Ranch of Dreams 1st (first) edition Text Only

by Cleveland Amory

Ranch of Dreams by Cleveland Amory the Author of THE CAT WHO CAME FOR CHRISTMAS - First Edition - Full Number Line - The HEARTWARMING STORY OF AMERICA'S MOST UNUSUAL ANIMAL SANCTUARY - 1997 Viking Books

Genres: Animals, Nonfiction, Memoir, History, Dogs, Biography

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Cleveland Amory was an American author, journalist, television critic, and prominent animal rights activist. He gained early recognition with The Proper Bostonians (1947), a witty examination of Boston’s elite, and continued to satirize high society with The Last Resorts and Who Killed Society? Over a long career, he contributed to major publications, including The Saturday Evening Post, TV Guide, and Parade, and was a commentator on NBC’s Today show until his outspoken views on animal rights led to his dismissal.
A passionate advocate for animal welfare, Amory founded the Fund for Animals in 1967 and played a key role in several high-profile animal rescues, including the relocation of burros from the Grand Canyon. He also established the Black Beauty Ranch, a sanctuary for abused and abandoned animals. His best-selling Cat trilogy, beginning with The Cat Who Came for Christmas (1987), chronicled his life with a stray cat named Polar Bear and further cemented his legacy as a defender of animals. Recognized as a pioneer of the modern animal rights movement, he influenced legislation and public awareness while enlisting celebrities in his campaigns.

Reviews

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you know an animal lover, particularly one in their golden years, who adores pets but doesn't really "get" animal welfare issues, Ranch of Dreams is the perfect book to recommend.

Beloved writer and proud "curmudgeon" Cleveland Amory writes about Black Beauty Ranch, the pioneering animal sanctuary he founded, and its many special residents, who range from feral burros to rescued circus elephants.

The heartwarming stories are the proverbial spoonful of sugar that is matched with the "medicine"--facts about the treatment of animals in a variety of situations that caused the Ranch's charges to require rescue in the first place.

[LibraryCin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cleveland Amory started an animal sanctuary in Texas, the Black Beauty Ranch. They’ve had cats, burros, horses, chimpanzees (including Nim Chimpsky), elephants, foxes, prairie dogs, goats and probably others that aren’t coming to my head at this moment. This book tells how the sanctuary got started and many stories of the animals that have come to live there.

I really enjoyed this! It was very fast to read and there were separate chapters devoted to each species. He does also tell of some of the sad stories that led to the various critters coming to live there.

[Reilee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always been an animal lover; this book was gifted to my mom back in 1997, whose dream is to save all of the animals. Now I’m 2023, I have also read the book, to which I share the same dream of saving all of the animals. This book reminds you and educates you on the cruelty and mistreatment of animals around the United States and how broken animals came to the Black Beauty Ranch. I hope that if I can have a farm one day, it is at least half as successful as Black Beauty Ranch has been in bringing happiness and a home to every animal.

[Tricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made we want to take my love for animals and open a place to take in abandoned and abused animals

[Debbie Nowak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Animal lovers unite!

[Cindy Dyson Eitelman · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not very enjoyable. I thought it was going to be a heartwarming story about the animals at Black Beauty Ranch, a rescue and retirement community for animals in East Texas. And it was--a little bit. It started off autobiographically, then jumped into the individual animal stories. And those were pretty interesting, especially that of the famous chimpanzee who learned sign language. And the cats were interesting.

But after that the book devolved into interminably long and painful stories about animal "massacres" of burros, horses and bison. The stories of the burro rescues were fairly interesting (or was that the horses?) on account of the logistics of tracking down, capturing and transporting a big, wily creature. But the bison chapter was simply a tedious retelling of how humans nearly exterminated the creature from the American West. Which was nothing to do with the ranch and very little to do with the two or three bison they eventually acquired. That part could have been deeply interesting, but it just wasn't there.

And then he got off into elephants. If you really want to read about the cruel treatment of elephants in all its gory detail, and the attempts of the San Diego Zoo and others to cover up their evil acts, fine. Read this.

But again, that's nothing to do with Black Beauty Ranch. I skipped most of it and jumped to (and enjoyed) the description of how they socialized the three elephants that they have.

It's a pretty old book, published in '97, about 25 years ago. I hope it's not still relevant. Maybe the author's intent was to draw his readers in with a promise of a unique and fascinating story of a ranch...and then blast them with the reality of animal abuses. But I know the reality and didn't appreciate it being thrown in my face. I have enough nightmares already,

[Stephanie A. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I no longer remember it well, The Cat Who Came for Christmas was the first pet memoir I ever read -- back in middle school -- and it set me down a lifelong path of enjoying them. I very much admire the concept of Black Beauty Ranch, and have long wanted to read this book, so I'm glad I finally got the chance. Definitely not for the faint of heart, because basically all of these animals came from The Saddest situations and after about three chapters you will begin to despair about the state of humanity, but at least they all have a happy ending.

Very quick read, given the roughly 12-pt font and double line spacing. Interestingly, despite being a writer by trade, this somehow reads more like a book that was produced via a series of interviews that a professional co-author then transformed into text, taking care to preserve the subject's no-nonsense voice. Utilitarian but still enjoyable writing, he gives a brief bit of personal history, including that of the book that inspired the ranch's name, and then a series of stories about various rescue animals, both domestic and exotic.

I didn't actually realize that burros were entirely removed from the Grand Canyon before I was even born, but I love that those were the first animals on the ranch, because he's right! They are wonderful little creatures (that I have loved since age 7, when they were features in the local petting zoo that set up at the weekly summer festival in my hometown), and they don't get enough attention or credit.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

More than a bit over-done with the rescue efforts and animal cruelty, but definitely some interesting information and anecdotes. Can't help but admire the dedication that goes into such an enterprise.

[Sarah Ewald · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amazing story of this animal rescue organization and its sanctuary. Not really a literary read, but interesting. Burros, elephants, horses, as well as cats, and dogs. May put a visit on my travels list...

[Lynne Ellen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This isn't a bad book and neither is it poorly written. However, there's a lot of author ego in it and animal rescue techniques/philosophies have changed considerably in the 25 years since this was written. Overall, it just didn't hold up well and I didn't enjoy reading it.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a super short read. Once you read it you will never go to the circus or zoo again.

[Vickie (I love books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing man who started a beautiful sanctuary. It’s still here long after his death.

[R]

Beautifully written!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Black Beauty Ranch in Texas is a sanctuary for abused and otherwise unwanted animals. Over a thousand acres today, it started as 85 acres whose first resident was a kitten who dragged herself to the front gates with one leg caught in a leghold trap. Run by the Fund for Animals, the first major rescue undertaken was of the 577 burros living in the Grand Canyon, whom the Grand Canyon National Park Service had decided to shoot. The Ranch now has a variety of animals from orphaned kinkajous to retired circus elephants.

Amory is a life-long animal activist and former TV critic. He was nearly 80 when he wrote this book, but I remember reading his TV reviews from 40 years ago and he was always curmudgeonly. Some people might find this grating; I rather enjoy it. Mainly, it shows in that he's not afraid to call out the people and agencies who have the reputation for protecting and caring for animals but who are, at best, indifferent. In recounting the Fund's fight to save wild mustangs in Nevada, he describes the National Park Service as "cowardly and cruel," and the Bureau of Land Management as "crooked and cruel." In the case of an elephant who was beaten with axe handles by several keepers at the revered San Diego Zoo for several hours (in order to discipline her for swinging her head around at a keeper), Amory names all of the people involved in the cover-up, including Joan Embry, who had been one of the Tonight Show's most popular regular guests.

Because of stories like this, Ranch of Dreams isn't a particularly happy book. It looks like it's going to be a heartwarming tale of rescued animals -- and in parts it is -- but it's primarily about the abuses that take place by government agencies, some zoos, and circuses. It's a very good book, but also a distressing one.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

read it I finally did, and in one sitting. I have to say, though, that this is one of the sadder animals books I've read. Yes, of course, it is about the Black Beauty Ranch which does truly amazingly wonderful things for animals and which I am very, very grateful is in existance. And yes, there are happy endings to a lot of the animal stories presented, but Amory also gives the horrible beginnings to these stories (and to some that don't end as well). I found myself alterating between very upset and very angry at the way animals have been treated in the past. (I suppose it doesn't help that I so recently read a book all about the mistreatment to and injustices done to animals.) I know from other sanctuary books that it is possible to make them much more uplifting, and I suppose I was hoping for that here as well. Nonetheless, a good read if only to make me more familiar with the Ranch. It's too bad they aren't open to the public as much as they used to be - in 2005 they shut down public access except for special occassions. This book did make me want to go and check the place out, especially the burros! I'll have to see when their next event is.

[Megalion · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book for any animal lover. However, I was shocked at the revelations about the San Diego zoo elephant. I visited the wild animal park many time starting in mid 90s and from what I saw, they treated all the animals in a similar fashion to black beauty ranch, excepting the breeding programs which is vital to the survival of many species even if mr armory doesn't believe in it (he's quite scornful actually).

Also, he speaks as though no one ever looked out for Nim until he did which isn't true. I've read other books that show that there were people who tried to keep Nim from the labs as well. It's an interesting contrast to his earlier complaint that the park service claims all the credit for saving the grand canyon burros.

Regardless, it's still a very good book to read even if you have to take some of what he says with a grain of salt. Sad and heartwarming stories, wonderful animals to wish to meet!

[Jane Greene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ranch of Dreams is a sanctuary for abused and rescued animals. Cleveland Amory does a very nice job of balancing the sadness and cruelty of each animal's life with the animals subsequent rescue, protection and tranquil life they lead when they come to the Ranch of Dreams. I did have a difficult time reading about the cruelty these animals endured and often was moved to tears. Mr. Amory's description of events and steps taken to change laws, initiate and orchestrate rescues lets his readers know that good people with compassionate kind hearts can make a difference. I would love to visit his Ranch someday and applaud all those who work hard each day to maintain the Ranch and provide safety and love to the animals that live there.

[Mander Pander · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading "Black Beauty" (innumerable times) as a little kid and having the biggest of relief that the horse finally gets to relax and enjoy a piece of the good life at the end…sorry for the spoiler alert, anyone who hasn't read this beloved piece of classic literature.

Even though I want to cry 1,000 oceans when I read about animal cruelty and neglect, it gives my cold heart a sliver of hope to know that Black Beauty Ranch is REAL. It's a REAL PLACE. Just…. fifteen hundred acres of rescued animals of all varieties and backgrounds, finally able to hang out in the sunshine. Shut up and take my money, Black Beauty Ranch.
Taking a tour is now added to my bucket list.

PS to the people who did these things to animals: Karma is a real thing.

[Alfredo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very small fast reading book (finished it in 3 sets).

More than a "book", it's a conversation and a bit of a rant from Cleveland Amory, the author to his readers. If you love animals, care for them and consider them sentient beings, you will definitely shed a tear at some horrendous mistreatment and neglect stories of rescue that Amory writes about.

I liked the tone of the book, but is not a piece of art.

But if fulfills its objective: makes you feel more conscious about all the atrocities our four legged friends have to suffer at the hands of stupid humans, and also
You feel the need to visit Black Beauty ranch to see how the animals are thriving.

Seems like a book to give your teen-preteen kids so they can know more about how animals should be respected and treated.

[Amy Bailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a worth-while read. I have to say, however, I didn't expect how depressing it would be. I thought it would be more about the ranch and the great things they do, rather than the sad sob-stories of all the horrible things we people have done over the centuries to any and all kind of animals with which we share our world. It is an important things for people to see and to know. Most individuals close their eyes to the suffering we've always put up with, and even condoned through our practices as consumers. I love Cleveland Amory, but I think I prefer the tears I get from his Polar Bear series as opposed to the tears of actual heart break that this book inspired.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. Cleveland Amory founded the Fund for Animals when almost no animal rights groups were in existence. One of his staff eventually left and went to Greenpeace and now operates Sea Shepard- the marine conservation ship that uses very aggressive direct sabotage tactics to protect whales etc. Interesting, if you're interested.
Karen

[Diane Mueller · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was disappointed. I had heard a lot about Cleveland Amory and his animals and I guess I expected a lot more animal stories. Don't get me wrong there were quite a few stories. I really can't pinpoint what was missing for me, just it wasn't what I had expected.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite book growing up. Brings back so many memories :) It's a great story for animal lovers and a heartwarming (i hate that word, but it fits) picture of animals redeemed from abuse or neglection and given a home. It's always so satisfying to see people who treat animals injustly go DOWN.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very enjoyable read about an animal refuge in Murchison, TX which is near where I live. The Bookworms book club selected this book to read in 2015 business and then we will take a field trip to see the Black Beauty Ranch in the spring time. Looking forward to meeting the animals.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad that there are people like Cleveland Amory and places of refuge for animals for sanctuary. So proud of that man and his supporters. A very remarkable history of animals who received Sanctuary when they needed it the most. I will definitely pass this book on for others to read.

[Regina Diemand · Rating 4 out of 5]

be ready for some harsh truths and sosme really touching stories between humans and their relationships with animals

[Cws]

92A

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

You have to love Cleveland Armory and his wonderful ranch. If I ever win the lottery, this will be the place for my first charitable donation.

[Dave · Rating 1 out of 5]

audio book

Here again, the book wasn't that interesting but to read about people who would devote their lives to something I don't place high value on is interesting.

[Christie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read a few of this author's books when I was much younger. I find his writing style a little bit grating now.