The Girl and the Donkey

Maya has counted down the days to her first visit to the donkey sanctuary, arriving in her red rubber boots and mustard yellow raincoat, ready to meet the animals. At the gate, Hannah, who looks after the rescued donkeys, welcomes her and explains that many of them came from difficult circumstances and need time before they can feel safe. Among the group, Maya spots Rosie, a small grey-brown donkey standing apart in the corner, head lowered and easily startled.

Rather than letting Maya approach the shy donkey straight away, Hannah shows her how to stay still, breathe slowly and speak gently, leaving Rosie to choose when to come nearer. Maya comes back after school each day that week, quietly holding her place while Rosie watches from a distance. Written by Çınar BİBER, this picture-book tale follows the patient, everyday steps of building trust, and it can be read on Masalcı Baba. It is suited to early readers and works well as a read-aloud for families or classrooms exploring empathy, patience and the care rescued animals need.