Grades 4–5

Standards for this age

Grades show who a story suits as a read-aloud. Reading levels show how hard the text is to read alone. Lower levels come first, and many fables offer an Easier version.

The Fisher and the Little FishGreedIt is better to value and hold onto a small, certain gain than to risk it for the uncertain promise of a larger reward in the future.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Fly and the Draught MuleHumilityThose in positions of power should not be swayed by the insignificant criticisms of others, as true authority knows when to act and when to remain steadfast.Grades 2–5Level 1

The Tortoise and the HarePatienceSlow and steady wins the race.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Fox and the GrapesHumilityIt is easy to dislike what you cannot have.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Crow and the PitcherClevernessA little thinking can solve a big problem.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Fox and the CrowClevernessDo not trust those who flatter you.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Lion and the MouseKindnessNo act of kindness is ever wasted.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Town Mouse and the Country MouseGreedA simple life in peace is better than a rich life in fear.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Ant and the GrasshopperHard workWork today so you are ready for tomorrow.Grades 2–4Level 1

A Saying of SocratesHonestyTrue friendship is rare and cannot be measured by the quantity of acquaintances one has.Grades 5–8Level 2

The Bear and the FoxHonestyTrue kindness is demonstrated through actions, not mere words or boasts.Grades 2–8Level 2

The Cage Bird and the BatClevernessTaking precautions only matters before a crisis occurs; once caught, it is too late to change past actions.Grades 2–5Level 2

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The Cock and the PearlHumilityValuable things are only meaningful to those who can appreciate their worth.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Donkey and the LapdogPatienceOne should embrace their own unique talents rather than attempting to imitate others, as not everyone possesses the same abilities or charm.Grades 2–4Level 2

The FisherClevernessThose who are under the control of others often have to conform to their demands, regardless of their previous indifference.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Fisherman and the Little FishClevernessIt is wiser to appreciate and take advantage of certain gains rather than risk them for uncertain future rewards.Grades 2–4Level 2

The Fly and the AntHonestyTrue worth lies in hard work and preparation for the future, rather than in superficial status and vanity.Grades 2–6Level 2

The Frog and the OxHumilityExcessive pride and self-conceit can lead to one's downfall.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Horse Seeking Revenge on the StagFairnessSeeking revenge can lead to the loss of one's freedom and well-being, making it a costly pursuit.Grades 4–8Level 2

The Miser who lost his TreasureHonestyThe true value of wealth lies in its use and enjoyment, rather than mere possession or hoarding.Grades 2–8Level 2

The Old Man and The AssHard workOne should prioritize their own safety over loyalty to others, as self-preservation is paramount in times of danger.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Old Woman and the Wine-JarClevernessThe past can evoke fond memories, even when the source of pleasure has long been depleted.Grades 2–4Level 2

The Shepherd's BoyHonestyDishonesty can lead to a loss of trust, making it difficult to be believed when one is finally telling the truth.Grades 2–4Level 2

The Sun and the FrogsCourageEven seemingly insignificant beings can have valid concerns about the consequences of power and its potential impact on their existence.Grades 2–6Level 2

The Swallow and the Other BirdsClevernessTo take heed of warnings about potential dangers, as neglecting them can lead to dire consequences.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Thief and His MotherHard workFailing to correct negative behavior early on can lead to severe consequences later in life.Grades 5–8Level 2

The Vine and the GoatFairnessUnjust actions can lead to unforeseen consequences, and those who harm others may ultimately suffer for their misdeeds.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Widow and the SheepGreedAttempting to save costs can lead to greater losses and unintended harm.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Wind and the SunKindnessGentleness and kindness can achieve what force and harshness cannot.Grades 2–4Level 2

Avaricious and EnviousGreedGreed and envy ultimately lead to one's own suffering and destruction.Grades 3–8Level 3

Hercules and the WagonerHard workOne must take initiative and make an effort to solve their problems before seeking external help.Grades 2–5Level 3

Mercury and the WorkmenHonestyHonesty is rewarded, while greed and deceit lead to loss.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Ass and the MuleKindnessHelping others in their time of need can prevent greater burdens for oneself later on.Grades 2–8Level 3

The Ass and the WolfHonestyOne should stick to their own expertise and not overreach into areas where they lack knowledge or skill.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Ass the Cock and the LionHonestyFalse confidence can lead to perilous situations.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Bat and the WeaselsHonestyAdaptability and cleverness can help one navigate challenging situations.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Birdcatcher the Partridge and the CockKindnessNecessity often forces us to make difficult choices, even at the expense of those who serve us well.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Birds the Beasts and the BatHonestyThose who betray others for their own advantage will ultimately find themselves isolated and friendless.Grades 2–6Level 3

The Dog and Her PuppiesHonestyThose who are given kindness and protection may sometimes turn against their benefactor and become ungrateful.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Brazier and His DogHard workOne must work and contribute in order to deserve the rewards and benefits of their efforts.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Bull and the GoatCourageIt is wrong to exploit someone else's misfortune for personal gain.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Bull and the CalfHumilityExperience often knows the way better than youthful enthusiasm.Grades 2–4Level 3

The CamelCourageFamiliarity can transform fear into confidence, allowing us to harness what once intimidated us.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Charger and the MillerPatienceOne must accept the inevitability of life's changes and the ups and downs of fortune.Grades 2–8Level 3

The Cock and the JewelHonestyValue lies in utility rather than in material worth; what is precious to one may be worthless to another.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Crow and MercuryHonestyOne should honor their commitments and loyalty, as betraying trust can lead to a loss of credibility and support.Grades 2–8Level 3

The Crow and the SerpentGreedBe cautious of what appears to be a fortunate opportunity, as it may lead to your downfall.Grades 2–6Level 3

The Dog and the CookGreedExcessive indulgence can lead to unforeseen consequences and misfortune.Grades 2–5Level 3