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Title: Somewhere to Belong

Subtitle: Daughters of Amana, Book 1

Author: Judith Miller

Narrator: Stina Nielsen

Format: Unabridged

Length: 10 hrs and 36 mins

Language: English

Release date: 04-19-11

Publisher: Recorded Books

Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 12 votes

Genres: Fiction, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Critically acclaimed author Judith Miller enthralls millions with her CBA best-selling historical novels. Its 1877, and Johanna Ilg has lived her entire life in Main Amana, Iowaone of seven villages inhabited by devout Christians who believe in a simple, cooperative life of service to God. But when she discovers a troubling secret, the world she thought she knew is shattered.

Critic Reviews:

A quietly compelling tale of faith and friendship. (

Booklist)

Members Reviews:

Life decisions

Johanna has lived in Amana, a Mennonite commune, all of her life. Life is totally structured and Johanna is content with her life. Berta moves into Amana and Johanna is assigned to help her adjust to life in Amana. The problem is that Berta has lived a pampered, wealthy life in Chicago and rebels against almost every rule in the community. Johanna is finally allowed to realize her dream and allowed to visit her brother and sister-in-law in Chicago. While visiting, Johanna discovers a life changing secret that has been kept from her for her entire life. Does she want to remain in Amana now or live in Chicago? Berta runs away from home after finding out a secret about her father. She, too must make the decision of returning to live with her parents in Amana or go to a finishing school. Both girls must decide if the secrets they discover are enough to drive them from Amana and their families.

Somewhere To Belong by Judith Miller

Growing up I had the privilege to travel with my parents and siblings. We saw quite a bit of the United States over the years. One place that we stopped to see was the Amana Colonies in Iowa. I was twelve years old at the time and the history didn't impact me. I remember my dad was extremely excited to visit the building where appliances where being made. I love bakeries and to this day that's all I really remember about Amana Colonies is the wonderful smell. When I had the chance to read this book by Judith Miller I was excited because I had a memory to go with her story. To my knowledge this is the first fiction book to be written about the Amana Colonies. I didn't realize they were a group who lived, worked and worshipped together, somewhat like the Amish but more communal. I enjoyed getting entangled in the lives of Johanna and Berta. Both longing for so much more and yet both girls are so alike. There's a secret that is revealed and affects the decisions Johanna will make. This is the story of a journey of two girls from two different worlds that come together in one common place. I do hope that there is a Book 2! This is a wonderful 5 star historical read!

* I reviewed this book for Bethany House Publishers*

A quaint, sweet story of learning and belonging

The German communities in Amanan, Iowa in the 1800's is the scene of this story. One girl who has been raised there but would love to see Chicago,and a younger girl who does not want to be there at all. Secrets, half-truths, and lies cause anguish. A good ending. Will read more by this author.

Love Christian fiction, but this is just okay

I'm a big fan of Christian fiction, especially fact-based Christian fiction, such as that based on Mennonite life or Amish life.