Stretch was not like other people. She could stretch her body taller than the tallest tree. People didn’t trust her because she was different. That’s why she lived in the forest. Swallow could eat more food than anyone. The villagers made fun of her because she was short and fat. That’s why she left town. Stare’s eyes were so strong they could burn through anything she looked at. Everyone was afraid of her. That’s why she stayed alone. And then there was Ira – small, skinny, and short-sighted – with nobody in the world to help him search for his missing sister. Somehow these four unlikely characters come together and overcome all obstacles – even the most evil magic in the land.
Folklore and Fairy Tales
The Golden Bracelet
In order to win the hand of his love, indolent Prince Haig learns to weave beautiful golden cloth, a craft that later saves his life.
A Wagonload of Fish
Trying to satisfy his nagging wife, a peasant catches a wagonload of fish, only to be relieved of them by a hungry fox.
The Emperor’s Garden
The villagers’ plan to create a splendid garden for their emperor gets bogged down in jealous arguments, happily resolved when the emperor himself comes to visit.
Red Thread
Early one morning Wei Gu meets an old man from the spirit world who tells the young bachelor about his future bride and their life together.
The Treasure Chest
A rainbow-colored magic fish helps Laifu protect his bride-to-be from the evil ruler Funtong.
The Butterfly Boy
A boy in long-ago China sees the world around him from a butterfly’s point of view.
Rimonah of the Flashing Sword
Goodness and bravery are rewarded in this version of Snow White.
The Three Princes
A princess promises to marry the prince who finds the most precious treasure.
Forty Fortune
A well-intentioned fortune-telling peasant unwittingly tricks a band of local thieves into returning the king’s stolen treasure.