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Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship, and Finding Your Path
“Readers will be clamoring for more.” Publishers Weekly on Flash
Just when you think it’s the end of your story . . . grace shows up.
Sometimes it arrives as a moment of joy in the middle of despair. Sometimes you find it next to a trusted friend along an old, well-trodden path. And sometimes, grace has fuzzy ears, a bristled mane, and hope for a new start.
Join Rachel Anne Ridge, author of the beloved memoir Flash , in a journey back to the pasture. As she adopts a second rescue donkey as a little brother for Flash―a miniature named Henry―she finds that walking with donkeys has surprising lessons to teach us about prayer, renewing our faith, and connecting to God in fresh ways.
Readers all over the world fell in love with Flash and with Rachel’s thoughtful, funny, and poignant stories about what life with a donkey can teach you. Now, meet Henry and join him on a walk that could change everything about how you hope, trust, and move forward from past regrets.
Just when you think it’s the end of your story . . . grace shows up.
Sometimes it arrives as a moment of joy in the middle of despair. Sometimes you find it next to a trusted friend along an old, well-trodden path. And sometimes, grace has fuzzy ears, a bristled mane, and hope for a new start.
Join Rachel Anne Ridge, author of the beloved memoir Flash , in a journey back to the pasture. As she adopts a second rescue donkey as a little brother for Flash―a miniature named Henry―she finds that walking with donkeys has surprising lessons to teach us about prayer, renewing our faith, and connecting to God in fresh ways.
Readers all over the world fell in love with Flash and with Rachel’s thoughtful, funny, and poignant stories about what life with a donkey can teach you. Now, meet Henry and join him on a walk that could change everything about how you hope, trust, and move forward from past regrets.
256 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2019
82 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
February 18, 2019
Rachel Anne Ridge is a friendly storyteller, who makes you not only feel like you've been invited to her ranch, but invited into her life.
I had read her earlier book about Flash the donkey, and his escapades, which was an encouraging and easy-going visit with her and Flash and her family.
When Henry comes on the scene, life had thrown some more curveballs at Rachel and this story reflects the depth of the soul searching that she processed through.
In a Christian market full of "deconversion" stories, it is refreshing to follow along with someone who has grown up in church, done "the right things," still been faced with disillusionment, and then humbly crawled along in the steps of believers through the centuries and rebuild her faith.
Not raised in liturgical church, I have a fascination with and respect for, but lack of experience with, the liturgies and prayers Rachel uses as fence posts to structure Walking with Henry. I enjoyed following the threads as she reflected on particular ones in each chapter.
There is a good deal of scripture and retelling of Bible stories, but it never feels forced or contrived. She relates it all to her process of hammering out her faith, not from a place of having it all figured out, but of sharing where she's been and where the well-worn prayer path has led her.
If you have a soft spot in your heart for animals, donkeys in particular, you will enjoy getting to know the personalities of Henry and Flash. Rachel writes about them with both a great sense of humor and a poignant narrative that made me as full of compassion for these guys and their hooved friends as if they were in my own back yard.
Disclaimer: I was provided an advanced copy of this book for my honest review.
I had read her earlier book about Flash the donkey, and his escapades, which was an encouraging and easy-going visit with her and Flash and her family.
When Henry comes on the scene, life had thrown some more curveballs at Rachel and this story reflects the depth of the soul searching that she processed through.
In a Christian market full of "deconversion" stories, it is refreshing to follow along with someone who has grown up in church, done "the right things," still been faced with disillusionment, and then humbly crawled along in the steps of believers through the centuries and rebuild her faith.
Not raised in liturgical church, I have a fascination with and respect for, but lack of experience with, the liturgies and prayers Rachel uses as fence posts to structure Walking with Henry. I enjoyed following the threads as she reflected on particular ones in each chapter.
There is a good deal of scripture and retelling of Bible stories, but it never feels forced or contrived. She relates it all to her process of hammering out her faith, not from a place of having it all figured out, but of sharing where she's been and where the well-worn prayer path has led her.
If you have a soft spot in your heart for animals, donkeys in particular, you will enjoy getting to know the personalities of Henry and Flash. Rachel writes about them with both a great sense of humor and a poignant narrative that made me as full of compassion for these guys and their hooved friends as if they were in my own back yard.
Disclaimer: I was provided an advanced copy of this book for my honest review.
February 11, 2019
LOVE...
This book resonated with me so much! Fifty-something woman: check. (About-to-be)Empty nest: check. Spiritual life needing a recharge: check. Donkeys in the backyard: well, I wish (can't win them all). Rachel's sweet story of winning over Henry and discovering some beautiful spiritual disciplines to breathe new life into her faith along the way spoke to my heart. As others have mentioned, this book is like listening to a friend. I know I will be reading again and pondering the scriptures and prayers highlighted.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This book resonated with me so much! Fifty-something woman: check. (About-to-be)Empty nest: check. Spiritual life needing a recharge: check. Donkeys in the backyard: well, I wish (can't win them all). Rachel's sweet story of winning over Henry and discovering some beautiful spiritual disciplines to breathe new life into her faith along the way spoke to my heart. As others have mentioned, this book is like listening to a friend. I know I will be reading again and pondering the scriptures and prayers highlighted.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 13, 2019
A little donkey named Henry who walks backwards. Well, that stole my heart right off the bat! What some may think as a “flaw,” would end up serving as a beautiful metaphor for author Rachel and a time of contemplation she found herself in.
Moving into a new phase of her life, her children now grown, she searches for what her purpose now is.
An inward journey led by a mini donkey she adopted who didn’t know how to walk forward would be the best guide for Rachel as she learned to find a new path to walk without getting stuck in the past and what was.
It was the strong-spirited and sweet donkey named Henry who would have Rachel revisiting what her spirituality meant to her. While Rachel finds her way through revisiting the Bible, whether you find solace in the gospel or not, this story resonates at the core of the inward journey many of us face at different times in our lives.
While I believe in God, though I’m more comfortable using the term Spirit, as I read Rachel’s book I felt we may have had a different take on what God is. But I was open to what she had to say. It certainly helped that I also feel connected to donkeys along with the wisdom all animals provide. Besides the fact I was now head over heels in love with Henry, that I was willing to be brought along on her journey of understanding God.
And I was moved to tears when later in the book after many months of self-reflection when Rachel shares her vision of how she sees God. It was deeply touching, described as this glorious light of being and that ultimately, God is love. In that moment I was whooshed back to when I had a similar life-changing experience in 2018.
I realized then that while our spiritual paths may differ and the road we each have chosen to walk, that we arrived at the same place of understanding. Not only did I feel a kinship with Rachel for her love of donkeys and all animals, but now felt a spiritual connection I’d not expected.
We are never alone and Rachel and Henry, along with Flash the donkey, prove that we just have to open our hearts to truly see.
Moving into a new phase of her life, her children now grown, she searches for what her purpose now is.
An inward journey led by a mini donkey she adopted who didn’t know how to walk forward would be the best guide for Rachel as she learned to find a new path to walk without getting stuck in the past and what was.
It was the strong-spirited and sweet donkey named Henry who would have Rachel revisiting what her spirituality meant to her. While Rachel finds her way through revisiting the Bible, whether you find solace in the gospel or not, this story resonates at the core of the inward journey many of us face at different times in our lives.
While I believe in God, though I’m more comfortable using the term Spirit, as I read Rachel’s book I felt we may have had a different take on what God is. But I was open to what she had to say. It certainly helped that I also feel connected to donkeys along with the wisdom all animals provide. Besides the fact I was now head over heels in love with Henry, that I was willing to be brought along on her journey of understanding God.
And I was moved to tears when later in the book after many months of self-reflection when Rachel shares her vision of how she sees God. It was deeply touching, described as this glorious light of being and that ultimately, God is love. In that moment I was whooshed back to when I had a similar life-changing experience in 2018.
I realized then that while our spiritual paths may differ and the road we each have chosen to walk, that we arrived at the same place of understanding. Not only did I feel a kinship with Rachel for her love of donkeys and all animals, but now felt a spiritual connection I’d not expected.
We are never alone and Rachel and Henry, along with Flash the donkey, prove that we just have to open our hearts to truly see.
February 6, 2019
This book should be called Walking with Rachel. Her writing flows in such a way that it is like having a conversation with a friend. I laughed, I cried, I took notes on certain scriptures she quoted; this book kept my
Emotions on edge in a good way. I rescued a dog from my last deployment; I was never an animal person but Ally wanted to come home with me. Reading this book brought back happy memories but also gave me a perspective on my life experiences I had not considered. Thank you!
Emotions on edge in a good way. I rescued a dog from my last deployment; I was never an animal person but Ally wanted to come home with me. Reading this book brought back happy memories but also gave me a perspective on my life experiences I had not considered. Thank you!
February 19, 2019
I think I have two new friends. One is an adorable miniature donkey named Henry — obviously the subject of the new book, Walking with Henry. But also the author, Rachel Ridge. In this book, Rachel introduces us to Henry, and also invites us into her own life in a seamless way.
Rachel takes on Henry as a rescue donkey to be a companion to Flash, a donkey she and her husband already had. Her walks with Henry each day become her thinking time to work through issues. “Walking with a donkey, as I learned, is not done with the purposeful strides of personal achievement, but rather with the humbled steps of one forced to go at the pace of an unhurried companion.”
I related to Rachel in several ways. She’s a mom in her 50s who is struggling a little as her kids leave home. “My anxiety was mostly a low-level, constant hum of what if? … It was like a virus had taken hold. With a virus, most of the time you don’t even know you’ve been infected until the symptoms show up … Worry begins as tiny cells that morph and multiply into mutants running amok in your mind. These mutants tell you every situation in your life is doomed.” Where could she find comfort and stability?
Rachel spent her life in the evangelical church, but finds herself feeling a little out-of-place with some aspects of that. She and her husband visit a more liturgical, “high church” congregation, and it clicks for them. She begins reading through the Book of Common Prayer and uses many of its prayers throughout the day. I can relate — I currently have what I consider a nice mix of attending our family megachurch some weeks, while alternating with playing organ at a little country Lutheran church other weeks.
Rachel discusses her grandpa’s church from her childhood with its stained glass and traditions that felt so sacred. That’s what she found when she moved to a more liturgical church: comfort in the traditions that had sustained Christians for centuries. She confesses very honestly that she had looked down on this type of church, feeling it to be “shallow”: “In our desire to experience freedom of expression, we evangelicals have created a whole new kind of liturgy — a standard way of worship with an emphasis on ‘new, relevant, and exciting.’ Our goal is to avoid a ho-hum religion, and if that means featuring lights and smoke, elaborate stage sets, a full band, and multimedia presentations … bring ’em on.” As Rachel recited the Apostles’ Creed and the Lord’s Prayer with the congregation, she felt she’d come home. I, too, find that the older I get, the more comfort I gain from reciting ancient words of Christian wisdom. Let’s face it: sometimes in our angst, we don’t have the mental energy to compose our own words to God. There’s comfort in speaking ready-made prayers, especially knowing their history.
She mentions “a small boy’s voice mingled with the voices of the elderly couple next to us as we prayed in unison,” and this reminds me of a recent Sunday when I looked over from my seat at the organ to see a group of teens, who enjoy sitting up in balcony, linking arms and swaying as they sang along with the admittedly peppy Post-Communion Canticle. I always find it so sweet that these cool ‘n hip kids seem to so appreciate this ages-old ritual. It’s just so wholesome and unexpected, and … hopeful.
Rachel contemplated all this as she walked with Henry (who, endearingly, usually insisted on walking backwards). She also weaves in Biblical stories of donkeys — Balaam’s famous talking one, and the one Jesus rode into Jerusalem. “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading — Oswald Chambers.”
I really enjoyed Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship, and Finding Your Path, and found it deeper than your typical “cute animal book.” Recommended!
**Thanks Tyndale for a review copy.
Rachel takes on Henry as a rescue donkey to be a companion to Flash, a donkey she and her husband already had. Her walks with Henry each day become her thinking time to work through issues. “Walking with a donkey, as I learned, is not done with the purposeful strides of personal achievement, but rather with the humbled steps of one forced to go at the pace of an unhurried companion.”
I related to Rachel in several ways. She’s a mom in her 50s who is struggling a little as her kids leave home. “My anxiety was mostly a low-level, constant hum of what if? … It was like a virus had taken hold. With a virus, most of the time you don’t even know you’ve been infected until the symptoms show up … Worry begins as tiny cells that morph and multiply into mutants running amok in your mind. These mutants tell you every situation in your life is doomed.” Where could she find comfort and stability?
Rachel spent her life in the evangelical church, but finds herself feeling a little out-of-place with some aspects of that. She and her husband visit a more liturgical, “high church” congregation, and it clicks for them. She begins reading through the Book of Common Prayer and uses many of its prayers throughout the day. I can relate — I currently have what I consider a nice mix of attending our family megachurch some weeks, while alternating with playing organ at a little country Lutheran church other weeks.
Rachel discusses her grandpa’s church from her childhood with its stained glass and traditions that felt so sacred. That’s what she found when she moved to a more liturgical church: comfort in the traditions that had sustained Christians for centuries. She confesses very honestly that she had looked down on this type of church, feeling it to be “shallow”: “In our desire to experience freedom of expression, we evangelicals have created a whole new kind of liturgy — a standard way of worship with an emphasis on ‘new, relevant, and exciting.’ Our goal is to avoid a ho-hum religion, and if that means featuring lights and smoke, elaborate stage sets, a full band, and multimedia presentations … bring ’em on.” As Rachel recited the Apostles’ Creed and the Lord’s Prayer with the congregation, she felt she’d come home. I, too, find that the older I get, the more comfort I gain from reciting ancient words of Christian wisdom. Let’s face it: sometimes in our angst, we don’t have the mental energy to compose our own words to God. There’s comfort in speaking ready-made prayers, especially knowing their history.
She mentions “a small boy’s voice mingled with the voices of the elderly couple next to us as we prayed in unison,” and this reminds me of a recent Sunday when I looked over from my seat at the organ to see a group of teens, who enjoy sitting up in balcony, linking arms and swaying as they sang along with the admittedly peppy Post-Communion Canticle. I always find it so sweet that these cool ‘n hip kids seem to so appreciate this ages-old ritual. It’s just so wholesome and unexpected, and … hopeful.
Rachel contemplated all this as she walked with Henry (who, endearingly, usually insisted on walking backwards). She also weaves in Biblical stories of donkeys — Balaam’s famous talking one, and the one Jesus rode into Jerusalem. “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading — Oswald Chambers.”
I really enjoyed Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship, and Finding Your Path, and found it deeper than your typical “cute animal book.” Recommended!
**Thanks Tyndale for a review copy.
February 18, 2019
What a sweet story of Henry the donkey through the eyes of his owner Rachel! But more than just a walk with Henry, Rachel takes us with her as she walks with the Lord and as He guides her into a renewed focus and prayer life. So so good! I’m excited to get a hard copy to study and memorize some of the prayers in the book!
February 18, 2019
This book is beyond good. Rachel Anne Ridge, writes from the heart. Her experiences in life are revealed with assurance in hope. I love her compassion and courage!
February 10, 2019
Walking With Henry is a rapturous representation of what it means to wrestle with God & come up more assured of His goodness—sweat, tears & all. Rachel’s humble transparency in her memoir is a tranquil breath of God’s with-us-ness for anyone faced with the tension of deconstructing ideologies along their own faith walk—a vital reassurance for those who may be in the throes of holding constructs of belief up to the Light and letting Him melt the impurities away while holding fast to the Everlasting. That little donkey will capture your heart as he embodies big lessons, reminding us all that even when our questions are not answered according to our tenacious timetable, we are delighted in by our Heavenly Father. Our inquiries are not a threat to His sovereignty, sanctification is a slow, reverent work, and the One who leads is ever faithful.
June 17, 2019
Rachel writes like you're sitting across the table with a cup of coffee and she's sharing with you.
I laughed, I cried, and I wished I had a donkey to walk and pray with! This book opened my eyes to how I view prayer. It given me "permission" to use prayers that are already written and not feel like I'm "cheating".
I was part of the launch team for this book and read a digital Advanced Reader Copy. I'll be ordering a paper back copy so I can highlight and write in it. I highly recommend this book!
I laughed, I cried, and I wished I had a donkey to walk and pray with! This book opened my eyes to how I view prayer. It given me "permission" to use prayers that are already written and not feel like I'm "cheating".
I was part of the launch team for this book and read a digital Advanced Reader Copy. I'll be ordering a paper back copy so I can highlight and write in it. I highly recommend this book!
March 4, 2019
If you liked "Flash the Donkey," you will adore "Walking with Henry." In this lovely book, Rachel Anne Ridge candidly tells her story of the tragedy, struggles and questions she's dealt with.
Rachel and Tom thought Flash needed a companion donkey, so they (sort of) jumped on the opportunity to adopt a rescued miniature donkey. Rachel watched and learned from Flash, "Henry" (the new kid), and their slow-growing friendship. Somehow, as she slowed down and gave her own heart some breathing space, these poky-but-gentle creatures helped her see her doubts and questions in a new light. Meanwhile, she discovered guidance in other unexpected places, until her bruised faith kindled again into a warm flame.
This is one of the most encouraging books I've read in a long time. No doubt Rachel's transparency and delightfully engaging voice get much of the credit.
Tyndale, the publisher, sent me an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rachel and Tom thought Flash needed a companion donkey, so they (sort of) jumped on the opportunity to adopt a rescued miniature donkey. Rachel watched and learned from Flash, "Henry" (the new kid), and their slow-growing friendship. Somehow, as she slowed down and gave her own heart some breathing space, these poky-but-gentle creatures helped her see her doubts and questions in a new light. Meanwhile, she discovered guidance in other unexpected places, until her bruised faith kindled again into a warm flame.
This is one of the most encouraging books I've read in a long time. No doubt Rachel's transparency and delightfully engaging voice get much of the credit.
Tyndale, the publisher, sent me an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2019
“Walking With Henry” is a heartwarming book that will make you laugh, cry, and bring you closer to God. It’s hard to believe that a story about two donkeys will affect you as much as this one does! Henry and Flash have endeared themselves to me and I especially enjoyed reading about Rachel’s spiritual journey.
I received an advance reader copy of this book, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to read it!
I received an advance reader copy of this book, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to read it!
February 10, 2019
Walking with Henry made me laugh, cry, reflect, and learn. Rachel opens her heart to describe her spiritual journey, wrought with doubt and devotion, faith and friendship, grief and grace, patience and prayer, regret and renewal. She writes with humor, honesty and eloquence as she tells the story of her adoption of a miniature donkey, and the sadness, challenge, enlightenment, and joy that came with it.
I love this charming, engaging, insightful book.
I love this charming, engaging, insightful book.
December 2, 2022
I adore this book and of course adorable Henry 😍💕The spiritual truths told with complete honesty and authenticity deeply touched my heart.....and made me want to be closer to God....and to get a miniature donkey of my own!! If only I could talk my husband into it:) Highly recommend!!
March 5, 2019
What can one possibly learn from a donkey? Rachel takes us on a tender journey of celebration, heart break, near hopelessness to new found faith through events that led her to Henry. Henry teaches Rachel what it means to find hope and healing through Life and Truth.
Each chapter is full of nuggets that feed the longing soul. Nuggets that reveal Grace and Truth and the Love of a God that speaks to each of us personally.
If you are longing for a nugget of Truth and a the Breathe of Life, go walking with Henry, learning lessons of faith, friendship and finding your path!
Each chapter is full of nuggets that feed the longing soul. Nuggets that reveal Grace and Truth and the Love of a God that speaks to each of us personally.
If you are longing for a nugget of Truth and a the Breathe of Life, go walking with Henry, learning lessons of faith, friendship and finding your path!
January 24, 2020
This was, in retrospect, not the ideal book to read first by the author. This book is, properly speaking, the follow-up to a previous book that the author had written about the first miniature donkey she adopted, named Flash, and it is definitely a step down from that book (review forthcoming). Had I read the other book first, I would have enjoyed it more, as this book demonstrates the author's general inconsistencies with faith and the fact that she lets her holier-than-thou social gospel thinking overwhelm her better instincts. This sort of book depends on the reader being able to laugh at the author because of her general cluelessness about taking care of animals and living life, and the author fails to live up to her side of the bargain in recognizing that her general air of daffiness prevents her from being the sort of insightful guide that she fancies herself to be. There are still funny moments here, but this book would have been so much better had the author refrained in talking about her milquetoast faith journey and her growing fondness for heathenish liturgy and leftist politics.
This book is about 200 pages long and is divided into thirteen chapters. Each of the chapters of this book contains some sort of Romish rite attached to it that reflects the author's newfound interest in matters of liturgy. The book also begins with an invitation to follow the author in her errant religious quest as well as a prologue and ends with a guide to prayer walking, as well as the usual acknowledgements, notes, resources, and information about the author and her donkeys. In between, the author discusses her taking care of animals, including a rescue donkey named Henry, as a means of better understanding grace (1) as well as honing her beliefs (2). She discusses the scarcity mentality that donkeys and people can all too easily have (3) as well as the need for our eyes to be open (4). She comments on what we have left undone (5) as well as the fact that each day is a new one (6). She uses pasturing animals as a metaphor for we being sheep in the pasture of God (7), and also discusses how we are led by God and are to lead our animals (8). She muses on infected animals and uses an experience with a rabid mare as an entrance into our own sicknesses (9) and also discusses both the gracious light of God (10) and the way of peace that God leads us in (11). After that there are chapters about the importance of having godly companions (12) as well as giving glory to God (13).
A book like this depends a great deal on tone. It is to be regretted that after making one good book that the author thought that the success of that book meant that she was considered as some sort of spiritual authority, which led her to lose much of the charm that she previously had. This book is disappointing on every level except one, and that is the fact that her lack of skill in taking care of animals is still occasionally amusing and sometimes has serious consequences, as when she lets her lovesick donkey Flash mate with a stray mare that ends up being rabid and has to be put down. That is something that is so sad that it is funny in a dark way, the kind that appears in black comedies about people who have more money than sense and an interest in rescuing animals whose longings and needs far outweigh their modest abilities to cope. Alas, those moments of humor that occur in this book cut against the author's evident desire to be taken seriously as a spiritual guide, as does the fact that the author finds herself in a process of decreasing zeal to the point where dying mainline churches attract her. If she writes any future books, here's hoping they keep the humility she had at the beginning and find her abandoning the pretensions of seeing herself as a model for others to follow.
This book is about 200 pages long and is divided into thirteen chapters. Each of the chapters of this book contains some sort of Romish rite attached to it that reflects the author's newfound interest in matters of liturgy. The book also begins with an invitation to follow the author in her errant religious quest as well as a prologue and ends with a guide to prayer walking, as well as the usual acknowledgements, notes, resources, and information about the author and her donkeys. In between, the author discusses her taking care of animals, including a rescue donkey named Henry, as a means of better understanding grace (1) as well as honing her beliefs (2). She discusses the scarcity mentality that donkeys and people can all too easily have (3) as well as the need for our eyes to be open (4). She comments on what we have left undone (5) as well as the fact that each day is a new one (6). She uses pasturing animals as a metaphor for we being sheep in the pasture of God (7), and also discusses how we are led by God and are to lead our animals (8). She muses on infected animals and uses an experience with a rabid mare as an entrance into our own sicknesses (9) and also discusses both the gracious light of God (10) and the way of peace that God leads us in (11). After that there are chapters about the importance of having godly companions (12) as well as giving glory to God (13).
A book like this depends a great deal on tone. It is to be regretted that after making one good book that the author thought that the success of that book meant that she was considered as some sort of spiritual authority, which led her to lose much of the charm that she previously had. This book is disappointing on every level except one, and that is the fact that her lack of skill in taking care of animals is still occasionally amusing and sometimes has serious consequences, as when she lets her lovesick donkey Flash mate with a stray mare that ends up being rabid and has to be put down. That is something that is so sad that it is funny in a dark way, the kind that appears in black comedies about people who have more money than sense and an interest in rescuing animals whose longings and needs far outweigh their modest abilities to cope. Alas, those moments of humor that occur in this book cut against the author's evident desire to be taken seriously as a spiritual guide, as does the fact that the author finds herself in a process of decreasing zeal to the point where dying mainline churches attract her. If she writes any future books, here's hoping they keep the humility she had at the beginning and find her abandoning the pretensions of seeing herself as a model for others to follow.
March 16, 2019
In her latest book, Walking With Henry, Rachel Anne Ridge takes on Henry, a rescue donkey, as a friend to Flash. Thus begins another friendship with a donkey who becomes more than a companion for Henry, he becomes a teacher to the people who love him.
“Walking with a donkey, as I learned, is not done with the purposeful strides of personal achievement, but rather with the humbled steps of one forced to go at the pace of an unhurried companion. Although I couldn’t yet see it, ahead of me on the paths was a whole new dimension of finding God’s presence, not only in His creation but also in the timeless prayers of the church—the voices of His people throughout the ages.”
As she shares of developing her friendship with Henry, the author shares of the glimpses of God’s grace and hope she discovered along the way. Prayer becomes more than a few words shot up quickly, it becomes the means of deeply connecting with God and with ancient prayers which bring life and meaning.
The author discovers of “The Book of Common Prayer”, and includes beautiful and meaningful excerpts throughout her own book, which brings added comfort and encouragement. She explains her discovery:
“Liturgy is literally “a work of the people,” or even better, “a work for the people.” It’s simply an order of worship, laid out long ago, that helps people read, pray, and worship in ways that are constructive and formative.”
A few of my favorite thoughts from the book were:
“Just when you think it’s the end of your story, grace shows up in all its unexpected glory. Sometimes, grace arrives as a moment of joy in the middle of despair.”
“I have discovered that something is awakened through failure, tragedy, and disappointment. It is a place of learning and potential creativity. In such moments you can get lost in despair or denial, or you can recognize the failure and run toward the hope of something new.”
“A scarcity mind-set had prevented him from experiencing the abundance all around him … Watching Henry, I realized how easy it was for me to let the wounds of the past dictate my actions, even without realizing it.”
” … regular confession creates a posture of humility, a space that allows the Holy Spirit to gently remind you of short- comings and the opportunity to listen for His conviction. It lays your soul bare and exposes your wounds so that God can pour the healing balm of His mercy upon them. You just need to keep coming back and coming back, giving them to Him and giving them to Him . . . as long as it takes you. There’s no rush, no timetable for healing.”
Every walk with Henry, every chapter, brings a fresh insight to both the author and the reader. As with Flash, I found myself not wanting to come to the last page of this endearing book. You will laugh and you will cry, and you will find yourself drawing ever so closer to Jesus as you take a walk with Henry.
*As part of the launch team, I was provided a pdf of this book. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
“Walking with a donkey, as I learned, is not done with the purposeful strides of personal achievement, but rather with the humbled steps of one forced to go at the pace of an unhurried companion. Although I couldn’t yet see it, ahead of me on the paths was a whole new dimension of finding God’s presence, not only in His creation but also in the timeless prayers of the church—the voices of His people throughout the ages.”
As she shares of developing her friendship with Henry, the author shares of the glimpses of God’s grace and hope she discovered along the way. Prayer becomes more than a few words shot up quickly, it becomes the means of deeply connecting with God and with ancient prayers which bring life and meaning.
The author discovers of “The Book of Common Prayer”, and includes beautiful and meaningful excerpts throughout her own book, which brings added comfort and encouragement. She explains her discovery:
“Liturgy is literally “a work of the people,” or even better, “a work for the people.” It’s simply an order of worship, laid out long ago, that helps people read, pray, and worship in ways that are constructive and formative.”
A few of my favorite thoughts from the book were:
“Just when you think it’s the end of your story, grace shows up in all its unexpected glory. Sometimes, grace arrives as a moment of joy in the middle of despair.”
“I have discovered that something is awakened through failure, tragedy, and disappointment. It is a place of learning and potential creativity. In such moments you can get lost in despair or denial, or you can recognize the failure and run toward the hope of something new.”
“A scarcity mind-set had prevented him from experiencing the abundance all around him … Watching Henry, I realized how easy it was for me to let the wounds of the past dictate my actions, even without realizing it.”
” … regular confession creates a posture of humility, a space that allows the Holy Spirit to gently remind you of short- comings and the opportunity to listen for His conviction. It lays your soul bare and exposes your wounds so that God can pour the healing balm of His mercy upon them. You just need to keep coming back and coming back, giving them to Him and giving them to Him . . . as long as it takes you. There’s no rush, no timetable for healing.”
Every walk with Henry, every chapter, brings a fresh insight to both the author and the reader. As with Flash, I found myself not wanting to come to the last page of this endearing book. You will laugh and you will cry, and you will find yourself drawing ever so closer to Jesus as you take a walk with Henry.
*As part of the launch team, I was provided a pdf of this book. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 5, 2019
***Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship and Finding Your Path***
Author, professional artist and designer, Rachel Ann Ridge releases "Walking with Henry" March 5, an inspirational true story of faith wrapped in hope, trust and rescued donkeys. It's also Rachel's story of her journey into intimacy with God, a journey that would restore her soul and rekindle her faith and spiritual life.
Her story begins with a decision about a "wingman" for Flash, a bedraggled donkey her family adopted when he wandered down their farm driveway seven years ago. She knew adopting a second donkey would be a hard sell to her husband, but recently Flash had become "bored and destructive, chewing on fences, barns," or anything else he could find. Maybe a new friend was the answer.
Around that time Doc Darlin, a burro-wrangler from Texas who rescued donkeys, sent Rachel a picture, writing he had "found a good buddy for Flash." The picture was of a tiny miniature donkey from Henderson County Texas named "number ten." From the minute Rachel saw him she just knew he would be the perfect pasture mate for Flash. What she couldn't know was that it wouldn't quite work out the way she planned or how "rocky" her path with donkeys would become.
Thus, begins an engaging story of Henry and Flash wrapped in snippets of Bible stories and Rachel's account of what two endearing, but stubborn donkeys taught her about life, God, faith and trust as they journeyed together, "a book of prayers in hand."
Chapters note and are defined by "The Book of Common Prayer" first penned in 1549 by Thomas Cramer, a book long known by Christian clergy and lay people alike as a "spiritual treasure chest." A sampling of prayers includes the well-known "Apostle's Creed," "Psalm 23," "The Prayer of Zechariah" and "The Lord's Prayer." However, Flash and Henry's story define the story with touches of delightful humor, warmth and compelling insights.
"Walking with Henry" is a wonderful story of faith wrapped in life lessons that encourage practical, personal and often profound personal growth as readers learn "big lessons from a little donkey on faith, friendship and finding your path."
"Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship and Finding Your Path," by Rachel Anne Ridge, Tyndale Momentum, 3-5-2019, 256 pages, 978-1496430106, Hardcover, $15.09
“Gail’s Bookshelf” Midwest Book Reviews: "September 2018"
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Author, professional artist and designer, Rachel Ann Ridge releases "Walking with Henry" March 5, an inspirational true story of faith wrapped in hope, trust and rescued donkeys. It's also Rachel's story of her journey into intimacy with God, a journey that would restore her soul and rekindle her faith and spiritual life.
Her story begins with a decision about a "wingman" for Flash, a bedraggled donkey her family adopted when he wandered down their farm driveway seven years ago. She knew adopting a second donkey would be a hard sell to her husband, but recently Flash had become "bored and destructive, chewing on fences, barns," or anything else he could find. Maybe a new friend was the answer.
Around that time Doc Darlin, a burro-wrangler from Texas who rescued donkeys, sent Rachel a picture, writing he had "found a good buddy for Flash." The picture was of a tiny miniature donkey from Henderson County Texas named "number ten." From the minute Rachel saw him she just knew he would be the perfect pasture mate for Flash. What she couldn't know was that it wouldn't quite work out the way she planned or how "rocky" her path with donkeys would become.
Thus, begins an engaging story of Henry and Flash wrapped in snippets of Bible stories and Rachel's account of what two endearing, but stubborn donkeys taught her about life, God, faith and trust as they journeyed together, "a book of prayers in hand."
Chapters note and are defined by "The Book of Common Prayer" first penned in 1549 by Thomas Cramer, a book long known by Christian clergy and lay people alike as a "spiritual treasure chest." A sampling of prayers includes the well-known "Apostle's Creed," "Psalm 23," "The Prayer of Zechariah" and "The Lord's Prayer." However, Flash and Henry's story define the story with touches of delightful humor, warmth and compelling insights.
"Walking with Henry" is a wonderful story of faith wrapped in life lessons that encourage practical, personal and often profound personal growth as readers learn "big lessons from a little donkey on faith, friendship and finding your path."
"Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship and Finding Your Path," by Rachel Anne Ridge, Tyndale Momentum, 3-5-2019, 256 pages, 978-1496430106, Hardcover, $15.09
“Gail’s Bookshelf” Midwest Book Reviews: "September 2018"
Gail Welborn LinkedIn
Goodreads Gail Welborn
Google+GailWelborn
Pinterest: GailWelborn
Twitter: @GailWelborn
FaceBook: Gail Welborn
FaceBook Reviews: Gail Welborn
March 3, 2019
I have recently been searching for more in my spiritual life & Walking With Henry has delivered. Rachel Anne Ridge & her donkeys walked into my life at a time when I have been struggling to find my own faith today vs how I was brought up. She is a very talented author that is real, relatable & has a knack for keeping you interested in her writing, leaving you wanting more. I wanted more because I felt like I was walking the same journey. Henry and his relationship with Flash mirrors a similar relationship between my very loved 11yr old Schitzu mix (would be Flash) and my 11 month old 90# Labrador (would be Henry). My Schitzu did not appreciate our new Labrador puppy walking in on her turf and sharing her humans. However over time & with patience, just like Flash with Henry, & Rachel with God, we are all learning how to develop wonderful & meaningful relationships. (My pups with each other and I with God.)
I also love how she shares her hardships and doubts she has experienced and despite life trying to get in the way of her faithfulness it has actually grown. I saw Rachel Anne speak in January it was touching. I can actually hear her voice narrating as I am reading. The day I saw her speak, the day I was introduced to Rachel Anne & her life lessons/stories, a very difficult personal tragedy touched my family. Her story has helped lift my spirits & rejuvenated my need for prayer in my everyday life. I will be sharing a copy with my daughter that lost her infant son that day. Rachel, thank you for sharing your journey & love for God & Jesus! It has touched my life. MUST READ. Highly recommend!
I thankfully was able to read this wonderful book with an advanced reader copy from the publisher. I have really enjoyed being part of the Walking With Henry launch team.
I also love how she shares her hardships and doubts she has experienced and despite life trying to get in the way of her faithfulness it has actually grown. I saw Rachel Anne speak in January it was touching. I can actually hear her voice narrating as I am reading. The day I saw her speak, the day I was introduced to Rachel Anne & her life lessons/stories, a very difficult personal tragedy touched my family. Her story has helped lift my spirits & rejuvenated my need for prayer in my everyday life. I will be sharing a copy with my daughter that lost her infant son that day. Rachel, thank you for sharing your journey & love for God & Jesus! It has touched my life. MUST READ. Highly recommend!
I thankfully was able to read this wonderful book with an advanced reader copy from the publisher. I have really enjoyed being part of the Walking With Henry launch team.
March 6, 2019
Reading this book is like visiting with a good friend that I haven’t seen in a while. It was wonderful catching up with Rachel and Flash and meeting the new member of the family, Henry. This charming new addition brings lessons that propel Rachel on a new journey.
We all have a crisis of faith at one time or another. Rachel opens her soul and shares with heart-wrenching honesty her faith challenge and how the lessons learned while prayer walking with Henry restored her faith. Rachel shares the resources of ancient prayers and liturgical writings that brought her faith back to life when she had no words of her own.
Whether you have a donkey (or other 4-legged walking companion) or not, you will be encouraged to start on your own prayer walks to see what truths are in store for you after reading this book.
I received an advance copy of the book to review.
We all have a crisis of faith at one time or another. Rachel opens her soul and shares with heart-wrenching honesty her faith challenge and how the lessons learned while prayer walking with Henry restored her faith. Rachel shares the resources of ancient prayers and liturgical writings that brought her faith back to life when she had no words of her own.
Whether you have a donkey (or other 4-legged walking companion) or not, you will be encouraged to start on your own prayer walks to see what truths are in store for you after reading this book.
I received an advance copy of the book to review.
February 26, 2019
"Walking With Henry," begins as a story about a donkey and the way it changed a woman's life. This simple act also ushers Rachel into a deeper relationship with Christ. I enjoyed this read, although I must mention it can be emotional for sensitive readers. Rachel Anne Ridge is an author who has already shared the story of Flash the donkey in her first book. This story connects to the prior read by bringing a few new characters into the pasture with Flash--namely, Henry.
Henry is one donkey in need of a rescue! Abandoned and left to his own devices with lots of other donkeys in a large field, Rachel eventually talks her husband into letting them take Henry in. A miniature donkey with a big personality worms his way into their hearts, much to Flash's initial dismay. The book captures the reader with the simplicity of farming life, but continues to become a spiritual journey for both the animals involved and their human caretakers.
In the midst of dealing with a now empty nest, lots of spiritual questions and accepting others' challenges as their own, Rachel and her husband traverse a very personal journey in this memoir. There is grief, there are questions, there is loss. But there are also fits of laughter, animals who have larger than life personalities, and lots of prayer among the paths. In deconstructing their faith, both Rachel and her husband find the Jesus who meets them right where they are, no matter their questions.
You will laugh, you will cry, but you will not finish "Walking With Henry" without a smile. This is my first read of Rachel's, but it will not be my last. This book would be amazing for any animal lover or for someone who wants to learn more about faith, prayer and growth in their spiritual walk. This unassuming book is quite profound. I found myself taking notes, wanting to share it with others and felt encouraged to grow in my faith without fear of asking questions. I was thankful to be an early reader, thanks to Tyndale. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
Henry is one donkey in need of a rescue! Abandoned and left to his own devices with lots of other donkeys in a large field, Rachel eventually talks her husband into letting them take Henry in. A miniature donkey with a big personality worms his way into their hearts, much to Flash's initial dismay. The book captures the reader with the simplicity of farming life, but continues to become a spiritual journey for both the animals involved and their human caretakers.
In the midst of dealing with a now empty nest, lots of spiritual questions and accepting others' challenges as their own, Rachel and her husband traverse a very personal journey in this memoir. There is grief, there are questions, there is loss. But there are also fits of laughter, animals who have larger than life personalities, and lots of prayer among the paths. In deconstructing their faith, both Rachel and her husband find the Jesus who meets them right where they are, no matter their questions.
You will laugh, you will cry, but you will not finish "Walking With Henry" without a smile. This is my first read of Rachel's, but it will not be my last. This book would be amazing for any animal lover or for someone who wants to learn more about faith, prayer and growth in their spiritual walk. This unassuming book is quite profound. I found myself taking notes, wanting to share it with others and felt encouraged to grow in my faith without fear of asking questions. I was thankful to be an early reader, thanks to Tyndale. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
February 17, 2019
Have you ever felt it hard to pray or felt like something was not quite right, but you didn't know what it was ? I know I have and Rachel did too. She uses her experiences in life and her relationship with both her donkeys Flash and Henry as conduits to a fuller walk with God. Rachel's method of writing makes you feel like you are her best friend, and she is telling you her story over a cup of coffee. I read her first book Flash and was so excited to read her second book, Walking with Henry. You won't be sorry to venture into her life with her insights into faith and it's laughter, tears and warmth. Enjoy and draw closer to God yourself ! I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and am so glad that I had the opportunity, through Rachel, to walk with Henry too !
February 18, 2019
This unique story about an adopted miniature donkey named Henderson Number Ten (Henry) provides a refreshing, thought-provoking message that will capture any reader's heart. The Author has such a beautiful gift of sharing lessons she has learned in her own life that cause the reader to relate, laugh, cry and grow the way that they would if they were listening to the details over a cup of coffee with a cherished friend. It is a delightful page-turner full of stories about perseverance, prayer, and the bonds of love.
I consider it a great privilege to have received an advance reader copy of this book from Tyndale as a member of the Walking With Henry Launch Team.
I consider it a great privilege to have received an advance reader copy of this book from Tyndale as a member of the Walking With Henry Launch Team.
March 16, 2019
I enjoyed Walking with Henry: Big Lessons from a Little Donkey on Faith, Friendship, and Finding Your Path in part because I love stories about rescue animals. What I didn't expect was the heart-felt way Ms. Ridge wrote about her struggles with her faith. This resonated with me and I really like the old liturgical prayers she included and her explanation of why.
I received an advanced copy of "Henry" from the publisher.
I received an advanced copy of "Henry" from the publisher.
March 4, 2019
I was honored to receive an Advance Reader Copy from Tyndale, and to be a part of the Walking with Henry book launch team. I had read Rachel's first book, Flash, and was excited to read about the miniature donkey, Henry, joining their family and what he could bring to their life. I loved how Rachel introduced each chapter of the book with a prayer, and was challenged and inspired to follow her lead into the habit of prayer walks. It's a little bit memoir, a little bit devotional, and a whole lotta DONKEY love!
March 5, 2019
Need a breath of fresh air? Look no further than this book. Take a walk with Henry, the sweet little donkey that walks backwards (and Rachel- his owner) and take a minute to stop and notice the little things.
I absolutely love Rachel’s writing style and the way her experiences and relationship with God resonate with me. Through hardships and life changes, follow along with Rachel as she shares her struggles and moves along on a spiritual journey led by her little donkey, Henry.
I absolutely love Rachel’s writing style and the way her experiences and relationship with God resonate with me. Through hardships and life changes, follow along with Rachel as she shares her struggles and moves along on a spiritual journey led by her little donkey, Henry.
March 5, 2019
Walking with Henry is a sweet book about a donkey and his owner's faith journey as she helps Henry adjust to his first loving home. Flashbacks are mixed with recent stories in relation to scripture and liturgical prayers, which Rachel expertly weaves together. A touching story with wisdom for all who read it!
I read an advanced reader's copy of the book.
I read an advanced reader's copy of the book.
March 5, 2019
Rachel Anne Ridge is an excellent storyteller. The backdrop of her farm and rescued donkeys completely drew me in. I appreciate her honesty with her faith struggles and how her relationship with God's creatures gave her insight to the Creator. The book is a great source for exploring the spiritual practices of prayer and solitude.
March 8, 2019
Where do I start? There are so many lessons in this book. Lessons about forgiveness, friendship, trust, vision, hope, grief, marriage, parenting and much more. "I have discovered that something is awakened through failure, tragedy, and disappointment. It is a place of learning and potential creativity. In such moments you can get lost in despair or denial, or you can recognize the failure and run toward the hope of something new." There are so many nuggets, I finally had to take out pen and paper to capture them. One of the nuggets that impacted me the most is turn around and trust who is leading you. Let's just say I am looking forward to the devotional from Walking with Henry. I said purchase several because you will be giving this book to lots of people. Rachel Ridge thank you.
February 10, 2019
I loved this book as much as I did her first book, Flash! I could feel her faith with her writing. I have 3 mini donkeys. My goal is to be able to train them to walk on a lead and get to understand them as the incredible animals they are. Thank you Rachel for your inspiration! I received this book as an advanced reader copy from the author.
February 16, 2019
I had a chance to read the PDF copy. This is a GREAT book!!!!!!!
Rachel is a fabulous writer and really makes you think about life. There are parts that are cute and funny that make you laugh, but ones that are sad and made me cry like a baby.
This is her 2nd book. I know from following her on face book it was tough for her to write this but I am SOOOOOO glad she did.
I hope she writes another one soon.
Rachel is a fabulous writer and really makes you think about life. There are parts that are cute and funny that make you laugh, but ones that are sad and made me cry like a baby.
This is her 2nd book. I know from following her on face book it was tough for her to write this but I am SOOOOOO glad she did.
I hope she writes another one soon.
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