The Girl and the Little Donkey

The Girl and the Little Donkey Jane MEADOW

Sophie lived in a small house at the edge of a green meadow. She had warm light-brown skin, dark brown hair in two short braids, and big hazel eyes that sparkled with curiosity. Every day she wore her blue denim overalls over a red-and-white striped shirt and her yellow rain boots. She loved to explore the meadow, and today she was looking for something new. 1

As Sophie walked near the old stone wall, she heard a soft, funny sound. It went 'hee-haw, hee-haw!' She peeked over the wall and saw a little donkey. He was knee-high to Sophie, with a soft grey coat, a cream belly, and long floppy ears. He wore a bright red halter with a small brass bell that jingled when he moved. Sophie gasped with delight. 2

The little donkey trotted over to Sophie. His big brown eyes looked gentle and kind. Sophie reached out and gently patted his fuzzy head. 'Hello, little one,' she said. 'You're so cute!' The donkey nuzzled her hand and gave a happy little snort. Sophie knew right away that they would be friends. 3

Sophie asked around the village and found out the donkey belonged to old Mr. Hill, who was too busy to walk him. Mr. Hill said, 'You can help care for him, Sophie.' Sophie was thrilled. She named the donkey Little Grey and promised to take good care of him. She learned that even small animals need exercise every day. 4

Every morning, Sophie went to Little Grey's pen. She put on his red halter and led him out to the meadow. They walked along the path, over the little bridge, and around the apple tree. Little Grey's small hooves went click-clack on the stones. 'Walking is good exercise for you,' Sophie said. The donkey wagged his tail and brayed softly. 5

Sophie also learned about food. Little Grey needed fresh hay and clean water every day. She filled his bucket and gave him a scoop of grain. He munched happily, and his cream muzzle got a little dusty. 'You need the right food to stay strong,' Sophie told him. The donkey licked her hand as if to say thank you. 6

One afternoon, dark clouds rolled in and the wind began to blow. Sophie knew Little Grey needed a safe shelter. She checked his little shed and made sure it was dry and cozy. She spread fresh straw on the floor. 'This will keep you warm and dry,' she said. The donkey peeked inside and seemed very pleased. 7

When the rain came, Sophie put a soft blue blanket on Little Grey to keep him warm. She sat with him in the shed, listening to the rain drum on the roof. She told him stories about the meadow and the birds. Little Grey rested his head on her shoulder. Sophie felt happy and peaceful. 8

After the rain, Sophie noticed that Little Grey's coat was muddy. She pulled a soft brush from her pocket. 'Time for a brushing!' she said. She brushed his grey coat until it shone. Little Grey closed his eyes and leaned into the brush. 'You like that, don't you?' Sophie laughed. The little bell on his halter jingled softly. 9

Sophie also made sure Little Grey got plenty of exercise. They played chase in the meadow, and she taught him to walk in a circle. Sometimes they raced to the big oak tree. Little Grey was small but quick! 'You're getting stronger every day,' Sophie said. The donkey kicked up his heels with joy. 10

One day, Little Grey seemed sad and tired. Sophie worried. She checked his hooves and his ears. Then she remembered: he needed a bigger space to roam. She asked Mr. Hill if Little Grey could have a larger pen. Mr. Hill agreed, and together they built a bigger fence. Little Grey trotted around happily. 11

Sophie learned that care means paying attention. She noticed when Little Grey was thirsty or needed a rest. She made sure he had shade on hot days and a warm blanket on cold nights. 'You're my best friend,' she whispered. The donkey nuzzled her cheek. Sophie felt proud to be such a good caretaker. 12

With Sophie's care, Little Grey grew healthy and happy. His coat was shiny, his eyes were bright, and his bell jingled merrily. Mr. Hill said, 'You've done a wonderful job, Sophie.' Sophie smiled her gap-toothed smile. She knew that small animals still need proper care, and she was glad to give it. 13

Sophie and Little Grey became the best of friends. Every day they walked, played, and snuggled. Sophie brushed him and kept him warm and dry. Little Grey followed her everywhere, his little bell jingling. 'We'll always be together,' Sophie promised. The donkey brayed softly in agreement. 14

One sunny afternoon, Sophie sat in the meadow with Little Grey beside her. She wore her straw sun hat with the green ribbon and her yellow rain boots. Little Grey rested his head on her lap. 'You need exercise, good food, and a safe shelter,' Sophie said. 'But most of all, you need love.' The donkey closed his eyes contentedly. 15

And that is how Sophie learned that even tiny animals need proper care, kindness, and daily attention. Little Grey was small, but his needs were big. Sophie gave him everything he needed, and in return, he gave her friendship and joy. They lived happily together, and every day was a new adventure.