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The Donkey That No One Could Ride
“... You will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden.” Bestselling author Anthony DeStefano begins his creative telling of the beloved Bible story of Christ’s triumphant entry by introducing the young donkey who has yet to realize his important mission. The lowly creature believes he can do nothing noble, but that’s before he meets the Master... Then Jesus said to the donkey,
“It’s time that you knew
About the great thing
That you’re destined to do...”
He hears the sad donkey cry,
“Just leave me alone and cast me aside.
I’m just a poor donkey that no one can ride.” Richard Cowdrey’s colorful illustrations pair beautifully with Anthony’s charming rhymes. Together, they bring this timeless story of the donkey who carries Jesus into Jerusalem to a joyful finish. While especially appropriate as an Easter gift, this year-round story is for all time and for young and old alike.
“It’s time that you knew
About the great thing
That you’re destined to do...”
He hears the sad donkey cry,
“Just leave me alone and cast me aside.
I’m just a poor donkey that no one can ride.” Richard Cowdrey’s colorful illustrations pair beautifully with Anthony’s charming rhymes. Together, they bring this timeless story of the donkey who carries Jesus into Jerusalem to a joyful finish. While especially appropriate as an Easter gift, this year-round story is for all time and for young and old alike.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2012
11 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Anthony DeStefano
24 books76 followersAnthony DeStefano is the bestselling author of 20 Christian books for children and adults, including: A Travel Guide to Heaven, Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To, Angels All Around Us, Little Star, and The Donkey that No One Could Ride. He has received many prestigious awards from religious organizations worldwide for his efforts to advance Christian beliefs in modern culture.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 16, 2022
When the Bible says that Jesus rode a donkey on Palm Sunday that had never been ridden, it wasn't because the donkey was feeble, weak, deformed or any number of other things. My goodness. You can make a cute, fictitious story about the donkey that carried Jesus but don't put inaccuracies in like deformities, being tied outside of the village with no owner, and how Jesus "healed" the donkey before riding him.
Ages: 4 - 8
Cleanliness: see above.
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Ages: 4 - 8
Cleanliness: see above.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
January 18, 2018
"Go away from here, Donkey. Go away and just hide. What use is a donkey, That no one can ride?"
A simple, sweet tale of a little donkey; spurned and rejected his entire life, until his path crosses that of another, whose "strength is made perfect in weakness". And everything changes.
A simple, sweet tale of a little donkey; spurned and rejected his entire life, until his path crosses that of another, whose "strength is made perfect in weakness". And everything changes.
March 18, 2023
This was a cute story with a lovely message, but I think the author shouldn’t have based it on the passage of the Bible about Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem. He’s had to do some gymnastics to create this story from those verses.
October 9, 2012
This delightful piece of children’s literature introduces the young reader or listener to the donkey that Jesus rode during his triumphal entry into Jerusalem prior to his crucifixion.
This humble little donkey is portrayed as “young, weak and small”, unable to be ridden by anyone. But then he meets the Man, so kind and wise, who reminds the small beast of burden, “My help is enough.” Indeed the Master’s help was enough for the frail little donkey who is no longer frail and weak, but carries the King through the gates of the city to shouts and cheers of hosannas and praise.
This book is beautifully illustrated and a delightful retell of the Lord’s triumphal entry that will be enjoyed by any reader, whether young or young at heart. It is also a wonderful reminder that Jesus can use and make profitable any of his creatures no matter how frail or useless; even we who are frail humans and in much need of the Master’s help. (reviewed by J.La Tour)
About the author: Anthony DeStefano is the bestselling author of Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To, A Travel Guide to Heaven, This Little Prayer of Mine, and Little Star. He has received prestigious awards from religious organizations worldwide for his efforts to advance Christian beliefs in modern culture.
About the illustrator: Richard Cowdrey is the talented and well-known illustrator of numerous children’s books, including Bad Dog, Marley! and Marley Goes to School. He has worked with such distinguished clients as Bantam Books, National Football League, and World Wildlife Federation. Desiring to honor God with his work and with his life, Richard lives in Ohio with his wife and children.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary of The Donkey That No One Could Ride was provided to ACS for the purpose of rendering our honest review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer solely.
This humble little donkey is portrayed as “young, weak and small”, unable to be ridden by anyone. But then he meets the Man, so kind and wise, who reminds the small beast of burden, “My help is enough.” Indeed the Master’s help was enough for the frail little donkey who is no longer frail and weak, but carries the King through the gates of the city to shouts and cheers of hosannas and praise.
This book is beautifully illustrated and a delightful retell of the Lord’s triumphal entry that will be enjoyed by any reader, whether young or young at heart. It is also a wonderful reminder that Jesus can use and make profitable any of his creatures no matter how frail or useless; even we who are frail humans and in much need of the Master’s help. (reviewed by J.La Tour)
About the author: Anthony DeStefano is the bestselling author of Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To, A Travel Guide to Heaven, This Little Prayer of Mine, and Little Star. He has received prestigious awards from religious organizations worldwide for his efforts to advance Christian beliefs in modern culture.
About the illustrator: Richard Cowdrey is the talented and well-known illustrator of numerous children’s books, including Bad Dog, Marley! and Marley Goes to School. He has worked with such distinguished clients as Bantam Books, National Football League, and World Wildlife Federation. Desiring to honor God with his work and with his life, Richard lives in Ohio with his wife and children.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary of The Donkey That No One Could Ride was provided to ACS for the purpose of rendering our honest review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer solely.
January 13, 2012
You will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden.
This beautiful children's story book in lovely rhyme is a loosely told version of the Biblical account of the donkey that was chosen to be the one on which our Savior, Jesus Christ, would ride into Jerusalem the Sunday prior to his death. (Found in Luke 19:28-38)
Anthony DeStefano, author, and Richard Cowdrey, illustrator, have worked together to bring a lovely version of this lowly beast who feels no worth but who is chosen to be the one to carry or Lord.
He was tied to a post on a small dusty road
And left all alone while his tears overflowed,
Left all alone and wondering why
He was born to be weak, and born to be shy,
And born to be frightened,
And born to cry.
Although this little book is focused on the account of the donkey being chosen to carry our Lord, there is also an underlying theme. It is that our Lord sees worth in each and every one of us and can use us for His purposes.
"My help is enough;
It's all that you need,
It's all you require in the life to succeed."
Children will delight to have this read to them repeatedly and will also be enchanted by the good use of rhyme to tell the story. Cadence and rhyme are beautifully done by Anthony DeStefano.
Publisher: Harvest House Expected Publication Release: February 1, 2012
ISBN: 9780736948517
I was provided a complimentary copy of "The Donkey That No One Could Ride" by Harvest House Publishers in order to provide a review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.
http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2012...
This beautiful children's story book in lovely rhyme is a loosely told version of the Biblical account of the donkey that was chosen to be the one on which our Savior, Jesus Christ, would ride into Jerusalem the Sunday prior to his death. (Found in Luke 19:28-38)
Anthony DeStefano, author, and Richard Cowdrey, illustrator, have worked together to bring a lovely version of this lowly beast who feels no worth but who is chosen to be the one to carry or Lord.
He was tied to a post on a small dusty road
And left all alone while his tears overflowed,
Left all alone and wondering why
He was born to be weak, and born to be shy,
And born to be frightened,
And born to cry.
Although this little book is focused on the account of the donkey being chosen to carry our Lord, there is also an underlying theme. It is that our Lord sees worth in each and every one of us and can use us for His purposes.
"My help is enough;
It's all that you need,
It's all you require in the life to succeed."
Children will delight to have this read to them repeatedly and will also be enchanted by the good use of rhyme to tell the story. Cadence and rhyme are beautifully done by Anthony DeStefano.
Publisher: Harvest House Expected Publication Release: February 1, 2012
ISBN: 9780736948517
I was provided a complimentary copy of "The Donkey That No One Could Ride" by Harvest House Publishers in order to provide a review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.
http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2012...
June 4, 2012
My Review: The book starts with Luke 19:28-38 about Jesus journey into Jerusalem sending two of His disciples ahead to bring Him a young donkey to ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
The Donkey That No One Could Ride tells of a young, weak and small donkey. He was so weak that he could not carry anything on his hide. When children try to ride him he wobbles and tumble and fall. He could not haul stones, carry rich men with their big bags of riches or pull a cart. He was so sad and cried all the time. Until two men appeared and untied him and took him to Jesus. When he got to where Jesus was, Jesus told him that it was his destine to carry Him into the city. The donkey couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He was hopeless, his back is somewhat crooked and his legs aren’t strong enough. Then Jesus said to the donkey
"My help is enough;
It's all that you need,
It's all you require in the life to succeed.
The weaker you are, the more strength I give.
I’ll be there to help you as long as you live… (You will need to buy the book and read the rest).
This is a great book for the family to read together at Easter. It renews your hope and faith in God, knowing that He is always there to help you no matter what. The illustrations by Richard Cowdrey are so real with cool colors which bring this story to life. The tears from the donkey’s eyes look so real. I highly recommend this book.
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
FTC Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Harvest House Publishers http://harvesthousepublishers.com/ in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion in any way.
The Donkey That No One Could Ride tells of a young, weak and small donkey. He was so weak that he could not carry anything on his hide. When children try to ride him he wobbles and tumble and fall. He could not haul stones, carry rich men with their big bags of riches or pull a cart. He was so sad and cried all the time. Until two men appeared and untied him and took him to Jesus. When he got to where Jesus was, Jesus told him that it was his destine to carry Him into the city. The donkey couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He was hopeless, his back is somewhat crooked and his legs aren’t strong enough. Then Jesus said to the donkey
"My help is enough;
It's all that you need,
It's all you require in the life to succeed.
The weaker you are, the more strength I give.
I’ll be there to help you as long as you live… (You will need to buy the book and read the rest).
This is a great book for the family to read together at Easter. It renews your hope and faith in God, knowing that He is always there to help you no matter what. The illustrations by Richard Cowdrey are so real with cool colors which bring this story to life. The tears from the donkey’s eyes look so real. I highly recommend this book.
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
FTC Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Harvest House Publishers http://harvesthousepublishers.com/ in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion in any way.
January 10, 2012
Title: THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE
Author: Anthony DeStefano
Illustrator: Richard Cowdrey
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
February 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7369-4851-7
Genre: Inspirational/children’s Bible stories
Christians are all familiar with the verses in Luke 19:28-38 about Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday - where He was greeted with Hosannas and praise.
THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE is loosely based on these scriptures, telling the story of why the author thinks possibly the donkey couldn’t be ridden, how the donkey felt about it, and the miracle that God wrought in the donkey’s life.
Written in poetic style, this book is great for a parent or other adult to read to young children or even for readers to read for themselves. The colorful images kept my daughters’ attention, while the story had them riveted. Even my teen son cheered when he heard part of the story, and made sympathetic sounds during the sadder parts.
THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE is a charming addition to any child’s library. A wonderful tale that will emphasis stories they hear in Sunday School or church, and will bring the story of Palm Sunday and THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE to life. Recommended. Perfect for children ages 2 – 6. $15.99 hardcover. 32 pages.
Author: Anthony DeStefano
Illustrator: Richard Cowdrey
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
February 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7369-4851-7
Genre: Inspirational/children’s Bible stories
Christians are all familiar with the verses in Luke 19:28-38 about Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday - where He was greeted with Hosannas and praise.
THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE is loosely based on these scriptures, telling the story of why the author thinks possibly the donkey couldn’t be ridden, how the donkey felt about it, and the miracle that God wrought in the donkey’s life.
Written in poetic style, this book is great for a parent or other adult to read to young children or even for readers to read for themselves. The colorful images kept my daughters’ attention, while the story had them riveted. Even my teen son cheered when he heard part of the story, and made sympathetic sounds during the sadder parts.
THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE is a charming addition to any child’s library. A wonderful tale that will emphasis stories they hear in Sunday School or church, and will bring the story of Palm Sunday and THE DONKEY THAT NO ONE COULD RIDE to life. Recommended. Perfect for children ages 2 – 6. $15.99 hardcover. 32 pages.
January 31, 2012
What a fabulous Easter/Palm Sunday picture book to share with your children. I have come to love other picture books that I've read from Anthony DeStefano and I already like Richard Cowdrey illustrations from coming to know our cute barking friend Marley, so I was not entirely surprised to be delighted with this picture book. I am quite certain it is one we will read again and again this spring and in years in the future. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to friends for Sunday School classes, or homeschool or just family reading.
If you like the essence behind The Crippled Lamb you'll also love this one. God makes situations for even the littlest of animals as they all have their purpose.
*Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for providing a copy for review.*
Scheduled post: http://wp.me/pYHD5-3ap
If you like the essence behind The Crippled Lamb you'll also love this one. God makes situations for even the littlest of animals as they all have their purpose.
*Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for providing a copy for review.*
Scheduled post: http://wp.me/pYHD5-3ap
July 3, 2012
This humble picture book made me cry, and not just a few tears. It's a new, poignant story about the donkey who carried Jesus on Palm Sunday, and it's destined to become a classic like The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale and The Fourth Wise Man. Perfect for Easter or any time of year. www.GoodReadingGuide.com
March 5, 2014
The Donkey That No One Could Ride is a cute book to read to children. It takes a look at a broken donkey. He was worthless until healed by the Savior.
The book is written beautifully and the illustrations are well done. This is book provides a cute and fun way to talk to children about the meaning of Easter and the ministry of Jesus.
The book is written beautifully and the illustrations are well done. This is book provides a cute and fun way to talk to children about the meaning of Easter and the ministry of Jesus.
August 13, 2013
This little donkey...the illustrations broke my heart. 3 1/2 stars....
January 1, 2016
This is an adorable children's book for the Lent and Easter season. It not only tells the Easter story but examines the fact that all of us have value and worth.
April 16, 2015
Very nice, cute illustrations and a rhyming story about Palm Sunday, and the little donkey that carried Jesus on that day.
March 3, 2017
my kids and I loved this book. I thought this was a great story. I would recommend this book to others.
April 10, 2019
Sweet
Sweet little story about the strength god gives to even the smallest of his children. We read it in the preschool youth group.
Sweet little story about the strength god gives to even the smallest of his children. We read it in the preschool youth group.
March 24, 2023
A great picture book for Palm Sunday and Easter. It focuses on the donkey that Jesus rode into Jerusalem, and the author imagined the donkey was weak and sad until he was healed by Jesus and given a special mission to carry Jesus into Jerusalem. Elliot loved the story. We talked about fact vs fiction (the author’s creative license compared to the Biblical account) so I don’t think he was confused about the story; we just enjoyed it as a sweet story based on something that really happened. It’s a bit long, so probably best for preschool to kinder
May 9, 2023
This is a heart-warming story that celebrates the fact that everyone created by God has a mission that is uniquely theirs. Through the eyes of the "donkey that no one could ride," readers will care about this little donkey, "born to be weak, and born to be shy, and born to be frightened, and born to cry" as he learns he does indeed have a "great thing" he's destined to do once he encounters Jesus. The beautiful illustrations by Richard Cowdrey compliment the loving story told by Anthony DeStefano.
February 24, 2025
3 1/2-4. I worry a bit about taking a true story and elaborating on it so fictitiously, as kids may get confused about what is real and what is fictional. But this is really meant to be more allegorical, with the donkey representing us. We may feel little, weak, and useless, but when Christ enters our story, He can make us strong and fill us with power to do things we otherwise couldn’t do. He uses us, the weak things of the world, to accomplish His work. Allegorically, the story is cute and effective.
July 19, 2021
I didn’t really like this book. It rhymes and then it doesn’t and then it rhymes again and then it doesn’t. The illustrations were cute but the story itself felt a little strange. I like the concept but I just couldn’t buy the story.
March 31, 2022
A cute story for kids about the donkey who carried Jesus into Jerusalem. I appreciated the words about Jesus being our strength when we go through hard times. I thought it was well written and kids enjoyed it.
April 11, 2019
Great
Great book was a good read kids will learn so much from this book normally not into christianity but this book not just for Christians
Great book was a good read kids will learn so much from this book normally not into christianity but this book not just for Christians
June 26, 2020
I loved this little book. Cute rhymes and a lovable donkey. This one tugged at my heartstrings!
September 1, 2020
Great story for Palm Sunday.
March 7, 2021
This was a really sweet book. The rhymes sometimes felt a little forced, but I loved the message that Jesus works with us in our brokeness in order to do something amazing.
May 19, 2021
Cute Easter book. It gets a little sad in parts but the subject matter is sad. It even has vocabulary like hosanna and palms.
October 20, 2023
The story is not the exact one from the Bible, but it's still a cute story with a lesson to learn for children everywhere.
April 2, 2024
Successful blending of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem with a powerful message for little ones, who like the donkey, can be strengthened and used by God for great purposes.
November 7, 2015
Beautifully illustrated rhyming story of the donkey that carried Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Through the donkey's eyes, children learn that Jesus is their strength and their hope - strong where they are weak, ready to heal and redeem if only they believe.
April 7, 2012
Amazing story of Palm Sunday from the point of view of a small, weak donkey. Excellent story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews