FROM THE PUBLISHER

Banned, Shunned and Excommunicated

In order to live the way they choose, these people must turn their backs on the only world they know, the world of the Old Order Amish. Who are they and where do theycome from? Why would they want to leave their families and one of the purest religious groups in America? Read their sto- ries, learn why people born into the Old Order Amish can't wait to escape to the modern world. You may be shocked to learn the truth, the truth from the X-Amish.

This book has been compiled by Ottie & Irene Garrett. Ottie a non-Amish man, worked among the Amish and was accepted by all the Amish com- munities all over the United States, until he fell in love and married an Amish lady. The word spread and he and his wife became outcasts. Irene, his wife, was excommunicated and banned by her church and is being shunned by her family and friends. The story of Ottie and Irene circulated not only through all the Amish circles but through the channels that led to those who had left the Amish. Letters and phone calls from the X-Amish began to reach them telling of their experience. Inspired by their own heartaches and the heartaches of others, they decided the time had come for their X-Amish friends to tell their stories.

"True Stories of the X-Amish," consist of ten stories of people who had the courage to walk away from family, friends and the only life they ever knew. It also contains 43 informative and compelling full color and black and white photos of X-Amish today, and some photos of the Amish lifestyle. These ten true stories show the hidden tormented lifestyles in their Amish communities. These are stories that will cause tears, pain and also joy of the personal victories that all people strive for; peace, love and happiness. Of all the sacrifices they had to make, they were willing to pay the price, for happiness and freedom. Read the first page and it will unwillingly lead you to the last. "The X-Amlsh book is selling out,' a success" Jessie's Book Store, F.H., Glasgow, KY

'I started reading and could not put it down." C. Starks, Bowling Green, KY 'Ibis is a very controversial topic. I'm glad I read it." N. S., Knoxville, TN

'We had no knowledge of the Amish; would like to know more." F. B., Nashville, TN

"Best Selling New Book in My Store." L.Y. from KY

FROM THE CRITICS

Tammy Hensley - Glasgow, Ky., Daily Times, April. 1, 1999

Garrett's book tells the stories of 10 Amish people....who left their church and communities and were banned, excommunicated and shunned...Ottie Garrett said he was inspired to write his latest book beause of his wife. He said he saw the heartache and hardships Irene endured because of the ban and shun.

Deborah Rascon - The Daily news