Buggy Wheels in May

Title: Buggy Wheels in May
Author: Judy Yoder
Series: Little Eli, book 4
Major Themes: Amish, Virginia, Conscientious Objectors, Farming, Courtship
Synopsis: As Eli navigates his upper teens, he struggles to find a relationship with God at the same time that he wants to get to know a beautiful young woman.

When I noticed that there was a fourth book in the Little Eli series, I immediately ordered it. I knew that we wanted to finish reading the story of Eli Yoder’s life. Buggy Wheels in May is long enough that it took us three or four months to read it together, but it was well worthwhile.

Spring, 1950. Stuarts Draft, Virginia. Eli Yoder, at 15, found himself on the brink of manhood. Around him, he saw his brother and a number of other young people deciding to join the Amish church and live their lives for God. As he watched his brother Sanford’s struggles, Eli knew that he wanted peace with God—but how could he find it? As the next couple of years rolled by, Eli, too, joined the church. He did not really find peace with God, however, until after attending some Mennonite revival meetings. He found peace for his soul when he realized that God had done the work in his heart.

Meanwhile, Eli joined the young people and attended the Sunday night singings. He rebuilt a buggy so that he would have transportation, and enjoyed his many outings with the young people. All the time, he had his eye on a certain demure, dark-haired girl, who rarely had the chance to attend the singing. Was there any hope that he could win her heart? 

I appreciated reading about Eli’s struggles and victories. This is the true story of a young man who desired to live his life completely for God, but found himself in a situation in which he didn’t feel like he could talk to anyone about his challenges and struggles. I also really appreciated the chance to read to my children about someone who, as a conscientious objector, did alternative service rather than joining the army. Buggy Wheels in May is a beautiful story of a godly courtship and a marriage that was based on love for God. It is a perfect end to the series of stories about an Amish boy growing up. 

No warnings!

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