With a farmer for a dad and a vet for a mum, it is no surprise that Jasmine loves animals. When she discovers that Mr Hobson is too old to care for and provide a good life for his pet donkey, Mistletoe, she is determined that the pair should not be separated forever. And she has the perfect solution…Mistletoe should come and live on the family farm and Mr Hobson can come visit whenever he likes. All she needs to do is convince her parents that a donkey for Christmas is the perfect present… Full of kindness, empathy and a love of animals, A Donkey Called Mistletoe will warm hearts in a charmingly told and beautifully illustrated story. The animal rescue narrative combined with festive fun will make you laugh and cry as intergenerational relationships are nurtured, broken hearts are cared for, animals find forever homes and another donkey makes an ass of itself. Readers are immersed into farm life and get to share in the magical connections animals can form with humans. Mistletoe is warm and receptive to all as long as he is treated with respect - something that Jasmine’s younger brother Manu learns the hard way. The bond that Mistletoe shares with Harrison, an autistic boy, is very special indeed. Animals can be a real comfort to those with autism and this gentle exploration is a sweet and thoughtful inclusion. Jasmine is a young Yorkshire Shepherdess and her adventures have all of the vibes Of All Creatures Great and Small. At one with animals, not afraid of hard work, a little bit feisty and with a heart of gold, she is an absolute sweetheart and no matter what hurdle is in her way she is determined to come up with a plan. Given free rein she would take in any and every animal that needed her help. Mistletoe is certainly in good hands and readers will learn a lot about donkey care as Mr Hobson shares just how much grooming and cleaning needs doing to look after these adorable animals.
A galloping success! Recommended for 7+.
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