Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of faith and forgiveness against the rustic charm of Amish life—meet Jolina Petersheim! With bestsellers like The Outcast and The Midwife, this master of inspirational fiction has captivated readers by blending heartfelt narratives with the complexities of traditional communities. Her unique Amish and Mennonite heritage fuels stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
The Making of Jolina Petersheim
Born into a family with deep Amish and Mennonite roots in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Jolina Petersheim grew up immersed in the 'Plain' culture she now vividly portrays. Her father’s Mennonite upbringing and her mother’s Brethren background sparked a love for storytelling, nurtured by classics like Anne of Green Gables. After earning degrees in English and Communication Arts from the University of the Cumberlands, Jolina’s writing journey began with a serendipitous meeting with her agent, sparked by their shared heritage. This led to her debut novel, a bold reimagining of a literary classic.
Jolina Petersheim’s Unforgettable Stories
Jolina’s novels stand out in Amish fiction for their lyrical prose and unflinching exploration of moral dilemmas. Her debut, The Outcast (2013), a modern retelling of The Scarlet Letter, follows Rachel Stoltzfus, a shunned Mennonite woman grappling with secrets in a cloistered community. Critics praised its fresh take, with Library Journal naming it one of 2013’s best books. The Midwife (2014) dives into the ethical complexities of surrogacy, weaving a tale of hope and redemption that’s hard to put down.
Her Alliance series, including The Alliance (2016) and The Divide (2017), ventures into dystopian territory, showcasing her versatility. These novels explore faith and survival in a world unraveling, earning accolades like the 2018 INSPY Award for Speculative Fiction. How the Light Gets In (2019), a poignant retelling of the Book of Ruth, captures grief and healing in a Wisconsin cranberry bog, cementing Jolina’s knack for blending timeless biblical themes with modern struggles.
Jolina’s style is a delicate balance of vivid imagery—think coffee’s aroma or a buggy’s creak—and intricate character arcs. Her stories tackle forgiveness, community, and the tension between tradition and personal truth, making them resonate far beyond the Amish fiction genre.
Why Jolina Petersheim Matters
Jolina Petersheim has redefined Amish fiction by infusing it with raw authenticity and universal themes. Her ability to draw from her heritage while addressing contemporary issues like loss and ethical dilemmas has earned her a devoted readership and critical acclaim, including starred reviews and award nominations. By portraying the 'Plain' life with both reverence and realism, she bridges cultural divides, inviting readers to reflect on faith and resilience. Her non-fiction, featured in Reader’s Digest and Today’s Christian Woman, further amplifies her voice as a beacon of hope.
- Birthplace: Lancaster County, Pennsylvania roots
- Key Works: The Outcast, The Midwife, How the Light Gets In
- Awards: 2018 INSPY Award, 2017 Christy Award finalist
Snag The Outcast and dive into Jolina Petersheim’s soul-stirring Amish fiction today!