The Two Brothers

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s an adventure story with a strong emotional anchor—love between siblings. Even with danger, it ends with recognition, relief, and family restored.

Story Synopsis

Two brothers live together and are so close that each can sense the other’s troubles. Before they part, they agree on a sign: if one is hurt, the other will know. One brother travels by boat, but when he tries to return, the sailors refuse to take him. He promises them money; they still say no. Desperate, he begs again and again—until, with no other choice, he offers his own heart, saying they may take it and sell it if they will only carry him home. The sailors laugh and accept his strange promise. They bring him back, but once he steps ashore, they claim their payment. A boy appears who seems to know secrets about him. The boy leads him to an oak tree, digs, and pulls out a hidden knife. Terrified, the brother believes the knife is meant to take his heart for the bargain he made. He tries to flee, but the boy reassures him—he is not an enemy. He is the other brother, who felt danger and hurried to help. Together they outwit the sailors and keep their bond intact. The story closes with the brothers reunited, a reminder that real love listens, even from far away.

Story Excerpt

Once upon a time, there were two brothers. One was rich, a goldsmith, and not very kind. The other was poor, honest, and made a living by crafting brooms. The poor brother had twin sons who often visited their uncle's house, hoping for something to eat. One day, while gathering wood in the forest, the poor brother saw a beautiful golden bird. He threw a stone, and a single golden feather fell. He took it to his brother, who exclaimed, "It's pure gold!" and paid him handsomely. The next day, he found a golden egg in the bird's nest and sold it to his brother as well. The rich brother, curious about the bird, asked for it. So the poor brother went back, caught the bird, and received a large sum of gold in return. The rich brother, knowing the bird's magic, asked his wife to roast it. While it cooked, the twins wandered into the kitchen and ate two small pieces that had fallen, not knowing they were the heart and liver. These parts held the bird's magic, granting gold under their pillows each morning.

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