SOLVED. Chapter book read in the 60’s. Young girl dances on the back of her donkey. [s]

[Rouan]

I read a book as a child, probably in the 60’s, about a young girl; it may have been set in either the southwest or Mexico, who owned a donkey. She would dance on the back of her donkey, either for money, or maybe just love of dancing and the donkey. I think something happened and the donkey was stolen or got lost and she needs to find it. Does this ring a bell with anyone?

[Rouan]

Additional information; I believe she is an orphan and the donkey is her only family. This may also take place in either Spain or Italy, and she encounters some children, who may assist her in finding her donkey.

[Rainbowheart]

For Love of a Donkey?

The horror of war left Karin without family or friends--even her German village was gone. But Bellissimo, the family donkey, had been spared, and Karin was determined to get him across the border, even though everyone said a donkey would not be allowed to cross.

[Rouan]

Thank you; I found a summary of this book but it’s not the one. I distinctly remember that the girl dances on the donkey’s back. I think it’s a main part of the story.

[Rouan]

Bump…just in case someone remembers this

[Ayshe]

"Paquita the Ballerina from Mallorca" maybe? I found it mentioned on Logan Berry Books. Googreads currently doesn't have English edition: La ballerine de Majorque but the description of the French one sounds like a match, with the difference being that a boy goes missing instead of the donkey.

[Kris]

Please note you can bump your own request 30+ days after the last comment in the thread, because this group is so large. If you remember new details, you can add them at any time.

[Rouan]

Ayshe, thank you; from the description and the year it was written, I think you may have found the book; even though it’s not quite as I thought I remembered it! I would say consider this solved. And thanks again!