The Farmer and the Stork

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s a clear, calm moral story. Helpful for bedtime conversations about peer pressure, choosing friends, and saying ‘no’ when something feels wrong.

Story Synopsis

A farmer plants new seeds and wants them protected, so he sets a net low across his field to catch birds that come to steal. Nearby, a stork stands in the sun—gentle and trusting. A flock of lively cranes invite him to visit the newly planted field. They make it sound like a harmless outing. The stork doesn’t think deeply. He doesn’t want to seem unfriendly, and he doesn’t notice what the cranes truly plan: to eat the seeds. When they land in the field, the net snaps up and catches them. The cranes flap and squawk, but they are guilty of stealing. The stork, caught alongside them, pleads that he is not a thief. The farmer listens, but he points out a hard truth: being with thieves can make you look like one. The story reminds children that kindness is good, but wisdom matters too—and that choosing your company is part of choosing your safety.

Story Excerpt

In a wide, quiet field, a Farmer had just planted new seeds. The soil was soft and brown, and the rows were neat and straight. The Farmer wanted the seeds to grow safely. So the Farmer did something careful and firm. He set up a net, low to the ground, to catch any birds that might come to steal the seeds. Not far away, a Stork stood on long legs in the sunshine. The Stork was a simple, trusting bird. He liked to believe the best about everyone. That day, a lively group of Cranes fluttered over to him. “ Come with us! ” the Cranes called. “ There’s a field newly planted. We can have a fine visit there. ” The Stork blinked and tilted his head. “ A visit? ” he asked. “ Yes, ” said the Cranes, sounding cheerful and excited. The Stork did not think very hard about it. He did not want to be unkind by refusing. And he…

In One Glance