The Magic Pot
A mysterious pot brings an unexpected challenge in this lively folk tale.
A story to read together
The Magic Pot
Take your time. Let the story unfold.
Mina lived with her grandmother in a small village. One afternoon, while gathering firewood, she met an old woman who was carrying an empty cooking pot. Mina helped her across a muddy path. The grateful woman gave Mina the pot and taught her a simple way to use it.
A pot with a secret
“Ask kindly, and the pot will cook warm porridge,” the woman said. “When you have enough, thank it and tell it to rest.” Mina tried the words at home. Soon the pot was full of steaming porridge.
A hungry visitor
The next day, Mina went to fetch water. Her neighbor saw the pot and began asking it for porridge. The pot filled one bowl, then another, and soon the kitchen was crowded with food.
Remembering the words
Mina hurried back and saw the porridge creeping across the floor. She remembered the old woman’s instructions and spoke the words clearly. At once, the pot stopped cooking.
A useful gift
Mina and her grandmother used the pot only when they needed it. They always remembered to stop it and to share what they could.
The end
After the final page
There is no single right answer. Invite young readers to notice, wonder and imagine.
What makes the pot unusual?
How do the characters respond to its surprise?
Why did it matter that Mina learned how to stop the pot?
Make something: Invent a helpful magic object. Write two rules for using it safely and fairly.
