The Three Billy Goats Gruff

10 pages · 3 min · ages 5+

Based on: Norwegian Folk Tale

Three billy goat brothers lived nearby. They wanted to eat lush grass. Little Billy was the smallest brother. Middle Billy was the medium brother. Big Billy was the biggest brother. The hill was across a river. A wooden bridge crossed the water. They needed to cross the bridge.

A grumpy troll lived under it. He had a very long nose. His hair was messy and wild. He felt very lonely and hungry. The troll waited for someone special. He wanted a friend to visit. He grumbled at the rushing water. He sighed a very loud sigh.

Little Billy walked onto the bridge. Trip-trap, trip-trap went his hooves. The bridge made a tiny sound. The troll popped his head up. Who is walking on my bridge? Little Billy stood very tall now. He was small but very brave. He looked at the big troll.

I am Little Billy, he said. The troll let out a roar. I want to eat you up! Little Billy shook his small head. Wait for my bigger brother instead. He is much bigger than me. The troll decided to wait quietly. He let the little goat pass.

Middle Billy walked onto the bridge. Trip-trap, trip-trap went his hooves. The bridge made a louder sound. The troll popped his head up. Who is walking on my bridge? Middle Billy kept walking very slowly. He showed a very brave smile. He was not afraid of trolls.

I am Middle Billy, he said. The troll felt his tummy growl. I am very hungry today! Middle Billy looked at the troll. Wait for my biggest brother instead. He is much larger than me. The troll sat back down again. He waited for the last goat.

Big Billy walked onto the bridge. TRIP-TRAP, TRIP-TRAP went his hooves. The bridge shook under his weight. The troll jumped onto the wood. Who is walking on my bridge? Big Billy was strong and brave. He did not run away fast. He looked into the troll's eyes.

The troll looked very, very sad. Big Billy saw a tiny tear. Are you okay? Big Billy asked. The troll sniffed his long nose. I have no friends or food. Big Billy felt a kind feeling. He wanted to help the troll. He knew just what to do.

Come eat with us, Billy said. The troll climbed onto the hill. There was plenty of sweet clover. They shared the delicious green grass. The troll was not grumpy anymore. His tummy was full and happy. He liked having new goat friends. They played games in the sun.

Now the troll helps everyone cross. He keeps the wooden bridge clean. He wears a very bright hat. He waves at all the travelers. He is a wonderful bridge keeper. The goats visit him every day. Everyone is safe and happy now. They are the best of friends.