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Collections / Fables and Folklore

Moral Fables

25 stories, retold short enough for one lesson.

19 stories

Androcles and the LionKindnessKindness is never wasted, and gratitude is the sign of a noble soul.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Boy Who Cried WolfHonestyThere is no believing a liar, even when he speaks the truth.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Bundle of SticksFriendshipThere is strength in unity, while discord and division lead to weakness and defeat.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Dog and His ReflectionGreedIt is very foolish to be greedy; those who grasp at shadows often lose the substance of what they already possess.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Dog in the MangerClevernessDo not grudge others what you cannot enjoy yourself.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Eagle and the JackdawHumilityDo not let vanity lead you to attempt tasks that are beyond your natural abilities.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Fox Without a TailHonestyDistrust the advice of those who seek to lower others to their own level of misfortune.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Frogs Who Desired a KingGreedBe content with your lot; those who seek to change a peaceful state for the sake of excitement may find themselves ruled by a tyrant.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Goose That Laid the Golden EggsGreedGreed often overreaches itself, causing one to lose everything by wanting too much too soon.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Horse and the DonkeyClevernessHelp others when they are in need, or their burden may soon become your own.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Lion's ShareFairnessA partnership with the powerful is never equal. Might often overrides justice when dealing with those who hold all the authority.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Mice in CouncilHonestyIt is easy to propose impossible remedies; the value of a plan lies entirely in its execution.Grades 4–8Level 3

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The Milkmaid and Her PailClevernessDo not count your chickens before they are hatched.Grades 4–8Level 3

The North Wind and the SunKindnessGentleness and kind persuasion are more effective than force and aggression.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Oak and the ReedHumilityIt is better to bend and survive than to resist and be broken by pride.Grades 4–8Level 3

The Peacock and JunoGreedBe content with your own natural gifts and do not envy the talents of others, for no one can excel in everything.Grades 4–8Level 4

The Shepherd Boy and the WolfHonestyLiar's are not believed even when they speak the truth.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Town Mouse and Country MouseCourageIt is better to live in humble poverty with peace and security than to enjoy luxury amidst constant fear and danger.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Wolf in Sheep's ClothingHonestyAppearances can be deceptive, and those who seek to harm others through trickery often fall victim to their own deceit.Grades 4–8Level 4