Mini donkeys deliver books to Clyde F. Brown Elementary School

By Theresa Knapp 

On Nov. 17, the first graders at Clyde F. Brown Elementary School welcomed Biblioburros “Flossy” (age 5 years) and “Bucko” (age 25 years) who delivered books to the excited students. Each book also had a nameplate dedicated to each child. 

“This was a culminating event to wrap up the first literacy module in Wit & Wisdom,” explained CFB Principal Tanna Jango. “First-grade students learned how books change lives around the world and how children around the world get books. One of the books they read was called Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown and John Parra. The book was inspired by a traveling librarian, Luis Soriano Bohorquez from Columbia, who helped deliver books to children in remote villages with the help of his two donkeys, Alfa and Beto. 

Jango said Mrs. Amy Ball, one of the first-grade teachers, researched opportunities to enhance students’ learning and found the group “Minis with a Mission” in Ipswich. She worked with their coordinator, Laurie Lowe, to replicate the book delivery part of the story.

Each first grader was able to (cautiously) approach the “Biblioburro” and choose a book from its basket. Students then had a chance to pet and brush the animals. Toward the end of the event, school mascot “Clyde” stopped by to say hello. 

The books were provided by CFB school librarian Mrs. Laura Doherty. The event was funded by the CFB Home School Association. 

Minis with a Mission is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization that provides joy through connections made with rescued mini horses and donkeys. For more information, including the full bios for each equine, visit www.miniswithamission.com/ 

For more photos and videos, visit @MedwayMillisTownNews on Facebook.