Cinderella Sarah: Bedtime Stories for Children, Fun Classroom Read Alouds and Short Stories for Kids

By Karen Cossey

Copyright © 2014 Karen M Cossey

All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by information storage and

retrieval system without prior permission in writing from the author, except by a reviewer, who may quote brief passages in a review. Requests for permission should be made in writing to: Karen M

Cossey, P O Box 6040, Tauranga 3146, New Zealand or using the online contact form at www.karencossey.com

First Kindle Edition Published 2014

3rd Edition April 2016

ISBN: 978-0-473-35970-6 (PDF version)

Publisher: Stolen Moments (an imprint of Karen Cossey)

Brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Copyright for images belongs to individual illustrators as sourced from

www.dollarphotoclub.com

You can find more stories by Karen Cossey at www.karencossey.com or at www.amazon.com/author/karencossey

Like Karen at https://www.facebook.com/KarenCosseyAuthor

Dedication

This book is dedicated to Peter, Daniel and Amy. Thank you for persevering with me!

Table of Contents

Cinderella Sarah ....................................................................................................... 1

Dumplepumple the Friendly Troll ............................................................................... 4

Grandma's Muddled Magic ........................................................................................ 6

The Magical Monster of Doom .................................................................................. 9

Finding Pakak ......................................................................................................... 12

Eye'll Fix It ............................................................................................................... 14

Rainy Day in Venice ................................................................................................ 16

Skyhead the Dinosaur ............................................................................................. 19

The Long Walk Home from Bethlehem .................................................................... 22

Survival Class ......................................................................................................... 25

Morris The Monkey ................................................................................................. 28

Dragonfly Peace ...................................................................................................... 31

The Bodyguard........................................................................................................ 34

Thank You For Reading! ......................................................................................... 37

Other Books and Resources by Karen Cossey........................................................ 38

Karen Cossey 1

Cinderella Sarah

I really don't like Tuesdays. Tuesday is the day the Prince visits. He always comes to see Lady Roselle, because she is so beautiful. Well, that must be the only reason, because actually, she's a nasty snake, with pumpkin breath too. That's what I call her, but my sister Sarah scolds me and says she's been good to us, and we must be respectful.

Anyhow, when the Prince comes, even I have to have a bath, and I am only the kitchen lad. Cook says she'll put me in the sink with the dirty dishes if I don't get down to the river and wash my hair. Ain't gonna risk having any soap on my skin, no Siree! So off I run to the river. That's not so bad I guess, I do love jumping in off the high cliff, except it's awfully cold. One time, a few months ago, I was running late and having so much fun jumping and splashing, that I didn't realise the Prince was watching me. He called out to me and chatted with me for a good long time.

What a nice man he was asking me about myself and my sister. Well, I told him the whole story, with all my best acting. Sarah says I am a great actor, and he was a great audience. I walked tall and proud like my Dad, the great merchant that he was, and I blew strong and fierce like the storm that sank his ship, I died grandly praying for my two precious

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children. Then I pretended to be my wicked stepmother who kicked us out of our own home and made us come to work for Lady Roselle. I was getting a bit carried away with myself because this is my favourite story to act out, my sister does love it and laughs heartily at my fooling around. Though being a girl, she always cries at the death scene. However, I kept my wits about me and avoided the scene where I act out Lady Roselle as a snake. Thankfully someone came to call the Prince away just then. He seemed sad to say goodbye, but probably he was mostly sad to have to go see that Lady Roselle.

That was the only good Tuesday I've had since then. Lady Roselle heard about my acting somehow, and now I'm banned from appearing before the Prince. Instead my sister had to wait on Lady Roselle and his Royalness hand and foot. She's kind of nervous around the Prince, and she hates all that standing around, not moving, and saying 'yes M’am, no M’am'. She's a little clumsy too and keeps dropping things. I told her that if she was a slave in some countries she could be killed for dropping things, that didn't seem to help her. Lady Roselle enjoys punishing her later, once the Prince has gone of course.

―Clean this, fetch that, fix this, and try not to drop it Sarah,‖ she says in her hoity-toity voice. I really have trouble being respectful to that snake. It's worse because Sarah use to go to school with Roselle when they were children, and Roselle so loves to make a big thing of Sarah being her servant now.

When I complain Sarah tells me to shush, we have nowhere else to go, so let’s make the best of it.

The other Tuesday I was helping Jim the gardener, when who should appear but the Prince himself, with my sister! I couldn't believe it! Seems Sarah was sent on an errand to fetch some vegetables from the garden, and the Prince offered to go with her because he had a headache and needed some fresh air. Magic, I reckon. They were talking and laughing like old friends. I've never seen Sarah looking so relaxed and pretty; not that I’d tell her so.

When the Prince saw me he seemed really excited and asked me to act out a story. Well I did my other favourite, Puss in Boots, with the help of Jim as the Miller’s son, and Sarah as the beautiful princess. The Prince offered to be the ogre and what fun we had! He said I was the smartest puss, and Sarah the most beautiful princess he'd ever seen. Boy, did she blush!

Then this last Tuesday, the Prince invited Lady Roselle to his ball. He said all young ladies of the land could come, even Sarah if she wanted to. He thought it would be nice for her to have a change. Boy, did, Lady Roselle have a fit about Sarah going to the ball after that. She made her life miserable for the whole week, and forced her to write a note declining the Prince's kind invitation.

Yesterday was Tuesday again; the day of the ball. And Sarah couldn't go. She was heartbroken. She hardly ever cries, but I caught her all red-eyed and snotty-nosed because she so wanted to go. She hasn't been to a ball since Daddy took her as a girl. I tried to cheer up by telling her there was no point worrying about it, she couldn't go now anyway because she had no dress and her face looked like it had been run over by a horse. That didn't help much, though she did hit me with her pillow and we had a glorious pillow fight which seemed to cheer her up.

Her face was almost back to normal when there was a knock on the door, and who was there but some grand lady all dressed in finery. Magic again. But no, she said she wasn't magic, and she definitely wasn't a fairy godmother. She was much too busy for that. Wow, she was impressive; I liked her immediately and can't wait to act her out. She came in like the captain of a ship and took charge. She had two maids who were carrying the most beautiful gown I'd ever seen, as beautiful as anything the snake wears. She dressed Sarah in it!

Wow, Sarah looked gorgeous. The captain of the ship, who turned out to be the Princess's personal dresser, muttered to herself that Sarah did look just like her mother. We

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were so amazed that she knew our mother that we refused to be moved until she told us more.

It seems our mother, who died soon after I was born, was a close friend of the Queen. Father never told us that! It also seems that Father was respected by the King who had been deeply disturbed when he heard what had happened to us. He believed our stepmother was still looking after us, but the Prince had talked to him about my drama scene and he'd worked out who we were. He wanted to see us tonight at the ball to make sure we really were who he thought. So the Prince's sister (on prompting from the Prince, according to the maids) had insisted on the ship's captain bringing a suitable gown for Sarah to wear, and unfortunately, a suitable suit for me to wear.

The last part was all a whir, I had no time to protest about the horrible clothes I had to wear, as time was ticking according to the captain, and before I knew it we were in a carriage and on the way to the castle. I thought Sarah was going to cry again, she seemed so overwhelmed, so I punched her in the arm and said, ―There's nothing you can do about so make the best of it. It wouldn't be the best if you get that lovely dress dirty with your snotty tears.‖ I saw the captain smile to herself, but she didn't see my sister punch me hard on the arm. I'll be bruised for weeks! Anyhow, Sarah started to laugh after that and said, ―No matter what happens after tonight, let's make the most of the time we have in the palace.‖ All right for her, she didn't have a dead arm.

So, we arrived and what a grand palace it was. I was amazed. I wanted to run around and touch everything, but I stayed close to Sarah. Who should come up straight away to us but the Prince himself and said his father would see us soon, then he whisked Sarah away for a dance, leaving me with his cousin. He's a decent boy—he showed me all around and told me lots of funny stories. He's a good actor too, so I hope we can get together and make up some plays. I think part two of Sarah’s and my life will be a great story.

We spied on Lady Roselle, who was giving Sarah the most wicked snake eyes ever. Sarah and the Prince looked quite a pair I guess, they were smiling and laughing and having a great time together. Snake didn't like it at all.

After a few dances, we were summoned in to see the King. He looked at us both and said, ―No doubt, you are your mother's daughter, and you young lad, look just like your father.‖

I felt so proud. My father was the best.

And now it is Wednesday morning. I spent a while last night talking with the King, who wanted to see a couple of my plays. Sarah has come in after being up all night, and whispered to me that the Prince has asked her to marry him! I can't believe it. She will actually have to kiss him! How awful. I feel very sorry for her, but after I've had a sleep I think I'll feel very happy for her and her new life. She promised that I would live with her too in the palace. I think I could even grow to like Tuesdays in a place like this.

Karen Cossey 4

Dumplepumple the Friendly Troll

One night a young and foolish troll named Dumplepumple, wandered deep into the dense forest, far from home. He came upon a small clearing as it started to rain. Oh no! His mother had always told him to stay out of the rain in case he got too clean. He spotted a cave nearby and ran inside, bumping straight into a sleeping dragon!

The dragon stirred and slowly opening one eye, looked the small troll up and down. Fortunately for Dumplepumple he'd eaten his dinner before going to bed so he wasn’t hungry. Also, wet trolls smell like roasted rotten elephants, whereas this dragon preferred his meat raw.

Dumplepumple, never having experienced fear, did not realise the great danger he was in, and sat down to warm his feet on the smoke coming from the dragon's nostrils.

The foul odour of his feet was too much for the dragon, who roused himself enough to push the troll out of the cave with his snout. Laughing now, thinking it was a game, the troll skipped back inside and sat down expectantly in front of the dragon. Surprised, the dragon pushed him out again, and once more the young troll scooted inside and sat in front of him, giggling.

Luckily, as well as being well-fed, and well rested, the dragon was also in a good mood, so he picked up the troll in his teeth and tossed him in the air then caught him high on

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his tail. Dumplepumple slid down the tail and landed hard in the back of the cave, laughing loudly. As he landed he kicked something out from a crack in the wall—a golden and jewelled bracelet! Having no idea what it was, he picked it up and offered it to the dragon. Normally the dragon would have swallowed whole anyone who dared touch his treasure, but he had been looking for that bracelet for days, and was so happy to have it back he stood up and roared in delight. This made Dumplepumple laugh even louder.

When the noise died down, Dumplepumple heard another sound—it was his father calling to him. He raced outside, leaving the dragon nosing his treasure. He followed his father’s shouts till he found him, some way from the cave. His father scolded him all the way home for going so far. Eventually he managed to tell both his parents about the dragon, but that got him in more trouble for making up stories. As he grew up though, he never forgot the dragon and the fun he’d had that night.

It was a well-known fact that every autumn, the humans prepared to fight the trolls and trolls get ready for war. Every year, many lives were lost on both sides, but no one ever won. Winter came and it was too cold to fight, even at night. The humans wanted to go to bed, and the trolls wanted to go sledding, so war would end.

One year, when the fighting began, the trolls were dismayed to see the humans had captured a wild and hungry looking dragon. The humans were quick to let it go and set it onto the trolls, shouting ―To your dinner Dragon Fire!‖

Dumplepumple, now almost fully grown, watched as his family and friends turned and fled, realising they didn't stand a chance. He looked at the approaching dragon then suddenly did the most remarkable thing.

He lay down on his back and pointed his toes in the air at the dragon swooping down towards him. The dragon seemed to pause in mid-air as it got a familiar whiff of those feet. It landed next to Dumplepumple and gently pushed him with his snout. Dumplepumple started to giggle like a child troll and as everyone looked on, he and the dragon started playing Push the Troll.

Humans and trolls were both amazed and soon found themselves standing at a distance, watching and talking to each other. And that was the start of the peace talks. Nowadays, there is an annual holiday, called Dragon Day, to mark the peace between Trolls and Humans. Every year on Dragon Day, Dumplepumple visits his friend the dragon and has a game of Push the Troll.

Karen Cossey 6

Grandma's Muddled Magic

It was a muddling sort of day. Goldilocks could tell it was the minute she came downstairs for breakfast. Her grandmother, whose job was being a fairy godmother to poor helpless girls, was staying for awhile. She had been working very hard lately and was a bit befuddled. Her magic had mixed with her mind Mum had said, and she needed a bit of normal to get things straightened out.

Well, it wasn't normal that morning. The cornflakes were floating in mid-air, and the milk was zipping round the walls, round and round, getting faster and faster, while the sugar was dancing into various sugar statues. As Goldilocks stood watching the sugar turned from a horse to a dragon to puppy to a lion to her father making hilariously funny faces. Goldilocks laughed out loud. Everything fell to the ground in a big mess.

―Oops, sorry Grandma, did I startle you?‖

―A little dear, I thought it might be your mother.‖ Grandma smiled guiltily. ―I was supposed to get breakfast on the table, but I felt a little bored. She doesn't like my magic tricks, your mother.‖

―I love them Grandma,‖ Goldilocks said and gave her a big hug. ―You know, when I'm bored I go for a walk. Maybe you should come with me after breakfast and we could do normal together. Normal's not so boring if you have someone with you.‖

Grandma sighed. ―I guess so. But I have to take my wand in case we meet any poor helpless girls who need a party dress.‖

―Not in the forest Grandma, there haven't been any poor helpless girls there for ages.‖

―Hmm, just the same, I’ll still take it. Do you want another party dress?‖

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―Not today Grandma, I'll wear my shorts and my spy belt. It's got all these cool compartments where you can keep everything you might need in a forest, even binoculars. How about I carry your wand for you in the hidden pocket of my jacket, so Mum doesn’t think you are taking it? Otherwise she won't let you go.‖

―I like you're thinking Goldilocks, though sometimes I wish you could be a little bit more helpless.‖ Grandma sighed again.

―Never mind, we might meet a poor helpless forestry worker in need of a new pair of boots,‖ Goldilocks said, thinking of her friend Charlie.

At this, Grandma perked up and got through breakfast acting so normal that Mum agreed without hesitation to the walk idea.

Goldilocks knew that strange things happen when Grandma was about, so she packed her spy belt carefully. They weren't far into the forest when a wolf ran out from a side road dressed in a long floral nightgown.

―Funny, I've never seen that path before,‖ Goldilocks said. ―He looks a bit suspicious don't you think Grandma?‖ Grabbing her lasso rope from her belt, Goldilocks threw it expertly towards the disappearing wolf. Got him!

They struggled to pull him back, but then Charlie turned up from the side road, and together the three of them were able to yank him back. Grandma tut-tutted, grabbed her wand, and transformed the nightgown into a party dress. ―That's better,‖ she announced. The wolf looked horrified.

Goldilocks heard footsteps. A young woman with snow-white skin, jet-black hair and ruby-red lips came running down the path. When she saw the wolf she stopped and said, ―It's okay, it's okay. Please let that wolf go. He's swallowed the poison apple as well as my wicked stepmother. Soon he'll fall asleep forever and I can live happily ever after. But would you mind changing him out of that party dress, it is too lovely! You know how silly handsome princes are—one of them might kiss the wolf by mistake and then he’d wake up again!‖

Before long the wolf was untied and dressed in his old nightgown again. He slunk off to find a place to sleep. The girl declared, ―Finally, I can go back to my castle! I'll go see if the dwarfs want to come too.‖ She skipped off down the path.

―That was a bit of a muddle, don't you think?‖ asked Charlie. ―Better get back to work,‖ and he went off in the other direction.

Goldilocks frowned at Grandma. ―That's not normal, Grandma.‖

―I know, but it was fun wasn't it dear? Did you like the party dress? Such a pretty colour!‖

Goldilocks sighed, packed away her lasso, and started walking again towards a bend in the road, Grandma humming along beside her.

Around the bend sat a girl, about the same age as Goldilocks, crying. She was wearing an old worn red cape.

―What's wrong?‖ asked Goldilocks.

―It's obvious, she needs a new cape and dress,‖ said Grandma, but Goldilocks snatched the wand out of her hand. Grandma huffed, and crossed her arms.

The girl wiped the tears from her eyes. ―I was taking some cookies to my grandmother, when I saw some pretty flowers. I stopped to pick them and left my basket on the ground. When I came back there were three bears having a picnic from my basket.‖

―Three bears?‖ Goldilocks asked with her eyebrows raised in disbelief.

―Yes, a daddy bear, a mummy bear and a baby bear. The daddy bear said his biscuit was too plain, and he threw it to the birds, the mummy bear said her biscuit was too sweet and she threw it to the worms, but the baby bear said they were delicious and he ate them all up until there was nothing left!‖

Karen Cossey 8

At this the girl broke into huge sobs.

Goldilocks looked all around her. ―Where did they go?‖

―They were scared when they saw me and they ran down the path behind me, taking my special basket with them,‖ she said, starting to cry again.

Goldilocks gave her grandmother a grumpy look. ―I've never seen that path before!‖

Grandma looked up to the sky and started whistling.

Goldilocks shook her head. ―I'll climb that tree and see if I can spot them with my binoculars.‖

From a branch near the top of the tree she spotted Charlie prodding the bears from behind, bringing them back down the path. They all looked terribly embarrassed.

―We are so sorry,‖ they apologised to the girl. ―We got locked out of our house this morning when we went for a walk, and we were very hungry, but we shouldn't have eaten your biscuits. Here’s your basket.‖

Little bear looked ill.

The girl pleaded, ―What will I give my poor sick grandmother?‖

―Don’t worry dear,‖ said Goldilocks’ Grandma, putting her hand out for her wand. Goldilocks sighed then gave it to her. Soon the girl's basket was full of goodies, and the bears found the key to their house tied to a necklace around baby bear’s neck.

―Now, how about a new cape?‖ Grandma asked the girl.

―Oh, yes please. Can you do one that's green with sequins, I'm so sick of red.‖

Mamma bear spoke up. ―Uh-hmm, you couldn't do a ball dress for me and a tuxedo for my husband could you? We've got a grand ball to go to tonight. I do so want to see who the princess is going to pick for her husband.‖

―Lovely,‖ beamed Grandma, waving her wand, giving each of them the most splendiferous, sparkly, sequined clothes.

They said goodbye, and Grandma and Goldilocks continued on their way with Charlie beside them.

They hadn’t got very far when who should approach them but an Emperor leading a procession of important looking people.

Grandma gasped. ―He’s only wearing his underwear!‖

―Make way for the Emperor and his new clothes,‖ shouted a man at the start of the procession.

―Where are you going?‖ Goldilocks asked him, trying hard not to look at the Emperor’s fluffy rainbow coloured underpants.

―The Emperor is going to the ball to meet the princess,‖ the man replied in a grand voice.

Goldilocks nudged her Grandma. ―You better help with this one.‖ Grandma waved her wand and straight away, the Emperor was dressed in the most wonderful shiny clothes.

Everyone in the procession gasped, breathed a sigh of relief and carried on their way smiling.

―That really was a muddle,‖ muttered Charlie, shaking his head. ―And everybody was wearing silly shoes too. Not one pair of them was sensible for walking about in a forest.‖

Goldilocks looked at Grandma and asked, ―How about some new boots for Charlie, Grandma?‖

Charlie looked surprised, then anxious. ―Brown please, with no sequins,‖ he said.

Karen Cossey 9

The Magical Monster of Doom

It all happened one day last winter holidays. We had been stuck indoors for two long days because of the rain—it felt like it would never stop.

I remember the morning clearly. I'd been fighting with my little sister Mia—she wouldn't share her elastic with me so I could bungee-jump her teddies from the top bunk to the floor. Disgusted, I threw all her teddies on the floor and went into the lounge.

There was my Lego. Within half a minute I was sprawled on the carpet, attacking the enemy from my supersonic jet. As I flew past the enemy barracks, my jet was shot down. Quickly it crash-landed and turned into a black stallion, racing to a medieval castle to rescue the king from the evil pirates. Of course, it was going to leave the princess to the pirates. Let's see if she could use her elastic to help with that, huh!

From the distance, I could hear a voice, seeping through my mind fog, ―Five minutes until we leave for the library. Tidy up in here please.‖

I transformed the black stallion into Indiana Jones. The pirates were getting closer. I could see their Lego grimaces bearing down on me. Suddenly, up shot my favourite—the magical monster of doom!

―Tidy up now!‖ came the intruding voice, trying to blast its way into my attention.

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But the magical monster of doom was nearer, louder and I had him cornered with my dagger to his throat. I heard him spit out, ―I'll grant you one wish, whatever you like, if you spare my life.‖

That was when it happened. At that exact moment, I felt myself pulled to my feet, and my mother stared at me. She was almost frothing at the mouth.

―Why don't you ever tidy up when I tell you to? Look at all this mess, and you left all Mia's soft toys on the floor. You know, I wish all this stuff would hang from the ceiling! Then I wouldn't have to walk all over it every day!‖

I felt bad that she was so upset. I looked around, but I couldn't see much mess. There was my Lego, spread out on the carpet. By the door was my spy gear from yesterday's game, and all over the bench were my papers and pens from my last session of drawing Transformers. I was quite proud of those pictures. I didn't get what Mum was going on about. It didn’t matter though, we had to go. The tidying could wait. Before long we were in the library.

The trouble started when we got home again. Running to the lounge I stopped short. Nothing on the floor, nothing on the bench. I was gripped by fear. What had happened to all my stuff?

―Did you tidy my things?‖ I said to Mum as she came in the room.

―No,‖ she said looking around, then up. She let out a startled cry and pointed.

Everything was clinging to the ceiling. All my Lego, all my spy gear, all my drawings, and the dirty dishes!

I walked, stunned, into Mia's bedroom. All the teddies were clinging to the roof.

The house had never looked so tidy, but the ceiling was incredibly chaotic.

Mum was lying on the couch, laughing hysterically. I think this was because she hadn't been able to even sit on the couch for such a long time. It was usually covered with books and sweatshirts and toys. Yes, they were all clinging to the ceiling too.

―This is amazing,‖ I said, shaking my head.

Mum stopped laughing and shouted, ―Quick, let's vacuum before it all falls down again. We might even be able to dust!‖

Mia came into the room crying because she couldn't get her teddies down.

―After we've cleaned,‖ said my Mum, in a slightly manic voice.

After our cleaning frenzy was over, and Mum had sat down with a cup of tea to enjoy the view, I climbed onto a stool and tried to pull Mia's teddies down. They popped back up as soon as I let them go.

By lunchtime both Mia and I were upset. We couldn't get any of our toys down. Mum didn't seem to mind, she said it didn't matter that we didn't have any plates for lunch. But by teatime she agreed that we might need our things back. If only I could spot the magical monster of doom and force him to grant us another wish. I finally found him, hiding inside the pirate ship, which was attempting to sail across the ceiling.

I tried to scare him into granting me a wish, but nothing happened. So reluctantly I handed him over to Mum. I told her how to threaten him with death by pulling his head off—he would be sure to grant her a wish. She was about to do it when she said, ―One condition kids. I'll keep this magical monster of doom, and if you don't tidy up when I say from now on, he'll be working for me.‖

We had no choice. We had to agree—we even had to promise.

Mum scared the magical monster of doom with her evil sounding threats of certain painful death. She was so terrifying and mean sounding it sent a chill down my spine. I think she may actually be a wicked pirate herself. Then she wished all our stuff would be taken

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down from the ceiling and put tidily in its proper 'put away' place, which was where it all quickly zinged to.

And from that day on, that's exactly where our stuff ends up whenever we hear our mother say, ―Tidy up time, me hearties.‖

Karen Cossey 12

Finding Pakak

Amaruq woke, startled. He could hear his father outside, getting the snow mobile ready. Amaruq hoped he hadn’t slept in too long. Now that spring was on its way, the men were keen to go seal hunting. His father had agreed that he could go too, so although he wished he could move over and snuggle up to his mother in her bed with his little brother, he knew he had to get up straight away. He pulled on his snow gear. His little brother, Nauja, liked all the modern, bright coloured snow gear. Amaruq preferred the clothes his grandmother had made for him: a two layered polar bear skin outfit, with the fur of the inside layer facing inwards and the fur of the outside layer facing outwards.

As soon as Amaruq saw the snow mobile, he could tell he wasn't going hunting. His father hadn't tied on any of his gear.

―Where's my stuff, Papa?‖ he asked.

―Sorry son.‖ His father looked serious. ―I need you to stay and look for Pakak.‖ Pakak was their husky dog, whose name meant, ―One who gets into everything‖ because of all the mischief she got into as a pup. Amaruq and Nauja adored her.

―What’s happened to her?‖ asked Amaruq with a worried frown.

―She never came in last night, and she's due to have her litter any day. I need you to go and track her down and bring her back inside the house to have her pups.‖

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Amaruq's face fell. He'd been looking forward to seal hunting. Yet his father seemed to be really worried about Pakak.

―Son, you know our meat supplies are getting low, so I need to go hunting. Do you think you can track down Pakak? Or should I stay back to help you?‖

Amaruq felt a surge of pride as he realised his father was testing him and giving him a chance to prove his tracking skills.

―I can do it Papa. I'll find Pakak.‖

He watched his father finish loading the snow mobile and waved him goodbye. Knowing his father had searched in the village, Amaruq circled the outside, looking for tracks leading away from the town. None of the ones he spotted seemed deep enough in the snow for Pakak, who was heavy with the pups she was carrying.

As he scanned the horizon he spotted the igloos. They'd been made only three days ago for the igloo building competition, an annual event before the spring hunting. He spotted some deep tracks in the ground, and knew in his heart that Pakak had headed that way. He wanted to get to her quickly, but he'd need a sled to bring any pups back if she'd had them.

He ran back to his house and harnessed together four team dogs. Finding an empty box and a blanket he headed slowly out. Once he was clear of the town he called to the dogs to speed up and soon they were going as fast as the wind—that's what it felt like to Amaruq. Like his father, he much preferred the dog teams to the snow mobiles; it was so much more exhilarating.

As he approached the igloos, he slowed the dogs down and strained to hear any sounds. Whimpering—he caught the sound from the furthest igloo. Of course, it was the one his father had made. Pakak would choose that igloo. It would have his father's smell all over it.

Taqukaq, Pakak's mate, started barking as they pulled up to the igloo. Pakak returned his bark, but she didn't come out. Amaruq jumped down and crawled into the igloo. Four puppies were snuggled close to a tired looking Pakak.

―Everyone gets a sleepy snuggle except me today!‖ laughed Amaruq, thinking of his brother still asleep at home. Pakak let Amaruq pick up each puppy.

―You've done a great job, Pakak, all by yourself out here but it’s time to take you home or Taqukaq won't stop barking.‖ With that Amaruq picked up one of the puppies and carefully crawled outside with it. He placed it gently in the box on the blanket and went back for the rest.

Pakak followed him outside with the last puppy held in her mouth by the scruff of its neck.

―Do you want a ride, Pakak?‖ Amaruq asked, pointing at the space beside the box. Pakak gave him an offended look as if to say a sled dog never needs a ride. Amaruq called for the team to head back slowly, and Pakak trotted beside the sled, next to her puppies.

―Your father will be very proud of you,‖ his mother said to Amaruq as she settled Pakak by the stove. ―You are growing up so quick.‖

Amaruq looked at the puppies. One day they would grow up too, and his father had said he could have the pick of the litter to start his own team. He felt a sense of pride and anticipation. Only a few more years and he'd be hunting with his father, on his own sled. He picked up the strongest looking pup, and holding it close whispered, ―Go to sleep Nukilik, and dream about chasing polar bears with me.‖

Karen Cossey 14

Eye'll Fix It

Jimmy jumped off his bike, frustrated. The stupid chain had come off one more time. He bent down and carefully put it back on the gear wheel. Dad had said he'd fix it properly, but he never quite got round to it. Maybe Mr Simons, the school caretaker could take a look at it. Jimmy turned around and headed in the opposite direction from home.

Mr Simons lived ten minutes bike ride from his place. His driveway wound its way down from the entrance round bushes and trees. His house was old and rundown. Mr Simons lived alone and was always fixing things, though most things round his own place never quite got finished. He was always getting distracted helping his neighbours and friends.

There were some though who didn't like Mr Simons. They thought his house was spooky and they said you should avoid talking to him. Mostly dumb kids from school who wanted to scare the new entrants with awful stories of Mr Simons. The last story was a bit too much Jimmy thought—he wondered if he should tell the principal. Greg had been telling the juniors that Mr Simons captured children and cooked them on pizza.

Jimmy struggled up the hill to Mr Simons’ mailbox, then whizzed down his driveway, swerving to avoid the potholes. Monday was Mr Simons’ day off, and like usual he was sitting outside on his front porch, this time fixing an old lawnmower.

"Hi Mr Simons," called out Jimmy, screeching to halt right in front of him. "How's it going?"

"Good thanks, Jimmy. What you up to?"

"My chain keeps coming off. Do you think you could take a look at it?"

"Sure thing Jimmy, let me take a look, it probably only needs a little adjustment. Maybe you could do me a favour too?" he asked, "I hear you’re good at drama."

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The next day, Greg, the storyteller, was out on field playing soccer with his friends at lunchtime. Jimmy waited for the moment when a goal had been scored then he staggered out from behind a nearby tree and limped over to them all, moaning and groaning, covering his eye with his hand.

"What's up with you Jimmy?" Greg called out.

"My eye, my eye... I remember walking past Mr Simon's shed then something hit me on my head. When I came to, my eye had this patch on it. It feels real sore. We should go make sure Mr Simon’s okay—will you guys come help me check it out?"

"Don't worry," said Greg, picking up a stick, "I'll whack any troublemakers with this," and he took off with the rest of his mates following nervously behind.

Jimmy thought they made such a noise, no troublemaker would ever hang around, but he didn't say a word. They'd all gone past Mr Simon’s shed window, when Jimmy stopped and called them back.

―Greg, Greg," he said in a horrified voice, "Take a look at this!"

They peeked in Mr Simons' window and what they saw sent shivers down their spines.

Mr Simons was holding up what looked like an eyeball. He put it down on a board and starting to chop it. He then put slices of it on top of... a pizza!

"That's my eye!" said Jimmy. ―I feel sick."

Greg looked like he didn't know whether to laugh or run.

Mr Simons came out of the shed just then, and said to the boys in a truly sinister voice, ―Ah-ha, exactly what I need—another eyeball! Come here Greg Jenkins!"

Greg's mouth opened wide and he went pale. Mr Smythe, the principal stepped out from behind the shed.

"A-ha, it's Greg, the rumourmonger, I see,‖ he said, his arms folded and a frown on his face. Relief flooded Greg's face.

"You ought to be careful what you suggest in your tales Greg. You might give people bad ideas," said Mr Simons, a smile on his face.

Greg laughed, but was cut short by Mr Smythe’s curt, ―It isn't funny.‖

"Aw, it's alright," said Mr Simons. ―I think he's learned his lesson.‖

"Well, I'll have another talk with you after school this afternoon Greg. But I think Mr Simons is owed an apology right now."

Greg guiltily murmured out an, ―I'm sorry for spreading rumours.‖

Mr Simons was quick to respond with a hearty, "Forget about it. How about you boys all come in for some real pizza? No eyeballs, honest."

That was a treat. They all laughed and joked and enjoyed pizza till the bell went. As Greg left, Jimmy heard him saying, "I'm really sorry about making up stories about you Mr Simons....er, do you think you could help me repair my skateboard sometime?"

"No problems Greg, you bring it in tomorrow and I'll fix it for you."

Karen Cossey 16

Rainy Day in Venice

I was wet right through as I ran down the narrow alleyways in the rain. The only good thing about being out in a downpour was that for once I could move about quite freely—most of the tourists were taking cover in cafes or hotels.

I love Venice, even in the rain, but this was going to become another flood. If I took too much time getting lost I wouldn’t be able to help Mamma, and she’d text me to come ASAP. I scurried around a corner, not really looking where I was going. Oh no, dead end—another canal. Across the water was the lane I wanted to be on. If only I could walk on water.

Turning around I bumped into someone and sent them sprawling. It was a girl, my age, a tourist. I could tell by the gumboots. They all buy the same green ones from the African guys who hang around outside cafes on rainy days. Ten euro for a pair. Not too bad a price, but they’ll be leaking after an hour or two of running through deep puddles. Me, I go for quality boots with red flowers all over them that Mamma bought me from the Lido. From a real shop.

―Oops, sorry, didn’t see you there. Are you lost?‖ I said. Everyone is always lost in Venice. Not me, I was slightly misplaced, not lost. She let out a groan.

―Are you hurt?‖ I asked.

―I think I twisted my ankle. I’ve broken it before so it gets sore easily,‖ she was trying not to cry.

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―Don’t worry, I’ll help you,‖ I offered, giving up on getting to Mamma in time. She’d have wanted me to stay and help the girl, I was sure. I sent her a quick text, while the girl reached into her boot and rubbed her ankle.

―Where are you making for?‖ I asked when I’d finished.

―Via Guiseppe Garibaldi. My grandmother is staying there. I told her I’d be back in twenty minutes, half an hour ago, but I got a little misplaced.‖

Ha, she’s like me, I thought. I liked this girl. Maybe we could be friends, even though she was just another holiday-maker. Here today, gone tomorrow. I’d given up on being friends with tourists a long time ago.

―I know the way,‖ I told her, getting my bearings as I helped her up. She was in a lot of pain, though trying not to show it. ―Do those boots even fit you?‖ I asked.

―Nah,‖ she replied. ―This short African guy with a blue beret sold them to my Grandma for seven Euros. They were the only ones around my size.‖

We started to walk, her leaning on my arm.

―Philippe,‖ I said, ―He’s actually French. Trying to get rid of all his stock. He’s leaving to go work on one of the cruise boats. ―Better to have a legal job, even if it’s long hours for not much money,‖ I said, mimicking his French accent. ―He’s a nice guy. Here, you can’t walk in those, let’s swap, mine are a bit smaller.‖

―A bit smellier too,‖ she joked, smiling as I passed them to her.

―Yeah,‖ I replied, ―they’ve seen a few floods, never seem to get quite dry before the next one happens!‖

―Thanks, they feel better.‖

I slipped hers on then we headed off again, me with my fingers crossed that we wouldn’t get lost. I’d have to pay a bit more attention and not rely on getting there eventually, like I usually do. I love taking the long route, and pretending to be lost, then magically appearing where I meant to. Sometimes I volunteer to show tourists the way, and just when they’re starting to think I have no idea where we are, I turn a corner, and ta-da, there’s their hotel after all.

I worked out the quickest route and hoped the bridge to Fondamente Arsenalel would not be flooded yet. The tide was starting to come in, but we should have time.

As we hobbled along I kept chatting, trying to keep her mind off her foot.

―What’s your name?‖ I started.

―Meghan, what’s yours?‖

―Selena. I’ve been living here with my Mamma and Nonno, my grandfather, since I was three, when my Papà left us,‖ I said. ―My Nonna, that’s Italian for grandmother, died three years ago. What’s your Nonna doing here?‖

―She comes every year. She says she’s looking for the man she met forty years ago. They had a romance but she had to go back to America, so nothing ever came of it. She always says that’s why she comes, but she doesn’t look anymore, she just has a holiday. It’s kind of a family joke now, Grandma going to Venice in the winter to find her old boyfriend. I don’t mind though, especially when I get to tag along!‖

I laughed. ―They say Venice is the city of romance but my Mamma says the only man I’m ever allowed to love is my Nonno!‖

We kept chatting and finally came to the bridge. It had taken longer than I thought and the tide had come in. We would have to cross with water half-way up to our knees.

―I don’t think I can do it, my foot really hurts,‖ whimpered Meghan, a few tears falling down her face and mingling with the rain.

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I looked around helplessly. It was long way to go back the other way, and I didn’t think Meghan was up to it. As I wondered what to do, I noticed a familiar sight—Nonno’s gondola. It was a long way off, but I reached into my backpack and pulled out the bright yellow and pink scarf I always carried. Nonno had said he would always find me in a crowd if I waved my scarf. I sloshed out into the middle of the bridge and waved frantically. Nonno lifted his oar out of the water and waved back to me. The gondola picked up speed and headed our way.

―There you are Selena, I’ve been looking for you! This rain is much worse than we thought it would be. Hey, who do we have here?‖ H smiled at Meghan.

I quickly told him about Meghan and how she needed to get to her hotel but had hurt her foot.

―No problem,‖ he said, throwing me the guide rope for gondola. He jumped out and picked Meghan up, and placed her carefully in the gondola. I climbed in and we made our way down the canal.

―Have you been on a gondola, Meghan?‖ he asked her.

―No,‖ she replied, ―they are too expensive.‖

―Today is, how you say, a freebie. My granddaughter, the imbranato, err I mean, klutz will pay me for it later in housework,‖ he said, winking at me. I groaned. There would be no getting out of the dishes tonight. ―Are you staying for long?‖

―One more week,‖ Meghan said.

―Well then, every day Selena will meet you and take you to the pier near the Calle San Biagio and I will take you for a ride. Then you can see some more of Venice even with your sore foot.‖

―Really? That would be awesome!‖ she said, beaming.

When we arrived at the pier Nonno picked up Meghan and carried her to her hotel, all the way up to her room. I knocked on the door, and a worried looking lady answered.

―Meghan, thank goodness. What’s wrong?‖ she asked, hurrying us inside and clearing a space on the couch to put Meghan down. Meghan told her all that happened and about Nonno’s promise to ride in the gondola every day. It was only then that the lady looked at Nonno.

―Carlo?‖ she asked, going pale.

―Abigail?‖ he replied, stunned.

Meghan let out a shriek, ―It’s him, it’s him! Grandma’s old boyfriend!‖

Everyone was talking all at once and the room was abuzz with excitement. My Nonno was indeed Meghan’s grandmother’s first boyfriend. He remembered all about her—apparently, he had been heartbroken when she went back to America. It had been five years before he met my Nonna and married her.

They sat, talking and laughing, while I ran home to tell Mamma the news. At first she didn’t believe me, but after we’d cleaned out the water from the flooded basement she agreed to come back to the hotel and meet Meghan and her grandmother. Sounded like the making of a big feast for dinner—I sure hoped Nonno would forget that I was on dishes...

Karen Cossey 19

Skyhead the Dinosaur

Jack loved the walk home from school. He'd always take the shortcut through his favourite place, the forest. Though of course, as he'd promised his Mum, he never left the track. Never that is, except for that one incredible day.

As usual, he walked along scanning the path for any animal tracks. Just as felt the wind pick up, it happened. And so quickly, he had no time to think. Hearing a low grunting sound in front of him, he glanced up and saw a wild pig with a menacing look in his eyes, standing in the middle of the track. Jack made a run for a nearby tree, certain the pig was following, but he never found out. Just as he reached the tree, the ground gave way beneath him and he was falling, twisting and turning down a bank. He hit his head on something hard and everything went black.

*****

He was being prodded, pushed and slobbered. It felt like a great big dog, not a wild-eyed pig. Jack opened his eyes then shut them again quickly as a shaft of fear shot through his body.

It couldn't be, it was impossible! He'd have to look again.

He opened his eyes and looked straight into the face of a giant Brontosaurus.

―At last, you're awake,‖ it murmured.

Jack couldn't believe his ears, or his eyes—it was a talking Brontosaurus!

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―What did you say?‖ he asked.

―You're awake. What's your name?‖

―Jack.‖

―Hmm, strange. Nice to meet you Jack. I'm Skyhead. Tell me Jack, why did you come tumbling down here? You almost landed on my nest. I'd have squashed you but I thought you might be dead already.‖

―I don't know how I got here. Are you really a dinosaur? I didn't even think dinosaurs were alive,‖ Jack said.

―Dinosaur? What's a dinosaur—are they dangerous?‖ She looked around nervously.

―No, no, I mean, where I come from? We call you a dinosaur and I'm a person.‖

―Well, I'm not dangerous—are you?‖

―No, no,‖ said Jack quickly as Skyhead started to lift her foot. That would flatten him dead for sure.

―What are you doing here?‖

―I was running away from a pig, and then I fell and I can't remember what happened next.‖

―Hmm, well you don't look very dangerous,‖ said Skyhead, putting her foot down again. ―You better stay with me, Sharptooth Longneck comes around here sometimes.‖

Jack imagined the worst—Sharptooth Longneck had to be a T Rex.

―Tell me, have you got good eyesight?‖ Skyhead asked him.

―Pretty good.‖

―Well, maybe you can help me find my little one, Squinty Eyes. He's gone off exploring. I can't see very well and I can't smell him anywhere nearby because the wind stopped just after you appeared.‖

Jack looked around. ―There are some fresh tracks here. Looks like he went this way, Skyhead.‖

―Wonderful. How about you run on ahead and I'll follow you from a distance so I don't step on you.‖

―Good idea,‖ said Jack. He followed the tracks for ages then looked back. Skyhead took two steps and was almost on top of him.

The tracks changed direction and went into a grove of tall trees. They were easy to follow; branches were broken and the grass was flattened. Jack stopped and watched in amazement as Skyhead came crashing towards him, toppling the trees around him.

―He better not be playing hide and seek!‖ growled Skyhead. ―He can't see properly and he'll get stuck.‖

Just then they heard a piercing cry.

―Crouch down,‖ commanded Skyhead and he stepped over Jack and moved quickly towards the noise.

When Jack caught up to her she was hovering over a small, whimpering Brontosaurus.

―He's all tangled in these vines,‖ groaned Skyhead. ―I've got to get him free.‖

―Or Sharptooth Longneck will get me,‖ whispered Squinty Eyes.

―No, I won't let that happen.‖

―I can help,‖ piped up Jack.

―How?‖ asked Skyhead, bringing her head down level with Jack.

―I've got a pocket knife, and I can untangle the vines,‖ said Jack.

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―What's a pocket knife?‖

―You'll see,‖ and Jack set to work. It took him an hour, but finally he had Squinty Eyes free.

A very relieved Skyhead gently picked up Jack in her mouth and placed him on Squinty Eyes' back. In no time they were back at her nest.

―Thank you Jack,‖ Skyhead said. ―You know, I think I've worked out how you got here. Once a week, the wind stops for the afternoon and then it suddenly starts again about now. If I put you back up on top of the hill and you wait there, I'm sure the wind will take you back home.‖

―But I just got here!‖ Jack protested.

―Yes, but my guess is that your mother will be worrying about you like I was worried about Squinty Eyes. Don't be sad, you can come again another time, now you know the way. The wind will bring you.‖

With that, she picked Jack up and lifted him high into the air, placing him on top of the bank.

―Next time you come, we'll go exploring together—you can ride on the back of Squinty Eyes.‖

Jack sat down next to a tree that looked vaguely familiar. Suddenly a strong wind sprang up all around him. He shut his eyes as he was lifted off the ground and tumbled about, then just as quickly the wind left, dropping him on the ground.

Jack looked around—there was the track, as plain as day. He crawled to the edge of the bank and looked down—nothing but undergrowth and bush. No clearing, no nest, no Brontosaurus. He looked down at his watch—it was still the same time as when he'd entered the forest. He looked over to the track—thankfully there was no wild pig.

He would have to come back to this spot at the same time next week. He could hardly wait.

Karen Cossey 22

The Long Walk Home from Bethlehem

Mathew was tired. It was a long journey home from Bethlehem and the roads were so busy. Horses, donkeys, people everywhere! Most of they were heading in the opposite direction. His father said they would be another week of walking, and he was not allowed to moan.

They'd left two days ago – another week of walking seemed like forever when he just wanted to get home to see his mother. Perhaps he even wanted to see his baby sister - if she didn't pull his hair all the time. They hadn’t made much progress in their two days of walking because everyone they met wanted to know what was happening in Bethlehem: where was the best place to stay, how expensive the food was and mostly what kind of mood the soldiers taking the census were in. Mathew and his father were amongst the few people leaving Bethlehem so they were constantly stopped and asked questions.

Here were some more people approaching now. Mathew whispered to his father, ―They look like they're bursting for news.‖

―The lady looks like she's bursting all over. She must be about to have her baby any day now,‖ his father said.

Mathew took another look at her. His mother had not looked that big before Rebecca, his baby sister was born. But his mother had sure looked a lot more tired and grumpy. This lady even managed to smile at him as she bumped up and down on her donkey.

―Excuse me,‖ said the man walking beside her. ―Can you please tell me any news of Bethlehem?‖

―Here we go stopping again,‖ thought Mathew.

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―It's very busy, not many places to stay. Have you got someone to stay with?‖ his father asked.

―No,‖ said the man. ―I'm a carpenter from Nazareth. I don’t know anyone in Bethlehem.‖

A carpenter! That would get his father's attention.

―I'm a carpenter too,‖ his father said. ―I've been doing a job for my cousin in Bethlehem. I've just finished in time for all the crowds to arrive.‖

―What were you making?'

They were off, talking cabinets and tables, the merits of one kind of timber over another.

Mathew looked over at the lady; he could tell she needed a rest. He asked his father and the man, Joseph, if he could lead her donkey off the road to a shady spot nearby.

―What a great idea, let’s have something to eat,‖ said Joseph.

It wasn't long before Joseph and his father were lost in conversation again. The lady smiled at Mathew and thanked him for suggesting they sit down in the shade.

―What's your name?‖ Mathew asked.

―Mary.‖

―My mother's name is Mary. She's at home with my baby sister. Will you have a baby soon?‖

―Yes, very soon. A baby boy.‖

―How do you know it will be a boy?‖

Mary paused, and then said, ―An angel told me.‖

―Truly?‖ asked Mathew, ―What did he look like?‖

―He was tall, and he had dark hair and dark eyes, just like you. His face shone like he had a candle burning inside of him and the glow was trying to get out.‖

―Did he have wings?‖

―I couldn't see any.‖

Mathew felt sad about that and it must have shown on his face, for Mary quickly said, ―Maybe they were invisible so I would think he looked just like a person and not be afraid.‖

―Were you scared?‖

―Only for a moment, but he was so kind and gentle. God's angels are good. We don't need to be scared of them.‖

―What did he say?‖

―Well, he said lots of things. But the main thing was that I would have a baby boy soon.‖

―How exciting. I wish I could see an angel.‖

―Well, they're all around. You might have met one already and not even known.‖

―Oh no, when I meet an angel I'll be able to tell. He's going to have wings. And carry a great big shiny sword.‖

Mary smiled at him and patted his head. She made him miss his mother even more.

―You know,‖ he heard his father say to Joseph; ―I really do hope you find somewhere to stay in Bethlehem, what with your baby arriving soon. But I'd hate to think of you wandering the streets with nowhere to go, as I've seen others doing last week. If you can't find anywhere, please go to my cousin’s inn on HaGefen steet. Tell him I sent you and ask him if you could stay. He may be all full in the inn, but he also has a barn. I know it doesn't sound like much, but it's comfortable enough. My son and I slept there while we were

Karen Cossey 24

working, and we got by all right. My cousin's wife has four children, I’m sure she will be able to help you if your baby arrives.‖

―Thank you very much,‖ said Joseph, ―It means a lot to me to know there will be somewhere for us to go, even if it is just a barn. You are very kind.‖

―No trouble at all. We must be leaving now, and you need to keep moving if you want to get to Bethlehem by tomorrow.‖

As they said their goodbyes, Mary said to Mathew, ―I'll pray that your angel will guard you with his big sword and get you home safely and speedily.‖

―Thank you Mary. I will keep looking for him. Maybe I'll see him soon.‖

*****

That night, Mathew and his father ate their dinner under a cloudy sky with another stranger, travelling the road. He was a tall man, with dark hair and dark eyes. As he rose to leave, the moon came out from behind a cloud and its light flickered on the man's back. Mathew was stunned to see two translucent wings, and the hilt of a silver sword hanging from a scabbard at his side.

As Mathew started to call out to the man, he simply vanished into thin air.

Karen Cossey 25

Survival Class

Sophie never stopped talking. She even sleep-talked. It was as if someone had turned her onto talk mode, and broken the switch. Actually, there was no switch. No "Off" at all.

Lewis liked to listen. He had turned ten a month ago and his parents still wondered when he would start talking. He sat behind Sophie in class and listened to her. He never got annoyed, he thought she was funny. Every now and then he would say something to her like "Uh-huh" or "Wow" and when he felt like making a big effort he might even say, "What happened next?" or "Did you really?"

They were both pretty clever kids in their own ways. Fortunately for Lewis he showed how clever he was in his schoolwork. Unfortunately for Sophie, she was too busy talking, (and being sent to the corner, to the office, and to the principal) to get much work done.

One Monday afternoon, when it was Lewis' turn on message delivery duty, and Sophie had spent twenty minutes writing, "I will be quiet in class" over and over on the whiteboard, their teacher sent them both out together to run a couple of errands.

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On the way, Sophie started to tell Lewis about the camping trip she'd had in the weekend. She was up to the part about how her Dad had taught her to make a bivouac when Mr Allington, the teacher for the juniors ran past them. He had a panicked expression on his face and was muttering "Stupid, stupid computer. How can I have lost all that work?" Sophie stood still, watching him pass.

"Mr Allington will be gone for a while! Let's teach the juniors some camping lessons." She grabbed Lewis by the arm and dragged him off to the juniors' class. Lewis looked on in amazement as she waltzed into the room and launched straight into teacher mode.

"Right children, pens down! You boys, stop chasing each other! Mr Allington has asked me and Lewis to take you on a mini expedition. What we need are the painting mats, some string, scissors and the hockey sticks."

At this point, Lewis made his first big mistake at school. He decided, "What the heck, this could be fun," and with the help of Jackson, the junior class leader for the day, he found all the stuff, put it in a big plastic box and gave it to a couple of kids to carry. He was the senior after all; he shouldn't need to do any heavy work himself!

Sophie had the class in two lines and was telling them all that they were going on a survival trip by train. The children had to help be the train and follow her. Lewis was to bring up the rear. They all chugged out of the class, turned to the right, avoiding any other classrooms and headed straight for the trees at the edge of the sports field. Lewis actually started making train noises too, getting into the swing of it.

When they reached the trees, Sophie got all the kids to sit in a semi-circle and started telling them about survival in the bush. Lewis didn't think you really needed to worry about lions that might have escaped from the zoo when you were in the bush. There wasn't even a zoo in their town, but he could tell her story about being torn to shreds made a big impact on the five year olds. He sat down by Marie, who'd only started school that week and looked close to tears. He held her hand and said, "Don't worry, I'll look after you." Somehow he managed to give Sophie a look which she read as, "Be quiet about the lions RIGHT NOW". She stopped mid-sentence as the lion was about to tear some poor child's arm off, and said, ―Don’t worry, I'm only kidding.‖ All the kids except a few boys gave a big sigh of relief.

"What you do need to know if you're lost in the bush, is how to build a bivouac. Let me explain while Lewis demonstrates. Lewis stood up. So did Marie. She wasn't going to leave his side and kept looking around for lions.

Lewis, always good at following instructions, even instructions from a girl, easily attached the string to the corners of the paint mats, then tied one end of the mat between two trees. The tricky part to building the bivouac was pushing the hockey sticks into the ground. But a few knocks with a nearby rock did the trick. Lewis hoped no-one would notice the dents made in the hockey sticks. Soon Sophie's bivouac was finished.

It looked more like a hut to Lewis than a true bivouac, but he was not going to say anything. The five year olds looked impressed—they all wanted a turn inside. Even Marie left his side long enough to crawl in and crawl out.

One clever kid asked whether you would really have string, a pair of scissors, a painting mat and hockey sticks in the bush. Sophie told him to go climb a tree. Which he did.

Meanwhile, Mr Allington had returned to his class, and finding it empty, had his second panic attack for the day. Being a very strict teacher, he always expected his students to do exactly as he said, and he'd told them to finish their writing work. He had never experienced a mass exodus and it made him feel slightly sick in the stomach.

Mrs Brightwell, never having experienced Lewis being late back from giving a message, had stepped out of her class to check on him and Sophie. She bumped straight into a wild-eyed Mr Allington.

"I've lost two pupils. You haven't seen Lewis and Sophie anywhere?" she asked.

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"Well, I've lost a whole class! You haven't seen fifteen New Entrants have you?" Mr Allington frenzied.

"Hmm, I think that's a slightly bigger problem than mine. Shall I help you look?" Mrs Brightwell asked, and they split up to go searching.

So it was that they both approached the survival class from different angles of the sports field. Mrs Brightwell got there first but as her approach was hidden by the trees she was able to watch and listen to Sophie explaining the need for coca cola, a bread maker and a hairdryer when you go camping in the bush. At this point, Lewis finally had enough of Sophie's interesting ideas. He decided she didn't know what she was talking about so he did something he'd never done before. He spoke up. And to Mrs Brightwell's, and Sophie's utter amazement, he gave the children a clear and concise, point by point correction of everything Sophie had said.

He was summing up what you should eat and drink in the bush when in roared Mr Allington. He was about to throw a fit but Mrs Brightwell stepped out from behind the tree and took charge. In no time the juniors were back in class (with no idea that anything was wrong), while Lewis and Sophie were in the Principal's office. It was the first time Lewis had ever been told off. For Sophie it was all too familiar.

Later that day, once Mr Allington had calmed down, Mrs Brightwell spoke with him. "Wasn’t that great? I think we’ve discovered a couple of excellent student helpers for your classroom."

The mere thought of it gave Mr Allington his third panic attack for the day.

Karen Cossey 28

Morris The Monkey

Morris the little monkey woke up when the sun was high up in the sky. Another lovely day. Perfect for playing hide and sneak. Off he went to find his friends.

First he came across Henry the hippopotamus.

―Let’s play hide and sneak!‖ he called out from the top of a tree.

―Not today Morris,‖ boomed Henry. ―There’s only three more days till the big fishing competition. I’ve got to clean my boat and check for leaks. You should be doing the same, don’t you think?‖

―Nah, I’ll do it tomorrow.‖

Just then, who should come along but Lucas the lion.

―There’s no way you’d get me anywhere near the water, even in a boat,‖ he shivered. ―Come on Morris, I’ll play.‖

So they played hide and sneak until the sun went down.

The next day was sunny again, perfect for racing games. Morris came across Rose the rhino first.

―Let’s race Rose,‖ he chattered excitedly.

―Not today thanks Morris. It’s only two more days until the big fishing competition. I have to fix my motor and get my gear together. I don’t want to forget anything! Shouldn’t you be getting ready?‖

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―Nah, I’ll do it tomorrow. Today’s a great day for racing. I’ll go find Lucas.‖

Lucas the lion was nearby, lounging in the sun. He loved racing games too, so they played until dinnertime.

Morris woke up next morning to another hot day. Perfect for sliding down Big Hill on banana leaves. Off he went to find Zach the zebra. He loved sliding down Big Hill.

―No, not today,‖ said Zach when Morris found him. ―Only one day until the big fishing competition. I have to untangle my lines and mend my net. Shouldn’t you be getting ready?‖

―Nah, I’ll do it tomorrow, before the competition starts. It’s the best day today for sliding down Big Hill.‖

As he was leaving he came across Lucas again. They spent the rest of the day sliding down Big Hill. What a blast! The day sped by all too quickly and it was a very tired Morris who climbed into bed that night.

When he woke up late the next day, he noticed the sun so bright in the sky again. A perfect day for playing, he thought to himself. Then he remembered! It was the day of the big fishing competition! He loved the fishing competition. Last year he’d won a prize. He’d better get his boat sorted out.

He found it where he’d left it after his last trip. It was full of old leaves because he hadn’t covered it over properly. It took him quite a while to tidy it up. Luckily Lucas came by as he was finishing and helped him drag it down to the water. All his friends were there with their smart looking boats glistening in the sun.

―Morris, we thought you wouldn’t make it!‖ said Rose the rhino. ―The competition is about to start. You did check your boat for leaks didn’t you?‖

―Oh no, I forgot! Will you help me?‖

―I’ll do it with you tomorrow Morris. I’ve got to go line up now,‖ and off she went.

Morris checked over his boat. He saw three tiny holes. He stuffed them with old leaves scrunched up in mud.

As he was finishing the starting buzzer went off and all the motors of the boats zoomed into life. Everyone took off to his or her favourite fishing spot.

Morris pulled on his motor cord. It coughed and spluttered, but would not start, no matter how hard he tried. So he took out his oars. He could make it to his nearby fishing spot by rowing.

When he got there, he picked up his fishing rod. It was all tangled up — and he didn’t have any bait.

Henry the hippopotamus came past in his boat. He had already caught a huge fish and was taking it back to be weighed.

―Can you help me Henry?‖ called Morris. ―My lines all tangled and I’ve no bait.‖

―I’ll help you tomorrow Morris,‖ came Henry’s reply. ―I’ve got to get back. Here’s some bait though.‖ He passed him a small packet before motoring off as fast as a big hippopotamus in a small boat could.

It took Morris ages to untangle his lines. He was concentrating so hard that he didn’t notice the water slowly leaking into the bottom of his boat until he’d finished. It was only then that he realised his feet were covered in water!

―Oh no,‖ he groaned. ―I better start bailing out the water.‖ He looked around for his bucket, but it wasn’t there.

Zach the zebra motored over to him.

―Please help me Zach,‖ called Morris. ―I’m taking on some water.‖

Zach looked into his boat.

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―You’ll be all right, I can’t stop now. I’ll help you fix the leak tomorrow. Here’s my bucket though.‖

Off zoomed Zach. Morris bucketed and bucketed. He had nearly got rid of all the water when all of a sudden the hole burst and turned into a gaping mouth gushing water faster than Morris could bail it out. He was about to sink so he tightened the straps on his life jacket, stood up and jumped into the water. Brrr, it sure was cold! He rolled over onto his back and starting to kick himself back to land.

Suddenly he heard Lucas calling out to him, and then there he was in a dinghy, reaching out to help him up.

―I thought you didn’t like the water?‖ gasped Morris.

―I don’t, but I saw you jump out of your boat through my binoculars, and I knew that rescuing you was the one job I couldn’t wait till tomorrow to do.‖

Morris shook his head sadly. ―I think there are lots of jobs I won’t be leaving till tomorrow from now on.‖

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Dragonfly Peace

There were little people in the back garden, Jenny knew. No one believed her, because she was ten and supposed to be old enough to know better. Her father said next year, when she was eleven, the little people would not be there, because she would definitely be old enough to know better by then. When she asked him why he looked so sad, he said it was because he had known about the little people, too, until he was eleven.

Jenny hope they would never go, and told herself she was never going to know better, not until she was at least twenty-one years old. That was really old, so she would probably need to know a little bit better by then.

Today was one of the first sunny Saturdays of summer, a perfect day to spend outside. Jenny crept carefully through the back garden, making sure she only stepped on the pavers scattered around as a footpath. She did not want to squash any little people!

Crouching down by the marigolds, she peered inside one of the flowers. There was her friend Meredith, sitting cross-legged in the middle of it, anxiously eating a breadcrumb.

―Hi Meredith,‖ Jenny whispered, not wanting to frighten her. Meredith sprang to her feet and shouted, ―Thank goodness you came. I've been waiting for you!‖

―Oh, why's that?‖ asked Jenny.

―Because our village needs your help,‖ she said. ―The ladybirds sent us word that the dragonflies are planning to attack us this afternoon! We need you to stop them!‖

Jenny frowned. ―How can I do that?‖

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―Can't you capture them with something? Don't use that fly spray stuff your mother uses, it makes us all sick for weeks. Maybe you could find their hideout and smash the rotters to pieces.‖ She jumped up and down and whacked her hands together.

Jenny had never seen Meredith so upset. She knew she had to help, even if it meant dealing with dragonflies, but she didn't like the idea of whacking a whole lot of dragonflies to smithereens.

―My friend from Japan showed me how to catch them last summer.‖ Jenny spoke her thoughts aloud. ―Maybe if I caught one, you could talk to it and make peace, so I don't need to squash them all.‖ Seeing the disappointment on Meredith’s face she added, ―Otherwise they'll get really mad and will try and attack another time.‖

Meredith shrugged her shoulders and turned her hands outwards. ―I don't know, they've been our enemy forever. I don’t know how we could ever make peace.‖

Jenny folded her arms. ―You are the leader of your village Meredith. You're the right person to try. You have to try, or I won't help.‖

Meredith looked at Jenny’s stubborn face and sighed. ―All right,‖ she said, shaking her head. ―Let's go then.‖

Jenny reached out her hand and Meredith jumped into it. Jenny put her into her short’s pocket—Meredith’s favourite place to travel. Jenny's mum often wondered why she always had to wear those shorts. Jenny knew her mum would never understand about them being perfect travel gear for Meredith.

They headed to the pond at the edge of the garden. Jenny knew that was where the dragonflies were. Her friend Tombo's name meant dragonfly—in Japan, dragonflies symbolized courage. Tombo had been fascinated with the dragonflies living in the pond. They had spent a lot of time lying on the grass watching them flying around. Tombo had returned home a few months ago, and Jenny missed him. It was after he left that she had discovered the small people.

Near the edge of the pond she bent down and picked up two small pebbles, and yanked a hair out of her head with a loud 'ouch'. Tombo had taught her how to catch dragonflies, but she'd never been as good at it as he was—probably because his hair was so thick and strong. Her hair was long though, so that made it easier to tie a pebble to each end of it.

A few dragonflies were flitting about; she took aim and threw the pebbles at one. Missed. She tried again. Missed again. After eight or nine attempts, she was getting frustrated. Just then, a giant dragonfly flew past. Jenny did not like them much because they were so big, but they moved slowly, so she aimed and threw her pebbles again. Down it came, tangled in her hair!

It was lying on its side, trying to beat its wings and get up. Jenny lowered Meredith in front of it, but at a safe distance. The dragonfly stopped moving immediately, and said something angrily to Meredith.

―Why are you planning to attack us, King Henry?‖ Jenny heard Meredith ask the dragonfly. She was amazed, and a little worried, that she had brought down the King.

―Because you are friends with these giants who assault us with rocks and ropes! Last summer they wounded many of us—four of our family died before their time. We saw you talking with this one, and my family were convinced you were conspiring to attack us again. I tried to tell them it wasn't so, but look—you have already brought her here to strike me down. Now that you have hurt me, my family will be even more determined to attack.‖

Jenny felt the blood rush to her face. She was horrified. Had Tombo and she caused this feud? Had the dragonflies died because of her? She must do something to make amends. And quickly.

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She reached down and gently untangled King Henry. Softly she spoke her apology and promised not to attack the dragonflies with rocks and ropes anymore. She explained about Tombo and how he had returned to his country far away. Most of all, she let King Henry know that the little people had nothing to with her and Tombo hurting the dragonflies.

She could see King Henry was listening. She knew he wanted peace too, but his family was angry at their loss. How could she show her regret?

Looking over towards the pond, she noticed a lot of rubbish floating in it. Kids on their way home from school threw stuff in the stream further along from the pond, and it ended up here. Jenny had often noticed insects trapped under bits of old plastic, but had never given it much thought.

―King Henry,‖ she said excitedly, ―if I clear the pond of its rubbish and keep it clean, will your family believe that I want peace for us all?‖

Jenny thought she could see a smile forming on King Henry' face.

―Why yes, I’m sure that will.‖

A few days later, her dad came up to her as she was emptying a bag of pond rubbish into the bin. ―Still believing in little people?‖ he asked.

―Still do, always will!‖ said Jenny. ―Maybe one day I'll show you them, too, Dad.‖

He smiled. ―I'd like that.‖

Jenny smiled back. It was much easier to believe in little people now, especially since they visited her in her room, riding in on the back of the dragonflies. Maybe they would want to meet her Dad—maybe sometime soon.

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The Bodyguard

Monday

Being Alex’s bodyguard is a big responsibility. He’s only five, so he needs a lot of watching out for. You see, Alex’s Mum, Natalie, has a most unusual job. A most dark and dangerous job. She’s a solo Mum, which makes it even more amazing that she can handle the job, look after Alex and remember to buy me my dog treats.

Okay, I know you want to know what her job is. Hold onto your hat—she’s a coach for the school’s junior netball team. Now, you might laugh, but around here, it’s no laughing matter. Every week, Natalie receives threats from parents desperate to have their little ray of sunshine picked for player of the day—it means fame, fortune and free meals at fancy restaurants like McDonalds.

When Alex started school, I volunteered to be his bodyguard, because an attempt to kidnap him had been made before. On his fifth birthday, a strange man ran up behind him as he was crossing the road, picked him up and started to run off with him! Thankfully, Natalie caught him and all was well. A car screeched to a stop and a pale looking, shaking lady hopped out—she’d seen it all. The problem is, Natalie doesn’t get it like I do. She ended up thanking the guy for saving Alex! She should have had him sent straight to prison! Saving Alex. Huh! That Guy is up to no good.

Every day I walk Alex to school, and sit outside his classroom. At lunch time I like to play it cool. No one knows I’m an undercover bodyguard dog. I make sure I join in all the ball games and test any food scraps for poison; tough job as it is. Someone’s got to do it.

Anyhow, school has been safe now for ages—it’s the home scene that’s getting scary. That Guy has been hanging around during the day—I can smell his aftershave. He

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must come in when Alex’s at school. Maybe he’s casing the joint. Strange thing is though, his smell is only ever in the kitchen on days when Natalie’s come home for lunch.

Well, now I’m going to have to split my time between school and home. I need to see what That Guy is up to. Natalie’s coming home for lunch tomorrow. Sure hope Alex’ll be all right without me to fetch the ball for him and the boys.

Tuesday

I walked Alex to school, told him I would be back later, then headed home. Bright kid, he seemed to understand. Most kids these days only know two languages, human and computer. But Alex, now he’s truly multi-lingual. He’s got dog and cat mastered as well. I must protect that kid at all costs ...

Anyhow, I got back home and checked it out, all locked up tight and secure. No one’s getting in here, especially with me sitting out the front.

Well, that’s what I thought, but then, the strangest thing happened. Natalie turned up at lunchtime, humming. She never used to hum—she’s always worn out from her dark and dangerous job. Now she hums. You can imagine, I was worried. Five minutes later I was shocked. Who should I see walking up the path; it was, you guessed it, That Guy. He was humming too. Natalie greeted him with a kiss! I couldn’t believe it! Then they sat and chatted and laughed while they ate lunch. And no dog biscuits came my way. I note that simply as a detail, bodyguards are sticklers for details. It’s nothing to do with me being put out. No, not at all.

Anyhow, when he got up to leave I growled and barked and Natalie finally noticed that I was there and not at school. How can she spot the best netball players if she doesn’t even notice me sitting there right in front of her for an hour? She must be sick. That Guy must be poisoning her. Once he left, I tipped out the rubbish bin and sniffed the lunch scraps for any telltale poison smells. Being a brave and noble dog, I also did a taste test on a few items, until Natalie yelled at me and kicked me out. She’s forgotten my role in protecting her boy—it must be That Guy making her mind a bit vacant. Never mind; I’m loyal. I’ll stick by until this whole nasty Guy Thing is resolved, no matter how he turns my family against me. Sniff, I have got to go now.

Wednesday

That Guy was back again today. I must say, perhaps I was wrong about him. He came with a pocketful of the best dog treats, usually only reserved for Christmas. And he knows how to administer a good all over body scratch. Hardened kidnappers wouldn’t care about those kinds of things. They kick dogs and only feed their victims cold mouldy leftovers. That’s been my experience anyway.

Thursday

I have noticed that Natalie’s a lot happier when That Guy is around. Today he was there after school—this time with a girl who he claims is his daughter. I watched him closely. No signs of kidnapping—not yet anyway. In fact, he kicked the ball around with me, Alex and the girl just like he belonged there. And he brought more dog treats—a small detail worth noting.

Friday

That’s it—it’s resolved. He’s not a kidnapper. The truth is, he’s a coach for the school’s junior soccer team. Obviously he’s linked up with Natalie so they can both protect each other from those crazed parents who want to kidnap and hurt their kids. No wonder

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really, of course he would choose our family. I am after all, the best kid bodyguard around for miles.

Guess that’s why there’s all this talk about him and Natalie getting married. How can I look after their kids unless they’re both in the same house with me, so I can keep an eye on the two of them? Plus, when I’m not busy looking after the kids I’ll have to check up on the big bag of dog treats That Guy left in the garage.

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Thank You For Reading!

Dear Reader

I hope you enjoyed Cinderella Sarah. As an author, I love creating stories that you will enjoy reading and that make you want to read more. So please tell me what you liked, what you loved, even what you hated. I’d love to hear from you. You can write to me at karen.cossey@gmail.com, visit me on the web at www.karencossey.com or like me on facebook here: www.facebook.com/KarenCosseyAuthor.

Finally, I need to ask you a favour. If you want to, I’d love an Amazon review of Cinderella Sarah. Reviews make such a difference to other readers knowing whether they would like a book or not; so you, the reader have the power to make or break a book. If you have time, here’s a link to my author page, along with all my books on Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/karencossey. Just click on the link to Cinderella Sarah then scroll down to the Customer Reviews section. Click on the button ―Write A Customer Review‖ and you’ll be taken to a page where you can share your thoughts.

Thanks so much for reading Cinderella Sarah and for spending time with me.

In gratitude,

Karen Cossey

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Other Books and Resources by Karen Cossey

The Trespasser’s Unexpected Adventure

A modern-day action adventure mystery story for 9-14 year olds. Follow alongside Logan as he makes friends with Meeka and her mysterious family then uncovers a

shipwreck smuggler’s plot.

Read the first chapter FREE here:

https://tinyurl.com/TrespassersUnexpectedAdventure

Karen Cossey 39

The Adventures of Crimson and the Guardian

A Medieval Children’s Story for 8-10 year olds full of unicorns, dragons,

monsters and magic!

Read the first chapter FREE here:

https://tinyurl.com/CrimsonTheUnicorn

*****

Free Teacher Worksheets for

Cinderella Sarah

Find class worksheets to download and use with stories from Cinderella Sarah here: www.karencossey.com

Find and Like Karen at https://www.facebook.com/KarenCosseyAuthor