**Please use your own judgement before sharing these stories with children. Although I do my best to keep the language friendly, the content may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Synopsis

A poor man, named Masaniello, is desperate for a way to support his wife and twelve daughters. One day he comes across a cave in which dwells an extremely large lizard who offers him a deal: give her his youngest daughter or his life. She promises that no harm will come to the girl, and he will be richly rewarded. He then returns home and pours out his sorrows to his wife, who advises him to trust the lizard. So he does.

The Lizard, true to her word, raises Renzola in a beautiful palace.

One night, the king of the country arrives at the palace and requests lodging for the night. The lizard, now revealed to be a kind fairy, welcomes him in. Immediately, he is taken with Renzola, and the following day the fairy happily agrees to the match.

Despite her years of kindness, Renzola leaves without a word of thanks to the fairy. Disappointed and hurt by the lack of gratitude, the fairy transforms Renzola’s head into that of a goat.

Upon arrival at his palace, the king hides her away in a turret. Not understanding this sudden change of heart, Renzola seeks help from the fairy who gladly gives it. Once again, Renzola neglects to show her gratitude.

Eventually, an old guard shows her the truth of her face and the error of her ways. She makes amends with the fairy, who then restores her face.

Renzola returns to her husband and they live happily ever after.

Poll/Question/Links

Questions or Comments?

Book

The Grey Fairy Book by Andrew Lang

Music

"Princess (Instrumental Version)" by Josh Woodward.

Free download: https://www.joshwoodward.com/