Gingerbread Man (fairy tale) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids "The Gingerbread Man" |
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1918 illustration
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| Author | Anonymous |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Characters | Gingerbread Man Old Woman Fox |
| Genre(s) | Literary fairy tale |
| Published in | St. Nicholas Magazine |
| Publication type | Magazine |
| Media type | |
| Publication date | May 1875 |
"The Gingerbread Man" is a popular American fairy tale. It tells the exciting story of a gingerbread cookie that comes to life! This little cookie runs away from everyone who tries to catch him. The tale is famous for its catchy chant: "Run, run, run as fast as you can! / You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!"
Contents
The Story of the Gingerbread Man
The tale begins with an old woman baking a gingerbread man. As soon as he is finished, the gingerbread man jumps off the baking sheet! He runs out of the house, shouting his famous chant.
He runs past many people and animals. An old man, a pig, a cow, and a horse all try to catch him. But the gingerbread man is too fast! He keeps running and chanting, leaving everyone behind.
Finally, he meets a clever fox. The fox pretends to be friendly and offers to help the gingerbread man cross a river. The gingerbread man trusts the fox. Sadly, the fox tricks him and eats him.
Origins of the Tale
This story first appeared in a magazine called St. Nicholas Magazine. It was published in May 1875 in the United States. This makes it an American fairy tale.
The story is similar to older European tales. These stories often feature other runaway foods, like pancakes. The idea of a food item coming to life and running away is a common theme in folklore.
The Gingerbread Man in Pop Culture
The Gingerbread Man is a very well-known character. He has appeared in many books, cartoons, and movies. One of his most famous appearances is in the movie Shrek. In Shrek, the Gingerbread Man, often called "Gingy," is a funny and brave character.
His famous chant is also very popular. Many people know the words, even if they haven't read the original story. The tale teaches a lesson about being too trusting or too proud.
Images for kids
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1918 illustration for the tale
See also
In Spanish: El hombre de jengibre para niños
