Find a lesson

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

2,480 stories
The Three SovereignsCivilization is built upon the pillars of wisdom, compassion, and tireless innovation for the benefit of all.Grades 2–4Level 5
The Three Visits to the Thatched CottageHumilityTrue leadership requires the humility to seek out talent and the persistence to prove one's sincerity.Grades 2–4Level 3
The ThunderbirdsCourageTrue power is best used as a shield for the innocent and a means to maintain the natural balance of the world.Grades 3–5Level 3
The Tiger and the Dried PersimmonCourageFear often stems from ignorance and imagination. Even the most powerful can be humbled by what they do not understand.Grades 2–4Level 2
The Tiger and the WoodpeckerKindnessDo not expect gratitude or rewards when serving the wicked or the ungrateful.Grades 2–4Level 3
The TikbalangClevernessRespect the mysteries of nature and use cleverness rather than force to overcome life's confusing paths.Grades 3–5Level 4
The TitanomachyTyranny and the suppression of others ultimately lead to one's own downfall, as the cycle of time favors progress over stagnation.Grades 3–5Level 5
The TinderboxCourageWit and resourcefulness can help one overcome any obstacle, but power is most effective when paired with courage.Grades 5–8Level 3
The Toad is Heaven's UncleCourageTrue courage is not defined by size, and collective action can move even the highest powers to seek justice for the common good.Grades 2–4Level 4
The Tongue-Cut SparrowKindnessKindness and humility are rewarded with true fortune, while greed and cruelty lead to one's own destruction.Grades 3–5Level 2
The Tortoise and the ElephantClevernessIntelligence and wit are far more powerful than raw physical strength and size.Grades 2–4Level 3
The Tortoise and the BirdsGreedGreed and trickery may bring temporary gain, but they ultimately lead to isolation and a great fall.Grades 2–4Level 3

Advertisement

The Tosachat Jataka TalesKindnessThe path to enlightenment requires the consistent practice of virtues like patience, wisdom, and ultimate self-sacrifice for the benefit of all beings.Grades 3–5Level 5
The Tower of BabelHumilityPride and human hubris lead to downfall, reminding us that true unity cannot be built on vanity alone.Grades 2–4Level 4
The Town Mouse and Country MouseHumilityIt is better to live in humble poverty with peace and security than to enjoy luxury amidst constant fear and danger.Grades 2–4Level 1
The Trees and the AxeFriendshipWhen we betray the rights of others to satisfy an enemy, we ultimately invite our own ruin.Grades 2–4Level 5
The Trojan HorseClevernessBe cautious of unexpected gifts from enemies, as strategy and deception can often succeed where brute force fails.Grades 3–5Level 4
The Trojan WarPride and the pursuit of glory often lead to devastating loss, and even the strongest walls cannot protect against clever deception.Grades 5–8Level 3
The TrollsWit and wisdom are far more powerful than brute strength, and even the most formidable giants have a fatal weakness.Grades 2–4Level 3
The TunnelHard workTrue redemption is achieved through selfless service, and even the deepest hatred can be transformed through shared purpose and hard work.Grades 5–8Level 3
The True ScripturesPatienceTrue enlightenment and wisdom are not found in books alone, but through the perseverance, sacrifice, and growth experienced during life's journey.Grades 3–5Level 5
The Turquoise PrincessGreedTrue wealth lies in a virtuous heart and loyalty, while greed and envy ultimately lead to one's own destruction.Grades 3–5Level 4
The Turtle and the GeesePatienceControl your tongue and think before you speak; silence is often the best defense in critical situations.Grades 2–4Level 4
The Twelve Dancing PrincessesClevernessWit and careful observation, combined with the wisdom of following good advice, can overcome even the most guarded secrets.Grades 3–5Level 3