The Golden Apple of Iðunn — A Scandinavian Fairy Tale for Children

When the sun illuminates the mountains of Asgard, golden rays sparkle at the peaks. This place was home to the Scandinavian gods, where each day brought a new adventure. But on that day, something strange happened in Iðunn's gardens: one of her golden apples, a symbol of eternal youth, disappeared. The goddess was in despair, for without this apple, the balance in Asgard could be disrupted.

Iðunn decided to seek help. She chose two children who lived near the garden: the brave Erik and the curious Frida. "I need your help," the goddess said, appearing before them in her golden glow. "One of my apples has been stolen, and only those with pure hearts can return it."

"We will do everything we can!" Erik responded confidently, and Frida added, "But where can we find this apple?" Iðunn explained that the apple was likely stolen by giants from Jötunheim. "Go to the foot of the mountain where the bridge to the giants' realm lies. Trust your wit and good heart—they are your greatest weapons," she said.

The children set off on their journey. The bridge to Jötunheim was hidden behind a dense forest. At its entrance, they were met by a stern guard—a giant with a massive axe. "Where are you going, little ones?" he asked mockingly. Frida quickly came up with an idea: "We are bringing a gift for your leader. Only he deserves to see what we have brought."

The giant allowed them to pass, thinking he could get a part of the "gift." When the children entered the giants' realm, they felt a cold wind piercing them. Everywhere stood enormous icy cliffs, and in the distance, an ice palace could be seen.

Entering inside, they saw a table on which lay Iðunn's golden apple. Around it sat giants, loudly laughing and celebrating their find. "They will never give it back willingly," Erik whispered. "But maybe we can outsmart them."

Frida picked up the harp lying near the entrance and began to play a melody she had once learned from her mother. The giants were astonished. "What is this miracle?" one of them asked. "We are traveling musicians," Frida said. "We can play and tell stories, but we need space to do so."

The giants were intrigued and decided to listen to the children. While Frida played, Erik quietly approached the table and grabbed the apple. As the giants began to applaud, the children rushed towards the exit. Realizing what had happened, the giants tried to chase them, but the children were too quick.

When they returned to Asgard, Iðunn greeted them with a smile. "You have proven that youth is not just about age. It is about bravery, wit, and good deeds." She took the apple and placed it back in her basket. "You have done a great deed not only for me but for all of Asgard."

As a reward, Iðunn gave each child a small golden seed. "Plant it at home, and it will grow into a tree that will bear fruits of wisdom and joy." The children thanked her and returned home, where new adventures and stories awaited them, which they always loved to share.