The Little Match Girl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids "The Little Match Girl" |
|
|---|---|
Illustration by Bayes
|
|
| Author | Hans Christian Andersen |
| Country | Denmark |
| Language | Danish |
| Characters | The Little Match Girl Grandmother |
| Genre(s) | Literary fairy tale |
| Published in | Dansk Folkekalender for 1846 |
| Media type | |
| Publication date | December 1845 |
"The Little Match Girl" is a famous and touching story. It was written by Hans Christian Andersen. He is a well-known Danish author. The story first came out in December 1845. Andersen was inspired by a picture of a girl selling matches. This sad but beautiful tale has been made into movies and more.
Contents
The Story of the Match Girl
Imagine a very cold New Year's Eve. A poor little girl is trying to sell matches. She is freezing and hungry. To stay warm, she lights her matches one by one. Each tiny flame brings her a wonderful vision.
First, she sees a warm stove. Then, a delicious Christmas dinner appears. Next, she sees a beautiful Christmas tree. These visions disappear as each match burns out.
Her last match shows her beloved grandmother. Her grandmother was the only person who truly cared for her. The girl lights all her remaining matches. She wants to keep the vision of her grandmother alive.
In the end, the little match girl passes away from the cold. She goes to Heaven with her grandmother. It's a sad but hopeful ending.
About the Author
Who Was Hans Christian Andersen?
Hans Christian Andersen was born in Denmark in 1805. He became one of the most famous fairy tale writers. He wrote many stories that are loved worldwide.
Some of his other famous tales include "The Ugly Duckling" and "The Little Mermaid." His stories often teach important lessons. They also show the power of imagination.
How the Story Was Created
Andersen got the idea for "The Little Match Girl" in a special way. He saw a picture by an artist named Johan Thomas Lundbye. The picture showed a little girl selling matches.
This image inspired Andersen to write his own story. He wanted to show the struggles of poor children. The story was first published in December 1845. It appeared in a book called Dansk Folkekalender for 1846.
Adaptations of the Story
"The Little Match Girl" has been told in many different ways. It has been made into animated movies. There have also been live-action films and stage plays.
These adaptations help new generations discover the story. They keep Andersen's message alive. The tale reminds us to be kind to others.
Images for kids
-
Helen Stratton illustration, 1899
-
The Little Match Girl in the Fairy Tale Forest, Efteling Netherlands
.png)
See also
In Spanish: La pequeña cerillera para niños
