Hansel and Gretel

Long ago, near a great forest, there lived a poor woodcutter with his two children, Hansel and Gretel. Bread had grown scarce in the house, and fear led the grown-ups into a cruel decision. When Hansel heard that he and his sister were to be left in the woods, he filled his pocket with little white pebbles. By moonlight those stones shone like small stars, and the children followed them home.

The second time, Hansel had only crumbs of bread to drop along the path. But the birds of the forest, knowing nothing of sorrow or plans, ate every crumb before morning. Hansel and Gretel wandered among the trees until their feet ached and their stomachs were empty. Still they held hands, for each was braver when the other was near.

At last they came upon a strange little house. Its walls were like gingerbread, its roof like cake, and its windows gleamed with sugar. Hungry as they were, they began to nibble. An old woman came out and spoke kindly, inviting them inside. Yet her sweetness hid wickedness, for she was a witch who meant to keep Hansel prisoner and do him harm.

Gretel was frightened, but fear did not stop her from watching carefully. When the witch ordered her to look into the oven, Gretel pretended not to understand. As the witch bent forward to show her, Gretel seized the moment and pushed her in. Then she freed Hansel, and together they found jewels and pearls in the witch’s house.

A white duck helped them cross the water on their way home. When they reached their father, he held them with tears of joy. The forest had been dark, but the children had learned that clear thinking and faithful love can make a path where none can be seen.