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The Blind Woodsman: One Man's Journey to Find His Purpose on the Other Side of Darkness
The inspiring autobiography of a man who found true joy after a lifetime of harrowing struggles. Inside this moving true story, John Furniss, more famously known today as "The Blind Woodsman," along with his wife, inspiration, and fellow artist Anni — fondly called "Honeybee" by John — share their amazing story with the mission to help and inspire others to pursue their own creative passions, regardless of the challenges they may face. Despite being blind, John is now a highly skilled woodworker creating incredible pieces of art in complete darkness, inspiring millions of viewers on TikTok with his achievements. Although John's creative outlet revolves around woodworking, as a motivational speaker for blindness awareness, drug abuse prevention, and suicide prevention in schools, his overall mission is to help others find true happiness despite what life throws at you. Learn how John and Anni met, as John shares his life experiences from a young teen and all the challenges he faced. Be inspired by stunning images of John's work, while poignant messages make you laugh and smile along the way. The Blind Woodsman is a compelling true story that will give hope and inspiration to those dealing with disabilities, mental health struggles, addiction, chronic illness, and the anxieties and stresses in our everyday lives.
192 pages, Paperback
Published March 19, 2024
22 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 1, 2024
If you have TikTok you might have seen John and Anni Furniss at some point AKA The Blind Woodsman. They seem like such a sweet couple and have a good energy surrounding them. They post videos showing how John woodworks being blind and Anni does a lot of art related items. I really enjoyed reading more about their story. John talks about how he became blind, his struggles with substance abuse and wrestling the demons inside himself when he was younger and how him and Anni met. They seem to have gone through a lot together but they always see the light at the end of the tunnel. I wish the two of them the best! Definitely check out their page, John’s woodworking creations are really neat!
March 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a an uplifting book! I am legally blind and can relate to a lot of John's situations, such a slipping on ice and walking into sign posts. He is very fortunate to have survived his many setbacks in life and has a great attitude about how his life has turned out. Anni is also an inspiration as she seals with learning to live with a blind husband while dealing with her own health issues. Together, they make a wonderful team.
This is such a an uplifting book! I am legally blind and can relate to a lot of John's situations, such a slipping on ice and walking into sign posts. He is very fortunate to have survived his many setbacks in life and has a great attitude about how his life has turned out. Anni is also an inspiration as she seals with learning to live with a blind husband while dealing with her own health issues. Together, they make a wonderful team.
February 17, 2024
The story of John Furniss is a story of second and third chances and it is also a very encouraging and evolving story that will make you happy for where John is now. I found the story an, "Oh, my God," story that as you read the story you can't quite believe all that John went through in order reach the other side of his fulfilling journey. The story seems to say, "You never know what will happen next," so keep on going.
John Furniss must have at least two angels beside him, because not only did he survive a suicide attempt at a early age but he also survived drug addiction, amazing. And it seems that those angels also put the right people in his path when he needed someone the most, especially his wife Anni. His story makes me feel that even when you think there is nothing to believe in, something or someone makes you believe that you can go forward and keep trying. The story also tells me that the road is never a straight line, but is a journey of ups and down and failures and success and you need to appreciate and be grateful for both.
I want to thank Fox Chapel Publishing, Fox Chapel and NetGalley for an advance copy of this soul searching story that make you believe that you should keep on trying.
John Furniss must have at least two angels beside him, because not only did he survive a suicide attempt at a early age but he also survived drug addiction, amazing. And it seems that those angels also put the right people in his path when he needed someone the most, especially his wife Anni. His story makes me feel that even when you think there is nothing to believe in, something or someone makes you believe that you can go forward and keep trying. The story also tells me that the road is never a straight line, but is a journey of ups and down and failures and success and you need to appreciate and be grateful for both.
I want to thank Fox Chapel Publishing, Fox Chapel and NetGalley for an advance copy of this soul searching story that make you believe that you should keep on trying.
January 14, 2025
nice to see severe sight impairment explained in a good way while also making clear that blindness is different for everyone.
it's a hopeful book, but a real one.
I wasn't super engaged by the writing, and it was a bit clichéd at times but also it's sweet and sometimes that is what you need
it's a hopeful book, but a real one.
I wasn't super engaged by the writing, and it was a bit clichéd at times but also it's sweet and sometimes that is what you need
April 5, 2024
The Blind Woodsman by husband and wife duo, John and Anni Furniss, is a gripping, engaging, heart crushing and utterly gorgeous true story about resilience, determinination, perseverance, support, confidence and love.
At sixteen, John attempted suicide but was granted another chance not only to survive but thrive. Unsurprisingly, his resulting blindness contributed to depression, anxiety, isolation and loneliness. He said he robbed himself of independence for a time. However, he has since accomplished so much including becoming a skilled piano repairman, gardener and woodsman working with specialty tools such as a lathe. Unfathomable. He attributes his positive outlook to discovering bravery and insight through the loss of vision and literal darkness. And along came Anni.
John and Anni connected immediately but addictions created rifts. Once dealt with, they forged ahead. On their journey they married and had to find ways to earn incomes. Anni has chronic illnesses (I can unfortunately relate) but continues to use her art background and community spirit to do great things. The two make a lovely team. Anecdotes are at times witty and smart (his cash differentiation solution!) and other times emotive, such as subsequent accidents John had. Anni's blindness experiments tugged at my heart. Their genuine mutual love and respect is heartwarming. I've watched their interactions and slices of life on several of their delightful videos.
If you seek an achingly beautiful and inspiring nonfiction book, make it this one. Neither John nor Anni has a woe-is-me attitude which can be a great life lesson.
My sincere thank you to Fox Chapel Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this phenomenal book, one I will never forget. I adored it!
At sixteen, John attempted suicide but was granted another chance not only to survive but thrive. Unsurprisingly, his resulting blindness contributed to depression, anxiety, isolation and loneliness. He said he robbed himself of independence for a time. However, he has since accomplished so much including becoming a skilled piano repairman, gardener and woodsman working with specialty tools such as a lathe. Unfathomable. He attributes his positive outlook to discovering bravery and insight through the loss of vision and literal darkness. And along came Anni.
John and Anni connected immediately but addictions created rifts. Once dealt with, they forged ahead. On their journey they married and had to find ways to earn incomes. Anni has chronic illnesses (I can unfortunately relate) but continues to use her art background and community spirit to do great things. The two make a lovely team. Anecdotes are at times witty and smart (his cash differentiation solution!) and other times emotive, such as subsequent accidents John had. Anni's blindness experiments tugged at my heart. Their genuine mutual love and respect is heartwarming. I've watched their interactions and slices of life on several of their delightful videos.
If you seek an achingly beautiful and inspiring nonfiction book, make it this one. Neither John nor Anni has a woe-is-me attitude which can be a great life lesson.
My sincere thank you to Fox Chapel Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this phenomenal book, one I will never forget. I adored it!
February 27, 2024
John and Anni’s story is one of love, resilience, and hope after surviving against incredible odds. It is proof that light can come through darkness, strength can follow weakness, and peace can arrive after the storm. What John achieves in spite of his blindness is truly an inspiration and an example to us all to go after our dreams and never give up, while Anni continuously demonstrates how to support your partner through good times and bad. Their admiration, support, and respect for each other shines through every chapter. I loved their unique story (and the photos) and look forward to continuing to follow them and their art on social media.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 28, 2024
Inspirational and Educational
Going into this book, I really had no idea what it may bring about for me, not knowing the story of John or Anni. I have to say their story is both inspirational and educational, and I'd personally like to thank each of them for sharing it with us. The bravery and motivation to make each day count is something we all need to do from time to time, and seeing is truly believing inasmuch as John and Anni are role models for us all. Life isn't perfect, but it is what you make of it, and the two of them make the world a better place. Thank you, John and Anni, for sharing a bit about what it means to be a better human!
Going into this book, I really had no idea what it may bring about for me, not knowing the story of John or Anni. I have to say their story is both inspirational and educational, and I'd personally like to thank each of them for sharing it with us. The bravery and motivation to make each day count is something we all need to do from time to time, and seeing is truly believing inasmuch as John and Anni are role models for us all. Life isn't perfect, but it is what you make of it, and the two of them make the world a better place. Thank you, John and Anni, for sharing a bit about what it means to be a better human!
February 11, 2025
Review of The Blind Woodsman: One Man’s Journey to Find His Purpose on the Other Side of Darkness by John Furniss
John Furniss’s The Blind Woodsman is an inspiring and deeply personal memoir that chronicles his journey through immense challenges toward self-discovery and artistic fulfillment. His story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, offering an intimate look at his struggles with blindness, depression, and finding purpose through woodworking.
What makes this book truly compelling is its message of resilience. Furniss does not shy away from the difficult moments in his life, but rather than dwelling in despair, he turns his experiences into lessons in perseverance. His transformation from darkness—both literal and emotional—into a life filled with creativity and love is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to channel adversity into artistry serves as an inspiration to anyone facing personal obstacles.
I especially like this book because it’s not all rainbows and teddy bears. It feels grounded in the real world, where being disabled doesn’t mean living an idealized, struggle-free life. You can make mistakes, you can smoke, you can drink, you can do drugs, you can completely screw up—and, just like anyone else, you can also find recovery. Speaking as a person with a disability, it’s refreshing to read a memoir that doesn’t sugarcoat things or turn the author’s life into a flawless triumph. Instead, it embraces the messiness of reality while still offering hope.
That said, there are some aspects of the book that feel a bit repetitive. Many key moments are first narrated by his wife, Anni “Honeybee” Furniss, and then retold from John’s perspective. While this approach allows for a fuller understanding of their shared experiences, it occasionally feels redundant, making certain sections drag more than necessary. Additionally, it is interesting that Honeybee is not credited as a co-author, despite her significant narrative presence in the book.
Despite these minor critiques, The Blind Woodsman remains a powerful read. It is an unforgettable story of perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of art. Readers looking for an uplifting but unfiltered memoir will find much to admire in Furniss’s journey.
John Furniss’s The Blind Woodsman is an inspiring and deeply personal memoir that chronicles his journey through immense challenges toward self-discovery and artistic fulfillment. His story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, offering an intimate look at his struggles with blindness, depression, and finding purpose through woodworking.
What makes this book truly compelling is its message of resilience. Furniss does not shy away from the difficult moments in his life, but rather than dwelling in despair, he turns his experiences into lessons in perseverance. His transformation from darkness—both literal and emotional—into a life filled with creativity and love is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to channel adversity into artistry serves as an inspiration to anyone facing personal obstacles.
I especially like this book because it’s not all rainbows and teddy bears. It feels grounded in the real world, where being disabled doesn’t mean living an idealized, struggle-free life. You can make mistakes, you can smoke, you can drink, you can do drugs, you can completely screw up—and, just like anyone else, you can also find recovery. Speaking as a person with a disability, it’s refreshing to read a memoir that doesn’t sugarcoat things or turn the author’s life into a flawless triumph. Instead, it embraces the messiness of reality while still offering hope.
That said, there are some aspects of the book that feel a bit repetitive. Many key moments are first narrated by his wife, Anni “Honeybee” Furniss, and then retold from John’s perspective. While this approach allows for a fuller understanding of their shared experiences, it occasionally feels redundant, making certain sections drag more than necessary. Additionally, it is interesting that Honeybee is not credited as a co-author, despite her significant narrative presence in the book.
Despite these minor critiques, The Blind Woodsman remains a powerful read. It is an unforgettable story of perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of art. Readers looking for an uplifting but unfiltered memoir will find much to admire in Furniss’s journey.
Read
July 7, 2025I’m sighted and have two blind friends who have no vision or light perception at all, like John; one is a professional pianist (so he’d probably quite like this book!) and the other is an interpreter. I no longer live near to these friends, so reading this book reminded me of sweet times spent with them. I am grateful for the ways in which my blind friends have caused me to consider the world differently, and reading this book felt a bit like getting to know John and Anni as friends, too. They both share their stories with a lot of vulnerability, with the intent to encourage and educate. If you were curious to know more about them after having watched their videos, I’d say this book could be a good place to start.
The part where Anni had to decide how to describe her physical appearance to John for the first time made me laugh (especially when you’re crushing on somebody, what a complex dynamic!); John pulling out the “Can I feel your face?” card on one of their first dates really got me, too. (Spoiler alert: most blind people do not want to touch your face, but his exploitation of this stereotype for flirtatious purposes was sort of brilliant).
There can be a very real cultural adjustment for a sighted person learning to interact with the blind (what *should* I describe when we’re out and about? do you actually want to know that there’s still a little bit of lasagna at around 3 o’clock on your plate or is it so insignificant that we should just let it be? what do we do when the musical we got tickets for doesn’t have audio description after all?), and in particular learning how your blind friend prefers to be addressed, to navigate, and to describe their disability. John’s observations and educational insights to help sighted people learning to interact with blind people are hard-won and well spoken. I hope that more sighted people will get to know a bit about blindness through John and Anni’s story and feel more comfortable and empowered to reach out to the blind people in their lives.
The part where Anni had to decide how to describe her physical appearance to John for the first time made me laugh (especially when you’re crushing on somebody, what a complex dynamic!); John pulling out the “Can I feel your face?” card on one of their first dates really got me, too. (Spoiler alert: most blind people do not want to touch your face, but his exploitation of this stereotype for flirtatious purposes was sort of brilliant).
There can be a very real cultural adjustment for a sighted person learning to interact with the blind (what *should* I describe when we’re out and about? do you actually want to know that there’s still a little bit of lasagna at around 3 o’clock on your plate or is it so insignificant that we should just let it be? what do we do when the musical we got tickets for doesn’t have audio description after all?), and in particular learning how your blind friend prefers to be addressed, to navigate, and to describe their disability. John’s observations and educational insights to help sighted people learning to interact with blind people are hard-won and well spoken. I hope that more sighted people will get to know a bit about blindness through John and Anni’s story and feel more comfortable and empowered to reach out to the blind people in their lives.
April 3, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Blind Woodsman is a warm and personal memoir by John & Anni Furniss. Released 19th March 2024 by Fox Chapel, it's 192 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. Hardcover due out 2nd July 2024 from the same publisher.
This is such an engaging and appealing read. The Furniss' are pragmatic, honest, but never overly saccharine or precious. They speak honestly and openly about disability (he's completely blind, she has neuromuscular and hypermobility issues) and their daily lives and past history.
It's a very uplifting and honest memoir, and eminently readable. Definitely a feel-good book. It's not sugar coated, they're both honest about their struggles, but throughout, their loyalty to one another is palpable.
Highly recommended for public or secondary school library acquisition (frank discussions of mental health, disability, chronic illness, addiction, prison/legal system), for fans of memoir and nonfiction, and for gifting. It's told in alternating chapters with both the authors discussing the same events and timeline from their own points of view which works very well for this story.
Five stars. A genuinely uplifting read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Blind Woodsman is a warm and personal memoir by John & Anni Furniss. Released 19th March 2024 by Fox Chapel, it's 192 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. Hardcover due out 2nd July 2024 from the same publisher.
This is such an engaging and appealing read. The Furniss' are pragmatic, honest, but never overly saccharine or precious. They speak honestly and openly about disability (he's completely blind, she has neuromuscular and hypermobility issues) and their daily lives and past history.
It's a very uplifting and honest memoir, and eminently readable. Definitely a feel-good book. It's not sugar coated, they're both honest about their struggles, but throughout, their loyalty to one another is palpable.
Highly recommended for public or secondary school library acquisition (frank discussions of mental health, disability, chronic illness, addiction, prison/legal system), for fans of memoir and nonfiction, and for gifting. It's told in alternating chapters with both the authors discussing the same events and timeline from their own points of view which works very well for this story.
Five stars. A genuinely uplifting read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 2, 2024
The idea of a blind woodsman blew my mind! How can it be so?
John and Anni Furniss show how it IS so. . . right there in their every day! The Blind Woodsman: One Man's Journey to Find His Purpose is filled with amazing photographs and compelling backstories getting them to where they are now, showing how this blind woodsman is turning out beautiful work with his hands. Anni's artistry and skillful management of their combined talents show up in this book as well.
Together they are forging a life that is inspiring and an example to all of us who think we don't have a hope of getting around, over or through obstacles placed in our paths. It isn't magic, it isn't easy and the hardest mind to change is your own. These two show through their not-yet-together challenges how ready and easy they were for pianos, paint and love-is-in-the-air when it presented itself.
Want proof? Check it out! https://www.furnissstudios.com/
*A sincere thank you to John Furniss, Anni Furniss, Fox Chapel Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and independently review.* #TheBlindWoodsman #NetGalley
John and Anni Furniss show how it IS so. . . right there in their every day! The Blind Woodsman: One Man's Journey to Find His Purpose is filled with amazing photographs and compelling backstories getting them to where they are now, showing how this blind woodsman is turning out beautiful work with his hands. Anni's artistry and skillful management of their combined talents show up in this book as well.
Together they are forging a life that is inspiring and an example to all of us who think we don't have a hope of getting around, over or through obstacles placed in our paths. It isn't magic, it isn't easy and the hardest mind to change is your own. These two show through their not-yet-together challenges how ready and easy they were for pianos, paint and love-is-in-the-air when it presented itself.
Want proof? Check it out! https://www.furnissstudios.com/
*A sincere thank you to John Furniss, Anni Furniss, Fox Chapel Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and independently review.* #TheBlindWoodsman #NetGalley
September 5, 2024
I don't really like reviewing biographies because it kind of feels like I'm making a value judgment of who the biography is about. But this book is relatively new and under-reviewed, so I'll go ahead and do so to give it some deserved attention.
John and Anni's story is very heartfelt and sweet. It's not often you get to hear about disabled people just living their lives, falling in love, or being flawed. And especially as someone who works with blind people on a daily basis, I thought that John's view of himself, his struggles, and his beautiful life were very sweet and well-spoken.
If Goodreads allowed for fractional stars, I'd give this book a 3.5. It's a lovely story about a lovely couple.
John and Anni's story is very heartfelt and sweet. It's not often you get to hear about disabled people just living their lives, falling in love, or being flawed. And especially as someone who works with blind people on a daily basis, I thought that John's view of himself, his struggles, and his beautiful life were very sweet and well-spoken.
If Goodreads allowed for fractional stars, I'd give this book a 3.5. It's a lovely story about a lovely couple.
January 18, 2025
As a Social Worker for the Blind, I’d like to ask the people who rated this book a 1, 2, or 3 star….exactly where is that rating coming from? I started following John’s story shortly after I began working for Services for the Blind in North Carolina. As someone new to working with this population, John opened my eyes to the possibilities that are out there for blind and low visioned individuals. If you don’t see his life and overcoming struggles of all kinds nothing short of amazing, I’m just going to say….how can you not?!
February 12, 2025
A really good account of living with a disability, dealing with depression, and being a survivor. John is a testament to taking the cards you are dealt and turning them into something positive. The subject matter was very serious but the book tone is so endearing and heartwarming that I never felt uncomfortable reading about his story. Buried inside of this biography is also a very raw and beautiful story of a couple falling in love. Very perfect for Valentine’s Day.
February 12, 2025
John and Anni are an incredible couple who come across on social media like they navigate through life so effortlessly. And yet this memoir is a testament to how much they have to overcome on a daily basis to have the life they have. They have brought so much beauty and grace into this world with their art and their outlook on life and it’s no wonder why they are so special.
Trigger warning: discussion of suicide
Trigger warning: discussion of suicide
April 22, 2024
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NetGalley.
Can I just say how inspiring and awesome John is?! I love that we also got to learn a bit more about his partner as well.
This was a beautiful memoir told by two beautiful people. Their stories are relatable but inspiring.
So worth the read!
Can I just say how inspiring and awesome John is?! I love that we also got to learn a bit more about his partner as well.
This was a beautiful memoir told by two beautiful people. Their stories are relatable but inspiring.
So worth the read!
June 16, 2024
I have been following John and Anni on tiktok for a while now and love seeing all the things John makes. My husband is legally blind so this book also helped him learn or think differently about the way he lives his own life. There were some moments in the book where John and Anni would say the same things the other just said in the previous chapter but otherwise such a great read.
March 1, 2025
This book dispels some of the beliefs about blind people. They are really quite self sufficient. It follows a man that became blind after a suicide attempt and his ability to not only be self sufficient, but also to fix cars, pianos, create woodwork, and bake bread. He met and married a woman that learned to understand what it was like to be blind and develop a loving relationship.
May 28, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. Sometimes life throws curveballs and it’s how we react that matters. I like how they keep going and never give up; how if something isn’t working, they try something else.
February 21, 2025
I appreciate the honesty and vulnerability they put into this book!!!!
March 21, 2025
What an amazing journey! A beautiful story
October 5, 2025
A beautiful memoir. Outstanding!
August 17, 2025
Es mágico como John logro dar vuelta la vida, y convertir algo negativo en positivo.
Este es la autobiografía del viaje que recorrió un hombre ciego, John, y como conoció al amor de su vida, Annie. Es la prueba de que por mas oscuro que este siempre hay luz, por mas que exista debilidad puede surgir la fuerza y después de la tormenta llega la paz.
John nos hace dar cuenta que hay que perseguir nuestros sueños y nunca rendirnos.
Adore las fotos.
Este es la autobiografía del viaje que recorrió un hombre ciego, John, y como conoció al amor de su vida, Annie. Es la prueba de que por mas oscuro que este siempre hay luz, por mas que exista debilidad puede surgir la fuerza y después de la tormenta llega la paz.
John nos hace dar cuenta que hay que perseguir nuestros sueños y nunca rendirnos.
Adore las fotos.
July 29, 2025
TRIGGER WARNING…
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The courage it took for the Blind Woodsman to write this book, to allow others in a deep dark space in his life. This is an intimate look into mental darkness that is a the attempt he took on his own life that went wrong but in many ways it went right. There is light on the other side. Since he survived his life was plunged into a different type of darkness, one he embraced. Light and art entered his life to give it meaning. Followed by love, the love of a beautiful and amazing woman. His story is an encouragement to others in their own hard story that there is beauty on the other side of deep pain, of the hardness of life. I am truly inspired by this story that also contains love and art. I highly recommend for anyone who has ever been in a dark mental space to read this book and be encouraged that there is more to life than darkness. There is light and beauty to be found.
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The courage it took for the Blind Woodsman to write this book, to allow others in a deep dark space in his life. This is an intimate look into mental darkness that is a the attempt he took on his own life that went wrong but in many ways it went right. There is light on the other side. Since he survived his life was plunged into a different type of darkness, one he embraced. Light and art entered his life to give it meaning. Followed by love, the love of a beautiful and amazing woman. His story is an encouragement to others in their own hard story that there is beauty on the other side of deep pain, of the hardness of life. I am truly inspired by this story that also contains love and art. I highly recommend for anyone who has ever been in a dark mental space to read this book and be encouraged that there is more to life than darkness. There is light and beauty to be found.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
I follow John and Anni on Social Media and was excited to read their book. It was a lovely tribute to their lives where they share about art, blindness, mental health and disability awareness.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews