Jack and his mother lived in a tiny, rundown cottage and were very poor. Their only friend and possession of value was their gentle milk cow, Daisy. One morning, Daisy had no more milk to give. "We must sell her," Jack's mother said sadly, "or we will have no money for food."
Magic Beans
On the way to the market, Jack met a strange old man who offered him a deal. "I will trade you these five magic beans for your cow," the man said, his eyes twinkling. Jack, thinking of the adventures the beans might bring, agreed.
When he returned home with only a handful of beans, his mother was furious. "You foolish boy!" she cried, and she threw the beans out the window.
The next morning, Jack woke to see a gigantic beanstalk soaring up into the clouds. He decided to climb it. This was his first choice. It was a brave choice because he wanted to find something to help his mother. But it was also a risky choice because he didn't know what dangers lay at the top. It's important to think about whether a risk is worth the reward.
The Giant's Castle
At the top, he found a castle belonging to a fearsome giant. While the giant slept, Jack took a bag of gold coins and scurried back down the beanstalk. His mother was overjoyed! They had enough money for food for many weeks. This brave choice had paid off.
But soon, the money ran out. Jack decided to climb the beanstalk again. This time, he took the giant's hen that laid golden eggs. Now they would never be poor again. This was another courageous choice because he was providing for his family, and the risk seemed worth it.
A Reckless Choice
Jack, however, loved the thrill of the adventure. He decided to climb the beanstalk a third time. This time was different. They didn't need any more money. He was no longer being brave for his family; he was being reckless just for the excitement. He wanted to steal the giant's magical singing harp.
As he took the harp, it cried out, "Master, master!" The giant woke up with a mighty roar and began to chase Jack. Jack scrambled down the beanstalk as fast as he could, with the giant's heavy footsteps shaking the stalk behind him. This was a consequence of his reckless choice.
"Mother, the axe!" he shouted as he reached the bottom. His mother quickly brought him the axe, and Jack chopped at the beanstalk with all his might. Chop! Chop! Chop! The giant beanstalk crashed to the ground, and the giant was never seen again.
Jack and his mother were safe and had everything they needed. But Jack learned a very important lesson. Being brave to help someone is good, but taking a big risk just for fun, when you don't need to, can be dangerous. It's always best to think about your actions, understand the difference between a brave choice and a reckless one, and always try to make safe choices.
Learning Goals
Moral of the Story: This classic children's story teaches young readers the crucial difference between being brave and being reckless. It's a valuable bedtime story for kids that encourages thoughtful decision-making and understanding consequences, helping children develop good judgment and make safe choices.
Key Vocabulary
- Brave: Ready to face and endure danger or pain; showing courage.
- Reckless: Heedless of danger or the consequences of one's actions; rash or impetuous.
- Consequence: A result or effect of an action or condition.
Discussion Questions for Parents & Kids
- What was the difference between Jack's first two trips up the beanstalk and his third?
- What does it mean to make a safe choice?
- Can you think of a time you were brave? What made it a brave choice and not a reckless one?