The Blind Woodsman: One Man's Journey to Find His Purpose on the Other Side of Darkness

by John Furniss and Anni Furniss

The Blind Woodsman is an inspiring and motivational autobiography about a man who finds true joy after struggling with depression, drug addiction, anxiety, financial despair and a failed suicide attempt at the age of 16. John Furniss, more famously known today as "The Blind Woodsman," along with his wife, inspiration and fellow artist Anni share their amazing story with the mission to help others. Despite being blind, John is now a highly skilled woodworker creating incredible pieces of art in complete darkness. Chapter one starts with how John and Anni met preceded by John sharing his experiences as a young teen and challenges along the way. Be inspired by the amazing images of John's work and many inspirational messages that will make you laugh and smile along the way. A story that will give hope and inspiration to those dealing with depression, addiction and the many anxiety driven stresses in our lives.

• ISBN10: 1497104513
• ISBN13: 9781497104518
• Publish Date: 7 May 2024
• Publish Status: Forthcoming
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Fox Chapel Publishing
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 192
• Language: English

Reviews

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Blind Woodsman is a warm and personal memoir by John & Anni Furniss. Released 19th March 2024 by Fox Chapel, it's 192 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. Hardcover due out 2nd July 2024 from the same publisher.

This is such an engaging and appealing read. The Furniss' are pragmatic, honest, but never overly saccharine or precious. They speak honestly and openly about disability (he's completely blind, she has neuromuscular and hypermobility issues) and their daily lives and past history. 

It's a very uplifting and honest memoir, and eminently readable. Definitely a feel-good book. It's not sugar coated, they're both honest about their struggles, but throughout, their loyalty to one another is palpable. 

Highly recommended for public or secondary school library acquisition (frank discussions of mental health, disability, chronic illness, addiction, prison/legal system), for fans of memoir and nonfiction, and for gifting. It's told in alternating chapters with both the authors discussing the same events and timeline from their own points of view which works very well for this story.

Five stars. A genuinely uplifting read. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.