Being stubborn was just the start of something brave.

🫏 Stronger By Choice

Ages 4-6

Meet Donkey Dell, grumpy, opinionated, and proud of it. Known for his snorts, side-eyes, and defiant “NO WAY!”, Dell marches to his own beat… until one unexpected turn lands him in the middle of a circus act.


Told with humor and heart, this rhyming picture book is a story about sticking to your values while staying open to growth. As Dell navigates disaster under the big top, he discovers that being bold and being brave can go hoof-in-hoof, especially when others are counting on you.

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  • Who This Is For

    • Children ages 4–6
    • Kids who are strong-willed, independent, or a little stubborn
    • Families looking for stories about growth and responsibility
    • Classrooms exploring behavior, teamwork, and problem-solving

  • What This Story Helps With

    • Turning stubbornness into strength
    • Encouraging teamwork and cooperation
    • Building responsibility and accountability
    • Helping kids understand the impact of their choices
Blog Post

  • Digital Flip Book

    Enjoy the story in a whole new way with this free flip book, perfect for independent reading time or cozy story moments together.

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Free Resources to Extend the Story

  • Educational lesson plan for elementary students titled 'Donkey Dell' by Jaybie D. Features a donkey illustration and activity instructions.
  • Word search puzzle titled 'Donkey Dell' by Jaybie D. with hidden words on a white background

  • Lesson Plan

    Download this free lesson plan to spark discussion, build comprehension skills, and help young readers make meaningful connections as they explore the story.

    😊 Free Download 

  • Word Search

    This free printable word search offers a great way to strengthen reading comprehension and word recognition through clues inspired by the book.

    😊 Free Download 
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✨ Download the Press Release

Author’s Quote

“Sometimes the strongest trait in the room is stubbornness, until it becomes courage, collaboration, and change.”

- Jaybie D.

  • Dell demonstrates there is a difference between stubborn selfishness and standing firm to achieve a worthwhile goal. The bright and colorful illustrations are stunning and enhance the charm of the story. Together with its rhythmic verse, this book will appeal to animal lovers and those seeking personal development. Resolve to get your copy of Donkey Dell!

    - Grammy 2023, LitPick

  • Donkey Dell is by award-winning author Jaybie D. She has a specialty, talent, and passion for all imaginary imagery among children. Her newest story, Donkey Dell, explains to the readers how it’s possible to turn a seemingly negative trait and use it positively, altering your and everyone else’s perception of the trait and self. The storyline is crucial and understood (logically and emotionally) by readers of all ages.

    – Rachel Dehning, Reader Views

  • He uses his stubborn thinking to get the job done instead of keeping it from getting done like he did before. Dell learns that when he does different and initially scary things, he has fun and enjoys it. Readers of all ages will like this story because anyone can learn to change their ways and be a better person. Anyone can learn to take chances, even when they are scared.

    - Lydia (Age 10), Reader Views

  • This story masterfully captures the emotional journey of a stubborn character named Dell. From defiance to bravery, Dell’s growth is both relatable and inspiring. The rhyming narrative adds a lyrical charm that makes the story delightful to read aloud. With themes of fear, self-discovery, and heroism, it's a perfect book for children learning to navigate new experiences with confidence and kindness.

    - Bioness

  • The message here is that trying new things can lead to a joyous path and that embracing strengths should be done in healthy ways. The most important lesson at the root of Dell’s journey is how to find balance and spirit through self-discovery. Donkey Dell is a playful and imaginative children’s story that follows a donkey’s journey of discovery filled with fun, adventure, and important life lessons.

    - Liz Konkel, Readers Favorite

  • What makes this book so engaging is Dells' transformation. At first, his stubbornness defies him, but as he experiences the excitement and teamwork of the circus, he learns that his strong will can be used for something bigger than himself. Showing young readers that stepping outside their comfort zone can lead to incredible discoveries. Even the most strong-willed personalities have something valuable to offer when channeled in the right way.

    - Mental Health Pulp

  • What made this book so special to me was how it gently, and in such a playful, heartfelt way, showed that there's strength in knowing when to be firm, and when to bend. And can we talk about the circus part? That was my favorite! Dell trying new things, joining the crew, selling popcorn and hula hoops - it was so joyful and unexpectedly emotional.

    - Intellectual Bookaholic 20

  • Encouraging, humorous, delightful, courageous, and important read! I love that Dell starts off refusing to do anything he doesn't want to do then transitions into being flexible during times of need. His creativity and willingness to change his perspective make him into a true hero. This is such an important message for children to read about. I love this book!

    - Young Family

  • Shows trying out new things and stubbornness can be a good asset. 😊

    Good for all elementary kids and a good value lesson.

    – A. Skrobarcek

Featured Partners in Bookish Fun

  • Bright pink circular YouTube thumbnail for Ruby’s Bedtime Stories featuring a smiling young girl and the phrase “Read – Dream – Repeat.”
  • Circular logo of The Book Yeti featuring a smiling, fuzzy blue yeti surrounded by bold blue text on a yellow background.
  • Logo of the Writers Collaboration Tribe showing an open book sprouting flowers, with the group name wrapped around it in black text on a cream background.

  • Ruby’s Bedtime Stories

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  • The Book Yeti

    Discover bookish joy with a fun blue yeti, featuring a curated collection of authors, and fun literacy celebration for readers.

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  • Writers Collaboration Tribe

    A vibrant group of indie authors supporting each other and amplifying diverse voices through creativity and collaboration.

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