Our World 2 / Reader 9: Stone Soup: A Folktale from France - Mary Quinn

A heartwarming tale of sharing and community

In a small village in France, there lived a group of selfish and greedy people. They were so focused on their own possessions that they refused to share anything with anyone, even those in need. One day, a group of hungry travelers came to the village, seeking food and shelter. But the villagers turned them away, refusing to offer them even a morsel of food.

The magic of kindness

Just when the travelers were about to give up hope, a wise old woman named Marie came to their aid. Marie was known for her kindness and generosity, and she could not bear to see the travelers go hungry. She invited them into her home and offered them a simple meal of bread and cheese.

As the travelers ate, Marie told them a story about a magical stone soup. She explained that if they were to put a stone in a pot of water and boil it, the stone would turn into a delicious and nourishing soup. The travelers were skeptical, but they were also desperate, so they agreed to try.

The power of community

Marie gathered the villagers together and explained her plan. She asked each villager to bring one ingredient to the soup, such as a carrot, an onion, or a piece of meat. At first, the villagers were reluctant, but Marie's kindness and persistence eventually won them over.

As the villagers brought their ingredients, the pot of soup began to simmer and bubble. The aroma of the soup filled the air, and the villagers began to feel a sense of community and togetherness. They realized that by sharing their resources, they could create something wonderful.

A lesson in generosity

When the soup was ready, Marie ladled it out into bowls and served it to the travelers and the villagers. Everyone enjoyed the delicious soup, and they were all grateful to Marie for her kindness and generosity.

The story of the stone soup taught the villagers a valuable lesson about the power of sharing and community. They realized that by working together and sharing their resources, they could create something greater than themselves. From that day on, the villagers were no longer selfish and greedy. They were kind and generous, and they always welcomed strangers with open arms.

Why you should read this book

"Our World 2 / Reader 9: Stone Soup: A Folktale from France" is a heartwarming and inspiring story that teaches valuable lessons about sharing, community, and kindness. The book is beautifully written and illustrated, and it is sure to delight readers of all ages.

If you are looking for a book that will make you feel good about the world, then I highly recommend "Our World 2 / Reader 9: Stone Soup: A Folktale from France." This book is a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.