Rumpelstiltskin
A mysterious helper offers a solution, but the bargain brings a difficult puzzle.
A story to read together
Rumpelstiltskin
Take your time. Let the story unfold.
A miller once told the king that his daughter could spin straw into gold. The king summoned her to the palace and demanded that she prove it. The young woman was frightened because she had no such skill.
A difficult task
That night, a little helper appeared and offered to spin the straw. In return, he asked for a small ring. The next morning, the room was full of gold.
A promise she could question
On the third night, the king brought even more straw. The helper offered to help again, but asked for a promise that the young woman felt was too large to give.
Searching for a name
The young woman and the palace helpers listened for clues. They asked travelers about names they had heard in the forest and made a list of possibilities.
A fairer ending
When the helper returned, she said his name. The bargain was over. The king realized his demand had been unfair and apologized for frightening her.
The end
After the final page
There is no single right answer. Invite young readers to notice, wonder and imagine.
What bargain does the mysterious helper make?
How does the name become important?
What clues helped the young woman solve the name puzzle?
Make something: Create a three-day clue chart with one new hint each day. Add one question to ask before agreeing to a bargain.
