Issun-bōshi (One-Inch Boy)

10 pages · 3 min · ages 5+

Based on: Japanese Folk Tale

Once there was a tiny boy. His name was brave Issun-bōshi. He was only one inch tall. His parents loved him very much. He was small like a thumb. But his heart was very big. He wanted to see the world.

One day, he said his goodbyes. He found a red rice bowl. This bowl was his sturdy boat. He used a long chopstick paddle. He carried a tiny needle sword. It was time for a journey. He felt excited and very ready.

The river was very wide and blue. Big waves splashed against his bowl. Tiny fish swam beside his boat. Dragonflies zipped through the sunny air. Issun-bōshi paddled with all his might. He never felt afraid of water. The busy capital was very close.

He reached the busy, golden capital. The palace gates were very high. He met a kind, pretty princess. She looked down at the boy. She smiled a very wide smile. Issun-bōshi bowed to her politely. They became the best of friends.

Issun-bōshi lived at the palace now. He walked on the soft rugs. Flowers looked like giant, colorful trees. Even a small cat felt huge. He followed the princess everywhere today. He promised to keep her safe. It was a very grand adventure.

A big, clumsy Oni suddenly arrived. He had horns and fuzzy hair. The Oni tried to look scary. He tripped over his own feet. He bumped into a garden wall. The princess hid behind a bush. Issun-bōshi stood his ground bravely.

The Oni reached for the princess. Issun-bōshi jumped into the air. He landed inside the Oni's ear. He used his tiny needle sword. He started to tickle the Oni. The Oni began to wiggle fast. It was a funny, wiggly dance.

The Oni laughed very, very loudly. He dropped his gold magic mallet. He clutched his tummy and giggled. Then the silly Oni ran away. He wanted the tickling to stop. The magic mallet lay on grass. It was a gift for them.

The princess picked up the mallet. She made a very special wish. She tapped Issun-bōshi on the head. Suddenly, his shoes became much bigger. He grew tall like other boys. He was strong and very handsome. They cheered and danced together today.

Issun-bōshi was now a big hero. He still visited his kind parents. He brought them many tasty treats. The princess came to visit too. They were all a happy family. Bravery comes in all tiny sizes. He lived a very long life.