The Fountain of Youth (fairy tale) facts for kids
The Fountain of Youth is a fascinating Japanese fairy tale that was collected by a writer named Lafcadio Hearn. He included this story in his book called Japanese Fairy Tales. Fairy tales are old stories, often with magic, that teach us lessons or simply entertain us.
Contents
The Magical Story of the Fountain of Youth
Once upon a time, in the quiet mountains, there lived an old couple. The husband spent his days cutting wood, while his wife worked hard weaving cloth. They lived a simple life, doing their tasks every single day.
A Surprising Discovery
One day, as the old man was out in the forest, he stumbled upon a hidden spring. It looked like any other spring, with clear, fresh water bubbling up from the ground. Feeling thirsty, he decided to take a drink.
As soon as the water touched his lips, something incredible happened! The old man felt a strange tingling sensation. He looked down at his hands and saw that his wrinkles were disappearing. His hair, once gray, turned dark and full. In a flash, he was no longer an old man, but a strong, young man!
The Wife's Turn
Overjoyed and amazed, the now-young man rushed home to tell his wife the wonderful news. When he arrived, his wife was shocked to see a young stranger at her door. He quickly explained what had happened at the spring.
His wife was very excited. She said that a young man like him needed a young wife. So, she decided she would go to the spring and drink the magical water too. However, they agreed that one of them should always stay home. So, the young man waited patiently for her return.
A Twist of Fate
He waited for a long time, but his wife did not come back. Worried, he decided to go and find her. He hurried back to the spring, wondering what could have happened.
When he reached the spring, he found something unexpected. Lying by the water was a tiny baby! He quickly realized what had happened: his wife had been too eager. She had drunk too much of the magical water and had become a baby.
The Future Ahead
The young man felt a deep sadness. He gently picked up the baby, who was once his wife, and carried her back home. As he walked, a thought came to him. By the time this baby grew up and became an adult, he himself would be an old man again. The magic of the spring was powerful, but it also brought a unique challenge for their future.
