#twostepsforward

Reese Cooper Two Steps Forward Varsity Jacket

i'm making a sci-fi alternate history story titled Two Steps Forward.

In a world where quantum computing was developed decades earlier in the US, the singularity is predicted to arrive sometime before the new millennium, revolutionizing western society.

For years now I have been enjoying trips to Stoney Ridge through the pages of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books. It's always nice to catch up with the characters and get introduced to new members. While this is an Amish community and I'm not Amish there are so many ways that I can relate to this group of people.

Ms. Fisher does a marvelous job of reminding us that even though we live a bit differently we still have a lot in common. Being Amish doesn't keep you from sorrow or strife. But it also doesn't keep you from experiencing joy and harmony.

In Two Steps Forward the subjects of abandoned newborns and late term abortion are addressed. In the Amish community children are looked at as a blessing from the Lord so these two issues concern them greatly. I was impressed with their thoughts on making a difference, even if it only had the potential of making a small difference.

The novel introduced a couple of new characters but it was full of the old ones that we have come to know. Edith Fisher Lapp is still a cranky pants but this time around we get to see a bit of backstory and softening of character. Her husband Hank Lapp continues to make me laugh. Edith's son Jimmy Fisher is back, hat in hand and I enjoyed watching him come full circle. The book is centered on his character along with the widow Sylvie Schrock King.

One of the best things about this book and series is that it is very versatile. It can be read as either part of the series or as a stand alone. If you want my recommendation I would say to go all the way back to the first book in the first series, The Choice. You'll enjoy the development of the characters and the ebb and flow of the Amish life. Don't want to go that far back? Just start with this book. You'll get enough background as you go along to know what has happened before you joined the group.