The Fox and the Grapes
A hungry fox fails to reach ripe grapes and calls them sour rather than admit his disappointment.
Story theme
Courage & Adventure
When fear and challenge appear, these heroes find the courage to take one brave step forward.
17 stories
The Wolf and the Crane
A crane risks her neck to help a choking wolf, only to learn how little a wicked promise may be worth.
The Bat and the Weasels
A bat escapes two weasels by noticing what each one truly cared about, and answering with quick wit.
The Hare and the Tortoise
A swift hare mocks a slow tortoise, but grows careless and falls asleep, letting the tortoise's steady, unstopping steps win the race.
The Boy Hunting Locusts
A boy hunting locusts nearly grasps a scorpion and learns that quick hands need careful eyes.
The Fisherman Piping
A fisherman tries to charm fish into his net with music, then learns that action succeeds where wishing fails.
The Herdsman and the Lost Bull
A herdsman vows to learn who stole his calf, then discovers the truth is far more frightening than not knowing.
The Fawn and His Mother
A young fawn wonders why his strong mother fears hounds, and she admits that reason alone does not always create courage.
Hansel and Gretel
Lost in a dark forest and trapped by a witch, Hansel and Gretel find their way home through careful thinking, quick courage, and care for each other.
Rapunzel
Rapunzel is shut in a tower, yet her song keeps hope alive until love and patience lead to reunion.
The Bremen Town Musicians
Four unwanted old animals set out together and discover that their unlike voices can become one brave strength.
The Ugly Duckling
A mocked and lonely young bird survives the cold seasons until he discovers that he has been a swan all along.
Thumbelina
Tiny Thumbelina passes through many unwanted plans for her life before kindness and courage lead her to a home among the flowers.
The Emperor's New Clothes
An emperor who loves fine clothing is deceived by two swindlers until a child speaks the plain truth.
Pulling Up the Seedlings
A farmer in Song wants his seedlings to grow faster, so he pulls them taller by hand, only to learn that hurry without the right method can ruin what is slowly growing.
The Dog and the Wolf
A thin, hungry wolf envies a well-fed dog's easy life — until he spots a worn mark on the dog's neck and chooses to go hungry rather than give up his freedom.
The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid gives up everything beneath the sea, and endures endless pain, for a chance at love and an eternal soul.