Ariol #8 The Three Donkeys (Ariol Graphic Novels, 8)

If you’ve ever longed for a book that captures the whimsy, awkwardness, and sheer joy of childhood, Ariol #8: The Three Donkeys by Emmanuel Guibert is a must-read. The eighth installment in the beloved Ariol graphic novel series continues the adventures of its endearing donkey protagonist, blending humor, heart, and relatable schoolyard antics. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this book offers a fresh yet familiar dose of laughter and nostalgia.

Guibert’s storytelling shines with simplicity and depth, making The Three Donkeys an engaging read for kids and adults alike. But what makes this volume stand out? Let’s dive in.

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Without giving away major spoilers, The Three Donkeys follows Ariol and his friends as they navigate the ups and downs of school life. This time, the spotlight is on friendship, rivalry, and the occasional absurdity of childhood rules.

The story kicks off with Ariol and his best friend, Ramono (a pig with a big personality), getting into their usual mischief—whether it’s dealing with strict teachers, playground politics, or their own overactive imaginations. A particularly memorable arc involves a school play (or perhaps a disastrous attempt at one), where Ariol must confront his insecurities while trying to impress his crush, Petula.

What makes this volume special is its episodic yet cohesive structure. Each chapter feels like a mini-adventure, yet they all tie together to reinforce themes of loyalty, self-acceptance, and the small triumphs of growing up.

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Ariol remains the heart of the series—a shy, daydreaming donkey who just wants to fit in. His struggles with confidence (especially around Petula) and his tendency to overthink make him instantly relatable. In The Three Donkeys, we see him grow slightly more self-assured, though his awkward charm never fades.

Ramono is the perfect foil to Ariol—loud, brash, and always ready for chaos. Yet, beneath his bravado, he’s fiercely loyal. His antics provide most of the book’s humor, but there are moments where his vulnerability peeks through, adding depth to his character.

Petula, Ariol’s crush, gets a bit more development here. She’s not just the "pretty cow" but a character with her own quirks and agency. Her interactions with Ariol are sweet, cringe-worthy, and utterly realistic.

From the stern but fair teacher, Mr. Blunt, to Ariol’s parents (who are hilariously clueless at times), the side characters enrich the world. Even minor figures like the school bully or the overly enthusiastic drama teacher leave a lasting impression.

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Guibert’s writing is deceptively simple. The dialogue feels natural, capturing how kids actually speak—full of hyperbole, misunderstandings, and sudden bursts of wisdom. The humor is both slapstick and subtle, ensuring laughs for readers of all ages.

The artwork, with its clean lines and expressive characters, enhances the storytelling. The muted color palette (mostly blues and yellows) gives the book a nostalgic, almost dreamlike quality, perfect for Ariol’s imaginative escapades.

One standout technique is how Guibert balances humor with poignant moments. A scene where Ariol daydreams about being a hero might be followed by a painfully real moment of embarrassment—making the emotional beats hit harder.

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At its core, The Three Donkeys explores:

• Friendship – The ups and downs of childhood bonds.
• Self-Doubt – Ariol’s constant questioning of himself mirrors real kid anxieties.
• Imagination as Escape – Ariol’s daydreams are both a refuge and a way to process his world.

The book doesn’t preach but lets these themes emerge naturally through humor and small, meaningful moments.

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Reading this felt like revisiting my own childhood—the awkward crushes, the irrational fears, the way small victories felt monumental. I laughed out loud at Ramono’s antics, cringed at Ariol’s misfires, and even teared up at a surprisingly tender moment between Ariol and his dad.

It’s rare for a children’s book to resonate so deeply with adults, but The Three Donkeys manages it effortlessly.

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Fans of Calvin and Hobbes or Diary of a Wimpy Kid will adore Ariol. Like Calvin, Ariol has a rich inner life, and like Greg Heffley, he stumbles through school with equal parts humor and heart. However, Ariol stands out for its quieter, more introspective moments and its European charm.

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• Relatable & Funny – Perfect blend of humor and heart.

• Artwork Enhances Story – Expressive and nostalgic.

• Great for All Ages – Kids will laugh; adults will reminisce.

• Episodic Nature – Some may prefer a more linear plot.

• Cultural Nuances – A few jokes might land differently for non-European readers.

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• Kids (7-12) – For its humor and relatability.
• Parents & Educators – Great for discussions about friendship and growing up.
• Graphic Novel Fans – A gem in the genre.

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• "Sometimes, being brave just means pretending you’re not scared."
• "Friends don’t let friends eat glue. Even if it smells like strawberries."

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Originally a French series, Ariol has gained global acclaim for its universal themes. The school setting and kid dynamics transcend cultural barriers, making it accessible worldwide.

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Ariol #8: The Three Donkeys is a triumph—funny, touching, and endlessly relatable. Whether you're revisiting the series or discovering it for the first time, this book is a joy from start to finish.

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Discussion Question: What childhood book or character do you think Ariol reminds you of? Share your thoughts below!

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