Flash: The Homeless Donkey Who Taught Me about Life, Faith, and Second Chances

by Rachel Anne Ridge, Priscilla Shirer (Foreword)

The heartwarming tale of an irrepressible donkey who needed a home―and forever changed a family.
Rachel Anne Ridge was at the end of her rope. The economy had crashed, taking her formerly thriving business along with it. She had been a successful artist, doing work she loved, but now she felt like a failure. How would her family pay their bills? What would the future hold? If only God would somehow let them know that everything was going to be all right . . . and then Flash the donkey showed up.

If there is ever a good time to discover a wounded, frightened, bedraggled donkey standing in your driveway, this wasn’t it. The local sheriff dismissed Flash as “worthless.” But Rachel didn’t believe that, and she couldn’t turn him away. She brought Flash into her struggling family during their darkest hour―and he turned out to be the very thing they needed most. Flash is the true story of their adventures together in learning to love and trust; breaking down whatever fences stood in their way; and finding the strength, confidence, and faith to carry on. Prepare to fall in love with a quirky, unlikely hero with gigantic ears, a deafening bray, a personality as big as Texas, and a story you’ll never forget.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals, Christian, Memoir, Religion, Book Club, Biography Memoir

256 pages, Hardcover

First published April 24, 2015

Reviews

[Sherri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I laughed...and cried.through.this.book. I also asked if we could get a donkey.

This is about life lessons...yes, through living with and "watching" a donkey. When we slow down enough and listen to His quiet voice we can hear the lessons he's teaching us. It made sense in the authors life. What is He speaking through to you in your life?

I lost it and couldn't finish the chapter about Beau and Flash for a day or so. You'll know when you get there...

[Chrissie · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is not for me.

The writing does not appeal to me. I keep substituting other words for those that have been used. I keep exclaiming, "Get to the point!" Words heaped upon words, but little is said.

I picked this up to read about a donkey. The book is instead about the author's own identity crisis.

When lines from the Bible began to be recited, I knew for sure the book was written for someone other than me.

The audiobook narration by Nan McNamara had me annoyed too.

I do think the cover is cute!

[Rana Heshmati · Rating 3 out of 5]

داستان درمورد زنیه که با وارد شدن تصادفی یک خر به زندگیش، مسیر زندگیش عوض میشه و ایمانش به خدا برمی‌گرده. خودش رو پیدا می‌کنه و سعی می‌کنه آدم بهتری باشه.

در واقع زندگینامه خود نویسنده است.

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I may have been born and raised in the city, but I’ve always been a country girl at heart. When my husband’s job moved us to Arkansas two years ago, we bought a little plot of land in the country. Out here, removed from the hustle and bustle, is where I have found a wondrous peace. As we have transitioned to a simpler way of life, I have also began to notice God at work in and around me more acutely. I believe that is why Rachel Anne Ridge’s book Flash: The Homeless Donkey Who Taught Me about Life, Faith, and Second Chances resonates so strongly with me.

While the author and I share a love of country living and furry farm friends, something else left me feeling a kindred connection with her. I believe it’s our shared desire to see God in our everyday life. Her heart for God, attentiveness to His voice, and her transparency throughout the book endeared me to the author, her message, and her lovable donkey named Flash.

In a way that is not preachy or presumptuous, Rachel Anne Ridge shares practical lessons of faith, love, and reliance on God. God is in Rachel’s story. If He were absent from the narrative we would still gain a few laughs and a sizable list of donkey care do’s and don’ts from this book, but He’s there. Flash and Rachel’s story reminds readers that God is who He says He is, does what He says He will do, and loves us as deeply as His Word says He does. God is in our stories too… and this book may be what you need to become more attune to his presence and guidance.

Perhaps my favorite aspect of the book is how Rachel reveals her human side. By honestly sharing her thoughts and motives, faith and doubts – during trials and triumphs – she authenticates her message. Additionally, I was encouraged by the fact that this wisdom was coming from a wife and mother like myself, not a pastor or bible scholar. Whether by reading the bible, circumstances in her life, or most notably – a rescued stray donkey, Rachel stands ready to hear from God. This is especially apparent when He chooses to speak to her through the aforementioned donkey!

The audiobook audience will enjoy the seamless delivery of Nan McNamara. It feels as though the narrator captures both the spirit and the intent of the author in her audio recording. Had it not been stated in the credits, I would have assumed the narrator and the author were one in the same.

I rate this touching and humorous tale of love, trust, and faith 4.5/5 stars.

I received this book for free as a member of the christianaudio reviewers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Kellie O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember your name. He calls us by name, and He leads us safely home. Run with the horses. These phrases appear in the book and really touched my heart 💗. I loved this book. I'm a Born Again Christian, animal lover and advid reader!! This is a wonderful, beautifulitlly written and funny book! I saw the cover and know that I had to read this book. I also really have a wonderful, sweet, adorable beautiful Miniture donkey in my life. I work at a farm that rescues abused, neglected and homeless farm animals. We take them in and give them all the time, love, affection, care and play that they never received and DESPERATELY NEED. They have a wonderful home for life!! God has been so good to me and Blesses me everyday!! Oh, believe me, I have problems, but my faith in God brings me through!! I can identify with Rachel Anne Ridge in many ways. Whoever reads this amazing book will be blessed in ways that they never imagined! Fall in love with Flash.... you'll be glad you did. Remember your name and remember WHO'S you are 💞🤗😊

[Kate · Rating 2 out of 5]

Things I disliked about this book:
- Flash makes up maybe 1/4th of the book, probably less. The author talking about her hair takes up approximately another 1/4th.
- The life lessons were a bit of a stretch. For example, the author realizes she needs to "find her passion" when Flash breaks into the neighbor's yard and knocks up their mare.
- The word "orthodontia" appears 4 times.

Things I liked about this book:
- Caring for a donkey doesn't sound to hard, which is great news for my prospects of one day owning a donkey.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

A sweet story and a strong reminder of how much we can learn from animals, especially those who are members of our family.

[Mazzou B · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I began this book, I had no idea what to expect. I am not so much of an animal lover that I want a book to be entirely about the spiritual side of a donkey! I also wasn't looking forward to a book full of an owner's praises concerning her prize pet.

However, all my pre-conceived notions were to fade as I read simply the first two chapters of this endearing book. Partly an autobiography of Rachel's life, party a biography of a donkey's life, and partly a devotional, this book is sure to not only delight you but change your day if not more than just your day!
I was impressed by the spiritual depth cleverly tied-in to lessons learnt from a simple donkey. Did I say clever? But indeed; the lessons were shown to the author Rachel Anne by our all-knowing, wise and loving Father- God! And He chose to teach her life lessons through this sweet (and sometimes stubborn) creature of His- Flash the donkey!

The author is an excellent writer, making my reading of this book most pleasurable. I laughed, I was touched, I was convicted and I was inspired to change my life around as well.
I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

How come this book isn’t getting more attention?! This is great for the whole family, while still being super intriguing and so inspiring! This definitely strengthened my walk with God!

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

My rating 3.0
It's been a while since I read a whole book in one day. This was a book club selection and I borrowed it from a neighbor just in time to read for review. The story is a true one of a family who adopts a stray donkey, then learns many simple and heartwarming lessons from him. It is filled with beautiful messages, and its simplicity is sure to appeal to readers of all levels. The author was willing to open her heart and mind to the messages she was receiving from her beloved donkey and then apply them to her family. Be aware there is a Christian element to this book.

Summary: Rachel Anne Ridge was at the end of her rope. The economy had crashed, taking her formerly thriving business along with it. She had been a successful artist, doing work she loved, but now she felt like a failure. How would her family pay their bills? What would the future hold? If only God would somehow let them know that everything was going to be all right... and then Flash the donkey showed up.

If there is ever a good time to discover a wounded, frightened, bedraggled donkey standing in your driveway, this wasn't it. The local sheriff dismissed Flash as "worthless". But Rachel didn't believe that, and she couldn't turn him away. She brought Flash into her struggling family during their darkest hour - and he turned out to be the very thing they needed most.

Flash is the true story of their adventures together in learning to love and trust; breaking down whatever fences stood in their way; and finding the strength, confidence, and faith to carry on. Prepare fall in love with Flash: a quirky, unlikely hero with gigantic ears, a deafening bray, a personality as big as Texas, and a story you'll never forget.

[Cece · Rating 4 out of 5]

You had me at the cover, what a cutie! And I just love donkeys and hope one day I might have one. This was a lovely story of Flash the donkey and his arrival in the driveway of Rachel Ridge’s family home. He brings a lot of stubbornness, messiness and complaining. But he also brings and shows many lessons of love and compassion. This is a story with faith elements which is something that also is a reminder of those things that are most important in life. Written mostly in a carefree and casual manner, it was just what I needed to end this year of reading! ♥️

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading about Flash and I love, Love, LOVE him. Rachel’s authenticity about her struggles and how God used a stray donkey to teach her so many valuable lessons really resonates with me. I particularly loved the lesson about wearing your donkey heart on your sleeve. I have always been an animal lover and I am now a donkey lover….if I can only talk my husband into letting me adopt one….;)

[Rachel McMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is just the book I wanted to read! As an avid fan of Flash on social media, it was one of my most anticipated books of the year. And, golly, this donkey makes me grin from ear-to-ear. Indeed, my cheeks hurt from smiling as I heard how Flash trod over and revamped the life of Rachel Anne Ridge and her family. Full of soft, endearing life lessons from a donkey deemed "worthless", Flash is the perfect metaphor for the Creator's ability to use the most unusual treasures to expel light in our dark, unsure moments.

After reading this book, I felt that Flash was my friend! Moreover, that all creatures can be used to remind us of the giddy, natural joy in everyday happenstances.

You have read a ton of animal life lessons and uplifting stories, I am sure. From cats to rescue dogs. Maybe even a pig...

But Flash? He's just the bee's knees! He is a heart-warming, funny, comical and sweet donkey who will leave you grinning and vulnerable, your eyes sheened with tears, your heart skipping fast with love.

I LOVED THIS BOOK! It is the perfect antidote for any of those days when you can't see beyond the stress or blanket of all-too-human problems.

Relatable, hysterical and full of hardcore simplistic truths to verve your spirit, Flash will kickstart your attitude!


(review copy provided by author and Tyndale in exchange for an honest opinion)

[Suzanne Simpson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming book. I read this aloud to my 11 year old, we both enjoyed learning about Flashes adventures and about the lives of those around him. Lots of humour and also some difficult subjects including miscarriage and cancer. Simple Bible lessons throughout, nothing too deep although it did get me thinking about how we should have servant hearts like donkies 🥰

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so sweet! I can totally understand why my friend, Vanessa, recommended this book to me. It was right up her alley. It was about faith, life, and animals and even had book club questions at the end. Score!

[Nathan Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is in the genre of books where a clueless and comically inept person, in a fit of temporary insanity and generosity of spirit, agrees to take care of a rescue animal and proves herself to be not particularly good at it, but comical enough about it to become a published author.  Although the author includes plenty of biblical quotes and comments--and it should be noted that the Bible has a lot of good things to say about donkeys, some of which is included here--this book is more about the comic contrast between the author's supposed growing spiritual insight and the fact that she is just simply not very good at taking care of a somewhat needy and lovesick rescue donkey whose general relaxed attitude leads him to be named Flash.  The results are funny and occasionally involve the author in dramatic searches for the missing animal as well as lead her to reflect upon the emotional resonance between donkeys and peoples.  In retrospect, looking at the author's later work, it appears that the author herself has a lot of similarities to Saul in terms of her own spiritual journey.

This book is a bit more than 200 pages long.  It begins with a foreword by Priscilla Shirer as well as a prologue.  After that the author discusses Flash as an unexpected guest (1) and how it was that he was named in a fit of humorous irony (2).  AFter that the author discusses the arctic blast of cold that the author had to deal with (3) as well as Flash's efforts to run with the horses (4).  Inevitably, this is followed by Flash's successful attempt to romance a mare (5) as well as the author's discussion of sure and steady trails (6) as well as the paternity of Flash's mule child (7).  The author discusses how she dealt with a drought (8) as well as how she managed her barn (9).  The author then discusses how to deal with change (10) as well as the death of her beloved dog Beau (11) before finishing the main part of the book with a discussion of how she ended up getting involved in public speaking thanks to her famous donkey (12) and found an unlikely answer for her own questions to God (13).  The book then concludes with lessons from Flash, a Q & A with the author, acknowledgements, discussion questions, and  some information about the author.

Truth be told, it is easy to see why the author viewed Flash, for all of his quirks and foibles, as a good lesson for her.  Rescue animals can often show the same sorts of damage that human beings have while encouraging us to be more compassion to them than we are to human beings from whom we expect more.  Flash's own quirks and the way that he manages to get himself into occasional trouble--including impregnating the mare of a neighboring landowner--are the source of much of this book's humor.  The fact that this alternatively humorous and poignant tale of a woman not doing a very good job taking care of an animal while her children grow up and while she struggles with life issues like a miscarriage after a car accident is told with a great deal of humility makes its occasional preachiness easier to take.  When a writer frames herself as being incompetent at taking care of an animal, even one as lazy as Flash is, she limits the sort of seriousness that her advice and counsel can be taken with.  Competence is required in order to have credibility as a guide, and this book has little competence but a great deal of gentle humor that can win over the reader to a great extent.

[Sarah Nessler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! There are no words to describe this book other then that. I am so glad that I came across this book although I am not sure how I did but boy am I glad, overjoyed, and many others feelings that I did. This book is faith based, has really cool animals and people and many life lessons within. I have learned so much and I can honestly say that I would get a donkey in a heartbeat if I could. To me while reading this book Flash became an icon in my life. Although sad at parts it gave true glimpses of what life is about and what it should be about. It is amazing that so much was learned from a lonely donkey who would have thought. I learned a lot spiritually and would for sure read this book again.

[Relyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Relyn Rating: 4.5 stars

I heard about this book on the Sorta Awesome podcast. And, I have a weird thing about donkeys. Funny thing is, my friend, Nancy, recommended it ages ago, but I missed it. Too bad, I could have enjoyed the book much earlier.

I loved this memoir of faith, family, and a homeless donkey. Rachel Ann Ridge writes with heart and compassion. I laughed out loud several times as I read the book. I might have teared up a time or two, as well. Best of all, her book had me writing in my journal; always the sign of a personally good book.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Flash and the family who adopted him touched my heart with its blend of the simple and profound. I became vested in the tale and felt like a member of the family watching, laughing and crying from the sidelines.

Flash proved to be a pure blessing for their family, making a deep impression just by being his humble, plodding self.

I loved reading about the love and gentle treatment they showed him, instead of the harshness he seemed to expect, transforming him into a beloved family member who adored them in return.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll read any book involving an animal. Usually I read about dogs, but I thought I’d read this and learn a little bit about donkeys.

The story had its ups and downs. Flash is certainly a character, and I enjoyed his escapades.

The book is sprinkled full of religious beliefs and teachings, which is not what I was expecting. I gave it four stars because Flash is a good boy, and he grew on me. The authors family also had a nice dog, Beau.

[Jim Bullington]

Who knew that the arrival of a stray donkey could revive the spiritual life of a whole family. it makes you want to fence your yard and build a shed. An absolutely delightful book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad this book was shared with me. The lessons from animals are so often overlooked

[Andrea Snyder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this sweet story. It was thought provoking and provided a creative perspective on life through loving a donkey.

[Alina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was good. Nothing not to like.
I’ve read other books with the same message, just presented differently, so I was not as amazed by this book as some other reviewers have been. Did it make me want a donkey as a pet? Yes! I also laughed and cried as I reflected on my own life through Rachel’s life experiences. And I agree with her... “ I wish that Last Times would come with big signs that say, “This is the Last Time.” Then you would know that you should savor them, no matter how inconsequential they are.” My big take away is to SLOW DOWN and reflect on your daily life circumstances. What are you suppose to learn from it? Through it you will grow and become who you are meant to be:)

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! If you love animals especially donkeys you will really enjoy this book and the spiritual life lessons this funny donkey brought to the author. (It also made me want to own a donkey 😂)

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delightful book! Ridges is a talented author with a wonderful ability to see life lessons in seemingly normal and unimpressive experiences. She certainly has a talent for “looking at interruptions as possibilities and seeing inconveniences as opportunities for God to work”... a mindset she says was modeled by her parents. I discovered this book after stumbling onto an article she posted on her blog (which was also great), and I’m so glad I took the time to read it. It motivates me to look even harder at my life and discover the not-so-obvious ways God is touching and teaching me!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

We read the book Flash for a Bible Study at my church. What a wonderful way to express God's love for us and to help us share stories of faith, healing and second chances.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really cute story with a spiritual application in every chapter!!

[Laura Hix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flash! The Donkey is so incredibly special
So special there is going to be a complete web chat about him May 5th,
He has his own Facebook page - Go tell him hello!
his own twitter feed -you really need to go check him out!
and of course videos! Find him on YouTube!
as well as his own book that you can go purchase on Amazon
Flash: The Homeless Donkey, Who Taught Me About Life, Faith and Second Chances
what a fantastic little book about this incredible donkey. He really does nothing very special except be a donkey and the owners have learned so much for him. Well, he does escape, fall in love, destroy things that are in "his barn" he is meschevious, he is kind and considerate, and above all, loving. He knows the owners hearts. Now that's some true donkey love there.
And they know that he knows. That's the great thing. There is so much packed into this little book about Flash and you learn. You learn so much about your relationship with Jesus Christ. With others, and ten special things you learn from Flash
1. Remember your name - Know whose you are
2. Know where to find refuge. - True Sanctuary is found in God alone
3. Run with horses. - The pursuit of excellence conquers fear.
4. Find Your passion. - Passion leads to purpose.
5. Be a trailblazer. - Persistence makes pathways for grace to follow
6. Wear your donkey heart on your sleeve - A well loved life is an authentic life
7. Stand where fruit is falling - The secret of abundance is in choosing gratitude.
8. Be a service animal. - You are made to serve in love.
9. Embrace Change - Don't let fear of the unknown keep you from moving forward
10. Make things right with others - Don't miss your chance to forgive accept and love
11. Your journey isn't about fixing donkey problems - it's about transfomation
Flash is a sweet, runaway donkey with a huge personality. A sweet disposition *(unless you put something in his barn) a very enthusiastic look at life and the very best friend a person could have. Rachel Ridge gives you the best of flash in this book, with stories about his life, how he came to be theirs and of course all about the things he taught their family about life, love, faith, second chances and growing up
Because growing up donkey is a fun way to grow up. Growing up with a donkey is a fun way to grow up. When your life evolves around a pet, be it an old man dog named Beau or a young donkey that just meandered up on the property with no name for a few days until he became "Flash" His mischievous ways, his ability to get himself into many different messes and in between trying to "be like a horse" and running away, Flash gives Rachel's family many lessons on how to live your life, what is important and what isn't important. Also where the focus needs to be in your life. So many Bible verses that give you the references that you need to bring you full focus back to God. Verses like Psalm 34:18 and Psalm 145:14. Psalm 91:1-2 and so many others that are there just for you to read
God plants the right seeds in your heart whether it be through a Bible verse or a donkey named Flash

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful story of life with a pet donkey and God’s communications through him.