culture to be quite interesting.
I would love to win this book….thanks
Very interesting. Amust read!
Very Interesting Read
I’ve always managed to read everything I could get my hands on regarding the Amish. It is a very interesting culture/religion to me. Their handwork, whether it is woodwork or quilting has always amazed me, they put such love and care into it. I am very interested in what I’ve read so far, I can’t wait to read some more!
I am very intrigued by the Amish lifestyle. Would love to win and read this book, especially since it is written by a ‘former’ Amish man.
Thank you, Erik, in advance, for entering my name in your book giveaway.
I would love to read this fascinating book!
Shared on Facebook.
Sounds like a fascinating book!
This book sounds amazing! I enjoyed reading the article also, the interview. I really liked Ira’s point-of-view regarding the Amish peoples’ work ethic and that today’s culture doesn’t really have that same idea of what work ethic is. Of all the Amish-related books I’ve read, their work ethic is always strong and first and foremost in their lives.
Interesting Life
Mr. Wagner has lived a very unique life.
A good read
I picked this book up Sunday to read on a trip I am taking next week. Guess I need to pick something else up instead; almost finished it already. Very good reading, gifted author.
Oh yeah! I’ll enter! If I win, I’ll give it away as a gift, BECAUSE I already have a copy! I loved it! 🙂
WIN WIN WIN
That was a great interview. Thanks for sharing
Blessings
Would love it
I would love to win one of these books. It is one my wishlist, and would be such a blessing to get it. Thanks for the opportunity.
Would love to win this book. Thanks for the chance.
Would love to win a copy....
My father grew up Amish, but didn’t really talk that much about it. He died at age 56, before I realized I would have liked to ask him more about it. If I don’t win a copy, guess I’ll have to order one….. it sounds fascinating. PS My Dad’s parents were Ira’s friend Ed Yoder’s great-grandparents.
Would love to win a copy of this.
Growing up Amish Ira Wagler
Thanks for the opportunity to win the books….I would love to share them with my grandchildren…after I read them of course!
Growing up Amish Ira Wagler
Thanks for the opportunity to win one of the books….I would love to share with my grandchildren…after I read it, of course!
I would love to win a copy of this book! Thanks for having the give-away!
Vicki
Love the Amish !!!!!!
I’ve always been intrigued by the Amish people. Next weekend I’m visiting Berlin,Ohio where they have the biggest Amish population. This will be my second trip there. It’s so peaceful ,like stepping back in time. I love it. I also read every Amish book I can find,so I’d love to read yours. Good luck with the book!!!
Growing up amish
Hello all. I have been quietly reading here for a few months. Find the Amish fiction a great read even knowing the books don’t always paint a realistic picture. Am also making my way through some off the nonfiction too, just to be sure I also see a bit of realism too. Very disappointed in how few Amish fiction and nonfiction are available for downloading on my iPad.
Anyway I would like to be entered in the contest for a copy of Ira Wagler’s Growing Up Amish.
Thanks
Cat
Love the Amish Life
It would be awesome to win a book about the Amish life . I read everything I can get at the library about the Amish life.
Excited.
One way or another, I’m excited to read these!
Living in two worlds
Having made friends with women at a local Hutterite colony, I had the privilege of being a guest in their homes and the opportunity to ask questions about their lives. As in all cultures or societies, much of what happens internally can be directly linked to the leadership. It was difficult for some of the younger women who yearned for a better education and knew their opportunities were very limited. Staying put at least meant that their futures were somewhat secure…until the day they married and moved away or the colony split because it had grown too large. Fate came in the form of drawing lots to see who stayed and who moved.
Also had the pleasure of spending time in Lancaster, PA. I was impressed with the beauty and orderliness of the area. It is a true blend of cultures…and not without its problems.
The parallels between the two groups are striking. For both, the sense of community binds them and is stifling at the same time.
I look forward to reading your book!
pop psychology
I haven’t read your book, but I know commenter Elam Zook very well and can tell you that he is not a bitter man. He is quite fun to be around. You shouldn’t pass judgement on a person you’ve never met and therefore don’t really know.
love the amish books
i think this book should be a bestseller it looks like a good book i love to read it,ecspecially about the differences between the cultures.
looking forward to reading Ira's book
I am not asking to be entered into the contest for 2 reasons:
1. I won the last one! I just received the book from John Gingerich and he signed it for me too! Thank you!
2. I have already purchased Ira Wagler’s book. I have not read it yet, but I’m definitely looking forward to it!
Thanks!
Too Late for Contest
Ira,
A few moments ago I finished reading an article in the Des Moines Register about your new book. I’m really excited to acquire a copy and wonder when it will be available in bookstores.
My husband and I live in Davis County and know many Amish families. We owned and operated a hardware store in Bloomfield for many years and got to know many Amish familes quite well.
I know I’m too late for the contest, but wanted you to know I’m very much interested in purchasing the book.
Beth Pottorff! You had the Coast to Coast store on the north side of the square. I remember your husband Ron well. I bought my first shotgun from him in 1976, shortly after we moved to Bloomfield. I was 15 years old, and just walked in and bought it. It was a used Remington semi-auto with a 30″ barrel. Me and that gun had a lot of good times together 🙂
I just bought the book on my Kindle! I can’t wait to read it.
I missed it 8/
I can’t believe I missed a chance at a giveway. I saw an interview with the author (or read a review or something)and had written down the title to check it out. I was thrilled that I could check it out of my local library and placed a hold. When I got it and started to read it, I quickly realized I had the wrong “Growing Up Amish”. I will still read the one from the library but am a bit bummed that I will have to wait until I have funds to buy a copy of this book, the one I wanted. At least I found it. Next time, I will try to remember to write down the author and not just the title… sigh.
Dear Ira,
I have read your book and it is wonderful. I have read alot of amish books, from Beth Wiseman, Amy Clapston/ erry Elchler, ect. But this was so good and alot of informaation. I was so glad that you found peace with God and learned that he is always with you, we may not know he is there but he is. God Bless you.
i just found this site an would love this book
Ira Wagler on Growing Up Amish
I would love to win a copy of Ira Wagler’s book ” Growing Up Amish”…it sounds so interesting….and i just found this site by researching on the internet about the Amish…..babyruthmac16@yahoo.com
Growing Up Amish Book
Dear Ira, I just read your book and found it very interesting. One thing I wanted to ask you, do the Amish think non-amish people will go to hell when they die? There IS no Amish heaven….there is one heaven with people from all walks of life. Have you written any other books or do you plan to?
Respectfully,
Teresa