Little John

In a big, green forest, lived a man named Little John. He was very, very tall, as tall as a giant. The trees in the forest were tall, too. They reached way up to the bright blue sky. Happy birds sang sweet songs in the tall, tall trees all day long. One sunny morning, Little John went for a walk on his favorite path. He heard a little splash. He heard a little giggle. What could it be? This is the story of how Little John met his best friend, and it is part of the legend of Robin Hood.

Little John looked and saw a man on a little log bridge. The man wore a funny green hat and a big smile. The man wanted to cross the stream. Little John wanted to cross the stream, too. They decided to play a fun game to see who was stronger. They each got a big, smooth walking stick. Tap, tap, tap went the sticks together. It was a friendly game. Little John gave a little push, and SPLASH. The man in the green hat fell right into the cool water. But the man was not sad or mad. He came up laughing a big, happy laugh. And Little John laughed, too. The man's name was Robin Hood.

Robin Hood liked that Little John was strong and cheerful. He shook the water from his hair. 'Come be my friend,' said Robin Hood with a big smile. 'Join my friends, the Merry Men.' Little John said, 'Yes.' He was so happy to have a new friend. He joined the Merry Men, and they became a big, happy family in the big, green forest. They sang happy songs around a warm campfire. They played fun games with bows and arrows. Most of all, they helped people in the villages who were hungry or cold. They shared their food. They shared their warm clothes. Sharing is kind, and it is good to help friends and neighbors.

A Story That Never Ends
People still tell the happy story of Robin Hood and Little John today. It is a very, very old story. The story tells us that being a good friend is important. It tells us that helping others is a wonderful and happy adventure. It is the best adventure of all.