The Boy Who Cried Wolf
A shepherd boy’s false alarms affect how the villagers respond when help is needed.
A story to read together
The Boy Who Cried Wolf
Take your time. Let the story unfold.
A young shepherd watched a flock of sheep on a hillside. The work felt lonely, so one afternoon he shouted, “Wolf!” The villagers hurried up the hill to help, but there was no wolf. The boy laughed at their worried faces.
A false alarm
A few days later, the shepherd called for help again, even though the sheep were safe. The villagers came running and found him joking. This time they were less amused.
A real problem
One evening, a wolf appeared at the edge of the field. The shepherd was frightened and called for help as loudly as he could.
Trust takes time
No one was hurt, but the shepherd knew his earlier lies had made it harder for people to believe him. He apologized and promised to tell the truth.
Honest words
Over time, the shepherd earned back trust by being truthful and dependable. He learned that words can bring help when people know they are honest.
The end
After the final page
There is no single right answer. Invite young readers to notice, wonder and imagine.
How do the villagers react to the first alarm?
Why does trust matter when someone asks for help?
How did the earlier false alarms affect the villagers’ response?
Make something: Make a “trust ladder” with three actions the shepherd could take to show he is dependable again.
