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My Gentle Barn: Creating a Sanctuary Where Animals Heal and Children Learn to Hope
Founder Ellie Laks started The Gentle Barn after adopting a sick goat from a run-down petting zoo in 1999. Some two hundred animals later (including chickens, horses, pigs, cows, rabbits, emus, and more), The Gentle Barn has become an extraordinary nonprofit that brings together a volunteer staff of community members and at-risk teens to rehabilitate abandoned and/or abused animals. As Ellie teaches the volunteers to care for the animals, they learn a new language of healing that works wonders on the humans as well.
My Gentle Barn weaves together the story of how the Barn came to be what it is today with Ellie's own journey. Filled with heartwarming animal stories and inspiring recoveries, The Gentle Barn is a feel-good account that will delight animal lovers and memoir readers alike.
My Gentle Barn weaves together the story of how the Barn came to be what it is today with Ellie's own journey. Filled with heartwarming animal stories and inspiring recoveries, The Gentle Barn is a feel-good account that will delight animal lovers and memoir readers alike.
269 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
40 people are currently reading
1547 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
September 1, 2014
OMG!!!! I HAVE AM SO GLAD I WON THIS IN A GOOD READS GIVEAWAY! I DIDN'T EVEN HAVE A CHANCE TO WRITE DOWN I WAS READING THIS BOOK! I OPENED IT THIS MORNING AND COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS BOOK AND FOR ALL YOU DO FOR THE ANIMALS.
I HAVE HAD A DREAM ALL OF MY LIFE OF HAVING A WILDLIFE REFUGE BUT TO TAKE IN ALL ANIMALS. I ALWAYS WANTED TO HAVE A HORSE RIDING AREA FOR DISABLED CHILDREN. BEING DISABLED NOW MYSELF, BUT HOPEFULLY NOT FOREVER, THIS BOOK HAS GIVEN ME A SPARK OF HOPE THAT DREAMS CAN COME TRUE. THEY MAY NOT BE MY OWN BUT THEY CAN HAPPEN THROUGH HELPING OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME KINDS OF DREAMS.
I HAVE MY MAIN WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE CHARITIES I GIVE TO AND NOW I HAVE THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE I AM SO EXCITED TO HELP AND LEARN MORE ABOUT! THE GENTLE BARN IS ADDED TO MY BUCKET LIST OF PLACES I WANT TO SEE THAT ONLY INCLUDE MY OTHER SANCTUARIES.
I THANK GOD I WAS ABLE TO GET THIS BOOK AND PUT A LITTLE RAY OF SUNSHINE IN MY GLOOMY DAY. TO SEE AND HEAR ABOUT MORE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE CARING AND FIGHTING FOR THE ANIMALS. EVEN THROUGH THE HORRIBLE STORIES OF ANIMAL ABUSE THERE WAS AND STILL IS SUCH HOPE AND HELP FROM THESE WONDERFUL PEOPLE AND THE MANY VOLUNTEERS.
I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL ANIMAL LOVERS AROUND THE WORLD. THROUGH MY TEARS OF HAPPINESS, I THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN.
I HAVE HAD A DREAM ALL OF MY LIFE OF HAVING A WILDLIFE REFUGE BUT TO TAKE IN ALL ANIMALS. I ALWAYS WANTED TO HAVE A HORSE RIDING AREA FOR DISABLED CHILDREN. BEING DISABLED NOW MYSELF, BUT HOPEFULLY NOT FOREVER, THIS BOOK HAS GIVEN ME A SPARK OF HOPE THAT DREAMS CAN COME TRUE. THEY MAY NOT BE MY OWN BUT THEY CAN HAPPEN THROUGH HELPING OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME KINDS OF DREAMS.
I HAVE MY MAIN WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE CHARITIES I GIVE TO AND NOW I HAVE THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE I AM SO EXCITED TO HELP AND LEARN MORE ABOUT! THE GENTLE BARN IS ADDED TO MY BUCKET LIST OF PLACES I WANT TO SEE THAT ONLY INCLUDE MY OTHER SANCTUARIES.
I THANK GOD I WAS ABLE TO GET THIS BOOK AND PUT A LITTLE RAY OF SUNSHINE IN MY GLOOMY DAY. TO SEE AND HEAR ABOUT MORE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE CARING AND FIGHTING FOR THE ANIMALS. EVEN THROUGH THE HORRIBLE STORIES OF ANIMAL ABUSE THERE WAS AND STILL IS SUCH HOPE AND HELP FROM THESE WONDERFUL PEOPLE AND THE MANY VOLUNTEERS.
I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL ANIMAL LOVERS AROUND THE WORLD. THROUGH MY TEARS OF HAPPINESS, I THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN.
November 5, 2016
My Gentle Barn is the uplifting story of one woman's compassion for abandoned and abused animals and her passionate journey to rescue them. Ellie Laks started out with one goat which she rescued from a petting zoo and has gone on to rescue hundreds of animals over the years. Her "Gentle Barn" houses the rehabilitated animals on her acreage and barn in Santa Clarita, California. Not only are the animals rescued and rehabilitated, they provide comfort and hope for the future for the many groups of special needs, at-risk and foster children who visit the Gentle Barn.
As a child, Ellie took comfort in her pets and had great empathy for them. After some very low moments as a young adult, she ultimately realized that rescuing animals was her mission in life. From that point on, there was no stopping her. Ellie Laks is a force of nature. As one reviewer said, "You'll love Ellie Laks and the animals she rescued--and who rescued her back."
I am awed by Ellie's strength, vision and power to realize her dream of rescuing hundreds of animals. She was joined in her quest a few years after she started Gentle Barn by her compassionate and caring husband and together they have raised three children along with all their animals. Imagine the energy and commitment it takes to do all that, even with their many volunteers.
On Halloween, the following article appeared in the Los Angeles Times, "Can too much Halloween candy kill you?" page B2, Monday, October 31, 2016. I initially thought, "This sounds interesting." When I was finished with the article I was angry and appalled that researchers had used animals for a pointless, frivolous and utterly useless experiment. Here is an exerpt:
"You might think it would be easy for researchers to find volunteers willing to eat candy for the sake of science. But it simply wouldn’t be ethical to ask people to accept a life-threatening risk — even if it were covered in chocolate.
Instead, scientists feed sugar to rats, increasing the amount until half of the animals are dead. In the medical literature, this lethal dose is known as LD50."
Unbelievable! . . . "it simply wouldn't be ethical to ask people to accept a life-threatening risk . . ." How "ethical" is it for the animals who were killed for an absurd and utterly senseless experiment!
It takes people like Ellie to take a stand and fight every day for our voiceless animals. If only we could clone a few million of her.
As a child, Ellie took comfort in her pets and had great empathy for them. After some very low moments as a young adult, she ultimately realized that rescuing animals was her mission in life. From that point on, there was no stopping her. Ellie Laks is a force of nature. As one reviewer said, "You'll love Ellie Laks and the animals she rescued--and who rescued her back."
I am awed by Ellie's strength, vision and power to realize her dream of rescuing hundreds of animals. She was joined in her quest a few years after she started Gentle Barn by her compassionate and caring husband and together they have raised three children along with all their animals. Imagine the energy and commitment it takes to do all that, even with their many volunteers.
On Halloween, the following article appeared in the Los Angeles Times, "Can too much Halloween candy kill you?" page B2, Monday, October 31, 2016. I initially thought, "This sounds interesting." When I was finished with the article I was angry and appalled that researchers had used animals for a pointless, frivolous and utterly useless experiment. Here is an exerpt:
"You might think it would be easy for researchers to find volunteers willing to eat candy for the sake of science. But it simply wouldn’t be ethical to ask people to accept a life-threatening risk — even if it were covered in chocolate.
Instead, scientists feed sugar to rats, increasing the amount until half of the animals are dead. In the medical literature, this lethal dose is known as LD50."
Unbelievable! . . . "it simply wouldn't be ethical to ask people to accept a life-threatening risk . . ." How "ethical" is it for the animals who were killed for an absurd and utterly senseless experiment!
It takes people like Ellie to take a stand and fight every day for our voiceless animals. If only we could clone a few million of her.
March 15, 2014
Like Ellie Laks, I had a troubled childhood (not nearly as troubled as hers, but nonetheless ...). Also like Ellie Laks, I felt as though animals were the only ones who really understood me, and who wanted to listen. Many a secret was whispered into the ear of the family cat.
In any event, Ellie Laks knows early on in life that her mission is to rescue animals. She puts that mission on the shelf many times before starting the Gentle Barn ... at which time she discovers whole new challenges and whole new strengths at the same time.
Laks writes with a personable, frank tone that makes readers part of her story, welcoming us in to her life and her Gentle Barn with humor and honesty. I found myself profoundly moved by some of the stories of troubled youths who were helped by visits to the barn, and laughing at some of the foibles that Laks experienced along the way.
The whole gamut of emotions is on display as Laks tells her story. Highly recommended for fans of memoir and animal lovers everywhere.
In any event, Ellie Laks knows early on in life that her mission is to rescue animals. She puts that mission on the shelf many times before starting the Gentle Barn ... at which time she discovers whole new challenges and whole new strengths at the same time.
Laks writes with a personable, frank tone that makes readers part of her story, welcoming us in to her life and her Gentle Barn with humor and honesty. I found myself profoundly moved by some of the stories of troubled youths who were helped by visits to the barn, and laughing at some of the foibles that Laks experienced along the way.
The whole gamut of emotions is on display as Laks tells her story. Highly recommended for fans of memoir and animal lovers everywhere.
April 4, 2014
I'm not sure how long I've been a Facebook fan of The Gentle Barn, but I am sure I always love reading the stories, enjoying the pictures, and recalling the mission of the organization, so when Amazon Vine offered me a pre-publication review copy of this book, with my interests in animal welfare, rescue, and critters in general, I had to order it. Gentle Barn founder Elllie Laks and either "as told to" or "with" co-author Nom Isak have told the long, winding, exciting story perfectly.
Part of Gentle Barn's story reminds me of the earlier history of Best Friends Animal Society (formerly Sanctuary) in Kanab, southern Utah, that began with several visionary, like-minded people rather than with a single individual, and which has grown to a large, influential organization that still focuses primarily on animals. I liked Best Friends' book, and I've even visited the sanctuary. However, for Gentle Barn, Ellie Laks' childhood is the critical back story, and her book mostly emphasizes how the animals she rescued also rescued and healed her from a sorrow-filled, lonely, misunderstood childhood (common humanity, anyone?), and addiction in her young adult years. A shoutout to Ellie for doing a great job of briefly explaining the incredible complexity of addiction and addictive personality!
In some ways this book mostly emphasizes mutual respect and healing between Ellie and the animals, but it also details ways a major aspect of Gentle Barn's mission has been helping at-risk and underprivileged kids and youth heal and humanize as groups of them visit the sanctuary, learn to relate to animals, and learn to own their own feelings, pains, and histories. And, of course, it honors the many many folks who have helped with finances and by physically volunteering at the sanctuary.
I loved reading about ways animals speak to us with their bodies, faces, voices, and how they need us to communicate before engaging them in almost any activity. The wonder-filled story of the Gentle Barn will continue, and how inspiring to realize humans, non-human critters, and the natural environment can live together so well and in such harmony.
Part of Gentle Barn's story reminds me of the earlier history of Best Friends Animal Society (formerly Sanctuary) in Kanab, southern Utah, that began with several visionary, like-minded people rather than with a single individual, and which has grown to a large, influential organization that still focuses primarily on animals. I liked Best Friends' book, and I've even visited the sanctuary. However, for Gentle Barn, Ellie Laks' childhood is the critical back story, and her book mostly emphasizes how the animals she rescued also rescued and healed her from a sorrow-filled, lonely, misunderstood childhood (common humanity, anyone?), and addiction in her young adult years. A shoutout to Ellie for doing a great job of briefly explaining the incredible complexity of addiction and addictive personality!
In some ways this book mostly emphasizes mutual respect and healing between Ellie and the animals, but it also details ways a major aspect of Gentle Barn's mission has been helping at-risk and underprivileged kids and youth heal and humanize as groups of them visit the sanctuary, learn to relate to animals, and learn to own their own feelings, pains, and histories. And, of course, it honors the many many folks who have helped with finances and by physically volunteering at the sanctuary.
I loved reading about ways animals speak to us with their bodies, faces, voices, and how they need us to communicate before engaging them in almost any activity. The wonder-filled story of the Gentle Barn will continue, and how inspiring to realize humans, non-human critters, and the natural environment can live together so well and in such harmony.
March 9, 2017
I read this book as research because I'm currently writing a book that features a farm sanctuary. I don't read much non-fiction, but this book drew me in from the start and keep me hooked. There are lots of stories of animal rescues in the book, many of which had me wiping away tears. But I wouldn't say its a sad or difficult book. There's also an overriding message of following your dreams and saying yes to compassion and pity, and of animals responding to love and freedom, of the meaning of life.
It's a difficult book to talk about, because it has such a personal message for me. I'll just say that if you love animals, you will probably find this book as intense and moving as I did.
It's a difficult book to talk about, because it has such a personal message for me. I'll just say that if you love animals, you will probably find this book as intense and moving as I did.
January 16, 2024
I’ve been a huge fan of the work The Gentle Barn does ever since I visited the MO location a long time ago as a kid. I try to go whenever I can and would love a chance to visit the CA and TN locations! I bought this book at the gift shop during a visit, and Ellie just happened to be there with her husband Jay checking up on two carriage horses that were recently rescued. I got to meet Ellie and her presence felt so warm and calming, unlike any other human. After this unexpected meeting, I was even more excited to read how Ellie started The Gentle Barn. Her and the animal’s stories were inspiring to read about, and I feel this sense of hope and rejuvenation again within me. I cannot wait to go back to The Gentle Barn and breathe in the love of animals again!
April 20, 2021
This is the story of the author’s lifelong connection to animals which culminated in her founding the Gentle Barn, an animal sanctuary that offers a permanent home to a wide variety of hard-to-place large animals—as well as unique outreach to troubled young people.
Some stories are a little too tidy and some of the spiritual asides are a little too woo-woo for my tastes, but overall, MY GENTLE BARN is a compulsively readable book that will appeal to all animal-loving audiences, rather than just those on the more activism-oriented side of things.
Sadly, Laks has had many struggles throughout her life. Her parents were abusive and dismissive to both her and the family pets, whom they treated as throwaway objects. Despite this environment, she seemed to have an inborn bond with animals and tried to stand up for them. She even became a vegetarian in elementary school, despite her family’s complete lack of support.
The most emotional parts of the book, for me, had to do with the bullying young Laks received for caring about animals. The scene in which a horde of junior high girls erupted in mocking laughter as Laks cried over the death of her pet bird hit me personally. So did the sections when the author felt as a teenager she had to hide the fact that she cared about animals so as not to be the target for more bullying—from both her peers and adults. (Ouch again.) Now I take a step back and wonder how many of those bullies once did care about animals, but hostile parents and peers quashed their compassion.
Even as an adult, Laks would occasionally wonder if there truly was something wrong with her for caring so much about issues that most of society just ignores.
However, every important issue was ignored until it reached critical mass and most people could no longer dismiss it; then change started to happen. Animals, especially farmed animals, haven’t reached that critical mass yet, but that doesn’t mean that those who are aware and do care shouldn’t nudge things along.
The need to nurture and expand compassion motivates the Gentle Barn’s programs for at-risk kids. Many animals’ rescue and rehabilitation include stories of how those animals have helped a child break down their defenses and experience positive interactions. Maybe as a result there will be fewer people in the future who think kindness is something to mock or extinguish.
BARN’s gentle approach and engaging style make it ideal outreach for mainstream animal lovers. Without ever being preachy or accusing, Laks gently introduces us to the lives and personalities of farmed animals—letting us know that they are every bit the feeling individuals that our pets are. Hopefully for some readers it will be a nudge in the direction of thinking of pigs, chickens, cows, and others as being more than just ingredients.
Some stories are a little too tidy and some of the spiritual asides are a little too woo-woo for my tastes, but overall, MY GENTLE BARN is a compulsively readable book that will appeal to all animal-loving audiences, rather than just those on the more activism-oriented side of things.
Sadly, Laks has had many struggles throughout her life. Her parents were abusive and dismissive to both her and the family pets, whom they treated as throwaway objects. Despite this environment, she seemed to have an inborn bond with animals and tried to stand up for them. She even became a vegetarian in elementary school, despite her family’s complete lack of support.
The most emotional parts of the book, for me, had to do with the bullying young Laks received for caring about animals. The scene in which a horde of junior high girls erupted in mocking laughter as Laks cried over the death of her pet bird hit me personally. So did the sections when the author felt as a teenager she had to hide the fact that she cared about animals so as not to be the target for more bullying—from both her peers and adults. (Ouch again.) Now I take a step back and wonder how many of those bullies once did care about animals, but hostile parents and peers quashed their compassion.
Even as an adult, Laks would occasionally wonder if there truly was something wrong with her for caring so much about issues that most of society just ignores.
However, every important issue was ignored until it reached critical mass and most people could no longer dismiss it; then change started to happen. Animals, especially farmed animals, haven’t reached that critical mass yet, but that doesn’t mean that those who are aware and do care shouldn’t nudge things along.
The need to nurture and expand compassion motivates the Gentle Barn’s programs for at-risk kids. Many animals’ rescue and rehabilitation include stories of how those animals have helped a child break down their defenses and experience positive interactions. Maybe as a result there will be fewer people in the future who think kindness is something to mock or extinguish.
BARN’s gentle approach and engaging style make it ideal outreach for mainstream animal lovers. Without ever being preachy or accusing, Laks gently introduces us to the lives and personalities of farmed animals—letting us know that they are every bit the feeling individuals that our pets are. Hopefully for some readers it will be a nudge in the direction of thinking of pigs, chickens, cows, and others as being more than just ingredients.
February 17, 2014
I received this book as a First Reads winner.
I finished this book yesterday afternoon and have really been giving quite a bit of thought to this review. I wanted to "LOVE" this book but for some reason it just didn't hit that mark for me.
To sum it up in one word, I guess the best I can come up with is "shallow". I couldn't really find anything that grabbed my curiosity or prompted deeper thought. On the other hand,the only other area that would have been interesting to hear more about would be the children who found healing and hope at the sanctuary. There are only so many times one can read about overdue mortgage payments and cows with fevers.
The best take away I have from this book is that I now visit the Facebook page for Gentle Barn on a regular basis and actually have the chance to see many of the animals she writes about.
Now I have to go get over my guilt of giving a book only a three-star rating when it is about someone fulfilling their dream.
I finished this book yesterday afternoon and have really been giving quite a bit of thought to this review. I wanted to "LOVE" this book but for some reason it just didn't hit that mark for me.
To sum it up in one word, I guess the best I can come up with is "shallow". I couldn't really find anything that grabbed my curiosity or prompted deeper thought. On the other hand,the only other area that would have been interesting to hear more about would be the children who found healing and hope at the sanctuary. There are only so many times one can read about overdue mortgage payments and cows with fevers.
The best take away I have from this book is that I now visit the Facebook page for Gentle Barn on a regular basis and actually have the chance to see many of the animals she writes about.
Now I have to go get over my guilt of giving a book only a three-star rating when it is about someone fulfilling their dream.
July 19, 2014
I love the concept of a Gentle Barn and wanted to love this book. I didn't. I found the author self-serving and whiny. I liked the animals. Quit reading about halfway through.
August 27, 2022
This book is a love letter to animals. The stories of those rescued from horrible conditions and how loving and gentle and kind they remain despite the cruelty. All it takes is people like Ellie Laks to give them a safe and warm home and to speak to them and tell them they will be alright. Someone to give them the kindness they deserve. And to teach children and everyone about how to respect these animals and how to show your love. This book moved me to tears, and is one I will revisit many times to come. A strong reminder of the good in the world.
December 21, 2014
My Gentle Barn by Ellie Laks
It is hard to believe that someone who had been molested and neglected as a child could become such a caring and compassionate person. Perhaps, it is because as she says, the animals saved her. This book is about her healing neglected and abused animals as they heal her own neglected and abused spirit.
The thought of animal abuse is so abhorrent to me that I almost didn't read this book. While there is no glossing over the neglect and abuse the animals came out of, Ellie's love and gentle respect for the animals is the major focus of the book.
I had never heard of The Gentle Barn until I read this book. I knew of various rescue organizations but other than getting our cats from the local shelter, I really had no interaction with people whose lives are dedicated to animal rescue. And frankly, it was easier just not to think about it.
I read the book from start to finish almost without putting it down. It is interesting to see how Ellie grows and becomes the person that she was meant to be. And it is heartwarming to read about her patient, gentle nurturing of the animals that come into her life. And it is noteworthy that she uses the animals to help youth who have been injured by life to learn from the people and animals at the Gentle Barn how to heal and trust and be kind and gentle.
You can learn more about the Gentle Barn at www.gentlebarn.org or on Facebook Gentle Barn.
A very good read indeed.
It is hard to believe that someone who had been molested and neglected as a child could become such a caring and compassionate person. Perhaps, it is because as she says, the animals saved her. This book is about her healing neglected and abused animals as they heal her own neglected and abused spirit.
The thought of animal abuse is so abhorrent to me that I almost didn't read this book. While there is no glossing over the neglect and abuse the animals came out of, Ellie's love and gentle respect for the animals is the major focus of the book.
I had never heard of The Gentle Barn until I read this book. I knew of various rescue organizations but other than getting our cats from the local shelter, I really had no interaction with people whose lives are dedicated to animal rescue. And frankly, it was easier just not to think about it.
I read the book from start to finish almost without putting it down. It is interesting to see how Ellie grows and becomes the person that she was meant to be. And it is heartwarming to read about her patient, gentle nurturing of the animals that come into her life. And it is noteworthy that she uses the animals to help youth who have been injured by life to learn from the people and animals at the Gentle Barn how to heal and trust and be kind and gentle.
You can learn more about the Gentle Barn at www.gentlebarn.org or on Facebook Gentle Barn.
A very good read indeed.
February 25, 2014
I LOVED this Book !!! This is an Amazing true Story of a dream of a young girl who through her loneliness as a child sought out on a mission to help heal animals. Through caring for the animals she finds healing for herself...
I admire her conviction and strong heart to make a difference in Animals lives and in caring to help and heal children in need.
This story took me on a roller coaster of emotions... I had tears of sadness for some of the animal abuse and neglect that Ellie saw and treated at Gentle Barn, but then their was always a happy ending for most of the animals in the sanctuary where they would begin their healing.
This book really made you feel a part of the process in what Ellie was trying to do and the big heart of love that she has for these animals. The outpouring of public donations and support keeps My Gentle Barn in operation.
What a wonderful thing Ellie and Her Husband Jay are doing to make a difference in the World.
I commend them, and hope that you reading this will buy this book, it is a book you won't want to put down, it entwines you and is a must read.
You can also check out My Gentle Barn at www.gentlebarn.org to learn more about this amazing organization.
I admire her conviction and strong heart to make a difference in Animals lives and in caring to help and heal children in need.
This story took me on a roller coaster of emotions... I had tears of sadness for some of the animal abuse and neglect that Ellie saw and treated at Gentle Barn, but then their was always a happy ending for most of the animals in the sanctuary where they would begin their healing.
This book really made you feel a part of the process in what Ellie was trying to do and the big heart of love that she has for these animals. The outpouring of public donations and support keeps My Gentle Barn in operation.
What a wonderful thing Ellie and Her Husband Jay are doing to make a difference in the World.
I commend them, and hope that you reading this will buy this book, it is a book you won't want to put down, it entwines you and is a must read.
You can also check out My Gentle Barn at www.gentlebarn.org to learn more about this amazing organization.
March 27, 2014
LOVE THIS BOOK!
Like Ellie, I have always had a passion for animals. I feel a completeness when they are near. I'd rather snuggle a furry little puppy than smell a baby-powder infused infant. The story captured me from the start with her personal story of abuse, and kept me going with the stories of the suffering of the animals she encountered.
I was touched by the support of the celebrities mentioned in the book and in awe of the generosity of so many. The "Gentle Barn" is truly a blessing, as Jay & Ellie are a blessing to all animals everywhere.
I could NOT put this book down. When it was over, I nearly cried. I wanted to know more!!! Thank you for writing this book, Ellie, and showing us the beauty of the animals!
(This book was received free through the GoodReads New Author giveaway!)
Like Ellie, I have always had a passion for animals. I feel a completeness when they are near. I'd rather snuggle a furry little puppy than smell a baby-powder infused infant. The story captured me from the start with her personal story of abuse, and kept me going with the stories of the suffering of the animals she encountered.
I was touched by the support of the celebrities mentioned in the book and in awe of the generosity of so many. The "Gentle Barn" is truly a blessing, as Jay & Ellie are a blessing to all animals everywhere.
I could NOT put this book down. When it was over, I nearly cried. I wanted to know more!!! Thank you for writing this book, Ellie, and showing us the beauty of the animals!
(This book was received free through the GoodReads New Author giveaway!)
December 5, 2015
I enjoyed this book. It took me by surprise because I liked it so much more than I expected.
First, the Gentle Barn does amazing work in animal rescue. I enjoyed hearing all about it and the animals. Because I was so impressed with the Gentle Barn, I started following them on FB.
Second, it didn't bother me that the author only showed herself in the best possible light. That kind of thing bothers me in autobiographies, but in this case, it barely registered with me. This was really a book about the the Gentle Barn and it's journey in becoming what it is today.
Third, we all need people like this to do the things we can't. And if we can't do this, we should donate to those who can because they really do make the world better.
First, the Gentle Barn does amazing work in animal rescue. I enjoyed hearing all about it and the animals. Because I was so impressed with the Gentle Barn, I started following them on FB.
Second, it didn't bother me that the author only showed herself in the best possible light. That kind of thing bothers me in autobiographies, but in this case, it barely registered with me. This was really a book about the the Gentle Barn and it's journey in becoming what it is today.
Third, we all need people like this to do the things we can't. And if we can't do this, we should donate to those who can because they really do make the world better.
October 2, 2024
I loved this story so much! It showcases the good of humanity so much! This book at first took me like a storm with how honestly Ellie’s brutal childhood was told. I love how once she got into a drug addiction she had no choice anymore but to start living her best life little by little because that’s the only thing tolerable after living in a drug induced dreamland! I love how she has such an amazing connection to nature, the animals, and how spiritual it all is! I love how much bravery, and stubbornness Ellie had to make Gentle Barn into a reality!
It is so exciting to read about the animals, and hear snippets of their lives, how they got named, how sometimes they get into trouble! I mean this is the animals! They are so cute, and warm! This book elevates your energy levels! I mean it can also depress you though because most of these animals had to come from terrible environments, factory farms, the worst of conditions.
I love how one of the first things Ellie tried out was therapy on foster care children, and how it all just intuitively came into being! I definitely want to read more animal sanctuary stories! They should have a way bigger audience because this is a perfect format for these adventures with the animals. This is so much better than lots of mass produced fake happy books, this contains real happiness, and integrity! It can teach people to follow their own guidance, and love themselves!
I saw some reviews call this too self-serving, and I thought being self-serving was viewed as a good thing? Regardless of whether it is good or not it is something we must do as a society, we must be sensitive enough to follow our dreams to this extent in order to have a healthy, and functioning society. Our current society has abandoned sensitivity, the animals, our emotional guidance system. Emotions are important! They tell us what to do, and what we do not want in our personal expansions, journeys, they lead us to what is right for us.
This is the kind of book which reignites my hope for humanity! Thank you for writing it, and I want to thank myself for reading it, because I have been through so many stories which did not develop me as a person, but this book definitely encourages me to be connected to the animals, and to seek them out, seek to understand them. I want animals, nature to be a bigger part of my life!
Thank you!
It is so exciting to read about the animals, and hear snippets of their lives, how they got named, how sometimes they get into trouble! I mean this is the animals! They are so cute, and warm! This book elevates your energy levels! I mean it can also depress you though because most of these animals had to come from terrible environments, factory farms, the worst of conditions.
I love how one of the first things Ellie tried out was therapy on foster care children, and how it all just intuitively came into being! I definitely want to read more animal sanctuary stories! They should have a way bigger audience because this is a perfect format for these adventures with the animals. This is so much better than lots of mass produced fake happy books, this contains real happiness, and integrity! It can teach people to follow their own guidance, and love themselves!
I saw some reviews call this too self-serving, and I thought being self-serving was viewed as a good thing? Regardless of whether it is good or not it is something we must do as a society, we must be sensitive enough to follow our dreams to this extent in order to have a healthy, and functioning society. Our current society has abandoned sensitivity, the animals, our emotional guidance system. Emotions are important! They tell us what to do, and what we do not want in our personal expansions, journeys, they lead us to what is right for us.
This is the kind of book which reignites my hope for humanity! Thank you for writing it, and I want to thank myself for reading it, because I have been through so many stories which did not develop me as a person, but this book definitely encourages me to be connected to the animals, and to seek them out, seek to understand them. I want animals, nature to be a bigger part of my life!
Thank you!
August 27, 2023
So I read this book in about 12 hours. I had heard Ellen Degeneress talk about The Gentle Barn and was intrigued when I saw the book. It's been on my TBR pile for a while and I would really encourage people to read it.
This book is hope, it's healing, it feelings, it's empathy all rolled into one amazing book. Ellie is one of the most amazing people in the world and I, for one, would love to help her achieve her dream of having Gentle Barns in every state in the US
This book is hope, it's healing, it feelings, it's empathy all rolled into one amazing book. Ellie is one of the most amazing people in the world and I, for one, would love to help her achieve her dream of having Gentle Barns in every state in the US
July 22, 2025
What an interesting book about how the Gentle Barn started and the hard work it took for Ellie to realize her dream. It sounds like an awesome place!! I wish the book had included pictures of the animals, but I went to their website and saw the animals. Keep up the good work Gentle Barn!!
February 21, 2023
A beautiful and emotional tear filled rollercoaster ride with a happy ending!
October 21, 2023
So inspiring , emotional and heart warming
July 31, 2020
It is great to know there are still kind people in the world.
July 24, 2014
My Gentle Barn, a memoir, tells the story of Ellie Laks’ troubled childhood, feeling misunderstood and abandoned by her Jewish Orthodox parents and sexual abused by baby sitters. She relates that her early love of animals, to which she turned to for solace, helped to heal her emotional pain. From an early age Ellie had a dream to rescue neglected and abandoned animals. She wanted other troubled children to have a place to go where animals could help to heal their hurts.
According to the author, the Gentle Barn began one a small scale in an effort to rescue homeless and neglected dogs, right in her own backyard . Later she expanded her rescue to include pigs, goats and cows and quickly outgrowing her initial quarters. She was able to purchase a much large, more appropriate property, in part, thanks to a trust fund. This new property allowed her to continue her mission of helping more animals and healing more children. In 1999 the Gentle Barn animal sanctuary in Santa Clarita, California has open to the general public and has been helping animals and healing at-risk children. In a NY Times article, I read that according to Ellie’s husband, it takes about $50,000 a month to operate the Gentle Barn. The money has come from individual donations, through the Gentle Barn website, as well as from private family donations, corporate grants and foundations. Major donors have included Ellen DeGeneres, Toyota, CBS, William Morris Endeavor and Princess Cruises.
When asked early on why she does what she does, she replied, “You don’t understand. I’m not saving the animals; they’re saving me." Her stories about nursing the rescued animals back to health from deplorable conditions seemed genuine and heartfelt, and her love and concern for the animals welfare admirable. I loved her devotion to help troubled kids and how she was able to get some of them to trust through their interactions with the animals.
Although her memoir is inspiring and she is to be commended for her work, I never felt any sympathy for Ellie. Yes, she claimed her childhood was difficult, and the path to the Gentle Barn, involved lots of stumbling blocks. She also made a lot of bad decisions in her life. She spent 3-years as a crack addict, married, divorced, had unplanned pregnancies, remarried and ended up with significant financial issues. Some of her recantations just did not ring true for me, making me wonder whether parts of the memoir might have been embellished or even fabricated.
After finishing this memoir, a book which I am happy that I read, I started “googling" The Gentle Barn and Ellie Laks” and came across (2) interesting links which made wonder about the validity of what I read in this book. I think that while The Gentle Barn is and continues to do good work, there may be another side to the story which the reader has not been privy to. One of these links of concern was posted by the author’s own brother in response to this memoir. View HERE ---http://www.amazon.com/review/R2688GSY....
The other link is from a blog post on another animal advocate’s website. View HERE --http://animaladvocateswildliferehabil....
I guess readers will be left to form their own opinions. One thing I do know is that I’d love to visit The Gentle Barn. As a lover of all animals, I’m pretty sure I would love spending a day there.
February 28, 2014
I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review also posted on Great Minds Read Alike.
I'm not even sure what I was expecting when I started reading this book - I guess I thought it would be something that only farm animal lovers would identify with... just a Yay Animals!! happy story about saving the world.
But in these pages is one of the most inspiring and beautiful stories that I have ever read. There is story after story of individual animals - their situation and their healing - and of individual children that the animals in turn come to heal. This is a vivid story of how Ellie Lake's life came full circle - she had a lonely childhood, she had a dream to save the animals who had saved her as a child, she chased her dream, and she found herself along the way. I found myself in tears many many times.
But the most remarkable change took place inside of me... I was not alone after all; I was just a tiny current in the large, gorgeous flow of life.
It's memoirs like these that keep me coming back for more and usually get me on a memoir train for a few months. There is so much emotion and so much honesty in this story of The Gentle Barn.. it's overwhelming at times... but in such a good way - my soul feels cleansed. And I believe there is hope for humanity after all.
When I finished reading, I immediately found The Gentle Barn's website and read more about Jay and Ellie and what they are doing now... I guess you could say I'm an instafan. I'm definitely going to visit one day.
My husband and I have a dream to build a successful farm and produce meat in harmony... to be a small part of taking back the food industry from factory farms and to take care of the animals who in turn take care of us... so I think I could be possibly biased about this book. However, I don't think you have to be an animal activist/hippy farmer to enjoy this story about a life that comes full circle and enriches other lives in return.
Review also posted on Great Minds Read Alike.
I'm not even sure what I was expecting when I started reading this book - I guess I thought it would be something that only farm animal lovers would identify with... just a Yay Animals!! happy story about saving the world.
But in these pages is one of the most inspiring and beautiful stories that I have ever read. There is story after story of individual animals - their situation and their healing - and of individual children that the animals in turn come to heal. This is a vivid story of how Ellie Lake's life came full circle - she had a lonely childhood, she had a dream to save the animals who had saved her as a child, she chased her dream, and she found herself along the way. I found myself in tears many many times.
But the most remarkable change took place inside of me... I was not alone after all; I was just a tiny current in the large, gorgeous flow of life.
It's memoirs like these that keep me coming back for more and usually get me on a memoir train for a few months. There is so much emotion and so much honesty in this story of The Gentle Barn.. it's overwhelming at times... but in such a good way - my soul feels cleansed. And I believe there is hope for humanity after all.
When I finished reading, I immediately found The Gentle Barn's website and read more about Jay and Ellie and what they are doing now... I guess you could say I'm an instafan. I'm definitely going to visit one day.
My husband and I have a dream to build a successful farm and produce meat in harmony... to be a small part of taking back the food industry from factory farms and to take care of the animals who in turn take care of us... so I think I could be possibly biased about this book. However, I don't think you have to be an animal activist/hippy farmer to enjoy this story about a life that comes full circle and enriches other lives in return.
April 14, 2014
Ellie Laks-Wiener has been blessed with the ability to heal the physical and emotional traumas experienced by both animals and young people. Her life-affirming energy resonates throughout this memoir. Her ability to handle disheartening experiences is awe-inspiring. She is a miracle worker whose stories need to be read and retold to make people aware of the abuse experienced by children and animals and to give people the hope and willpower to fight against that abuse. Ellie describes her own abuse during the opening chapters of My Gentle Barn. These experiences give her first-hand knowledge and a deep abiding empathy for the struggles experienced by others.
A few parts of the book that expose the inner workings of Ellie, her barnyard companions, and some of her visitors follow.
Buddha, a rescued cow, had the unusual ability to give humans hugs. At the Gentle Barn, at-risk children began their visits by sharing a hug with Buddha. Ellie could sense that these kids were shedding their survival armor and beginning to heal. “If these kids could start there, by accepting love from a cow, maybe they then could accept love from other human beings, and just maybe one day learn to love themselves.” (p. 86)
The touching tale of Grandpa Goat and young Emily Goat, was a story of true and everlasting love. (p. 88-89) This account is worth reading again and again.
Ellie explained, “I have only a loose grasp on linear time, dwelling more naturally in the fluid world of the heart and the present moment.” (p. 94)
Ellie commented on the interactions of the animals in her barnyard community with the following remark. “Actually, they get along better than humans do. They’re more forgiving and live more in the moment. Besides, they know better than to expend energy trying to be right.” (p. 184)
These stories and lessons on life stay with the reader long after the last page is read. The most important of the lessons to be learned is that abuse experienced by children and animals does not have to lead to a destiny of misery and failure.
A few parts of the book that expose the inner workings of Ellie, her barnyard companions, and some of her visitors follow.
Buddha, a rescued cow, had the unusual ability to give humans hugs. At the Gentle Barn, at-risk children began their visits by sharing a hug with Buddha. Ellie could sense that these kids were shedding their survival armor and beginning to heal. “If these kids could start there, by accepting love from a cow, maybe they then could accept love from other human beings, and just maybe one day learn to love themselves.” (p. 86)
The touching tale of Grandpa Goat and young Emily Goat, was a story of true and everlasting love. (p. 88-89) This account is worth reading again and again.
Ellie explained, “I have only a loose grasp on linear time, dwelling more naturally in the fluid world of the heart and the present moment.” (p. 94)
Ellie commented on the interactions of the animals in her barnyard community with the following remark. “Actually, they get along better than humans do. They’re more forgiving and live more in the moment. Besides, they know better than to expend energy trying to be right.” (p. 184)
These stories and lessons on life stay with the reader long after the last page is read. The most important of the lessons to be learned is that abuse experienced by children and animals does not have to lead to a destiny of misery and failure.
March 7, 2014
Full disclosure: I received a free copy in a Goodreads first reads contest.
I'll admit at first I wasn't sure what to think about this book. I work in mental health and all I can remember thinking at first is 'this gal needs therapy'. As things went on, I realized she was getting therapy. Doing it herself, through her work with and love of animals. I'm a huge advocate of animal therapy, especially for children and teens. I too have had the privilege of seeing a teen who glares at the world open up and hug a dog, stare at a deer with wide, wonder-filled eyes, and pet a horse with a huge grin. Animal therapy works.
The stories in this book at times brought me to tears. Without too many spoilers, I remember that fire. I remember animals having to be evacuated. Strangers pulling up with trailers, taking anything you might have to safety...that brings tears to my eyes. Restores a bit of hope and faith in humanity.
The animals and people in this story are all amazing. Even better was going to the facebook page after reading this book, looking through the website. Seeing pictures of the animals I've read about...being able to contribute something to the wonderful, amazing thing that is the Gentle Barn. I know first hand how hard one has to work to take care of large animals (we do dog rescue, have horses, and used to do horse rescue too).
You know, I've never been a fan of The Secret. Maybe I need to go read it or watch it, though. Just maybe. We all need some therapy in our lives. If I ever get the chance I'll visit the Gentle Barn. Until then I will cherish this book and share it with anyone I can.
I'll admit at first I wasn't sure what to think about this book. I work in mental health and all I can remember thinking at first is 'this gal needs therapy'. As things went on, I realized she was getting therapy. Doing it herself, through her work with and love of animals. I'm a huge advocate of animal therapy, especially for children and teens. I too have had the privilege of seeing a teen who glares at the world open up and hug a dog, stare at a deer with wide, wonder-filled eyes, and pet a horse with a huge grin. Animal therapy works.
The stories in this book at times brought me to tears. Without too many spoilers, I remember that fire. I remember animals having to be evacuated. Strangers pulling up with trailers, taking anything you might have to safety...that brings tears to my eyes. Restores a bit of hope and faith in humanity.
The animals and people in this story are all amazing. Even better was going to the facebook page after reading this book, looking through the website. Seeing pictures of the animals I've read about...being able to contribute something to the wonderful, amazing thing that is the Gentle Barn. I know first hand how hard one has to work to take care of large animals (we do dog rescue, have horses, and used to do horse rescue too).
You know, I've never been a fan of The Secret. Maybe I need to go read it or watch it, though. Just maybe. We all need some therapy in our lives. If I ever get the chance I'll visit the Gentle Barn. Until then I will cherish this book and share it with anyone I can.
April 8, 2014
Do you love animals? Have you ever felt that you have a special bond with them? If the answer is yes then you will want to read Ellie Laks’ memoir My Gentle Barn. It is about rescuing animals, and healing them and then letting them help bring hope to children that are hurting. The story is so enthralling that I starting reading it one evening and finished it the next day. I remember finding out about The Gentle Barn on FB through other rescue pages. I loved seeing the pictures of the animals and hearing about their stories; many times praying that the animal would survive and that she and her husband would get the needed funding to help. This book is a more in-depth look behind the pictures. A little warning here: some of the stories are difficult to hear and a trauma that happened to her as a young girl is upsetting, but I hope that won’t deter you from reading this hope-filled book. It can be read by teenagers, as well as adults, and it would be great to pass it on to groups and families who work with at-risk kids. I’m definitely giving it a five star rating.
July 23, 2016
I expected this book to be one of my casual weekend morning books that I read for about 20 pages while drinking coffee before I start housework. I started reading it this morning and next thing I know I was on page 150 and really wanted to keep reading. My housework would have to wait. I had laughed several times, cried several times, and was only about halfway through the book.
I was expecting a charming tale, and I got that, but I was not expecting to be completely sucked in like I was. I had heard about Gentle Barn years ago, so the "story" was not entirely new to me, but Ellie Laks tale of building this remarkable organization, along with her experiences recovering from sexual abuse and drug addiction, her personal failures and many triumphs over setbacks was really fascinating. Her honesty, lack of judgment, and spirit of forgiveness is so inspiring as a human being. The book is well-written and immersive. An excellent read.
I got a copy of the ARC from Goodreads Giveaways.
I was expecting a charming tale, and I got that, but I was not expecting to be completely sucked in like I was. I had heard about Gentle Barn years ago, so the "story" was not entirely new to me, but Ellie Laks tale of building this remarkable organization, along with her experiences recovering from sexual abuse and drug addiction, her personal failures and many triumphs over setbacks was really fascinating. Her honesty, lack of judgment, and spirit of forgiveness is so inspiring as a human being. The book is well-written and immersive. An excellent read.
I got a copy of the ARC from Goodreads Giveaways.
February 10, 2014
Ellie Laks knew from the time she was a young girl, that she got along better with animals. Whether it was rescuing birds, rabbits, or being covered in butterflies, animals were her sanctuary. Growing up her family did not condone her behavior nor was it welcomed. As Ellie got older, she started rescuing stray dogs and eventually built a successful dog rescue business. When she met her husband and finally had a child, Ellie felt it was time to focus on her human family. Not much time went by when Ellie's heart strings were pulled once again when she and her son came upon a local rundown petting zoo. She ended up adopting and helping many of the sick farm animals. Over the months, this developed into a growing business "The Gentle Barn." The Gentle Barn not only helps animals in need, but troubled children as well for healing and therapy. I loved this story. I laughed and cried many times. Very inspirational. Highly recommended. Received courtesy of Net Galley.
June 20, 2019
I could not put down Ellie Laks' book until I read it cover to cover. A warm, rich, easy-to-read work of art. I laughed and cried, touched by the love of human beings for animals, the suffering perpetuated on this kingdom by others, and the amazing ability for both animals and humans to heal. "My Gentle Barn: Creating a Sanctuary Where Animals Heal and Children Learn to Hope" is written by Ellie in the first-person, and offers the reader the opportunity to walk with her on a very personal journey of finding and expressing the work her Soul has called her to do ~ rescuing abused animals and offering healing for at-risk youth. I celebrate the vision Ellie has held for so long and now the worldwide community who has joined her to help usher in a gentler time for animals and people. You will love this book if you love animals and are inspired by dreams and the Universal support that comes into expression when they are meant to be realized!
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August 21, 2020I received a copy of this book as a First Reads winner.
This book tells the author's story of how she came to found the Gentle Barn, an animal sanctuary in California. What's cool about the Gentle Barn is they bring in groups of foster children or kids from residential treatment programs and meeting the animals and hearing their stories helps break down walls they've put up from all the hurt they've experienced. As someone who works in child welfare, I found these stories fascinating. I found Ellie's story to overall be interesting and moving, though at times I have to admit I was a little annoyed, mostly by the writing style. Overall it's a good book about achieving one's goals (despite many obstacles) and would strongly appeal to animal lovers.
This book tells the author's story of how she came to found the Gentle Barn, an animal sanctuary in California. What's cool about the Gentle Barn is they bring in groups of foster children or kids from residential treatment programs and meeting the animals and hearing their stories helps break down walls they've put up from all the hurt they've experienced. As someone who works in child welfare, I found these stories fascinating. I found Ellie's story to overall be interesting and moving, though at times I have to admit I was a little annoyed, mostly by the writing style. Overall it's a good book about achieving one's goals (despite many obstacles) and would strongly appeal to animal lovers.
March 23, 2014
I was fortunate to win this book via the giveaway, One of my favorites!! The words flowed effortlessly and moved me with every line. Her story is one of hope courage and love. She didn't take no for an answer and created a beautiful safe haven for creatures no else wanted, while sharing it with people who also needed healing. I would love to visit the Gentle Barn one day. This is a must read for people who love animals and just anyone in general. In my eyes this is also a sort of self-help book, among many other things. It is impossible not to be uplifted by Ellie and her animals. Also very important was Jay, her husband, the many people who supported her and the people who didn't, because it drove her to try even harder.
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