If you haven’t read any of Sharon Creech’s stories, ‘Saving Winslow’ is a great place to start, followed up by her verse novel ‘Love that Dog.’

Louie had been hoping for a puppy to care for but instead his father brings home a sickly newborn donkey from his uncle’s farm. Louie doesn’t have a great track record when it comes to nurturing small creatures, with worms drying up and stray kittens escaping at the first opportunity.  But something about this little donkey speaks to him. Louie is determined that he will care for this tiny creature and he WILL survive.

Other people try to prepare him for the fact that Winslow (as Louie has named the donkey) probably won’t survive more than a few days, including his new friend, Nora. But Winslow proves to be much stronger than anyone had imagined and Louie’s bond with the donkey strengthens.

But donkeys aren’t meant to live in urban backyards forever. Will Louie have the strength to let him go when the time comes?

I read this tale in one sitting – the warmth of Creech’s story-telling exuded from the pages and washed over me, but the additions of Louie’s big brother being away with the army and Nora’s sad family history added layers of depth to an otherwise gorgeous story.

A beautiful read anyone aged 7+. A funny, tender and uplifting story about making friends and learning to let go.

Library Girl.

*Thank you to Guppy Press for sending me this title to review*