Goldilocks and the Three Bears

In a cottage at the edge of the pine trees lived Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Small Bear. One morning their porridge was too hot, so they went for a walk while it cooled.

Goldilocks was skipping on the path. She saw smoke from a chimney and peeked inside. “Anyone home?” she whispered. Only the clock ticked back.

On the table stood three bowls. Goldilocks tasted the first — too hot. The second — too cold. The third was just right, and she ate it all up.

She tried Papa Bear’s chair — too hard. Mama Bear’s — too soft. Small Bear’s chair was just right, until it creaked and one leg snapped.

Upstairs were three beds. The first was too high, the second too low. Small Bear’s bed was just right. Goldilocks yawned, curled under the blanket, and fell asleep.

The bears came home. “Someone’s been eating my porridge!” growled Papa Bear. “Someone’s been sitting in my chair!” said Mama Bear. “Someone’s been sleeping in my bed — and she’s still here!” cried Small Bear.

Goldilocks opened one eye, then two. Three bear faces looked kindly but surprised. She jumped up, said, “I’m sorry — I was curious,” and ran out the door.

She raced home as the stars appeared. “Bedtime stories are safer than strange cottages,” her grandmother laughed, tucking her in.

And in the cottage, the bears fixed the little chair and left a note on the gate: “Friends may knock first.”