
audiobook
by la comtesse de Ségur, a graduate of St. Joseph's P. S.
I. THE MARKET.
II. THE PURSUIT.
III. THE NEW MASTERS.
IV. THE BRIDGE.
V. THE CEMETERY.
VI. THE HIDING PLACE.
VII. THE LOCKET.
VIII. THE FIRE.
IX. THE DONKEY RACE.
X. GOOD MASTERS.
The story is told from the surprisingly articulate point of view of a donkey who knows the rhythm of Tuesday market days in the little town of Laigle. He describes the heavy baskets of eggs, butter and vegetables he is forced to carry by a cruel farmer’s wife, the lash of her stick, and the quiet longing for a bite of fresh greens. When his mistress discovers an empty basket, her fury erupts and the donkey finally snaps, delivering a sudden, comical burst of rebellion.
Escaping the post where he was left, the donkey wanders back toward home, drawing curious glances from villagers who mistake him for a mischievous runaway. Their offers to saddle him again reveal a mixture of fear and admiration, and the animal’s gentle humor shines through as he decides how to answer. The opening sets the stage for a series of amusing encounters that explore kindness, stubbornness, and the unexpected wisdom of a humble farm animal.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (290K characters)
Release date
2026-06-22
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

Best known for lively, morally sharp stories for children, this Russian-born French writer turned family tales into classics that generations have grown up reading. Her books mix humor, mischief, and tenderness, with unforgettable characters like Sophie.
View all booksVery little seems to be recorded about this translator beyond the name used in old editions: “P. S., a graduate of St. Joseph’s.” The credit appears on Project Gutenberg’s record for an English version of Adventures of a Donkey, suggesting a modest but real role in bringing la comtesse de Ségur’s work to English-language readers.
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