BOOK BRIEF

The Silver Donkey

Sonya Hartnett
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The Silver Donkey

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006

Book Brief

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Sonya Hartnett

The Silver Donkey

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • World War I

Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In Sonya Hartnett's The Silver Donkey, two young sisters discover an escaped, blind soldier in the woods who shares stories of courage and hope. Through tales like "The Donkey in the Forest" and "The Pilgrim's Progress," the soldier teaches the girls valuable life lessons while they assist him in returning home safely.

Emotional

Inspirational

Hopeful

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.0

2,073 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Silver Donkey by Sonya Hartnett receives praise for its lyrical prose and poignant storytelling, capturing the innocence of childhood against the backdrop of war. Critics commend its emotional depth and moral exploration. However, some note that the narrative's slow pace may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it's regarded as a touching, thought-provoking tale.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Silver Donkey?

Readers who would enjoy The Silver Donkey by Sonya Hartnett are those who appreciate historical fiction that delves into themes of bravery and friendship, much like in The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. Fans of atmospheric, character-driven narratives with a focus on World War I would find this story captivating and thought-provoking.

4.0

2,073 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

In 2005, The Silver Donkey by Sonya Hartnett won the prestigious CBCA (Children's Book Council of Australia) Book of the Year Award for Younger Readers.

The book has been translated into several languages, making it accessible to young audiences around the world.

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Sonya Hartnett is known for her evocative storytelling and has received recognition and awards not only in Australia but internationally for her contributions to children's literature.

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Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • World War I

Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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