Judith Kinter

Anna and Rudolf live the simple life. They don’t have much, but they have enough. One day, Rudolf grows tired of working so hard for so little. He goes to visit his godfather who will certainly understand and grant Rudolf a gift that would make his simple life better. His godfather warns the boy about asking for things he doesn’t need. Nonetheless, Rudolf goes home and finds a bag full of coins! He splits the money with his mom, Anna, and then spends his half on frivolous things. He goes back to his godfather asking for money two more times. After the last time, he decides he would be much happier traveling the world. Throughout all of his traveling, he can’t find the things that matter most in life, a mother that loves him and honest work. Moral of the story: be happy for the things you have.

Details: This book was written to interest children in grades K-3 and is on a 5.8 reading level.… (meer)

This is a cute German folklore tale on a son who is never happy with what he has. He travels all over the world, and has the best things. In the end, he realizes he was the happiest at home eating turnips with his mother. I loved this book, and I thought the message was important: the grass isn't always greener on the other side. The theme was so easily stated in the book, that I think it would be great to read when students are learning about all the different literary terms and concepts. They can pick out the theme, plot, and rising action. I could also use it to explain the different types of folklore around the world.… (meer)