The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s a simple safety lesson without gore. For bedtime, keep the focus on ‘we check carefully’ and ‘trusted adults help keep us safe.’

Story Synopsis

A hungry wolf watches a flock of sheep and knows he can’t approach openly. So he tries something sneaky: he finds a sheep’s skin and wraps himself in it, hoping to blend in. From far away, he looks like one of the flock. The sheep feel calm, and the shepherd doesn’t notice right away. The wolf waits for the right moment to take advantage. But disguises can backfire. When the shepherd gathers the flock, the wolf is herded along with the sheep. The very trick meant to protect him leads him straight into trouble. The story ends with a clear message: not everything is what it seems. For children, the bedtime takeaway can be gentle and practical—listen to your instincts, ask questions, and stay close to trusted grown-ups.

Story Excerpt

In a wide green pasture, the Sheep grazed in calm little groups. They tore soft grass with their teeth and listened to the wind move through the hills. Not far away, the Shepherds kept watch. They knew there was a Wolf in the area — clever, quiet, and always looking for a chance. But the Shepherds were careful. They walked the edges of the field, counted the flock, and kept their eyes open. The Wolf, hiding among the shadows and bushes, grew frustrated. “ No matter how I creep, ” he thought, “ those Shepherds notice. No matter how I wait, the Sheep stay close together. ” His belly felt empty, and his patience felt thin. That night, when the pasture lay dim under the moon, the Wolf wandered closer to the places the flock had been. He sniffed the ground, searching for any small opening in the Shepherds ’ watchfulness. Then he found something pale and crumpled near a fence — an old sheep - skin that had been cast aside and forgotten, left from shearing and mending. The Wolf’s eyes narrowed with an idea. He nosed the skin, tugged it open,…

In One Glance