“I Am Hutterite” by Mary-Ann Kirby

“I am Hutterite: The Fascinating True Story of a Young Woman’s Journey to Reclaim Her Heritage” provides a personal window into this little known ethnic group.

While the author shares some of the challenges that come with living in such a community, she also shares the supportive nature, nurturing environment, and her appreciation for the rhythm and joy of everyday life within the Hutterite community.

Mary-Ann Kirby is 10 when her parents make the difficult decision to leave their colony.   Her book documents her childhood culture and the painful transition her family must undergo, as they struggle to understand and adapt to a new language and the culture in which they find themselves, while also dealing with a lack of acceptance from many people in their new world.

The book provides good insight into the challenges faced by those who leave their community to become part of another.