Customer Reviews

Torches Extinguished: Memories of a Communal Bruderhof Childhood in Paraguay, Europe and the Usa

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This book relates the history of the Bruderhof from the view of a child growing up. The author was raised as a member of this religious group, took her membership vows then left as a young adult. Bohlken-Zumpe is the granddaughter of founder Eberhard Arnold. My understanding of the Bruderhof, where I also grew up, was enhanced by reading this book. In relating her story, Bohlken-Zumpe does not flinch in revealing personal difficulties. This book along with other ex-bruderhof members books, should be permitted reading among the current membership to help them understand themselves,and their history. I recommend this book for anyone who has experienced belonging to a "cult-like" closed society or wants to understand similar situations. Thankyou for writing your story Elizabeth Bohlken-Zumpe.

This outstanding book presents the "other side", another viewpoint regarding the Bruderhof Movement (Arnoldleut Hutterians). It is a must read for all serious students of Hutterianism. It is certainly not the "party line", but it does present a point of view that needs to be looked at and considered by all students of Hutterianism and any potential recruits to Arnoldianism. Zumpe cannot be dismissed out-of-hand, that's for sure. There are hundreds of others who think just like she does. Their "side" needs to be heard. In the end, the Truth will win out.

Elizabeth must be a very angry women. This is the sad impression I got on reading this book. I hope she experiences Peace before she dies. To the reader I would recommend "Why Forgive" by Johann Christoph Arnold