The Bremen Town Musicians

10 pages · 3 min · ages 5+

Based on: German (Brothers Grimm)

Donkey was very old now. He could not carry bags. His master was not kind. Donkey felt a bit sad. Donkey had a brave heart. He decided to go away. He wanted to play music. Bremen is a very big city.

Donkey walked down the road. He saw an old Dog. Dog looked very tired and lonely. Donkey smiled at his new friend. "Come with me," said Donkey. "We will be famous musicians." Dog wagged his tail fast. They walked along the path.

Soon they met a soft Cat. Cat was too slow for mice. She felt useless and very lonely. "Join our happy band!" they said. Cat’s green eyes began to glow. She had a very sweet voice. The three friends walked together. They were a very happy team.

Then they saw a colorful Rooster. He sat on a tall fence. Rooster sang a very loud song. "Your voice is wonderful," said Donkey. "Join us on our big trip!" Rooster flapped his bright wings. Now there were four musicians. They marched toward the city.

The sun went down low. The dark forest was very quiet. The four friends felt very tired. They needed a safe place. They looked through the tall trees. The woods were very thick. Everything felt a little bit spooky. They stuck close to each other.

They saw a tiny, cozy cottage. A golden light shone inside. Donkey looked through the window. He saw a table with food. Some grumpy strangers were there. They were eating a feast. The musicians were very hungry. They wanted to go inside.

Donkey had a very clever plan. He stood near the window. Dog jumped on Donkey’s back. Cat climbed up on Dog. Rooster flew to the top. They made a very tall tower. It was the tallest tower. They were ready to sing.

They made a very loud sound. Donkey gave a big bray. Dog gave a loud bark. Cat made a long meow. Rooster gave a giant crow. The grumpy strangers were scared. They ran into the woods. The four friends laughed hard.

The little house was quiet. They sat around the table. They ate the yummy food. It was a delicious feast. They felt full and happy. This was their first dinner. They were not lonely anymore. The cottage felt like home.

They never went to Bremen. They stayed in the cottage. They had everything they needed. They had a home and friends. Every night they played music. The forest animals loved them. Being together was the best. Friendship was the greatest gift.