The Frog King (The Frog Prince)

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s a classic ‘promise’ story with a reassuring transformation. You can emphasize kindness and keeping your word, and soften the grosser moments by reading gently and focusing on the friendship lesson.

Story Synopsis

A young princess adores her golden ball, tossing it in the air by a cool spring. One day it slips from her hands and sinks into the water. She is heartbroken—until a frog pops up and offers help. The frog says he can retrieve the ball if the princess agrees to let him be her companion: to eat from her plate, drink from her cup, and sleep near her. In her worry, she quickly promises anything, and the frog dives for the ball. But once the princess has what she wants, she rushes home and tries to forget her promise. The next day, the frog appears at the castle door, reminding her in front of everyone. The king insists: a promise must be kept. The princess is uncomfortable and annoyed, but little by little she learns to treat the frog with fairness instead of disgust. When she finally acts with honesty—keeping her word rather than pushing him away—the spell breaks. The frog is revealed as a prince, freed by her changed heart and her follow-through. The story ends with relief and renewal: a reminder that promises matter, and that respect can transform situations in unexpected ways.

Story Excerpt

In an old time, when wishes still came true, there lived a king whose daughters were all lovely. But the youngest princess was so fair that the sun itself smiled whenever it shone upon her face. Near the king’s castle was a great, dark forest, and in the forest, under a shady lime-tree, there was a deep well. On warm days, the princess liked to go out and sit by the cool water. Her favorite toy was a golden ball, which she would toss high into the air and catch. One afternoon, as she was playing, the golden ball slipped from her fingers. It bounced once on the grass and then rolled right into the well. The princess watched it disappear into the dark water. The well was so deep she could not see the bottom. At this, she began to cry, her sobs growing louder and louder. As she wept, a small voice said, “What is the matter, King’s daughter? You are crying so sadly.” She looked around and saw a frog poking its head out of the water. “Oh, it’s you, old water-splasher,” she said. “I am crying for my golden ball, which has fallen into your well.” “Be still, and do not cry,” answered the frog. “I can help you. But what will you give me if I bring your toy back to you?” “Anything you wish, dear frog!” she said. “My finest clothes, my pearls and jewels, even my golden crown.” The frog shook his head.

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