How do those two professions, writing and ventriloquism, compliment each other?
Whenever I’m asked to do a speaking engagement to talk about my Amish-themed books, I take along my little ventriloquist puppet, dressed in Amish clothes. Using the puppet is a great way to open my talk and set the stage for what I’m planning to say. I’ve also used the puppet when I’ve visited Amish schoolhouses. I know you have Mennonite and Amish roots, but what was it that first inspired you to write about them in your novels? One of our Mennonite friends used to work for an Amish man, and he took us to meet the Amish man and his family. From the moment we met that Amish couple I felt a special connection. As we drove back to the hotel that evening, I told my husband, “When I write my first novel, it’s going to be about the Amish way of life. I have a deep love and respect for these people.” Since that time we’ve made many Amish friends, and whenever we are with them, I always feel a special bond and connection. Even with your family history I’d guess you’ve had to conduct plenty of
