The Ghost Brahman
In this folktale from Bengal, in South Asia, a poor man leaves home to earn money for his wife and mother. That evening, a ghost takes his exact appearance and moves into his house. Years later, the...
Stories to read, and read again.
OpenClassics is a free reference library devoted to great stories from around the world.
- Original texts. Clearly identified reference editions.
- Beautiful illustrations. Works by the great illustrators of these stories.
- 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 story further.
And many more discoveries to share as you read.
Two stories at random
The Half-Chick
In this Spanish folktale, Medio Pollito has only one leg, one wing and one eye, but he is determined to leave the farmyard and see the king in Madrid. On the road, a stream, a fire and the wind each...