Before the age of mechanization, donkeys were used worldwide as draft animals to pull and carry heavy loads. They are gentle and docile animals, but they also have a strong instinct for self-preservation, which gives rise to their undeserved reputation for stubbornness.

Did you know that donkeys and horses can interbreed, resulting in mules and hinnys? Donkeys and zebras also can interbreed, resulting in such exotic creatures as zeedonks and zonkeys.  You’ll find all of these unusual animals discussed here.

This little book introduces adults and children alike to popular breeds of donkey. Each breed gets a spread featuring a color photograph and a full discussion of identifying characteristics, plus a write-up about the breed’s history, personality, foraging and mothering habits, and suitability for the small farm.