The Forest Well – An English Folk Tale about Kind Hearts

Summary: This English folk tale tells how a brother and sister, through their kindness and care, discovered a magical well in the forest. It fulfilled their purest wishes and taught them that generosity is always rewarded.

Long ago, in a village at the foot of wooded hills, there lived a brother and sister. Thomas was ten years old, and his younger sister Anna was only seven. They always helped each other, and their kindness was known throughout the village. But times were hard, and their family often struggled with a lack of food and water.

One morning, as the sun rose over the hills, Thomas and Anna decided to venture into the forest to gather berries. They carried small baskets, unaware of the adventure that awaited them. Deep in the forest, they heard a sound like trickling water. “Could it be a stream?” Anna wondered. Following the sound, they stumbled upon a well.

The well was extraordinary: its walls were lined with glowing stones, and its water sparkled like stars. On a stone beside the well was an inscription: “This well will grant your kind wishes. But remember: only those with pure hearts can see its magic.”

Thomas and Anna exchanged glances. “Let’s try it!” Anna said. Thomas stepped up to the well first, looked into the water, and quietly said, “I wish that our mother never goes hungry again.” Inspired by her brother, Anna added, “And I wish that everyone in our village has enough water.”

Suddenly, the well glowed even brighter, and a soft light rose from its depths. “Your wishes shall be granted because they come from kindness and care for others,” said a voice that seemed to emerge from the water. Thomas and Anna felt a gentle breeze, as if the forest itself was thanking them for their pure intentions.

When the children returned home, they found that the village wells were full of water again, and fresh bread lay on their kitchen table. The villagers were puzzled by what had happened, but Thomas and Anna kept the well’s secret. They continued visiting it to make kind wishes for others: for the elderly, the sick, and the lonely.

The well always responded to their requests until one day, a voice from the water said, “You have done much good, and your village now knows the meaning of care and generosity. My magic is no longer needed. Remember, the power of kindness always lives within your hearts.” After these words, the well vanished, leaving a small stream in its place.

From that day forward, the village prospered, and Thomas and Anna became symbols of kindness and generosity. Their story was passed down from generation to generation, reminding everyone that kind hearts can create real miracles.

Moral of the Story: This English folk tale teaches us that true magic lies in good intentions and deeds. Kindness and care for others are always rewarded.

Questions for Discussion:

• Why did the well only grant kind wishes?
• How did the brother and sister use the well’s magic to help others?
• What lessons does this story teach about kindness and caring for others?