Wonky donkey man comes to Levin
The author and performer behind one of New Zealand’s best-loved children’s books is making a special appearance in Levin this weekend.
Craig Smith, the creator of The Wonky Donkey, will give a free concert and presentation at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-po¯ on Saturday at 10.30am, with fun, laughter, singing and dancing all on the menu.
Smith, otherwise known as “The Wonky Donkey Man,” will also be signing copies of his books, including his latest book Drizzly Bear.
The Wonky Donkey is currently the top selling book across all genres in the USA, with over 100,000 copies being sold per week.
A video clip of a Scottish grandmother laughing more and more hysterically as she reads the book to her grandchild recently went viral, prompting a massive global surge in the book’s popularity.
The Horowhenua Chronicle caught up with Craig Smith ahead of his Levin show to find out how he got started, and why he loves what he does.
How did you get into performing and writing for kids?
Organically.
As a musician, stuck inside on a rainy day playing and laughing with bored nieces, nephews and cousins.
What do you like best about live performances for families like the one in Levin this weekend?
The kids laughing and enjoying reading and singing.
Parents telling me their stories of how it’s brightened their day reading to the kids and also how it’s helped their kids enjoy reading.
How has your life changed since the recent surge of popularity for The Wonky Donkey after the Scottish Granny clip?
I’ve never been so busy in my life! Lots of positive, and even some negative, things have happened but in general [it’s been an] upward trend. The Wonky Donkey is currently selling over 100,000 copies per week which is crazy good for everyone!
What inspired The Wonky Donkey?
[It was] a simple joke told at the Te Anau rugby club rooms in 2005.
Have you been in touch with the granny from the viral video clip?
Yes. Janice is a very humble, lovely person who enjoys a laugh. Exactly what you’d expect.
What is your new book about?
Drizzly Bear is about a bear who can’t get to sleep, but using his resourcefulness he finds a way to get a good night’s sleep. It’s a lullaby, and a step away from the farts and bums I normally include. My new album Not Just For Kids 2 has also just been released.
For more information about The Wonky Donkey and Craig Smith’s other work, visit www.craigsmith.co.nz