A SIMPLE CHANGE by Judith Miller

Historical Fiction 
published by BethanyHouse
345 pages

The setting is in 1881 
Jancey Rhoder loves her job, volunteering at the Kansas City Charity Home for Orphans and teaching the younger children their lessons.  But, when her parents decide to move back to Middle Amana Colony, because of her mother's health, Jancey gives up her volunteer position, and moves with them.  She knows her mother is dying, and wants to spend as much time as she can, with her.  Her suiter, Nathan Woodward is very upset when she leaves.

Even though her parents had tried to prepare her for the big change that she would be facing, it was still a shock to know she couldn't teach in Middle Amana, and she would be assigned a job by the elders.  Because of her mother's illness, she is assigned a job helping clean  the 'outsiders' dormitory, which is near their home.  The outsiders are hired to work in the mill, and supplied a place to live, and food, as part of their pay.

 Will Jancey stay in Middle Amana when her mother passes?  When Nathan shows up, will she return to Kansas City with him?  

This is a very good book, although I cannot imagine living and working in a colony where the pay is food and shelter, and everyone is expected to follow the rules set by others.  I enjoyed learning more about other ways of life and, since this is set in a time period that I would 'love to visit' I really want to learn more about the Amana Colonies.

I was given a copy of this book to read and review.  No other compensation was given.  I am not required to give a positive review.  All opinions expressed here are my own.