Anna’s Crossing
Anna König is a reluctant passenger on the Charming Nancy, the historic ship that brought the first group of Amish to America in 1737. While Anna would prefer to stay in her German hometown of Ixheim, she is the only Amish passenger who speaks English and is thus necessary as a translator between her people and the English-speaking captain and crew. During the long, difficult passage, Anna struggles with her growing attraction to Bairn, the ship’s carpenter, who is critical of the “Peculiars” (the outsiders’ name for the Amish). Anna and her people must rely on their faith as they suffer from water shortages, find a dangerous weakness in the ship’s structure, and even help a pregnant woman give birth.
The setting is detailed and vivid, especially the ship’s lower deck where the Amish are forced to endure overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. I was fascinated to learn about this crucial time in Amish history: the first wave of Amish immigrated to America in the 18th century largely because of religious persecution. Distinctions between the Amish and Mennonite passengers were illuminating, as were the sailing superstitions and rituals that Fisher overlays with biblical symbolism.
The point of view alternates among Anna, Bairn, and Felix, a young Amish boy. Anna and Bairn’s conversations are spirited and engaging, but most of the supporting characters are disappointing stereotypes, from the charming young troublemaker, to the thwarted sexual predator with the requisite yellow teeth and rancid breath. I was also jarred out of the story a few times by anachronistic language: for example, the word “pants” instead of trousers, and slang expressions such as “hang around.”
Overall, Anna’s Crossing is a sweet inspirational romance that will no doubt please fans of this prolific author.
