The Fox and the Stork
Based on a fable by Aesop · Adapted for children by YouAndWorld
Fox and Stork often met beside the river. One day Fox invited Stork to supper. “I will prepare something delicious,” he promised.
Stork arrived on time. Fox had made fragrant vegetable soup, but he served it on two wide, flat plates. Fox lapped easily. Stork’s long, narrow beak could pick up only a few drops.
“Do you dislike my soup?” Fox asked, hiding a smile. “It smells wonderful,” Stork answered politely, “but it is difficult for me to eat.” Fox finished his portion and much of Stork’s as well.
Stork understood the joke. Before leaving, he invited Fox to supper the following evening. Fox agreed eagerly.
At Stork’s house, dinner smelled delicious. But it was served in tall jars with narrow necks. Stork reached inside with his beak. Fox’s head was too wide, and his tongue could not reach the food. He walked around the jar and tried tipping it, but the food stayed at the bottom.
“Do you dislike your supper?” Stork asked. Fox looked down. “Now I understand. Yesterday you could not eat from my plate. Today I cannot eat from your jar.”
His joke no longer seemed funny. He apologized for being an inconsiderate host. Stork accepted the apology and brought a shallow bowl so Fox could eat.
After that, Fox thought about his guests before choosing how to serve a meal. A welcome should make another person comfortable, not leave them hungry.
Moral of the Story
Treat guests with consideration for their needs.
Questions to Discuss
- Why could Stork not eat the soup?
- What dishes did Stork use?
- How did Fox feel then?
- Why was the joke unkind?
- What did Stork do after the apology?
- How can we make a guest comfortable?
The Fox and the Goat
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