The Ride of Her Life: The True Story of a Woman, Her Horse, and Their Last-Chance Journey Across America

One of the best books I’ve read in a long time. A simple, yet equally astounding true story. It’s a great dive into the history of America as well.

This is a fantastic story and the writing is also spectacular. I’ve read all three of Ms. Letts’ nonfiction books and this is probably my favorite. Deeply inspiring in every way, it’s a tale about both the character and grit of Annie, but also the character, generosity and humanity of America, a place where many people are still warm, wonderful and full of generosity. It is also about small places and wide-open spaces that are increasingly hard to find. The story itself is fascinating and if you love animals, this book is for you; horses and dogs, the best. Letts finds these fantastic stories and makes it so you cannot put them down. Can’t recommend it highly enough and can’t wait for her next book. Well done.

Annie Wilkins had great courage and a great perspective on life. The story of her travels is fascinating, and her openminded faith in the goodness of people was an inspiration. Yet my favorite part of her story was the deep, loving bonds she formed with her animal “family” and the rich rewards she reaped from those relationships.

Very interesting book, historically accurate and detailed. Absolutely the best book I've read in a long time!

A fun and great read. A TRUE story ! I purchased this book based on the fact it is indeed a true story. What is interesting is that various aspects of our country's history and background are not buried in decades ago.I also found several good articles about the main charcter - Annie Wilkins - on line. A fast read, good value.ENJOY !

Annie’s story is well worth reading! Her determination is inspiring, and her relationship with her animals is so touching. This is a wonderful slice of Americana that I had never heard of. I’m so glad I found it!

Nice story, but I would have liked to hear more descriptions of the landscape she rode through.

This book gives you a great view of the USA the way it was in the 1950's, as a 64-year old lady with a horse and a dog travel across the country from Maine to California. She was a very remarkable lady to have survive the journey on horseback. Also remarkable that her horse and dog also survived the cross-country trip. She has taught all of us how to live our lives one day at a time with determination and a goal in mind. Very interesting read about people living their lives in the 1950s and how they interact and react with others. I would liked to have read more about her time in California and something about her view of and visit to the Pacific Ocean. The book seemed to end a little too soon for me. Overall, the book is very well written and a very enjoyable read. If you liked Blue Highways you will like this story too.

I liked this book. Felt like I was on the ride with her.

I couldn’t put it down had to read it all Up all night. It was worth it

A great read

Great book true story amazing journey you’ll enjoy it! Especially any animal lover horses dogs. Would also make a sweet gift for a loved one or friend.

This is the story of one woman’s courage to follow here life-long dream despite all odds. At 64 and with just 2-4 years left to live, she sets off with just a few dollars, no bank account and just the basic belongings she can carry on horseback and heads west across America. Her dream? To see California. She starts in Maine on the east coast with no map, - just knows she has to head west.It’s a story of hope, courage, belief in oneself, determination and sheer grit that takes her on a year-long journey through a fast-changing America in the early fifties. She defies all odds, crossing mountains in snow - when told it’s impossible - rides through torrential rain - because she has no where to sleep - but never gives up. She finally rides into California having found her true self, regained her health and - defying those doctors - lives another 22 years. If you only read just one book in 2024 make it THE RIDE OF HER LIFE.