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Fables, myths and folktales, ready to teach and free to read.

2,480 stories
The Remarkable RocketHumilityArrogance and self-importance often lead to a lonely, unobserved failure, as true greatness requires more than just high self-opinion.Grades 2–4Level 4
The Return of BaldurKindnessThe moral is that destruction is often a precursor to rebirth, and even the deepest wounds can be healed through forgiveness and a fresh start.Grades 5–8Level 4
The Rolling Rice BallsKindnessTrue kindness is rewarded with unexpected fortune, while greed and trickery only lead to misfortune and loss.Grades 2–4Level 3
The Round TableFairnessTrue leadership is built on equality and the understanding that every voice carries equal weight in the pursuit of justice.Grades 2–4Level 4
The Rubaiyat StoriesLife is fleeting and fate is immutable, so one must find joy and meaning in the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or future.Grades 5–8Level 4
The Ruyi Jingu BangTrue power is realized when an individual finds the specific tool or path that perfectly resonates with their unique destiny.Grades 2–4Level 3
The Sabbath QueenThe transition from labor to rest is a sacred act that requires preparation and a willing heart to receive peace.Grades 2–4Level 5
The Sack of BaghdadHumilityArrogance and a lack of preparation can lead to the downfall of even the greatest civilizations, and the loss of knowledge is a tragedy for all mankind.Grades 5–8Level 5
The Saga of Erik the RedCourageTrue leadership is found in the ability to transform personal misfortune and exile into an opportunity for discovery and the betterment of one's people.Grades 3–5Level 5
The Saga of the GreenlandersCourageTrue success in exploration requires not just the courage to find new worlds, but the unity and peace necessary to sustain them.Grades 5–8Level 5
The Sage's TestHonestyTrue integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching, for your own conscience is the ultimate witness.Grades 3–5Level 3
The Salmon BoyHumilityWe must treat all living creatures and the food that sustains us with deep respect and gratitude.Grades 2–4Level 3

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The Salmon of KnowledgePatienceTrue wisdom often comes to those who serve with humility and can be found in the most unexpected accidents of fate.Grades 2–4Level 3
The Samurai and the SpiderCourageTrue strength of spirit and constant vigilance can overcome even the most overwhelming threats, even when one is at their physically weakest.Grades 3–5Level 4
The Samurai and the Tea CeremonyCourageInner calm and absolute focus are more powerful than any weapon, as true mastery lies in the spirit rather than the sword.Grades 3–5Level 4
The SatyrsThe Satyrs remind us that while civilization provides order, we must acknowledge and respect our primal connection to the unbridled joy of nature.Grades 5–8Level 5
The Scarlet FlowerKindnessTrue beauty lies within the soul, and selfless love has the power to break even the most stubborn enchantments.Grades 3–5Level 3
The Scholar and the Fox SpiritKindnessTrue love is defined by sacrifice rather than possession, and one should look beyond outward appearances to judge a soul.Grades 5–8Level 4
The Scorpion and OrionHumilityArrogance and hubris lead to downfall, proving that even the strongest can be defeated by the smallest of creatures.Grades 3–5Level 4
The Scorpion and the FrogSome individuals cannot change their inherent nature, even when their actions result in their own downfall.Grades 3–5Level 2
The Scorpion KingTrue leadership is the ability to transform a divided people into a unified civilization through vision and strength.Grades 3–5Level 4
The Second Battle of Mag TuiredCourageTrue leadership requires a balance of many skills and the generosity of spirit to serve the people, while tyranny and raw power will eventually crumble.Grades 5–8Level 4
The Secret HistoryCourageTrue leadership is forged through adversity and the ability to unite disparate groups toward a common purpose.Grades 5–8Level 5
The Selfish GiantKindnessTrue happiness and redemption are found through kindness, generosity, and sharing one's blessings with others.Grades 3–5Level 2