Tillie, a Mennonite Maid; a Story of the Pennsylvania Dutch

"Tillie, a Mennonite Maid; a Story of the Pennsylvania Dutch" by Helen Reimensnyder Martin is a tale set among the Pennsylvania Dutch, where young Tillie navigates the rigid rules of her Mennonite upbringing and her burning desire for knowledge. Tillie's peaceful life is disturbed by her stern father, Jacob Getz, who disapproves of her fondness for reading and education under the kind Miss Margaret. The story begins by showing how much Tillie loves her teacher, making her dreams bigger. Tillie’s world is turned upside down when she is caught with a novel, leading to punishment and the heartbreaking fear of disappointing her beloved Miss Margaret. The beginning of the book sets up Tillie’s quest for education and freedom and her deep struggle between what she wants and what her family expects. This is a story of growing up that looks at childhood, affection, and the tough choices between personal dreams and family rules.