The Golden Goose
The Golden Goose — an illustrated tales story. 10 illustrated pages, free to read on Wonder Tales.
Page 1
In a crystal cave echoing with lost melodies lived three brothers: Klaus, the strong eldest; Erich, the clever middle child; and Hans, the simple youngest. Klaus desired gold; Erich sought fame; but Hans wished only for laughter and kindness to fill the silent cavern. An ancient prophecy foretold that only one pure of heart could unlock the Golden Goose and break the cave's mournful spell, bringing light and joy back to the echoing crystal halls.
Page 2
One day, their mother tasked them: "Take this cake to grandfather," she said, handing Klaus a large loaf, "He hasn't spoken in years." Klaus scoffed, eyeing the dense forest beyond the cave mouth. "Why waste time on a grumpy old man? Gold awaits those who are bold enough to seize it." He disappeared into the trees.
Page 3
Deeper in the woods, a hunched old man begged, "Please, a morsel? I haven't eaten in days." Klaus sneered, "Get your own cake, beggar!" A gust of wind whipped through the trees, carrying the scent of gold. Later, Erich took his turn, armed with his wit and his flute, hoping to earn grandfathers favor. "Fame," he muttered, "that is all I crave.
Page 4
Erich marched along the forest path, his flute held high. Just then, he met the same old beggar. "A song and a bite, young master?" the beggar croaked, extending a withered hand. Erich scowled. "Time is gold, old fool. I've no moment to waste on your pitiful tune, not when Grandfather waits."
Page 5
Finally, Hans left, carrying a simple loaf of bread. He hummed a merry tune, not caring for gold or fame. The old man sat by the path, weaker than before. "Please, kind sir," he rasped. "I am famished." Hans smiled, offering the bread. "Of course, friend! Sharing is the best part of any meal, that is what Mom always said.
Page 6
The old man ate with gusto, then chuckled. "You have a kind heart, Hans," he said, his voice suddenly strong. "Take this goose. It is made of pure gold. Anyone who touches it will be stuck fast!" Hans, wide-eyed, accepted the glittering bird. He continued along the path.
Page 7
As Hans walked, a greedy tavern owner reached out to touch the goose. "Such a beautiful bird!" he exclaimed, instantly stuck. Soon, the tavern owner's cook, daughter, and even the local priest were all attached to each other in a long, comical chain. Hans, bewildered, could not detach them. "Oh dear," he sighed, "This is rather awkward, isn't it?"
Page 8
They finally reached grandfather's chamber, the long chain trailing behind Hans. Grandfather, sitting silently, watched them approach. Suddenly, he burst into laughter. "Oh, what a sight!" Tears streamed down his face. At that moment, the crystal cave shimmered, and light flooded the cavern.
Page 9
The golden goose vanished, and the people detached, bewildered but free. "Laughter," Grandfather declared, his voice booming, "is the truest gold of all. As Mark Twain said, 'The human race has only one really effective weapon, and that is laughter.' It can break the hardest curse." Hans smiled, understanding dawning in his eyes. The cave's melodies grew louder and brighter.
Page 10
From that day on, the crystal cave echoed with laughter and kindness. Klaus learned that gold could not buy happiness, and Erich found that true fame lay in spreading joy, not seeking personal glory. Hans, who sought only kindness, had unlocked the treasure they all desired. The treasure of light, love, and community.
About this story
- Audience: kids (ages 6–12)
Questions and answers
Read Wonder Tales on your phone
Wonder Tales is available on Android. Get Wonder Tales on Google Play.