The Star Money

10 pages · 4 min · ages 5+

Based on: German (Brothers Grimm)

Lily was a very happy girl. She walked along a dusty road. She had a piece of bread. She wore a warm, red coat. Her blue hat sat on top. Lily loved her little world. Every step felt like a dance. She looked at the bright sun.

A small boy sat by a tree. He looked very hungry and sad. Lily stopped and gave a smile. She held out her crusty bread. The boy took a big nibble. He felt much better right away. Lily felt a warm glow inside. Sharing made her heart feel light.

Lily continued on her long walk. She was humming a sweet song. The birds sang along with her. She did not have any bread. But she was still very happy. Her journey was full of wonder. The trees swayed in the breeze. Lily felt ready for more fun.

A gentle old man stood nearby. The wind blew his thin hair. He looked very cold and chilly. Lily took off her blue hat. She placed it on his head. Now he felt cozy and warm. He whispered a soft thank you. Lily waved and walked further on.

The sun began to set low. The sky turned a golden color. Lily reached a dark, quiet forest. She walked past the tall trees. The air felt cool and crisp. It was time for the twilight. Lily was brave and very kind. She liked the quiet night air.

A woman sat on a stone. She began to shiver and shake. Lily saw she had no coat. Lily took off her own coat. She gave it to the woman. Now the woman felt great comfort. She gave Lily a big hug. Lily felt happy to help others.

Lily stood in a wide meadow. The moon was big and round. She had no bread or coat. But Lily felt full of joy. She looked up at the sky. Many tiny stars began to sparkle. The grass felt soft under feet. Everything was calm and very peaceful.

Suddenly, a magic light appeared. A new dress grew around her. It was made of fine silk. The dress was soft and shimmering. It had many delicate, white lace. Lily looked like a pretty flower. She spun around in a circle. She felt like a little queen.

The stars began to fall down. They fell like rain from heaven. Each star turned into silver money. The coins filled her new dress. They made a soft clinking sound. Lily had a heavy, shiny treasure. She laughed at the twinkling sky. The stars were bright and beautiful.

The boy and man came back. The woman joined them with joy. They all saw Lily’s magic coins. Lily shared her treasure with them. They were all very happy friends. Being generous is a wonderful thing. They had a big forest party. The stars watched over them all.