Questions for Discussion
- Were you surprised to learn that Amish youth participate in wild parties?
- Was Gideon wrong to keep his identity a secret from Rebecca when they met at the auction? Did you understand his motivation? Why do you feel he was right or wrong?
- Do you have a past guilt that weighs on your heart? How does that affect your relationship with your family? With God?
- Rebecca suffered a debilitating and life-changing event when she lost her sight. Do you know someone who is sight-impaired? What is their attitude toward their disability?
- Did you learn anything new about the Amish in this story?
- What character did you identify with in this story and why?
- Do you believe your community would come together to help a member who lost a business the way the people of Hope Springs gathered around Reuben Beachy when his shop caught fire? Why?
- The Amish are depicted as leading simple lives. Do you believe this is true or is it merely that it appears that way to outsiders?
- What part of the story would you like to have changed and why?
- The practice of shunning is one we find hard to understand. Do you believe it can be helpful for wayward family members or is it a cruel form of punishment?
- Many people feel Christmas is too commercial. What part of our Christmas traditions would you like to see changed?
- Gideon gave up flying to return to his faith. What sacrifices have you seen people make in order to become closer to God?
- Several people have said the Amish seem adept at getting around the restrictions placed on them by their faith, such as hiring drivers instead of owning a car. What do you think of their ability to “bend” the rules? Do you think it diminishes their faith?
- If you could travel only by horse and buggy, how would that change your life?
- The Amish clearly face the same challenges and trials that we face. What do you think makes them so strong?