Bessie’s Big Adventure

Bessie was a cow who dreamed of big things. While the other cows were happy chewing their cud in the barn, Bessie stared at the bright green forest just past the farm fence. She didn't want to be told when to eat or where to sleep—she wanted freedom.

One sunny morning, the farmer left the gate unlatched. Clink! This was her chance. Bessie wiggled through the opening and trotted toward the woods.

The forest was magical. The air smelled like pine needles, and the grass was the sweetest, juiciest clover she had ever tasted. "This is the life!" Bessie thought, letting out a happy moo.

Suddenly, a thunderous roar shook the leaves on the trees!

Out from behind a giant oak tree leaped a lion. But before he could take a step, a second lion jumped out from the bushes! Both lions growled, their eyes fixed on Bessie.

"Back off!" the first lion snarled. "I found her first. She’s my dinner!"

"No way," the second lion hissed, baring his teeth. "I’ve been tracking her since the meadow. She’s mine!"

The two lions forgot all about Bessie and began to tumble and scrap, growling and snapping at one another to prove who was the toughest king of the jungle.

Bessie didn't wait around to see who won. She realized that while the forest had sweet grass, it also had scary surprises. She turned around and galloped—thump-thump-thump—all the way back to the farm.

She burst through the gate and tucked herself safely into her soft, warm pile of hay. As she listened to the peaceful sounds of the farm, Bessie realized she was exactly where she belonged.

"The grass might be sweet out there," Bessie whispered to herself, "but there's no place like home."

More Stories