Focus on Genre: Folk Tale

A folk tale is a story that has been told and retold for many years. The words and actions of the characters, or people in the story, show what is important.

Once there was a hunter who lived with his wife and their four sons. Each son had eyes like shiny black stones. The hunter looked at his sons and smiled. “Some men have gold, but my sons are better than gold.”

The events of a folk tale usually happen in sequence. Look for time words to help you know when things happen.

Your Job as a Reader: Reading Strategy: Ask Questions

As you read, ask questions about the folk tale. For example, you may want to ask questions about the characters.

Question

Why are sons better than gold?

Photograph of the cover of the selection “The Forgotten Treasure”