Saving Simon

How a Rescue Donkey Taught Me the Meaning of Compassion

By: Jon Katz

Narrated by: Tom Stechschulte

When Jon Katz got a call from an animal control officer about Simon, a neglected donkey who had been found on a failing farm in upstate New York, he wasn't expecting to add another animal to his already full life. But when he made the trek out to meet him, he couldn't help falling in love with the skinny, mangy donkey who had already suffered so much, and he ended up taking him into his home. It was Simon who listened in the fields as Jon read to him and discussed philosophy. And it was Simon who forced Jon to confront the most difficult parts of life. And ultimately, it was Simon who brought Jon to a new understanding about mercy and compassion. In this heartwarming and heartrending memoir, Jon Katz plumbs the depths of the human-animal bond with his trademark grace, strength and skill. Jon Katz has written 26 books, including works of nonfiction, novels, short stories, and books for children. He has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Slate, Rolling Stone, and the AKC Gazette, and has worked for CBS News, The Boston Globe, The Washington Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer; he is also a photographer. He lives on Bedlam Farm, in upstate New York, with his wife, the artist Maria Wulf, and their dogs, donkeys, barn cats, sheep, and chickens.

©2014 Jon Katz (P)2014 Recorded Books

What a gem

I appreciate the story of Simon and of Jon, Maria and the animals. I understand the desire to ascribe emotions to an animal because of our own desire for a place of importance among them. I found the interactions between Simon and Rocky to be the most challenging. The author guided me through those feelings with his understanding of his own emotions. I had to stop reading briefly to digest and come to terms with my reaction. This story will remain with me for a long, long time.

LOVE this BOOK!

What another great story by Jon Katz. if you've read his others books you'll love this one. if not you'll want to read them too! I loved learning about donkeys- such an amazing animal.

Heartwarming

The story of Simon is heartwarming, tearjerking and worthy of the biggest smiles you’ve possibly ever had. I find it easy to relate to the author on so many levels in this book, and in so many of his incredible works. His common sensical, yet intuitive understanding of animals and their relationships with humans is extraordinary.
Saving Simon is a must read for all true animal lovers. It’s a gem.

One of his best!!

I love Jon Katz’s story about saving Simon and along the way opening his heart to Red and Rocky. I love his inquiry into compassion. And his insight into practicing true compassion through the lessons Simon and his other animals teach him.

Simon....

This is one of those books destined to become beloved ....a thinking personal look at a man's struggle for grace; led to mercy by a spirited animal.

book club book

Our book club decided to read this book this year. Not exactly one that I would normally have chosen, but well written and the farther along the story I read the better I enjoyed it. The last couple of chapters created a great deal of emotion. Would I recommend a book? Absolutely! Is it a book I would read again ? Perhaps in the future. The story became more emotional for me when the old blind horse had trouble with the donkey. I have a real affinity for old animals approaching ending their life expectancy.

Another winner from Jon Katz!

I was drawn to this one because my future sister-in-law created a small farm for her family, including an adopted miniature donkey. I've read a few of Katz's dog books and enjoyed them. Although his storytelling style is much the same as in his previous works, Saving Simon moved me more deeply. Katz discusses frankly the misconceptions held by many people about farming and confronts ours and his own inner demons aroused in animal lovers who witness animal neglect and abuse. When reality shows, media and popular culture so often demonize humans accused of animal neglect or cruelty, Katz bravely questions the hero-izing of himself and others who rescue animals. He takes on the much deeper tasking of seeing abusers with compassion by looking through the eyes of this donkey. No mean feat.

Loved this story!

I also have 2 donkeys that mean the world to me!
I believe donkeys have large ears because they are great listeners. My donkeys have grown close to me as I am to them.There is no feeling like when they greet me with their loud Bray's! This story helps you to understand the connection people have with their pets!!

Heartwarming Story

John Katz is a great storyteller. I just love this book and wish it could be longer.

Great story, thought-provoking

This book grabbed me more in the middle to end and had me thinking very philosophically...in a good way. It has made a memorable impact on me. Compassion and all.