retold by Jay Parker illustrated by Jane Wallace-Mitchell

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Long ago, Peacock believed he was very special because of his bright feathers with their wonderful patterns. He was extremely vain.
3

Peacock would stare at his reflection in a puddle. It is clear that no other bird is even half as beautiful as I am! he would say. I am the most beautiful bird in the whole world! He thought that the feathers of other birds were very dull indeed.
4

Peacock was so full of himself that all day he strutted about showing off his tail. He wanted everyone to notice how special he was. He never realized that there were special things to notice in the other birds, too.

One day, Crane came by. Crane had gray, ordinary feathers with no wonderful patterns or colors. Peacock felt very sorry for him.

As he gazed at the other birds, Peacock realized that what Crane had said was absolutely true.

14

Think Critically
1. How were Peacock and Crane alike? How were
they different?

2. What words would you use to tell about Crane? 3. What did Peacock do that showed he thought he
was beautiful?

4. What made Peacock change during the story? 5. Did your feelings about Peacock change during
the story? How? Language Ar ts
Write a Letter Write a letter from Peacock to Crane that
Peacock may have written at the end of the story.

School-Home Connection Read Peacock and Crane

to a family member. Talk about why each person in your family is special.

Word Count: 366