As in all fables there is a moral: ‘ It is difficult to take in ideas, however valid, that are well beyond our experience.’ Children who read this tale should be able to appreciate the animals’ puzzlement, & look at themselves in a new way. The fable has been retold from ‘ Short Stories About Animals’, London 1882. Set in an Indian jungle in the mythical past. Silver level titles (equivalent to the White bridging book band) use sentences with two or three clauses & the length of the texts extends to around 1000 words to help build reading stamina. Real-life problems are also introduced to encourage empathy. Available for Levels 15-24, PM Traditional Tales & Plays retell classic tales in a simplified language & form that children can underst&. Teachers use the tales in guided reading sessions & children can later read them with complete confidence & understanding. Parts are colour-coded for easy recognition. pm 19-offer