The Story of a Donkey
 abridged from the French of Madame la comtesse de Ségur

by Sophie Ségur

"The Story of a Donkey" by Comtesse de Ségur is a novel written in 1860. Told as autobiography, it follows Cadichon, a learned donkey who recounts his life's adventures with wit and peasant wisdom. Escaping a cruel mistress, he encounters various masters—some kind, others not—and responds accordingly. He saves children from danger but also seeks revenge when wronged. Through his journey, Cadichon must learn that intelligence alone isn't enough; true happiness requires having a good heart.