The following is a three level introduction to the story of The Cat and the Birds. Begin with level 1, and work your way up to level 3 by learning the new vocabulary added in each section.
Reading Level 1
Story by Aesop, modern translation by Diedra Drake
A Cat heard that some Birds who lived nearby were sick. He dressed himself up like a doctor, even getting some medical tools to carry. He knocked on the door of the birds house, and asked how they were feeling. They did not open the door, but answered him, “We will feel much better when you are gone!”
A villain may wear a disguise, but he will not fool the wise.
Reading Level 2
Story by Aesop, modern translation by Diedra Drake
A Cat heard that the Birds in a bird house were sick. So he dressed himself up as a doctor, and, took with him some proper doctor instruments. He took himself to their door, and asked about the health of the Birds. They answered without letting him in, “We will do better, when we’ve seen the last of you.”
A villain may disguise himself, but he will not deceive the wise.
Reading Level 3
Story by Aesop, translated by V. S. Vernon Jones
A Cat heard that the Birds in an aviary were ailing. So he got himself up as a doctor, and, taking with him a set of the instruments proper to his profession, presented himself at the door, and inquired after the health of the Birds. “We shall do very well,” they replied, without letting him in, “when we’ve seen the last of you.”
A villain may disguise himself, but he will not deceive the wise.
