The Three Little Pigs

Three little pigs set out to build homes of their own. Their mother packed food and reminded them to choose strong materials. The pigs waved goodbye and followed the lane into a sunny meadow.

The first pig gathered straw. It was light, easy to carry and quick to stack. By lunchtime, his little house stood ready, and he settled inside feeling pleased with his speedy work.

The second pig chose sticks. He tied them together and covered the roof with branches. His house took longer, but there was still time to play before the evening shadows crossed the meadow.

The third pig used bricks and mortar. He laid each row carefully and checked the door and roof. His brothers called him slow, but he wanted the walls to withstand a storm.

A wolf arrived at the straw house and demanded to come inside. The first pig refused. The wolf blew hard, and the straw scattered. The pig dashed safely to his brother's stick house.

The wolf followed and puffed against the sticks. Their knots loosened, and the walls shook apart. Both pigs hurried across the meadow, where their youngest brother opened his sturdy door for them.

Now the wolf stood before the brick house. He huffed until his cheeks ached, but the walls did not move. Inside, three brothers stayed together, listening quietly behind the firmly closed door.

The wolf climbed towards the chimney, but found a strong cover blocking the opening. Tired of puffing and climbing, he climbed down again and went away to search for an easier supper.

The first two pigs thanked their brother. Next morning, all three rebuilt the fallen homes using bricks. They shared the carrying, mixing and careful laying, so nobody had to work alone.

When rain and wind swept the meadow, the new houses stayed firm. The pigs visited one another for warm soup. Taking time had built strong walls; helping together had built an even stronger family.