A member of our book club suggested this book. We are a mixed group- agnostic to evangelical, and I had hoped that this book would finally give us a "Christian" book that was worth the read. We had been subjected to "The Shack," and others in the last few months, and I simply wanted a "good read." This wasn't it.
Ms. Meeder's ridiculously maudlin descriptions of both horses and people make even the most tender hearted reader cringe. As a reader I found myself skipping over the descriptions of both mount and rider - I just became more and more irritated by the treacly writing. And please, what is the point of all this narrative??? It is, as most modern, Christian-published, and Christain-read books are, simple "testimony." While not as smug and self-congratulatory as The Shack, it nothing more than one person's "witness." Without context, background stories, information on equine care and health, and a POINT OF VIEW beyond "Praise God," this book, like so many others of this genre, inspire only those already in the fold.
Ms. Meeder is obviously a tremendous role model, community leader, and a woman of strength and inner beauty. Her work with horses and humans is worthy of the Jefferson Prize she received. I could never hope to do half the good she has done for others. HOWEVER, she is not a writer. Unfortunately, Christian publishers have misconstrued blind faith with true brilliance. Frankly, I have had enough of it all.
Hope Rising
For anyone who loves horses, this book is an inspiration to read. Written about real people and real horses, and how they helped each other. Tears are likely! I gave the book to some friends as a gift I know they will read.
A Tear-Jerker!
This is a really good book. Anyone with half a soul would shed a few tears reading this. I have never been a "horse" person but it is amazing to read how they can connect with humans and heal a broken spirit. It is easy to read, made up of relatively short chapters that don't necessarily have to be read in order. The perfect "lunch hour" book. Very inspiring, to know how little it can take to make a big difference to someone.
What hope this book.....
Wonderful author with a magnificent obsession, wonderful book, and if you love saving horses you will love this book. Cried throughout. Gave it to our daughters church when I finished it.
Inspiratonal Book
I bought this book as a gift for my daughter, who works with handicapped children, and my granddaughter, who loves horses! They both were very excited over this book! We also live very close to the area where this ranch actually is. This makes the content of this book much more interesting! The girls were very excited when they saw this. They have not had a chance to read the book yet, but are very excited about it! I'm positive we will all find this a very intriguing read.
