Muhammad Usman Qazi

This classic fable teaches children the importance of hard work, planning, and responsibility. The story follows a busy ant who works hard to gather food for the winter, while a carefree grasshopper spends the sunny days singing and playing. When winter arrives, the grasshopper struggles without food, but the ant is safe and prepared.

Through this simple tale, children learn that hard work, persistence, and saving for the future always help in times of need, while laziness and neglect can lead to difficulties.

Short Story

Non-fiction

English

The Ant And The Grasshopper

The Mini Encyclopedia for Kids is a colorful and engaging reference book designed especially for young learners. Packed with fascinating facts, simple explanations, and eye-catching illustrations, it introduces children to a wide range of topics—from animals, plants, and the human body to space, history, inventions, and world cultures.

This kid-friendly encyclopedia is organized in short, easy-to-read sections with fun visuals, making complex ideas simple and enjoyable to understand. Each page encourages curiosity and discovery, helping children build knowledge step by step while strengthening their vocabulary and general awareness.

Perfect for school projects, homework help, or just exploring the wonders of the world, the Mini Encyclopedia for Kids is a handy guide that sparks curiosity and inspires lifelong learning.

Historical Fiction

Mini Encyclopedia For Kids

Frank Stockton

This story is about a semi-barbaric king who built a strange arena for justice. An accused person had to choose between two doors: behind one was a hungry tiger, and behind the other was a beautiful lady who would become his wife. When the king discovered that his daughter loved a young man of low rank, he sent him to the arena. The princess secretly found out which door held the tiger and which held the lady. What would the princess do? Would she give the right hint to the young man? What would come out of the door he opened—the lady or the tiger? Read this mysterious tale to find out if the young man’s life is saved or not.

Mystery

The Lady, or the Tiger?

H.G. Wells

At a table, a man with a scar on his face began to share a strange tale of survival. Years ago, while searching for rare eggs in Madagascar, he and two native companions discovered enormous Aepyornis eggs؛ remains of a giant bird thought to be extinct. But greed and betrayal left him stranded alone on a deserted island with only a canoe, a few supplies, and three of those precious eggs. To his amazement, one of the eggs hatched, and he found himself raising a giant bird he fondly named “Man Friday.” For nearly two years they lived together on the lonely island, until the bird grew into a towering creature with a dangerous temper. Did the scarred man manage to tame this monstrous bird or was he forced to make a terrible choice? What happened when his only friend turned against him? And how did he finally escape the island? Read this captivating tale of adventure and survival to explore the secrets of Aepyornis Island.

Adventure

Aepyornis Island

Charles Dickens

On a bitterly cold and dark night, the narrator joins a Thames Police officer, nicknamed Pea, on a patrol down the river. As they drift under bridges and along the black waters of London, they encounter eerie scenes, tales of suicides, strange characters, river thieves, and daring escapes. The narrator listens to stories from a toll-keeper at Waterloo Bridge and learns about the cunning tricks of smugglers, dredgermen, and thieves who haunt the riverbanks. The night is filled with suspense, horror, and glimpses of the hidden life of the Thames. What secrets does the dark river conceal? Who are the strange figures roaming the bridges? Will the police outwit the clever thieves of the water? Read this thrilling story to discover the mysteries of the night hidden under Waterloo Bridge.

Down with the Tide

Giovanni Boccaccio

Federigo Alberighi was once a wealthy young man in Florence. He was admired for his bravery and generosity. To win the love of the beautiful Monna Giovanna, he spent his fortune on feasts, tournaments, and gifts. But she never returned his affection, and soon Federigo was left poor, with nothing but a small farm and his most prized possession—a falcon. One day, Monna Giovanna’s son fell seriously ill and longed for Federigo’s falcon, believing it would make him well again. Out of love for her child, Monna visited Federigo to ask for the bird. Will Federigo be able to fulfill Monna’s son’s desire, or will something happen to make it impossible? Will true love and sacrifice be rewarded? Read this touching tale to discover how nobility of heart triumphs over wealth!

Prose

Federigo's Falcon

H.H. Munro (SAKI)

A lively discussion takes place between the Minister and the Grand Vizier, starting with ordinary topics but soon turning to a surprising question: under the new constitution, should women have the right to vote? The Vizier is shocked, insisting that women lack the intelligence to make such decisions. But as election day arrives, the Young Turkish Party seems to be winning, until something unexpected happens. What happened that completely changed the scenario? How does H.H. Munro (Saki) use humor to show the attitude of the Turkish Government toward voting? What important idea about politics and society is brought forward in this tale? Read this witty story to discover how “the veiled vote” turned the tables in an unforgettable election!

Contemporary Fiction

A Young Turkish Catastrophe

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Many years ago, there lived a child named Epimetheus who had neither a father nor a mother, but he was not alone because the gods sent him a companion, a little girl named Pandora. One day, Pandora noticed a big, mysterious box lying in Epimetheus’s cottage. Her curiosity grew stronger and stronger, and though Epimetheus warned her that it must never be opened, she could not resist. At last, in his absence, Pandora lifted the lid, and out rushed strange, frightening creatures that brought pain and sorrow to the world! What could have been inside that box to make Pandora so frightened and hurt? How are those creatures connected to the troubles we face in the world today? And will Pandora ever realize her mistake? Read this story to discover how Hope still shines, even when troubles surround us!

Fairytale

The Paradise of Children

L. Frank Baum

This story is about a little girl, Mary, who lived on a seaside cliff with her father, mother, and two brothers. Mary’s father and brothers were sailors. One spring, her father and brothers set off on a long voyage to the Black Sea. Mary felt very sad, but to mark the time she planted a special garden of cockle-shells, cowslips, and dingle-bells; each flower standing for someone she loved. She cared for them with all her heart, believing their blossoms and fading would guide her father back home. But what would happen when the flowers began to wither? Who would guide poor Mary then? And would her loved ones come back home safely? Read this touching story to discover the connection between the flowers and Mary’s hope.

Mistress Mary

Louisa May Alcott

This story is about Joe Collins, a tall and brave soldier from Woolidge, who marched off to war with his regiment, leaving behind his old mother, a sick brother, and his beloved Lucindy. At first, he was full of hope and duty, but the war soon changed his life forever. Wounded in battle, Joe lost his right arm and returned as a broken but courageous man who never gave up on work or dignity. Years later, he was seen again in Washington hospital, wearing his red cap as a humble messenger, still carrying the spirit of a true soldier. How did Joe survive his terrible wound, and what kept him strong during his long suffering? Did Lucindy wait for him, or did she choose another path? Who came forward to care for Joe when he had no one left, and where did he finally find peace and honor? Read this touching tale of sacrifice, loyalty, and hope to find out!

My Red Cap

Hans Christian Andersen

Through this powerful story, Hans Christian Andersen explores the painful reality faced by the world's greatest minds and heroes. They walk the thorny road of honor, a path filled with suffering, rejection, and sacrifice. From Socrates and Joan of Arc to Columbus and Galileo, these individuals stood for truth and vision, only to be mocked, punished, or forgotten in their lifetimes. What does it truly mean to follow the road of honor? Can struggle and loneliness lead to greatness? Read this timeless tale to discover why true honor often lies beyond fame, and why some paths shine brightest through pain.

The Thorny Road of Honor

“Something” is a thought-provoking classic by Hans Christian Andersen about five brothers, each determined to become ‘something’ in life, yet choosing very different paths. The eldest becomes a humble brickmaker, the second a master builder, the third an architect, the fourth a self-proclaimed genius, and the fifth a critic. After becoming what they wanted, each brother lived a different life and died in a different way. When they reach the gates of heaven, the youngest one finds himself alongside a poor woman, Margaret, who is to be taken into heaven. What good deed of Margaret earns her a place in heaven? Which of the brothers is allowed permission to enter? And what does the story reveal about what truly counts as “something” in life? Read this inspiring tale to discover how simple acts of kindness can hold greater value than ambition alone.

Something

O. Henry

This beautiful story by O. Henry is about a young but poor couple, Della and Jim. It was one day before Christmas, and Della had only one dollar and eighty-seven cents—a meagre amount to buy a special Christmas gift for Jim. Della was really worried, even though she had been saving every penny for months. While thinking, her eyes caught a glimpse of her beautiful long hair, her only valuable possession, and her eyes began to sparkle. What made Della happy while looking in the mirror? Will she and Jim be able to buy each other a Christmas present? What will the couple do to fulfill their wish? Read this heart-touching story to discover how people sacrifice their belongings to show their care and love.

The Gift of the Magi

Grandpapa fondly recalls the colorful traditions of his childhood, especially the grand celebration when the town’s shield was moved from the old court-house to the new one. But during his first visit to the city, an unforgettable storm sweeps through the streets, tossing shop signs and shields into the most unexpected and often ridiculous places, causing confusion and laughter among townspeople and strangers alike. What unusual changes did the storm bring to the town? How did the swapped shields lead to such comical mix ups? Read this amusing and imaginative story to enjoy Hans Christian Andersen’s playful tale of memories, mischief, and a storm that shook more than just the shields.

The Storm Shakes the Shield

Ambrose Bierce

Through this haunting story, Ambrose Bierce presents the tragic illusion of freedom and the cruel reality of war. Peyton Farquhar, a devoted Southern civilian, is about to be executed by Union soldiers on a bridge. As the rope is released, he imagines escaping, swimming away, and returning to his loving family. But is it all real or only a desperate dream in his final seconds of life? What leads this man to such a fate? What does his final vision reveal about hope, illusion, and the cost of loyalty? Read this powerful Civil War tale to explore how time, perception, and death can all twist into one unforgettable moment.

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge

Inge was a poor but proud and cruel girl who cared more about appearances than kindness. One day, while visiting her parents, she threw the loaf of bread she was carrying onto a muddy path to avoid soiling her shoes, and stepped on it. To her horror, the loaf began to sink, dragging her down from the Marsh Woman’s brewery into a terrible world filled with sorrow and suffering. There, Inge was punished by being forced to stand cold and stiff like a marble statue, her foot still fastened to the loaf. How long will Inge remain trapped in this dreadful state? Will she ever be forgiven, and if so, how? Can kindness and prayer truly reach even the proudest heart? Read this beautiful tale to discover how compassion and innocent prayers help Inge seek forgiveness and find a second chance.

Moral

The Girl who trod on the Loaf

In an old and beautiful manor house lived a wealthy family who cherished their gardens—the flower-garden, orchard, and kitchen-garden. The most astounding feature of the estate was two enormous, ancient trees, home to countless birds. Though the gardener, Larsen, often advised the owners to cut them down due to their age and appearance, the family refused. They believed the trees were the rightful heritage of the birds and must be preserved. One day, during a splendid party, the family praised the delicious apples and pears served at the table. However, when they discovered that the well-flavoured fruits came from their very own garden, would they finally recognize and appreciate Larsen’s efforts? What would the family do to show gratitude for Larsen’s loyalty and talent? Can true beauty be found in humble things like a kitchen herb or a common burdock? Read this beautiful story to learn about the quiet dignity of a devoted gardener and the subtle truth behind the so-called “good people” of the manor.

The Gardener and the Manor

Katherine Mansfield

The narrator lovingly remembers her sweet little canary, whose cage once hung to the right of the front door. His song was unlike any other; it was so beautiful that passersby would stop at the gate just to listen. Each afternoon, as she sat with her sewing on the veranda, he would prepare himself like a professional performer and burst into song—so melodious that she had to put everything aside to hear him. He wasn’t just a bird, but the perfect companion for her. What made their bond so special? Could a tiny creature truly understand human feelings? And what happens when that beautiful music stops? Read this heart-touching story to discover the deep connection between a bird and a human.

The Canary

Shaukat Thanvi

اردو کے نامور مزاح نگار شوکت تھانوی کا شمار ان ادیبوں میں ہوتا ہے جنہوں نے بیک وقت اردو ادب کی بہت سی اصناف میں خدمات سر انجام دیں۔ انہیں کثیر الجہات شخصیت کہا جائے تو غلط نہ ہو گاکیونکہ وہ صحافی بھی تھے اور مضمون نگار بھی، کالم نگاری میں بھی اپنا الگ مقام رکھتے تھے، ناول نویسی اور افسانہ نگاری میں بھی نام کمایا۔ زیر نظر  افسانے میں  مصنف نے اپنے دوست کے گھر میں قیام کے متعلق  بیان کیا ہے۔مصنف ایک بار لاہور اپنے دوست کے گھر آئے تو وہ کہیں گھومنے گئے  ہوئے تھے ۔ مصنف دوست کے واپس  لوٹ  آنےکا    انتظار کرنے  لگے ۔ انتظار کرتے دوران ایسا کیا ہوا کہ مصنف نمائش گاہ پہنچ گئے ؟پاس پر درج نام دیکھ کر گیٹ کیپر نے  کیوں چلانا شروع کر دیا ؟اس کے بعد مصنف کے ساتھ کیا بیتی ؟ اس کا حا ل جاننے کے لیے آئیے کہانی پڑھتے ہیں ۔

Humor

Urdu

Challang

The Brothers Grimm

Once upon a time, a husband and wife lived in a house from whose small window they could see a marvellous garden filled with beautiful flowers and herbs. Among them grew the most astounding rampion (also known as rapunzel). However, no one dared to enter the garden because it was owned by a powerful enchantress feared by everyone. One day, the wife saw the rampion and longed to eat it so badly that she began to pin away. Seeing his wife in distress, the husband decided to sneak into the forbidden garden and pick some rampion for her. But as he was leaving, he came face-to-face with the dreadful enchantress, who glared at him with fiery eyes. When he begged for mercy, the enchantress agreed to let him go on one condition: he must give her their firstborn child. She promised to raise the child with care, like a real mother. Would the couple give up their child to the enchantress? How would she raise the child? Will the child ever return to a normal life? Read this captivating tale of Rapunzel to find out!

Rapunzel

Through this story, Charles Dickens highlights a very important issue in society: the poor and labouring class are ignored and treated as if they are no one, even though most of the work is done by them.
Once, there was a hardworking man who lived by a great river that never stopped flowing. He worked every day just to survive and never asked for more than a peaceful life and a good future for his children. There was a family called the Bigwigs, the most powerful people who claimed to take care of him and others like him. However, when he requested education for his children, the Bigwigs argued. When he asked for clean air, safe water, and a little joy, they made noise but took no real action. What would enable Nobody to think wisely about the needs of ordinary people? Will those in charge finally listen, or will history repeat itself? Read this heart-touching story to discover how one man’s simple voice speaks for many, and why the name ‘Nobody’ matters more than we think.

Nobodys Story

Nobody's Story

The son of a humble porter, drew many beautiful pictures of innumerable landscapes and buildings of the world, but it was a picture of an imaginary castle, that led him to his brighter days to come as he earned some highest ranks in England.
For whom did he draw those pictures? How did that one castle drawing change his fortune?
What happened when George met Emily again? Would a porter’s son be accepted by a family of such high rank? How did George win hearts and build a future that touched every floor of the house? Read this beautiful and heartwarming tale of ambition, love, and dignity to discover how far talent and a kind heart can truly rise.

The Porter's Son

hihg

Detective

Fable

testnew BOK

A crippled little boy bound to his room, lives in his own fantasy to cope with his troubles, until, he finds a way to see the world by making a hole in the wall of his room. Once he peeks through the hole, his whole world takes another turn. What did Johnny thought of the outside world? What was the profession of Fay’s papa? Who was the artist who made several pretty sketches of Fay and Johnny? What was the name Fay gave to Johnny?
Read this story to find out how a simple hole in the wall became a doorway to friendship, hope, and a new beginning.

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