Author of the new book Memoir: Reasons Why I Left the Amish Community

Sam E. Miller of Bangor, N.Y., author of the new book Memoir: Reasons Why I Left the Amish Community, will speak at the Rotary Club of Potsdam noon meeting on Wednesday, May 25, at Yum Yum's Chilly Delight in Potsdam. As seating is limited, those interested must RSVP to pelkeyduane@gmail.com or 315-323-4987.

At the age of 18, Miller made the difficult decision to leave his home and religion to start a new life in the "English" world and experience different ways of living. Since leaving, he has lived in Indiana, Vermont, and New York, working various jobs in construction, farming, and more.

In his book, Miller shares his experiences, both good and bad, growing up as Swartzentruber Amish, one of the strictest Amish religions, and explains his difficult decision to leave. From daily routines, customs, and beliefs, to weddings and funeral services and more, his book describes the Amish community through the eyes of someone who lived it.