The Hare and the Fire – An English Folktale About Bravery

Summary: This English folktale tells the story of how a hare saved his friends from a forest fire. He kept calm in a difficult situation and showed that true friendship is the most important thing.

Deep in the jungle, among dense trees and hidden trails, lived a hare. He was quick and clever and always looked after his friends. His friends included a tortoise, a monkey, and a hedgehog, who loved spending time together. Life in the jungle was peaceful until one day, disaster struck.

During a hot afternoon, lightning struck a dry tree. The tree caught fire, and the wind quickly spread the flames across the forest. The fire consumed trees and bushes, and animals fled in panic. But the hare’s friends were trapped: the fire surrounded them on three sides.

The hare, seeing the danger, didn’t panic. He quickly looked around and shouted to his friends: “Don’t be afraid! We’ll find a way out if we stick together!” The tortoise, moving slowly, said: “But the fire is too close. I can’t run as fast as you.”

The hare thought about her words and suggested: “We’ll head to the river! It’s the safest place. Monkey, help me clear the path for the tortoise!” Together, they created a path so the tortoise could move faster. The flames crept closer, but the hare didn’t give up.

When they reached the riverbank, the hare said: “Jump into the water! It’s the only place where the fire can’t reach us.” The friends followed his advice and dove into the water. The fire swept past, leaving only scorched trees. The animals were safe.

When it was all over, the friends thanked the hare. The tortoise said: “Without your bravery, we wouldn’t have survived. You’re a true hero!” The monkey added: “You showed us that sticking together is vital in tough times.”

From that day on, the hare became known in the jungle as the bravest and most caring animal. All the animals knew they could always rely on him.

Moral of the story: This English folktale teaches us that staying calm in difficult situations and caring for others is crucial. True friendship is proven in times of need.

Discussion Questions:

• Why did the hare risk his life for his friends?
• How did he find a way out of the dangerous situation?
• What does this English folktale teach us?