Running with Sherman

The Donkey Who Survived Against All Odds and Raced Like a Champion

By: Christopher McDougall

Narrated by: Christopher McDougall

Length: 12 hrs and 13 mins

Publisher's Summary

When barefoot running guru Christopher McDougall takes in a neglected donkey, his aim is to get Sherman back to reasonable health. But Sherman is ill-tempered, obstinate and uncooperative - and it's clear his poor treatment has made him deeply fearful of humans. 

Chris knows that donkeys need a purpose - they are working pack animals - and so when he learns of the sport of Burro Racing or running with donkeys, he sets out to give Sherman something worth living for.  

With the aid of Chris' menagerie on his farm in rural Pennsylvania, his wife, Mika, and their friends and neighbours including the local Amish population, Sherman begins to build trust in Chris. To give him a purpose, they start to run together. But what Sherman gains in confidence and meaning is something we all need: a connection with nature, the outdoors, with movement. And as Chris learns, the side benefits of exercise and animal contact are surprising, helping with mental and physical health in unexpected ways.

©2019 Christopher McDougall (P)2019 Hachette Audio UK

A heartfelt story with more depth than you think

This was a super easy read. Christopher's writing is easy to follow and is not aimed at an exclusive group. In addition, this is definitely not only for runners as running is a theme but does not become the main thrust of the story.

Human/animal interactions, mental health and wellness, relationships and a dive into Mormon life are all bundled into the story. Super fun.

The one challenge is Christopher's reading style - being a regular Audible member I am spoilt with some of the narrators who do this as a profession - Christopher is not a voice actor and therefore it does sometimes grate...but not a big thing.

I would recommend this book easily.

My favourite book

Loved every single thing about this book and the narration. Heartwarming, humane, and funny.

Super Sherman

Really grabs you and takes you on a journey with the author inspiring read for anyone runner or not.

Never knew how much animals help us dumb humans

Refreshing to anyone with an interest in running bored of the usual stories

Another masterpiece from Chris

Such a heartwarming book

I loved this book. I did struggle a little with the strong American accent at times and some of the language was also very American. But please don’t let that out you off. It was a great book which had me giggling away to some of what happened and the great phrases used.

Pure joy.

I've really enjoyed all of Chris's books. This is a lovely and fascinating story in many ways. I love the tangents his writing takes on, always leading me to look into other, wide ranging things. There's hope for humankind (and donkeykind also!). Heartwarming and inspiring.

Delightful heartwarming story

This is a wonderful story which is narrated perfectly by the author. It is a warm hug of a book showcasing the best of donkey kind and humankind.

A lovely story that is well worth a listen

This is a really nice story and is well read by the author. My only criticism is that I want to know what happens with Sherman and the donkey gang after the book ends!

Fabulous

Really loved this book can’t rate it highly enough be a great book club read

Uplifting, Informative and Inspiring

Really enjoyed the twists and turns of the writing to cover lots of different topics in the book. Also found some of the personal stories of the fabulous people Chris met whilst helping the wonderful Sherman very inspiring. Thanks.

formidable story in so many ways

The story itself is incredible, very human one & also relationship with animals. It also covers fascinating side stories such 'runners high & the risks, effects of cold water bathing & important ly affects of being with animals.
A great book that can be enjoyed by runners & non runners alike

Great from start to finish

Very easy listening. Fun full of intresting facts and points of view. Restores your faith in humanity.

Another great read from the author

really loved this so much and listened whilst out running.

never knew about burro racing before this or their beautiful nature and diverse personalities but I am glad I know now.

thanks so much for sharing this journey and best wishes to all those involved in the real world story.