#1 in The Wonky Donkey Collection Series
The Wonky Donkey
2009 by
on Goodreads (9,604)
What’s inside...
The book is a fun-filled adventure of a three-legged – or a wonky – donkey. The cumulative and repetitive text invites readers to call out each phrase as the fun increases with each page and makes the story more exciting.
Why read this book
- Engaging rhythm and rhyme enhances phonetic awareness. - Encourages laughter and joy through silly story-telling. - Builds vocabulary with playful language and repetition. - Strengthens listening skills with repetitive, catchy phrasing.
The Big Picture
- Embraces uniqueness and individuality.
- Encourages empathy towards others.
- Promotes resilience in facing challenges.
- Supports language and emotional development.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases humor and resilience through diverse character portrayal.
- Includes varied linguistic styles, promoting language development.
- Encourages empathy by depicting diverse emotional experiences.
Book in series
#1
Age
2-3
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
emerging
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think makes the donkey wonky? Can you think of any unique traits that make people special?
How did the donkey's wonkiness change throughout the story? Did it make you view him differently by the end?
What emotions do you feel when you see how the characters in the book treat the wonky donkey?
Can we think of ways to be kind to others who are different from us, just like the characters in the book?
Why do you think the author chose a donkey to tell this story? What do you think is the message he wants to share?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session lively and engage your child's imagination.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their version of the wonky donkey, focusing on what they think makes him special.
Discuss the importance of accepting and celebrating differences in others, relating it back to classmates or friends.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after a couple of pages to keep them thinking actively about the story's progression.
Post-read, tie the story's themes into everyday life by pointing out real-life examples of uniqueness and diversity.
What parents love
Kids love the repetitive, humorous phrases!
Perfect for teaching kids about acceptance.
Very engaging with fun illustrations!
Great for read-aloud sessions, my children ask for it nightly!
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: The story of 'The Wonky Donkey' celebrates the individual quirks and features of the donkey, showing children that it's okay to be different.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace their own unique traits and those of others, fostering a positive self-image and encouraging inclusivity among peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite the donkey's oddities and challenges, it remains cheerful and persistent throughout the story.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of resilience and maintaining a positive attitude, even when faced with difficulties.
Example Lesson: The power of humor
Explanation: The playful and humorous tone of the book engages readers, making the learning experience enjoyable.
Real-World Application: Children can apply humor as a way to connect with others and to approach learning with joy and enthusiasm.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The donkey adapts to his different and changing attributes, demonstrating flexibility.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of adapting to new situations or changes in their lives, aiding their coping and adjustment skills.