Read the timeless fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty, a magical story of a princess cursed to sleep until awakened by true love’s kiss.

Sleeping beauty

Once upon a time, there lived a kind man and his gentle wife. For many years, they wished with all their hearts for a child, but their wish did not come true. One day, the woman began to hope that soon, their dream might be granted. At the back of their little house was a window, and through it, she could see a splendid garden filled with the most beautiful flowers and herbs. This garden was surrounded by a high stone wall, and no one dared to enter, for it belonged to a mysterious woman known as the enchantress. She was said to have great powers, and everyone in the village was a little afraid of her.

One afternoon, as the woman gazed out the window, her eyes fell upon a patch of green rampion—also called rapunzel—growing in the garden. The rampion looked so fresh and delicious that she began to long for it. Each day, her desire for the rampion grew stronger, until she could think of nothing else. She became pale and quiet, and her husband grew worried. He asked her gently, “What troubles you, dear wife?”

She replied, “If I cannot have some of the rampion from the garden behind our house, I fear I will not get well.” The man loved his wife very much, and he could not bear to see her so sad. He decided that, no matter what, he would bring her some of the rampion.

That evening, as the sun was setting and the shadows grew long, the man climbed carefully over the high wall into the enchantress’s garden. He quickly picked a handful of rampion and hurried home. His wife was overjoyed. She made herself a salad from the rampion and ate it with great delight. But the taste was so wonderful that the next day, she longed for it even more.

Her husband knew he must go back to the garden. So, as night fell, he climbed over the wall once again. But this time, as he reached for the rampion, he suddenly saw the enchantress standing before him. Her eyes were sharp, and her voice was stern as she said, “How dare you come into my garden and take my rampion like a thief?”

The man trembled with fear and replied, “Please, forgive me. I did not mean any harm. My wife saw your rampion from our window, and she longed for it so much that she has grown ill. I only wanted to help her.”

The enchantress’s face softened a little. “If what you say is true, I will let you take as much rampion as you wish. But you must promise me one thing: when your wife’s child is born, you must give the child to me. I will care for the child as if she were my own.”

The man, frightened and desperate, agreed to the enchantress’s condition. When the baby was born, the enchantress appeared at once. She named the little girl Rapunzel and took her away.

Rapunzel grew into a beautiful child, with hair as golden as the sun. The enchantress cared for her and kept her safe. But when Rapunzel turned twelve years old, the enchantress brought her to a tall tower deep in the forest. The tower had no stairs and no door, only a small window at the very top. Rapunzel lived there, and the enchantress visited her often.

Whenever the enchantress wanted to enter the tower, she would stand below the window and call out,

“Rapunzel, Rapunzel,
Let down your hair to me.”

Rapunzel’s hair had grown very long and shone like spun gold. When she heard the enchantress’s voice, she would let her hair fall out of the window, and the enchantress would climb up, using Rapunzel’s hair like a rope.

Time passed, and Rapunzel grew used to her quiet life in the tower. She would sing sweet songs to herself, and her voice floated out over the forest. One day, a prince was riding through the woods and heard Rapunzel’s singing. The song was so lovely that he stopped to listen. He wanted to meet the girl with the beautiful voice, but he could not find a door to the tower.

Day after day, the prince returned to the forest to listen to Rapunzel’s song. One evening, as he hid behind a tree, he saw the enchantress arrive. He watched as she called out,

“Rapunzel, Rapunzel,
Let down your hair.”

The prince watched carefully from his hiding place as the enchantress called out, “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair.” He saw Rapunzel’s golden braids tumble down from the high window, and the enchantress climbed up, just as she always did. The prince thought to himself, “If that is how she visits Rapunzel, perhaps I can try, too.”

The next evening, when the sky was painted with soft pink and purple, the prince returned to the tower. He stood beneath the window and called out gently, “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair.” Rapunzel, thinking it was the enchantress, let her long, shining hair fall down. The prince carefully climbed up, holding tight to the golden braids, until he reached the window at the very top.

When Rapunzel saw the prince, she was very surprised and a little frightened, for she had never seen anyone but the enchantress before. But the prince spoke kindly to her, telling her how her sweet singing had filled his heart with happiness and how he wished to meet her. Rapunzel listened to his gentle words, and soon her fear melted away. She realized that the prince was friendly and good, and she felt safe with him.

The prince visited Rapunzel every evening, and they became dear friends. They talked and laughed together, and Rapunzel told him about her life in the tower. The prince promised that one day, he would help her leave the tower so she could see the world outside and be free.

Rapunzel thought carefully about how she might escape. She said to the prince, “Each time you visit, please bring me a piece of silk. I will weave the silk into a strong ladder. When it is finished, I can climb down, and you can take me away on your horse.” The prince agreed, and every evening, he brought her a skein of soft, colorful silk.

Day by day, Rapunzel worked on her ladder, weaving the silk with care and hope. The enchantress visited only during the day, so she never noticed the prince’s visits or the growing ladder. Rapunzel and the prince kept their secret safe, and their hearts were full of dreams for the future.

But one day, as Rapunzel was helping the enchantress climb up, she wondered aloud, “Dame Gothel, how is it that you are so much heavier to pull up than the young prince? He is with me in a moment.” As soon as the words left her lips, Rapunzel realized her mistake. The enchantress’s eyes grew wide with surprise and anger.

“Oh, Rapunzel!” cried the enchantress. “How could you keep such a secret from me? I thought I had hidden you away from the world, but you have tricked me!” In her anger, the enchantress grabbed Rapunzel’s beautiful hair and, with a sharp pair of scissors, snipped it off. The golden braids fell to the floor, and Rapunzel’s head felt light and strange.

Without another word, the enchantress took Rapunzel far away, deep into a lonely desert. There, Rapunzel had to live all by herself, with only the wind and the birds for company. She missed her prince and her old life, and sometimes she sang her sweet songs to comfort herself.

That same evening, the enchantress returned to the tower. She tied Rapunzel’s cut braids to a hook by the window. When the prince arrived and called, “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair,” the golden braids tumbled down as before. The prince climbed up, hoping to see his dear friend, but instead, he found the enchantress waiting for him.

The enchantress glared at the prince and said, “You will never see Rapunzel again!” The prince’s heart was filled with sadness. In his sorrow, he climbed out of the window and tumbled down into the thorny bushes below. Though he was hurt, he was alive, but his eyes were stung by the thorns, and he could no longer see.

The prince wandered through the forest, feeling lost and alone. He ate wild berries and roots and thought only of Rapunzel. Many days and nights passed, and still, he searched for her, guided only by hope and the memory of her sweet voice.

At last, after a long, long time, the prince heard a familiar song carried on the wind. He followed the sound and found Rapunzel in the desert. When she saw him, she ran to him and hugged him tightly. Her tears of joy fell onto his eyes, and suddenly, he could see again!

The prince and Rapunzel were so happy to be together once more. He led her back to his kingdom, where they were welcomed with joy and kindness. Rapunzel and the prince lived happily ever after, surrounded by friends, laughter, and love. And every night, as the stars twinkled above, they remembered how hope and kindness had brought them together at last.

Rapunzel is a timeless Brothers Grimm fairy tale about a young woman with magical golden hair, imprisoned in a tall tower by a witch, who finds love and freedom with the help of a brave prince.

Rapunzel

Once upon a time, near the edge of a great, whispering forest, there lived a kind but poor woodcutter. He shared his small, cozy cottage with his wife and his two children from before, a thoughtful boy named Hansel and his gentle sister, Grethel. Times were hard, and the family often had just enough food to fill their tummies. One year, a great famine swept through the land, and the woodcutter found it harder and harder to find enough bread for everyone.

One evening, as the moonlight peeked through the window, the woodcutter lay awake, his heart heavy with worry. He sighed and turned to his wife, “What will become of us? How can we feed our dear children when we barely have enough for ourselves?”

His wife, who was also troubled, whispered back, “Listen, my husband. Tomorrow, we will take Hansel and Grethel deep into the forest, where the trees grow thickest. We will make a warm fire for them and give them each a small piece of bread. Then, while they rest, we will go to gather wood. If they cannot find their way home, perhaps someone kind will help them, and we will not have to watch them go hungry.”

The woodcutter’s eyes filled with tears. “No, my dear wife, I cannot do that. How could I leave my children alone in the forest? What if they are frightened or lost?”

But his wife gently reminded him, “If we do nothing, we may all go hungry. We must be brave.” She spoke softly but firmly, and at last, the woodcutter agreed, though his heart ached for his children.

Hansel and Grethel, lying in their little beds, could not sleep because their tummies rumbled with hunger. They heard every word their parents said. Grethel’s eyes filled with tears, and she whispered, “What will happen to us, Hansel?”

Hansel hugged his sister and said, “Don’t worry, Grethel. I have an idea. I will take care of us.” When the house was quiet and their parents were asleep, Hansel slipped out of bed, put on his coat, and tiptoed to the back door. The moon was shining brightly, and the white pebbles on the ground sparkled like tiny stars. Hansel filled his pockets with as many pebbles as he could carry, then crept back inside.

He whispered to Grethel, “Don’t be afraid, dear sister. Go to sleep. I promise, everything will be all right.” Grethel snuggled close to her brother, and soon they both drifted off to sleep.

Before the sun had risen, their stepmother gently woke them. “Wake up, sleepyheads. We are going into the forest to help your father gather wood.” She handed each of them a small piece of bread. “This is for your lunch. Don’t eat it too soon, because there won’t be any more until we come home.” Grethel tucked her bread safely into her apron, while Hansel’s pockets were already full of pebbles.

The family set off into the cool, green forest. As they walked, Hansel kept looking back at the cottage. Every now and then, he stopped and turned around. His father noticed and asked, “Hansel, why do you keep stopping and looking back?”

Hansel replied, “I’m just looking at our white cat sitting on the roof, waving goodbye to us.” Their stepmother smiled and said, “That’s not a cat, Hansel. It’s just the morning sun shining on the chimney.” But Hansel wasn’t really looking at a cat. Each time he turned, he dropped a shiny white pebble onto the path behind them.

Soon, they reached the heart of the forest, where the trees stood tall and close together. The woodcutter said, “Let’s gather some wood for a fire, so you won’t be cold.” Hansel and Grethel worked together, collecting twigs and branches until they had a big pile. Their father lit the fire, and the flames danced and crackled, warming their hands and faces.

Their stepmother said kindly, “Now, children, rest here by the fire. We are going to gather more wood. When we are ready to go home, we will come back for you.” Hansel and Grethel sat close together by the fire, listening to the gentle sounds of the forest all around them.

Hansel and Grethel sat quietly by the warm, crackling fire, listening to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft songs of birds in the tall trees. The sun climbed high above the forest, and when their tummies began to rumble, they each nibbled their little piece of bread, just as their stepmother had told them. The bread was small, but they ate it slowly, hoping it would last.

As they sat together, they could hear the steady “thump, thump” of an axe echoing through the woods. Hansel and Grethel smiled at each other, thinking their father must be close by, chopping wood. But as the day went on, the sound never seemed to come any nearer. What they didn’t know was that their father had tied a branch to an old tree, and the wind made it knock and bump, so it sounded just like an axe.

The children waited and waited, but no one came. The fire grew smaller, and the shadows grew longer. Hansel put his arm around Grethel, and soon, their eyes grew heavy. Before they knew it, they had both fallen fast asleep, curled up together by the fading fire.

When they woke up, the forest was dark and quiet. The moon had risen, shining softly through the leaves, and Grethel felt scared. She whispered, “Hansel, how will we ever find our way home?” Hansel squeezed her hand and said gently, “Don’t worry, Grethel. When the moon is bright, we’ll see the path. Remember the pebbles I dropped? They will show us the way.”

Sure enough, as the moonlight sparkled on the ground, the white pebbles Hansel had dropped shone like tiny silver coins. Hand in hand, Hansel and Grethel followed the trail, step by step, through the sleeping forest. The night was cool and quiet, but the children were brave, and the pebbles glimmered, leading them safely along.

They walked all night, and just as the sky began to turn pink with morning, they saw their little cottage in the distance. Their hearts leapt with joy, and they hurried to the door. When their stepmother opened it, she looked surprised and said, “Why did you sleep so long in the woods? We thought you were never coming home!” But their father was so happy to see them that he hugged them tight, his eyes shining with tears. He had missed them very much and was glad they were safe.

For a little while, things were peaceful. But soon, the food in the house grew scarce again. One night, as Hansel and Grethel lay in their beds, they heard their stepmother whispering to their father. “There is hardly any bread left,” she said. “We must take the children deeper into the forest, so they cannot find their way back. It is the only way.”

Their father’s heart was heavy, and he wished they could all share the last bit of bread together. But their stepmother would not listen, and at last, he sadly agreed.

Hansel and Grethel heard every word. When the house was quiet, Hansel tried to slip outside to gather more pebbles, but this time the door was locked tight. He could not get out. Still, he comforted Grethel, whispering, “Don’t be afraid. Go to sleep. The good God will watch over us.”

Early the next morning, their stepmother woke them and gave them each a smaller piece of bread than before. Hansel tucked his into his pocket, breaking it into tiny crumbs as they walked. Every now and then, he stopped and dropped a crumb on the path behind them. Their father asked, “Hansel, why do you keep stopping?” Hansel answered, “I’m looking at my little dove, nodding goodbye to me.” But his stepmother only said, “That’s not a dove, just the sun on the chimney.” Still, Hansel kept dropping crumbs, hoping they would help him and Grethel find their way home.

This time, their stepmother led them even deeper into the forest, farther than they had ever been before. She made a big fire and said, “Sit here and rest. When you are tired, you can sleep. We will come back for you when we are ready.” Hansel and Grethel sat close together by the fire, holding hands and listening to the sounds of the deep, dark woods, hoping that somehow, they would find their way home again.

When the sun was high in the sky, Grethel gently broke her little piece of bread in half and shared it with Hansel, since he had dropped his own along the path, hoping it would help them find their way home. The two children sat close together under the tall trees, nibbling their bread and listening to the soft sounds of the forest. After their small meal, they grew sleepy and curled up side by side, letting their eyes close as the warm sunlight danced through the leaves above.

Evening came, and the woods grew quiet and cool. Hansel and Grethel woke up, hoping to see their father or stepmother coming to find them, but no one came. The sky turned dark, and the moon peeked out from behind the clouds, shining down with a gentle, silvery light. Grethel felt a little scared, but Hansel squeezed her hand and whispered, “Don’t worry, Grethel. When the moon is bright, we’ll see the crumbs of bread I dropped, and they will show us the way home.”

Hand in hand, they stood up and looked all around. The moonlight sparkled on the leaves and the mossy ground, but when they searched for the crumbs, they could not find a single one. All the little birds that lived in the woods and fields had flown down and eaten every last crumb. Hansel tried to be brave and told Grethel, “We will soon find the way,” but inside, he felt worried too.

Still, the children did not give up. They walked through the quiet forest all night long, hoping to find a path or a sign that would lead them home. The trees seemed taller and the shadows deeper, but Hansel and Grethel stayed close together, comforting each other with gentle words. When morning came, their tummies rumbled with hunger, and they looked for berries on the bushes to eat. The berries were small and sweet, but there were not many, and soon they were hungry again.

All day they wandered, growing more and more tired as the sun moved across the sky. Their feet ached, and their legs felt heavy, but they kept walking, hoping to find their cottage or hear their father’s voice. When the sun began to set, they were so tired that they could not take another step. They found a soft patch of moss under a big tree, curled up together, and fell fast asleep, dreaming of home.

When they woke up, it was the third morning since they had left their father’s house. The forest seemed even bigger and quieter than before. Hansel and Grethel held hands and walked on, but the trees grew thicker, and they felt as if they were getting deeper and deeper into the woods. Hansel looked at Grethel and saw how tired and hungry she was. He wished with all his heart that someone would come to help them.

Just as the sun was shining high above, something wonderful happened. A beautiful snow-white bird landed on a branch nearby and began to sing the sweetest song the children had ever heard. Hansel and Grethel stopped and listened, feeling comforted by the gentle music. When the bird finished its song, it spread its wings and flew off through the trees. The children followed, hoping it would lead them somewhere safe.

The bird fluttered ahead, and Hansel and Grethel hurried after it, deeper into the forest. At last, the bird perched on the roof of a little cottage. As the children came closer, their eyes grew wide with wonder. The cottage was made of bread and cakes, and the windows sparkled like clear sugar. Hansel and Grethel could hardly believe their eyes. Their tummies rumbled, and for the first time in days, they felt a little hope in their hearts.

Hansel and Grethel stood in front of the magical cottage, their eyes shining with wonder. The sweet smell of cakes and cookies drifted through the air, making their tummies rumble even more. Hansel smiled at Grethel and whispered, “Let’s have a little taste. I’ll try the roof, and you can try the window. I bet they’re delicious!” Grethel giggled and nodded, reaching up to gently nibble on the sparkling sugar window, while Hansel broke off a small piece of the soft, golden roof.

As they tasted the treats, a gentle voice floated out from inside the cottage, singing, “Tip-tap, tip-tap, who is nibbling at my house?” Hansel and Grethel looked at each other, a little surprised, but Hansel called back, “It’s only the wind, the wind, the child of heaven.” The children smiled and took another bite, feeling safe and happy for the first time in days.

Just then, the cottage door creaked open, and out stepped a very old woman with kind eyes and a warm smile. She leaned on a wooden stick and looked at the children. Hansel and Grethel felt a little shy and dropped their pieces of cake, but the old woman just chuckled softly. “Oh, you dear children,” she said, “what has brought you here? Come inside and rest. You must be so tired and hungry.”

She gently took their hands and led them into her cozy cottage. Inside, the table was set with bowls of warm milk, fluffy pancakes sprinkled with sugar, shiny red apples, and crunchy nuts. Hansel and Grethel’s eyes grew wide with delight. They sat down and ate until their tummies were full and happy. After their meal, the old woman showed them two little beds with soft white blankets. Hansel and Grethel snuggled under the covers, feeling safe and warm at last. As they drifted off to sleep, they thought they must be dreaming, for everything seemed so wonderful.

But while the children slept, the old woman’s smile faded. She was not as kind as she seemed. In truth, she was a witch who had built her candy cottage to lure children inside. She watched Hansel and Grethel as they slept, her eyes glinting. “These two will not escape me,” she whispered to herself.

Early the next morning, before the sun had risen, the witch crept into the room. She saw Hansel and Grethel sleeping close together, their cheeks rosy and peaceful. The witch reached out with her bony hands and picked Hansel up, carrying him to a little cage with a door made of sticks. Hansel woke up and called for Grethel, but the witch locked the door tight. Then she shook Grethel gently until she woke. “Get up, lazy girl,” the witch said. “Fetch some water and cook something tasty for your brother. He must eat and get strong.”

Grethel’s eyes filled with tears, but she did as she was told. Every day, the witch brought Hansel food and made Grethel work hard. But Hansel was clever. Each morning, the witch would say, “Hansel, let me feel your finger to see if you are getting fat.” But Hansel held out a little bone instead, and because the witch’s eyes were not very good, she thought Hansel was still thin.

Days and days went by, and the witch grew impatient. “Grethel,” she snapped one morning, “bring water! Fat or thin, today I will cook your brother.” Grethel’s heart ached, and she whispered, “Oh, please help us!” But the witch just scolded her and hurried her along. Grethel wiped her tears and tried to be brave, hoping for a way to save her brother.

So, early the next morning, Grethel woke up to the sound of the witch’s grumpy voice. “Up, lazy girl!” the witch snapped. “Go outside and fill the kettle with water, and make a fire. We have work to do!” Grethel rubbed her sleepy eyes and hurried to do as she was told, her heart beating fast with worry for Hansel.

When Grethel came back inside, the witch was already busy. “First, we will bake,” she said, rubbing her hands together. “I have already heated the oven and kneaded the dough.” The oven glowed with bright orange flames, and Grethel could feel the heat from across the room.

The witch pointed to the oven and said, “Creep in and see if it’s hot enough. Then we will put in the bread.” But Grethel remembered how clever Hansel had been, and she guessed that the witch was trying to trick her. The witch wanted Grethel to climb inside so she could close the door and keep her there!

Grethel pretended not to understand. “I don’t know how to do it,” she said softly. “How can I get inside?” The witch huffed and rolled her eyes. “You silly goose! The opening is big enough. Look, even I could fit inside!” And to show Grethel, the witch leaned forward and stuck her head right into the oven.

Quick as a flash, Grethel gave the witch a gentle push. The witch tumbled right into the oven! Grethel shut the heavy iron door and slid the bolt across. The witch howled and banged on the door, but Grethel ran away as fast as she could, her heart pounding with relief.

She hurried to Hansel’s little cage and opened the door. “Hansel, we’re safe! The witch is gone!” she cried. Hansel jumped out, just like a happy bird flying free from its cage. The brother and sister hugged each other tightly, laughing and crying at the same time. They were so happy to be together again.

Now that the witch was gone, Hansel and Grethel looked around the cottage. In every corner, they found little boxes filled with shiny pearls and sparkling jewels. “These are much better than pebbles,” Hansel said with a grin, filling his pockets with as many as he could carry. Grethel gathered some too, filling her apron until it was heavy with treasure.

“We must go home now,” said Hansel, taking Grethel’s hand. They left the cottage and walked through the forest, hoping to find their way back. After a long walk, they came to a wide, sparkling river. There was no bridge and no boat to cross.

Just then, a gentle white duck came swimming by. Grethel called out softly:

“Little Duck, kind Little Duck,
Hansel and Grethel here we stand.
There is neither bridge nor boat,
Please help us cross to land.”

The duck paddled over and let Hansel climb onto her back. But Grethel shook her head. “No, that’s too much for the duck. She can take us one at a time.” So the duck carried Hansel across first, then came back for Grethel. Soon, both children were safe on the other side.

They walked on, and the trees began to look more and more familiar. At last, they saw their father’s house in the distance. They ran as fast as they could and burst through the door. Their father was overjoyed to see them, for he had missed them every single day. Grethel shook out her apron, and pearls and jewels tumbled onto the floor. Hansel emptied his pockets, and the room sparkled with treasure.

From that day on, Hansel, Grethel, and their father lived together in happiness and never went hungry again. And whenever they remembered their adventure, they hugged each other close, grateful to be safe and loved.

And so, dear one, the story is done. Now close your eyes and dream sweet dreams, for you are safe and loved, just like Hansel and Grethel.

Hansel and Grethel is a classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale about a clever brother and sister who outwit a wicked witch after being abandoned in a dark forest.

Hansel and Grethel

Once upon a time, there was a kind little girl named Cinderella. She lived happily with her loving mother and father.


When Cinderella was nine, her mother became very tired and needed to rest quietly. Before she went to sleep for a long, long time, she told Cinderella, “My dear, always be kind and patient, and good things will come to you.”
Not long after, Cinderella’s father married again. The new lady had two daughters of her own. But they were not kind. 


They made Cinderella do all the housework—sweeping floors, washing dishes, and tidying up—while they rested and played.


Still, Cinderella stayed gentle and sweet. In the evenings, she would sit by the warm fire, the soft embers making her look as though tiny stars had fallen on her dress. That is how she came to be called Cinderella.


One day, a royal messenger brought exciting news: the prince was holding a grand ball at the palace, and everyone in the kingdom was invited.
The stepsisters chattered all day about their dresses and ribbons. Cinderella helped them choose their finest clothes and style their hair. When they asked if she wanted to go, she smiled softly. “Oh, I don’t think I could,” she said. They laughed and told her she would never suit such a grand party.
On the night of the ball, Cinderella waved as her stepsisters rode away in their carriage. Her heart felt heavy, and she sat alone by the fire.
Suddenly, there was a gentle tap at the door. An old woman with a kind smile stood outside. “May I come in to rest?” she asked.
“Of course,” said Cinderella.


The woman asked why she looked so sad. Cinderella told her about the ball, and how she wished she could go but had no fine clothes or carriage.
The woman’s eyes twinkled. “Don’t worry, my dear. I am your fairy godmother, and you shall go to the ball!”
First, she asked for a large pumpkin from the garden. Cinderella brought one back, and with a wave of her wand, it became a shining golden carriage.
Next, she asked for six mice from the pantry. One touch of the wand turned them into six fine grey horses with blue ribbons in their manes.
Then, she asked for two rats from the stable. One became a smart postilion, the other a cheerful coachman.
Finally, she asked for six lizards from the garden wall. With a flick of her wand, they became six footmen in bright jackets and gold hats.
The carriage and its helpers were ready, but Cinderella still wore her plain dress. Smiling, the fairy godmother touched her with the wand. Her dress turned to silver and gold, sparkling like moonlight, and on her feet appeared two delicate glass slippers.
“Remember,” said the fairy godmother, “you must leave the ball before the clock strikes twelve. At midnight, the magic will end.”
Cinderella promised, stepped into the carriage, and was whisked away to the palace.
When she arrived, the prince himself came to greet her. He led her into the ballroom, and everyone turned to stare. She looked so lovely that whispers of wonder filled the room.


The prince danced with her all evening. Cinderella felt as if she were in a dream. 


She even spoke kindly to her stepsisters, who did not recognize her, and gave them sweet fruit from the banquet table.
When the clock began to strike midnight, she remembered her promise. She slipped away quickly, disappearing into the night before the last chime.
At home, she thanked her fairy godmother and told her how happy the evening had been. The next day, the prince announced there would be another ball, and he hoped the mysterious lady would return.
Again, the stepsisters went to the palace. Again, the fairy godmother dressed Cinderella in a gown even more beautiful than before.
That night, the prince stayed beside her, speaking with warmth and joy. But Cinderella lost track of the time. When the clock struck midnight, she fled. As she ran down the palace steps, one glass slipper slipped from her foot. The prince picked it up carefully, determined to find her.
The next day, the prince declared, “I will marry the lady whose foot fits this glass slipper.”
He went from house to house. Many tried the slipper, but it fit no one. At last, he came to Cinderella’s home.
The stepsisters each tried to squeeze in their feet, but the slipper was far too small. Then Cinderella asked softly, “May I try?”


The stepsisters laughed, but the prince’s servant said, “Every lady must have her chance.”
Cinderella slipped her foot into the glass slipper, and it fit perfectly. She then drew the other slipper from her pocket and put it on.
At that moment, her fairy godmother appeared, touching Cinderella’s clothes with her wand. She was dressed once again in shimmering beauty.
The stepsisters gasped, realizing she was the lovely lady from the ball. They knelt before her and begged her forgiveness. Cinderella lifted them up gently and smiled. “I forgive you. Let us be friends.”
The prince, overjoyed, took Cinderella to the palace, where they were soon married. She remained kind and gentle all her life, and her warm heart brought happiness to her family and the whole kingdom.
And so, Cinderella’s story became a tale of kindness, patience, and dreams coming true.
The end.

A kind young girl loses her mother and is left to live with her unkind stepmother and stepsisters. Through patience, kindness, and the magical help of her fairy godmother, she attends the royal ball and captures the prince’s heart. Even when wronged, she forgives with grace, proving that goodness and hope can turn dreams into reality

Cinderella

A fairy tale about a poor boy named Jack who climbs a magical beanstalk

Jack and the Beanstalk

Once upon a time, in a cozy little house, a kind cook decided to make something special in her warm kitchen. She gathered flour and water, treacle and ginger, and mixed them all together in a big bowl. She added a little more water to make the mixture smooth, then a bit more flour to make it just right. With a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of spice, she stirred and stirred until the dough was soft and golden.

The cook rolled out the dough until it was smooth and flat. She took her square tins and cut out square cakes for the little boys, and with her round tins she made round cakes for the little girls. Then she smiled and said, “I’m going to make a little gingerbread man for Bobby.” She took a nice round piece of dough for his body, and a smaller piece for his head, gently shaping a neck. Two more pieces became his legs, which she carefully pulled into shape, making sure he had feet and even tiny toes. Two smaller pieces became his arms, with little hands and fingers.

The cook worked carefully on his head. She made a frizzy, sugary hat on top, and added two tiny ears on each side. She shaped a little nose, and for his mouth, she pressed in a big, plump raisin. For his eyes, she used two shiny burnt almonds and tiny caraway seeds, making him look bright and cheerful.

When the gingerbread man was finished, he looked so jolly and clever that the cook almost thought he might be up to some mischief. She placed the square cakes and round cakes on a tray, and then put the little gingerbread man in a far back corner of the oven, just in case he tried to get away.

After putting everything in the oven, the cook went upstairs to sweep the parlor. She swept and swept, and soon the clock struck twelve. Suddenly, she remembered the gingerbread! “Oh dear, the gingerbread will be baked to a cinder!” she cried, dropping her broom and hurrying down to the kitchen.

She opened the oven door, and there were the square cakes, baked perfectly golden brown. The round cakes were just right too. And in the corner stood the little gingerbread man, all baked and brown, with his caraway-seed eyes sparkling and his raisin mouth looking full of fun.

As soon as the oven door opened, the gingerbread man gave a hop, a skip, and a jump! He leaped right over the square cakes and the round cakes, over the cook’s arm, and before she could say a word, he was running across the kitchen floor as fast as his little legs could carry him. The back door was wide open, and he could see the garden path shining in the sun.

The cook turned around as quickly as she could, but she was a bit slow, for she was surprised and not very quick on her feet. Right across the doorway, fast asleep in the sun, lay Mouser the cat.

“Mouser, Mouser!” called the cook. “Stop the gingerbread man! I want him for little Bobby!” At first, Mouser thought she was dreaming and just rolled over lazily. The cook called again, “Mouser, Mouser!” This time, Mouser jumped up, but just as she turned to see what was happening, the gingerbread man darted right under her tail and scampered down the garden path.

Mouser spun around and chased after him, though she was still a bit sleepy and not sure what she was chasing. The cook hurried after them, moving as fast as she could.

Down the garden walk ran the gingerbread man, his little legs going as fast as they could. He called out, “Run, run, as fast as you can! You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man!” Mouser the cat chased him, and behind her came the cook, but the gingerbread man was too quick for them all.

At the end of the garden path, lying in the sun against the warm stones, was Towser the dog. The cook called, “Towser, Towser, stop the gingerbread man! I want him for little Bobby!”

Towser the dog was still snoozing in the sunshine when the cook called out, “Towser, Towser, stop the gingerbread man! I want him for little Bobby!” At first, Towser just rolled over with a big, sleepy snore, thinking he was dreaming. But when the cook called again, “Towser, Towser, stop him, stop him!” Towser woke up with a start and jumped to his feet, ready to help.

But the clever gingerbread man had been watching and waiting for just the right moment. As Towser stood up, the gingerbread man quietly slipped between the dog’s legs and scampered up onto the top of the garden wall. Towser blinked in surprise, but all he saw was Mouser the cat running toward him, with the cook hurrying behind.

Towser thought the cat must have done something naughty, so he barked and dashed after Mouser. Poor Mouser didn’t have time to stop or turn away, and the two tumbled together with a flurry of barking, meowing, and scrambling paws. It was such a noisy, silly tangle that it sounded like a bunch of spinning fireworks!

The cook, who had been running as fast as she could, couldn’t stop in time either. She tripped and fell right on top of the dog and the cat, and all three rolled over and over in a big, giggling heap. Mouser tried to scratch her way out, Towser tried to wiggle free, and the cook just laughed and tried to untangle everyone.

Meanwhile, the gingerbread man stood high on the garden wall, his little hands in his pockets, watching the funny scene below. His caraway-seed eyes sparkled with laughter, and his raisin mouth bubbled with giggles. “Run, run, as fast as you can! You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man!” he called out, feeling very proud of himself.

After a moment, Mouser managed to slip away, looking a bit ruffled and tired. She decided she’d had enough chasing for one day and tiptoed back to the kitchen for a nap. Towser, whose nose had been scratched, finally let go of the cook and looked up—just in time to spot the gingerbread man on the wall! With a bark, Towser dashed toward the wall, and the cook, though her dress was torn and her face was scratched, picked herself up and followed, determined not to give up.

The gingerbread man saw Towser coming and quickly jumped down the other side of the wall, landing softly in the green grass. He ran across the field, his little legs moving as fast as they could. In the middle of the field stood a tall tree, and under the tree was Jocko the monkey, who was wide awake and curious.

When the cook called, “Jocko, Jocko, stop the gingerbread man!” Jocko gave a big leap—so big that he sailed right over the gingerbread man and landed, with a surprise, on Towser’s back! Towser yelped and turned around, giving Jocko’s tail a little nip. Jocko chattered and jumped off, shaking his tail and looking very cross.

The gingerbread man giggled and hurried to the tree. “I know the dog can’t climb a tree, and I don’t think the cook can either,” he said to himself. “But I’m not sure about the monkey!” So up he climbed, hand over hand, all the way to the very top branch.

But Jocko was quick and clever, too. With one big spring, he landed on the lowest branch and scrambled up after the gingerbread man. The gingerbread man looked down and called, “Run, run, as fast as you can! You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man!” He felt so sure of himself, he didn’t notice how close Jocko was getting.

But Jocko the monkey was just as quick as ever. With a single, swooping leap, he landed on the lowest branch of the tree, and in a flash, he scrambled all the way up to the very top, right behind the gingerbread man. The gingerbread man saw Jocko coming and scurried out to the very tip of the branch, his little gingerbread fingers gripping tightly. He dangled there, holding on with just one hand, his caraway-seed eyes wide with worry.

Jocko, being a clever monkey, swung himself underneath the branch and reached out his long, gentle arm. Before the gingerbread man could even say “Run, run, as fast as you can!” Jocko had scooped him up and was holding him high in the air. Jocko looked at the gingerbread man with big, curious eyes—and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of a hungry tummy, too.

The gingerbread man’s raisin mouth began to wobble, and his caraway-seed eyes filled with tiny, sugary tears. He had been so sure he could outrun everyone, but now he wasn’t so certain. He wished he hadn’t boasted quite so much.

Just then, something wonderful happened. Little Bobby, who had been napping upstairs, woke up with a start. In his dreams, he thought he heard voices calling, “Little Bobby, little Bobby!” He rubbed his sleepy eyes and hurried out of bed, not even stopping to put on his shoes. He ran down the stairs, his bare feet pattering softly, and peeked out the window. There, in the field beyond the garden, he saw the cook, Towser the dog, and Jocko the monkey, all gathered under the big tree.

Bobby’s heart leapt with excitement. He dashed outside, across the warm gravel path, and climbed right over the garden wall. In just a few moments, he was standing under the tree, looking up at Jocko and the gingerbread man.

“Drop him, Jocko!” Bobby called out, his voice bright and clear. Now, Jocko always listened to Bobby, so he let go of the gingerbread man right away. Down, down, down the gingerbread man tumbled—plop!—landing safely in Bobby’s soft, waiting pinafore.

Bobby picked up the gingerbread man and looked at him closely. The little raisin mouth was turned down in a sad frown, and sugary tears sparkled in the caraway-seed eyes. But Bobby was very hungry after his nap, and he couldn’t help himself. He took a big, gentle bite—munch!—and ate both legs and a piece of the gingerbread man’s body.

“Oh!” cried the gingerbread man, “I’m one-third gone!”

Bobby took another bite—crunch!—and ate the rest of the body and both arms.

“Oh!” cried the gingerbread man, “I’m two-thirds gone!”

Finally, Bobby took one last bite—nibble!—and ate the gingerbread man’s head.

“Oh!” whispered the gingerbread man, “I’m all gone!”

And that was the end of the gingerbread man’s adventure. He had run as fast as he could, and he had boasted and bragged, but in the end, his overconfidence led him right into trouble.

So, as you snuggle into bed tonight, remember: It’s fun to be clever and quick, but it’s even better to be kind and humble. Boasting and being too sure of yourself can sometimes lead to sticky situations—even for a gingerbread man with caraway-seed eyes and a raisin smile.

A classic cautionary fairy tale about a boastful Gingerbread Man who tries to outrun everyone

The Little Gingerbread Man

Once upon a time, in a sunny meadow at the edge of a quiet wood, there lived a kind old mother pig and her three little piglets. The piglets were growing bigger every day, and soon there was not quite enough food for everyone. So, with a gentle nuzzle and a loving goodbye, Mother Pig told her three little ones, “It’s time for you to go out into the world and find your own adventures. Remember to be polite and clever, and always look out for each other.”

The three little pigs hugged their mother and set off down the winding path, each with a happy heart and a curious mind.

The first little pig, who loved sunshine and soft things, soon met a friendly farmer carrying a bundle of golden straw. The little pig trotted up and asked politely, “Excuse me, sir, may I please have some straw to build my house?” The farmer smiled at the piglet’s good manners and handed over the straw. The little pig worked happily, weaving and stacking until he had built a cozy straw house. He settled inside, feeling proud and safe.

But one day, a wolf with a long nose and sharp eyes wandered by. He sniffed the air and smelled the little pig inside the straw house. The wolf knocked on the door and called out, “Little pig, little pig, let me in!” The little pig peeked through the keyhole and saw the wolf’s big paws. “No, no, no! Not by the hair of my chinny chin chin!” he replied bravely.

The wolf frowned and said, “Then I’ll huff, and I’ll puff, and I’ll blow your house in!” He took a deep breath and blew with all his might. The straw house tumbled down, and the frightened little pig ran as fast as he could, all the way to his brother’s house.

The second little pig, who liked things prickly and strong, had met a farmer carrying a bundle of sticks. He asked politely, “Excuse me, sir, may I please have some sticks to build my house?” The farmer, pleased with the piglet’s manners, gave him the sticks. The little pig built a sturdy house of sticks, and soon his brother arrived, out of breath and worried. The two little pigs hugged and hid inside the stick house.

But the wolf was not far behind. He knocked on the door and called, “Little pigs, little pigs, let me in!” The pigs peeked through the keyhole and saw the wolf’s big ears. “No, no, no! Not by the hair of our chinny chin chins!” they replied together.

The wolf showed his teeth and said, “Then I’ll huff, and I’ll puff, and I’ll blow your house in!” He huffed and puffed, and with a great whoosh, the stick house tumbled down. The two little pigs squealed and ran as fast as their little legs could carry them, all the way to their brother’s house.

The third little pig, who was clever and careful, had met a builder carrying a heavy load of bricks. He asked politely, “Excuse me, sir, may I please have some bricks to build my house?” The builder, impressed by the piglet’s good manners, gave him the bricks. The little pig worked hard, stacking and fitting the bricks together until he had built a strong, safe house. When his two brothers arrived, he welcomed them inside, and together they felt safe and warm.

Soon, the wolf arrived at the brick house. He knocked on the door and called, “Little pigs, little pigs, let me in!” The pigs peeked through the keyhole and saw the wolf’s big eyes. “No, no, no! Not by the hair of our chinny chin chins!” they replied.

The wolf growled, “Then I’ll huff, and I’ll puff, and I’ll blow your house in!” He huffed and puffed, and puffed and huffed, but the brick house stood strong. The wolf tried again and again, but he could not blow the house down. At last, he was so tired he had to sit down and catch his breath.

But the wolf was clever, too. He called out, “Little pigs, I know where there’s a lovely field of turnips. If you come with me tomorrow morning, we can pick some for dinner.” The third little pig thanked the wolf for his idea, but he was not so easily fooled. He woke up early the next morning, went to the field, picked the turnips, and was home eating breakfast when the wolf arrived.

The wolf tried again, suggesting they go together to pick apples from a tree in Merry Gardens. The little pig agreed, but once more, he woke up extra early and was already picking apples when the wolf arrived. The wolf tried to catch him, but the clever pig tossed an apple far away, and while the wolf chased after it, the pig hurried home with his basket of apples.

Still, the wolf did not give up. He invited the little pig to the fair, promising a special treat. The pig agreed, but went early, enjoyed the fair, and bought himself a butter-churn as a present. On his way home, he saw the wolf coming up the hill. With no place to hide, the pig climbed into the butter-churn, which started to roll down the hill—bumpety, bumpety, bump! The wolf was so startled by the rolling, squealing churn that he ran away in fright.

The next day, the wolf returned, pretending to be friendly, but the little pig told him about the butter-churn. The wolf grew angry and decided he would come down the chimney to get the pigs once and for all.

But the clever third pig had a plan. He put a big pot of water on the fire to boil. When the wolf climbed onto the roof and started to come down the chimney, the little pig quickly took off the lid. The wolf slid down and—splash!—landed right in the hot water! With a yelp, the wolf jumped right back up the chimney, his tail singed and his paws smarting. He ran away from the brick house and never bothered the three little pigs again.

The three little pigs hugged each other and knew they were safe at last, in their strong brick house, where they could live happily and peacefully, always remembering to be clever, kind, and brave.

Classic fairy tale about three pig siblings who each build a house—one of straw, one of sticks, and one of bricks—and must outwit a Big Bad Wolf who tries to blow their houses down

The three little pigs

Once upon a time, in a quiet, sun-dappled forest, there was a cozy little cottage where three bears lived together as a happy family. There was Papa Bear, who was very big and strong, Mama Bear, who was just the right size and very kind, and Baby Bear, who was small and full of curiosity. Each bear had their own special things in the house: Papa Bear had a great big bowl for his porridge, Mama Bear had a medium-sized bowl, and Baby Bear had a tiny little bowl. They each had their own chair to sit in and their own bed to sleep in—one big, one medium, and one small, just like their bowls.

One bright morning, the three bears decided to make a delicious breakfast of warm porridge. They carefully poured the porridge into their bowls, but it was much too hot to eat right away. So, they decided to take a walk in the woods while their breakfast cooled down. The bears loved their walks, listening to the birds sing and watching the sunlight dance through the leaves.

Not far away, a little girl with golden curls, named Goldilocks, was walking through the forest. She had been sent on a little errand by her mother, but she was easily distracted by the fluttering butterflies and the gentle breeze. As she wandered along, she came upon the bears’ cottage. Goldilocks was very curious and peeked in through the window. She saw that no one was home, and the door was slightly open. Goldilocks gently pushed the door and stepped inside.

Inside the cottage, Goldilocks saw the three bowls of porridge on the table. Her tummy rumbled, for she had been walking for quite a while. She tasted the porridge from the big bowl, but it was much too hot. Then she tried the porridge from the medium bowl, but it was too cold. Finally, she tasted the porridge from the little bowl, and it was just right—warm and delicious. Goldilocks liked it so much that she ate it all up.

After eating, Goldilocks felt a bit tired. She looked around and saw three chairs by the fireplace. First, she tried sitting in the big chair, but it was too hard. Then she tried the medium chair, but it was too soft. At last, she sat in the little chair, and it felt just right. She rocked gently in the chair, but soon, with a little crack, the chair broke, and Goldilocks tumbled to the floor. She was surprised, but she quickly got up and dusted herself off.

Goldilocks was now feeling very sleepy. She climbed the stairs and found three beds in the cozy bedroom. She tried the big bed, but it was too high at the head. Then she tried the medium bed, but it was too high at the foot. Finally, she tried the little bed, and it was just right—soft and comfortable. Goldilocks snuggled under the covers and soon drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

Meanwhile, the three bears finished their walk and returned home, ready for breakfast. When they came inside, Papa Bear looked at his bowl and said in his deep, gentle voice, “Someone has been eating my porridge.” Mama Bear looked at her bowl and said in her warm, caring voice, “Someone has been eating my porridge, too.” Baby Bear looked at his little bowl and said in his small, surprised voice, “Someone has eaten all my porridge!”

The bears looked around the room and noticed their chairs. Papa Bear saw that his chair cushion was out of place and said, “Someone has been sitting in my chair.” Mama Bear saw that her chair’s cushion was squished and said, “Someone has been sitting in my chair, too.” Baby Bear looked at his little chair and said, “Someone has been sitting in my chair, and it’s broken!”

The bears were puzzled and decided to look upstairs. In the bedroom, Papa Bear saw that his pillow was moved and said, “Someone has been lying in my bed.” Mama Bear saw that her blanket was rumpled and said, “Someone has been lying in my bed, too.” Baby Bear looked at his little bed and saw something very surprising—there was Goldilocks, fast asleep!

Baby Bear said in his tiny voice, “Someone has been lying in my bed, and here she is!” Goldilocks woke up and saw the three bears standing by her bed. She was startled, but the bears looked at her with gentle eyes. Goldilocks quickly got up, feeling a little embarrassed for coming into their home without asking. She apologized to the bears for eating their porridge, sitting in their chairs, and sleeping in their beds.

The three bears listened kindly to Goldilocks. They could see she meant no harm and was just a curious little girl. Mama Bear offered Goldilocks a warm smile and asked if she would like to stay for breakfast. Goldilocks nodded, and together they all went downstairs. The bears made some more porridge, and this time, everyone had enough to eat. Goldilocks thanked the bears for their kindness and promised to always knock before entering someone’s home.

After breakfast, Goldilocks said goodbye to her new friends and made her way back through the forest, feeling happy and grateful for the lesson she had learned. The three bears waved to her from their cottage door, glad to have made a new friend in the woods.

Classic fairy tale about a curious girl who enters a forest cottage and explores the belongings of three bears, leading to a surprising encounter

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Once upon a time, in a small village surrounded by tall, whispering trees, there lived a kind little girl who was loved by everyone who met her. But the person who loved her most of all was her grandmother, who lived in a cozy cottage deep in the woods. One day, her grandmother gave her a beautiful red velvet cap, which suited her so well that she wore it every day. Because of this, everyone called her Little Red-Cap.

One sunny morning, Little Red-Cap’s mother packed a basket with a piece of soft cake and a bottle of sweet juice. She said, “Little Red-Cap, your grandmother is feeling a bit unwell. Please take this basket to her. Go before the sun gets too hot, walk carefully, and stay on the path. Don’t run, or you might drop the basket. And when you arrive, remember to say ‘Good morning’ before you do anything else.”

Little Red-Cap nodded and promised, “I will be very careful, Mama.” She took the basket and set off through the woods, humming a gentle tune.

Her grandmother’s cottage was nestled under three large oak trees, with nut trees growing nearby. As Little Red-Cap walked along the path, she admired the sunlight dancing through the leaves and listened to the birds singing their cheerful songs.

Suddenly, a wolf stepped out from behind a tree. He looked quite ordinary, with a bushy tail and curious eyes. Little Red-Cap had never met a wolf before and didn’t know to be afraid.

“Good day, Little Red-Cap,” the wolf greeted her politely.

“Thank you kindly, Mr. Wolf,” she replied.

“Where are you going so early?” asked the wolf, tilting his head.

“I’m going to visit my grandmother,” said Little Red-Cap. “She isn’t feeling well, so I’m bringing her some cake and juice to help her feel better.”

The wolf’s eyes glimmered with a clever idea. “And where does your grandmother live?”

“She lives a little farther on, under the three big oak trees. You must know it—the cottage with the nut trees below.”

The wolf walked beside her for a while, thinking of a plan. Then he said, “Look how lovely the flowers are here! Why don’t you pick some for your grandmother? And listen to how sweetly the birds are singing. You walk so quietly, as if you’re going to school, while the whole forest is full of joy.”

Little Red-Cap looked around and saw the bright flowers blooming everywhere. She thought, “Grandmother would love a fresh bouquet.” So she stepped off the path to pick some flowers. Each time she found a pretty one, she saw another even prettier flower a little farther away, and so she wandered deeper into the woods.

Meanwhile, the wolf hurried straight to the grandmother’s cottage. He knocked on the door with his paw.

“Who is there?” called the grandmother, her voice weak.

“It’s me, Little Red-Cap,” the wolf replied, trying to sound like the girl. “I’ve brought you cake and juice.”

“Lift the latch and come in, dear,” said the grandmother. “I’m too weak to get up.”

The wolf opened the door and stepped inside. He quickly locked the grandmother in the basement. Then, he put on her nightcap and glasses, climbed into her bed, and pulled the covers up to his chin.

After a while, Little Red-Cap remembered her grandmother and hurried back to the path with her arms full of flowers. When she reached the cottage, she noticed the door was open. She felt a little uneasy, but she stepped inside and called, “Good morning, Grandmother!” There was no answer.

She tiptoed to the bedroom and saw her grandmother lying in bed, looking very strange with the cap pulled low over her face.

“Oh, Grandmother, what big ears you have!” she said.

“The better to hear you with, my child,” answered the wolf, trying to sound gentle.

“But Grandmother, what big eyes you have!”

“The better to see you with, my dear.”

“And Grandmother, what large hands you have!”

“The better to hug you with.”

“Oh, but Grandmother, what a big mouth you have!”

“The better to—” But before the wolf could finish, Little Red-Cap realized something was terribly wrong. She screamed as loudly as she could, her voice echoing through the trees.

At that very moment, a kind huntsman was walking nearby. He heard Little Red-Cap’s frightened scream and rushed to the cottage. He saw the wolf in the bed and understood what had happened. The huntsman quickly raised his rifle and fired a shot into the air. The loud noise startled the wolf so much that he leapt out of bed, dashed out the door, and ran deep into the forest, never to be seen near the village again.

The huntsman hurried inside and found Little Red-Cap trembling but safe. Together, they searched the cottage and soon heard the grandmother’s voice calling from the basement. The huntsman unlocked the door, and grandmother came out, hugging Little Red-Cap tightly.

They all sat together, and Little Red-Cap gave her grandmother the cake, juice, and the lovely bouquet of flowers she had picked. Grandmother smiled, feeling much better with her granddaughter and the kind huntsman by her side. Little Red-Cap promised herself that she would always listen to her mother and stay on the path whenever she visited the woods.

From that day on, Little Red-Cap was always careful, and the woods felt safe and peaceful once more.

Pewnego razu, w małej wiosce otoczonej wysokimi, szumiącymi drzewami, mieszkała dobra mała dziewczynka.

Little red riding hood

In a faraway kingdom, long ago, there lived a kind prince and his gentle princess wife. They had three sons, all brave and full of heart. The youngest son was called Ivan.

One sunny morning, their father said to the boys, “Dear children, take your bows and arrows, and shoot them far away. Wherever your arrow lands, that is where you will find someone special to marry.”

The oldest son’s arrow flew to a lovely house, where a kind young lady lived. The middle son’s arrow landed near a cheerful merchant’s porch, where a sweet girl smiled. But Ivan’s arrow landed in a quiet, peaceful swamp, where a little frog caught it.

Ivan was puzzled. “How can I marry a frog?” he wondered. “She is so different from me.” But his father smiled gently and said, “Sometimes, the most surprising friends are the best ones. Trust your heart.”

So, the brothers all married: the oldest to the noble girl, the middle one to the merchant’s daughter, and Ivan to the friendly frog.

One day, their father asked each of his sons to have their wives bake a special loaf of bread by morning.

Ivan went home feeling unsure. “How can she do this?” he thought. The little frog croaked softly, “Don’t worry, dear Ivan. Rest now, and in the morning, you will see.”

That night, when Ivan was fast asleep, the frog changed into a beautiful young lady named Vassilissa. She called to her helpers, “Please bake a lovely loaf of bread, just like the ones from my father’s palace.”

When morning came, Ivan awoke to find a wonderful loaf of bread, decorated with tiny castles and flowers, soft and white as a cloud. Everyone admired it, especially the king, who thanked Ivan warmly.

Soon after, the king sent a new request: each wife should weave a beautiful rug by the next day.

Again, Ivan felt unsure. “How can she do this so quickly?” he wondered. The little frog croaked kindly, “Go to sleep, Ivan. Morning brings magic.”

That night, Vassilissa became a graceful princess once more. She called her helpers and said, “Please weave a soft, shining rug, just like the one I used to sit on in my father’s palace.”

When dawn arrived, Ivan found a lovely silk rug, glowing softly with threads of gold and silver. It was so beautiful that everyone was amazed, and the king smiled with joy.

Ivan felt happy and proud, knowing that sometimes kindness and patience bring the most wonderful surprises.

The king was very pleased with the beautiful rugs. He thanked Ivan warmly and said, “Tomorrow, I want to meet all your wives.”

Ivan felt worried. He looked at the sky, frowning softly.

“C-R-O-A-K! C-R-O-A-K!” croaked the little frog gently. “Why do you look so sad, my dear Ivan? Did something at the palace trouble you?”

“My father wants to see all the wives,” Ivan said quietly. “But how can I bring you, my little frog?”

“Don’t worry,” she croaked kindly. “You will go alone at first. I will follow you. When you hear a big noise, don’t be afraid. Just say, ‘Here comes my little froggy in her little box.’”

The next day, Ivan’s older brothers came first. Their wives were bright and smiling, dressed in shiny clothes. The brothers teased Ivan, laughing softly.

“Why did you come alone, little brother?” they asked. “Where is your wife? Did she not want to come?”

Ivan did not answer. He waited quietly.

Suddenly, a gentle rumble filled the room. The palace seemed to sparkle and glow.

Ivan smiled and said softly, “Here comes my little froggy in her little box.”

Out came a golden carriage, shining like the sun, pulled by six white horses. From it stepped Vassilissa, more beautiful than ever. She smiled kindly at Ivan and took his hand.

They walked together to the long tables, covered with white cloths and filled with delicious food. Everyone was happy and chatted softly.

Vassilissa sipped her drink with grace. She gently poured some into her left sleeve and ate some tender swan meat, tucking the bones into her right sleeve. The other wives watched her carefully and did the same.

After the meal, music filled the room. Everyone began to dance and sing.

Vassilissa stepped forward, shining like a bright star. She bowed to the king, bowed to the guests, and then danced with Ivan, her loving husband.

As she danced, she waved her left sleeve, and a small, sparkling lake appeared in the middle of the hall. The air felt cool and fresh. Then she waved her right sleeve, and gentle white swans floated on the water.

Everyone, even the quiet gray cat in the corner, watched in wonder. The king smiled warmly.

The other wives tried to copy Vassilissa. But when they waved their sleeves, instead of magic, little spills and noises surprised the guests. The king frowned gently and kindly asked them to be more careful.

While the dance went on, Ivan quietly slipped away. He ran home and found the little frog’s skin. He thought it was time to help Vassilissa stay a princess forever, so he gently placed the skin by the fire to warm.

When Vassilissa returned, she looked for her frog skin. When she could not find it, her bright eyes grew sad, and a soft tear slipped down her cheek.

“Oh, dear Ivan,” she said softly, “I was close to being free from this skin. Now, I must go away for a little while to learn and grow. You will find me someday, in a faraway place where new friends wait.”

Then, with a gentle flutter, Vassilissa turned into a lovely white swan. She spread her wings and flew softly out the window, into the bright blue sky.

Ivan watched, hoping for the day they would be together again.

Ivan Tsarevitch felt very sad as he watched Vassilissa fly away. He wiped his eyes and made a quiet wish to find her again.

He folded his hands and prayed softly. Then, he turned in all directions—north, south, east, and west—hoping to find a way.

So, Ivan began a long, gentle journey. He walked through green fields and soft forests, following a little magic ball that rolled before him.

One sunny day, Ivan met a kind old man with a warm smile.

“Hello, brave Ivan,” said the old man kindly. “Where are you going?”

Ivan told the old man all about Vassilissa and his wish to find her.

The old man nodded and said, “I know why the frogskin was special. Vassilissa is very wise, even wiser than her father. Because of this, she had to learn many things before becoming free.”

He gave Ivan a magic ball. “Follow this ball wherever it rolls. It will show you the way.”

Ivan thanked him and followed the ball happily.

After a while, Ivan met a big, curious bear in the forest.

Ivan raised his bow, but the bear said gently, “Please, don’t be afraid. I want to help you someday.”

So, Ivan smiled and let the bear be.

Then, a lovely white duck flew above. Ivan raised his bow again, but the duck said softly, “Please don’t be afraid. I will help you too.”

Ivan lowered his bow and watched the duck fly away.

Further along, a quick little hare hopped across his path. Ivan got ready to shoot, but the hare blinked and said, “Don’t be scared. I will be your friend soon.”

Ivan smiled and let the hare go.

At last, Ivan came to the blue sea. On the sand lay a big fish, tired and resting.

“Please help me back to the water,” the fish whispered.

Ivan gently helped the fish into the cool sea.

The magic ball rolled on, leading Ivan to a tiny, funny house standing on chicken feet.

“Izboushka, please turn your door to me,” Ivan said kindly.

The little house turned its door, and Ivan stepped inside.

There, he met Baba Yaga, a wise old lady with twinkling eyes.

“Welcome, Ivan! Come rest and eat,” she said kindly.

Ivan felt warm and cared for. He told her about Vassilissa and his wish to find her.

Baba Yaga smiled softly. “I know where she is,” she said. “At the palace of Kostshei the Patient. He watches over her carefully.”

“The secret to finding her is a tiny magic needle,” she explained. “It hides inside a little hare. The hare is inside a big box, which is in the branches of a tall oak tree.”

“That oak tree is watched closely by Kostshei, even more than Vassilissa herself.”

Ivan listened closely. Baba Yaga showed him where to find the oak tree.

When Ivan saw the tall oak, he felt a little unsure. But he took a deep breath and smiled.

He knew his friends—the bear, the duck, and the hare—would help him.

With gentle steps, Ivan began to plan how to find Vassilissa and bring her home again.

Ivan looked up at the tall oak tree. He felt unsure and didn’t know where to start.

Just then, his friend, the big bear, came running happily. With a gentle push, the bear moved the tree so it fell softly to the ground.

From inside the tree jumped a little hare. It hopped quickly away!

But another hare—Ivan’s friend—chased after it. They played a gentle game of tag.

Suddenly, from the first hare flew a gray duck, who soared high and far, almost like a soft shadow in the sky.

The beautiful white duck followed close behind. She reached the gray duck and softly touched it with her wing.

An egg slipped from the gray duck and landed quietly in the deep, blue sea.

Ivan watched with wide eyes, hoping his friends would help.

Just then, the big fish Ivan had helped before came swimming up with the egg in its mouth.

Ivan smiled bright and gently took the egg from the fish.

He cracked the egg open—and inside was the tiny magic needle!

At that moment, the power of Kostshei began to fade like a soft breeze.

Ivan walked carefully into Kostshei’s palace. There he found his dear Vassilissa waiting with a warm smile.

They hugged happily and walked home together.

From that day on, Ivan and Vassilissa shared many joyful days, wrapped in love and gentle light.

A kind prince named Ivan is chosen by fate to marry a mysterious frog. Though puzzled, he obeys. To everyone's surprise, the frog turns out to be a clever and magical princess under a spell. Through love, patience, and courage, Prince Ivan discovers her secret—and faces a difficult challenge to save her. A classic tale of magic, transformation, and true devotion.

Classic

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