Snow White and the Kind Little Miners

Snow White lived in a castle with a proud Queen.

Every morning, the Queen spoke to her mirror. “Silver glass, so clear and bright, who is loveliest in your light?” she asked.

“Snow White,” said the mirror. The Queen gave a grumpy frown.

One sunny day, a little white dove tapped on Snow White’s window. “Coo,” said Little Dove.

Snow White followed her into the forest, past seven round hills. Soon she was a little lost.

Then she saw a tiny cottage with a blue door.

Inside were seven little plates, cups and beds. Nobody was home, so Snow White had a nap.

At night, seven little miners came home from digging in the hills. “Please stay,” they said. “But never open the door to strangers.”

Every day, Snow White made soup. Every evening, the miners brought berries.

The mirror still said Snow White, in the little cottage, was loveliest. The Queen stamped her foot.

She dressed as an apple seller. “Sweet apples!” she called through the window.

Snow White forgot the rule and opened the door. She took one bite, yawned, and fell into a deep, deep sleep.

The miners found their friend fast asleep, as if in a long nap.

They made her a soft bed of moss and flowers in the garden. They took turns telling her stories.

At night, their lanterns glowed beside her.

One bright morning, the miners carried her bed into the sunshine. Oops! One miner tripped on a root.

Bump! Out popped the sleepy bit of apple.

Snow White opened her eyes. “Good morning, friends!” she said. “Next time, I’ll keep the door shut.” Everyone hugged.

Far away, the Queen asked her mirror once more.

“The loveliest one is the kindest one,” said the mirror. “And that is Snow White.”

The Queen was quiet. Then she walked softly away.

That evening, the eight friends ate soup at the long table.

Then everyone snuggled into bed. The lanterns glowed low, and Little Dove tucked in her head.

“Goodnight, kind friends,” whispered Snow White. Soon, everyone was fast asleep.