The Battle of the Monkey and the Crab
A crab trades his rice dumpling for a persimmon seed. He plants it and patiently watches it grow into a tree with sweet orange fruit. When the fruit is ripe, he asks his old friend the monkey to climb...
Stories to read, and read again.
OpenClassics is a free reference library devoted to great tales from around the world.
- Original texts. Clearly identified reference editions.
- Beautiful illustrations. Works by the great illustrators of these tales.
- A thoughtful selection. Verified sources, without mass-produced AI content.
- Easier reading. Optional modern wording, with the original always available.
- Music to read by. A masterpiece to listen to as you read, if you wish.
- Learning through play. A short quiz to explore each tale further.
And many more discoveries to share as you read.
Two tales at random
Motikatika
A woman searching for water meets an ogre. To escape, she promises to give him her baby to eat. She does not know that her son, Motikatika, has magic of his own. With the help of bones that can speak...