June 10, 2015
News release
Books 3 and 4 of Ellie’s People series released with new covers, textual updates
HARRISONBURG, Va., and KITCHENER, Ontario—Mary Christner Borntrager first published the Ellie’s People series of novels in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Herald Press is republishing most books in the series, and released books 3 and 4, Rachel and Reuben, this spring.
The Ellie’s People series chronicles the family and friends of the protagonist of book 1, Ellie Maust, across several generations. While fictional, the series focuses on real issues young people face within the context of an Amish life. Books from the series have sold over half a million copies.
In book 3, Rachel feels drawn to the Amish community, despite her parents having left that 
way of life before she was born. Rachel must decide whether to discard her dreams of becoming Amish or to follow what seems to be God’s will by joining them, though it could mean facing ridicule from her siblings and friends.
Book 4 focuses on an Amish boy named Reuben. Though he tries to do the right thing and loves the Amish way of life, Reuben occasionally falls short of his parents’ expectations, especially when egged on by his peers. This pattern leads to tragedy when, on a dare, Reuben tries to prove how fast a new horse can run.
The books are written for readers 10 years and up. The stories remain the same, but the language has been updated for today’s reader and the covers have been redesigned.
Growing up Amish near Plain City, Ohio, influenced Borntrager’s writing, and her work has been noted for its accurate descriptions of Amish life.
Suzanne Woods Fisher, coauthor of The Adventures of Lily Lapp series, says of Borntrager’s work, “This authentic series has much to offer readers about the ups and downs of growing up plain. A great choice for a family read-aloud.”
Book 1 of the series, Ellie, was republished in August 2014. Books 5 and 6 of the series, Polly and Andy, will be released later this year.
Rachel and Reuben are available for $7.99 USD/$8.79 CAD each from MennoMedia at 800-245-7894 or www.MennoMedia.org, as well as at bookstores.
MennoMedia Staff
High resolution photo available upon request.
For more on Mary Christner Borntrager read our two earlier blog posts on the author.
For more information
Melodie Davis
News manager
MennoMedia
540-574-4874
[email protected]
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