Aesop's Fables for Little Children

Synopsis

A delightful collection of six stories, with lively retellings and colourful artwork by Columbian illustrator, John Joven. A perfect first introduction to Aesop for little children. Stories include well-known classics The Lion and the Mouse, The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse and The Ant and the Grasshopper.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Crow and the Pitcher
In this first chapter, we are introduced to a thirsty crow who is searching for water to quench his thirst. He comes across a pitcher with a small amount of water at the bottom, but he is unable to reach it with his beak. After several failed attempts, the clever crow comes up with a solution. He starts dropping small pebbles into the pitcher, which causes the water to rise and eventually reaches the top, allowing the crow to drink.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the importance of problem-solving and perseverance. This can be seen in the story of Thomas Edison, who famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Edison faced many challenges while trying to invent the lightbulb, but he never gave up and eventually succeeded. This fable can inspire children to never give up and think outside the box when facing obstacles.

Chapter 2: The Ant and the Grasshopper
In this chapter, we meet an ant who works hard all summer to store food for the winter while the grasshopper spends his days singing and having fun. When winter comes, the grasshopper realizes he has no food and turns to the ant for help. The ant, who was prepared for the winter, refuses to share his food with the grasshopper.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the importance of hard work and planning for the future. Just like the ant, there are people who work hard and save for their future while others may choose to live in the present and not think about the future. This fable can encourage children to develop a good work ethic and plan for their future.

Chapter 3: The Lion and the Mouse
In this chapter, a mighty lion gets caught in a hunter’s net and is unable to free himself. A small mouse passes by and sees the lion in distress. The mouse bites through the net and sets the lion free. Later, when the mouse needs help, the lion remembers the kindness and helps the mouse in return.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the value of kindness and how even the smallest actions can make a big difference. In real life, we often see acts of kindness go a long way in building relationships and creating a strong community. This fable can inspire children to always be kind to others, even if they are smaller or weaker.

Chapter 4: The Tortoise and the Hare
This chapter tells the story of a hare who boasts about his speed and challenges a slow tortoise to a race. The hare becomes overconfident and takes a nap during the race, allowing the tortoise to win the race.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the lesson of "slow and steady wins the race." In today's fast-paced world, children are often exposed to the idea of instant gratification and success. This fable teaches children that patience and perseverance are key to achieving their goals, and it’s important not to underestimate others.

Chapter 5: The Boy Who Cried Wolf
In this chapter, a young shepherd boy repeatedly cries out "Wolf!" to trick the villagers and see them run to help him. When a real wolf appears and the boy cries out for help, the villagers do not believe him, and he loses his flock.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the consequences of lying and the importance of honesty. Lying can not only harm others but also harm one's own credibility and reputation. This fable can encourage children to always tell the truth and to understand that there are consequences for their actions.

Chapter 6: The Goose and the Golden Eggs
In this chapter, a poor farmer is given a magical goose that lays golden eggs. Greed takes over him, and he kills the goose, expecting to find a golden egg inside, but instead, he finds nothing.

Real-life example: This fable teaches children the dangers of greed and the importance of being grateful for what we have. In today's materialistic society, children are often bombarded with messages about the importance of wealth and possessions. This fable can remind children that true happiness does not come from material things and to appreciate what they have.

Through these stories, Aesop's Fables for Little Children teaches valuable lessons that are still applicable in our daily lives. These timeless fables can inspire children to be kind, hardworking, and honest, and to always think carefully before making decisions. Children can learn from the mistakes and successes of the characters in these fables and apply those lessons to their own lives.