Spindle and Needle – A German Folk Tale about Magical Tools and the Search for Happiness

Brief Description:

Spindle and Needle is a German folk tale about a seamstress who, through her hard work and kindness, and with the help of magical tools, finds true love and happiness.

Once upon a time, there was a girl who was an orphan. She lived in a small house and earned a living by sewing and spinning threads. Her only friends were the spindle, the needle, and the spool of thread. Despite her modest life, the girl was always kind and hardworking.

One day, she heard that the prince from a neighboring kingdom was looking for a bride. But instead of going to the palace like the other girls, she decided to stay at home and continue her work. — If I deserve happiness, it will find me, — she thought to herself.

Suddenly, her tools began to behave unusually. The spindle, as if alive, started rolling across the floor and rolled out the door. The girl was surprised but ran after it. — What is this? Does the spindle want to show me something? — she wondered.

The spindle rolled through the village, over the field, and directly toward the royal castle. The girl followed it without hesitation. When they reached the castle, the spindle stopped at the gates. The girl picked it up, but before she knew what to do next, the prince came out of the castle.

When the prince saw the girl, he immediately noticed her beauty and modesty. — Who are you? — he asked. — I am a seamstress, — replied the girl. — I followed my spindle, which seems to have brought me here.

The prince smiled and invited her inside. While they were talking, the needle in her pocket began to move. The girl took it out, and the needle started sewing a beautiful dress out of thin air. This magic amazed the prince so much that he said: — You are not only kind and beautiful, but you also possess an incredible gift. You must become my wife.

The wedding took place soon after, and the girl moved into the castle. There, she continued her work, helping the poor and needy. Her spindle and needle became symbols of hard work and kindness. They reminded everyone that happiness comes to those who sincerely help others and believe in the good.

The Moral of the Story:

The tale teaches that hard work, kindness, and loyalty to one's principles are always rewarded. Sometimes, the simplest things that we cherish help us find true happiness.

Questions for Children:

1. Why did the girl decide to stay at home instead of going to the palace?
2. How did the magical tools help her find happiness?
3. What lesson does this story teach us?