Storie Sotto Le Stelle Podcast

• The Tribe of the Wandering Shoes | Part Three & Four | Winter, Spring, and the Return (Read In English) | Stories Sotto Le Stelle Podcast | Short Stories For Children And The Young At Heart

  The Tribe of the Wandering Shoes | Part Three & Four | Winter, Spring, and the ReturnAfter a summer shining with light and an autumn drizzly but fascinating in its colors, the Tribe of the Wandering Shoes set off again for new adventures—mysterious, surprising, and of course, a little dangerous. More determined than ever, ready to overcome any challenge, they resumed their journey Winter didn’t take long to arrive: in December, the first snow fell on the mountains. The Tribe boarded a coach headed to the Dolomites, where the snow-covered peaks waited for them on the horizon. As soon as they settled into the hotel, excitement took over. They couldn’t wait to dive into the fresh snow and build a giant snowman! They got straight to work, shoveling pile after pile of snow. With a little ladder, step by step, they reached the height of the face. Two buttons for eyes, a carrot for a nose, a pipe in the mouth, and a scarf wrapped around the neck—it was perfect!“Brrr! It’s freezing!” — exclaimed one of them, and they all looked down at their tips and saw they were completely frozen.“We need a miracle!” — declared one shoe with a solemn tone.“Maybe a portable radiator…” — mumbled another, her laces trembling.They decided to call the Alpine Rescue Team, which arrived with a supersonic jet packed with hot water bottles, boiling tea, and thermal blankets. But just then, the weather station—mounted on a space ship at the top of the mountain—reported a severe snowstorm on the way. The Tribe, worried, asked to return immediately to the valley, but the jet couldn’t transport them in the traditional way. The only solution? Catapult them down like snowballs wrapped in thermal blankets!“Um… excuse me, but has anyone ever tried this system before?” — asked one shoe, suspicious.“No, but what could possibly go wrong?” — replied another.“Worst case, we’ll end up spread across the snow like jam on toast!”The flight was wild: they bounced off a cable car, spun an eagle and a couple of vultures into the air, who, surprised, exclaimed, “Oh! Oh!”Fortunately, the mountain pines gave them a soft landing with their snowy branches. The shoes landed unlaced, a bit bruised, but safe.“I think we just invented the first extreme sport for footwear,” — commented one, still dizzy.The villagers in the valley found them and, touched by their story, brought them to the old cobbler in town. The man, with decades of experience repairing mountain shoes, was initially puzzled to see such a colorful and battered bunch. That night, the cobbler couldn’t sleep, wondering how to fix them. At dawn, with determination, he got to work.“No, no, help! You’re going to hurt me!” — protested the purple shoe at the sight of the tools.“Oh please!” — said the cobbler with a smile.“I’ve been bringing mountain boots back to life for years. You’ll be brand new, trust me!”And so, with expert hands, he stitched, glued, and brightened their colors, working passionately until every shoe looked spectacular again.The Tribe spent happy days in the village. With Christmas around the corner, they helped decorate the lit-up streets, snow-covered trees, and shop windows. By then, everyone knew their story and called them left and right for advice on decorations, and the atmosphere was magical and festive.Soon, the days grew brighter and you could feel the awakening of spring in the air. Their snowy adventure was behind them, but a new challenge was waiting ahead. The Tribe started to miss the city they had left and decided to go back. They marched in single file and took the right road at the first roundabout. They followed a little stream and, after a long walk, stopped by the bank to rest. They stepped into the shallow water to cool off, when one of them, sharper than the others, noticed something strange beneath some dry branches.“Come here, come here!” — she called out.The others rushed over curiously, and with great effort, they managed to flip over what turned out to be an old wooden boat. They jumped in, nudging each other.“I’m going first!”“No, me first!”They bickered, tripping over their own laces, but since they were a bit tired from walking, each one took her place. Soon, they noticed a problem.“Um… has anyone seen the oars?”“Oh no! Now how do we move?”Just then, a shiny pike and a giant shimmering carp emerged from the foamy waves and, without saying a word, began to push the boat, gliding it along the stream and lifting it into the air.“But… this is magic!” — gasped one shoe, amazed.As the stream widened into a river, they spotted their city in the distance. The two extraordinary fish dropped them off on the shore and, in the blink of an eye, vanished into the golden reflections of the water.“Good gracious, what just happened?” — they all exclaimed.Still stunned and silent, they headed toward the big tree-lined park in the city. Lying in the grass, they looked up at the blue sky and realized just how much they had missed their busy store and the bustling crowd. That’s when they noticed something strange.For the first time, they looked carefully at the glowing sign above the entrance: “Sorelle Soletta Department Store”They stared at each other, wide-eyed. The Little Witch Soletta… was the owner of the shop!Once placed back on the shelves, with their laces tied tight and their soles polished, the shoes smiled at one another.“What an adventure, folks…” — sighed the purple shoe.“Oh yeah,” — replied the red one, “but it’s so nice to be back here!”“With all due respect to eagles, cobblers, and flying fish… nothing beats the smell of the shop in the morning,” — added the blue shoe dreamily.“And here we’ve got curtains, changing rooms, and customers who try us on gently…”“…not to mention Little Witch Soletta watching over us!” They all burst out laughing. “In the end,” — concluded the one with golden laces, “traveling is wonderful… but coming home is even better.”And from that day on, every time a child or an adult chose one of them, a new story began.But that one… well… that’s another adventure! Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You’ll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/

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• La Tribù delle Scarpe Erranti | Parte Tre e Quattro | L’Inverno, la Primavera e il Ritorno (Letto in Italiano) | Storie Sotto Le Stelle Podcast | Storie Brevi Per Bambini E Giovani Di Cuore

  La Tribù delle Scarpe Erranti | Parte Tre e Quattro: L’Inverno, la Primavera e il RitornoTrascorsa l’estate splendente di luce e l’autunno piovigginoso ma affascinante nei suoi colori, la Tribù delle Scarpe Erranti ripartì per nuove avventure misteriose, sorprendenti e, naturalmente, un po’ pericolose. Più decise che mai, pronte a superare ogni prova, ripresero il loro viaggio.L’inverno non si fece attendere: a dicembre arrivò la prima neve sulle montagne. La Tribù salì su un pullman diretto alle Dolomiti, dove i monti innevati all’orizzonte le aspettavano. Appena sistemate in albergo, l’entusiasmo prese il sopravvento. Non vedevano l’ora di tuffarsi nella neve fresca e costruire un gigantesco pupazzo di neve! Si misero subito all’opera, accumulando palate su palate di neve. Con una scaletta, scalino dopo scalino, raggiunsero l’altezza del viso. Due palline per occhi, una carota per naso, una pipa in bocca e una sciarpa avvolta intorno al collo: era perfetto!“Brrr! Che freddo!” — esclamò una di loro, e tutte, guardandosi le punte, si accorsero che erano completamente congelate.“Qui ci vuole un miracolo!” — dichiarò una scarpa con aria solenne.“Magari un termosifone portatile…” — mormorò un’altra con i lacci tremanti.Decisero di chiamare il Soccorso Alpino, che arrivò con un jet supersonico carico di borse d’acqua calda, tè bollente e coperte termiche. Ma proprio in quel momento, la stazione meteorologica situata su una navetta spaziale in cima alla montagna segnalò l’arrivo di una violenta bufera di neve. La Tribù, preoccupata, chiese di tornare subito a valle, ma il jet non poteva trasportarle in modo tradizionale. L’unica soluzione? Catapultarle come palle di neve avvolte nelle coperte termiche!“Ehm… scusate, ma qualcuno ha mai provato questo sistema prima?” — chiese una delle scarpe con sospetto.“No, ma che vuoi che succeda?” — rispose un’altra.“Male che vada, ci spalmeremo sulla neve come marmellata su una fetta di pane!”Il volo fu rocambolesco: rimbalzarono contro una cabinovia, fecero roteare in aria un paio di aquile e avvoltoi che, sorpresi, esclamarono: “Oh! Oh!”Fortunatamente, gli abeti della montagna offrirono loro un morbido atterraggio con i rami innevati. Le scarpe atterrarono slacciate, un po’ ammaccate, ma salve.“Mi sa che abbiamo inventato il primo sport estremo per calzature,” — commentò una, ancora stordita.Gli abitanti del borgo sottostante le trovarono e, colpiti dalla loro storia, le portarono dal vecchio calzolaio del paese. L’uomo, con decenni di esperienza nella riparazione di scarpe da montagna, rimase inizialmente perplesso nel vedere quel gruppo colorato e malandato. Quella notte, il calzolaio non riuscì a dormire, riflettendo su come aggiustarle. All’alba, con determinazione, si mise al lavoro.“No, no, aiuto! Mi farai male!” — protestò la scarpa viola alla vista degli attrezzi.“Ma figurati!” — rispose il calzolaio con un sorriso. “Sono anni che rimetto a nuovo scarponi da montagna. Farò di te una scarpa nuova di zecca, fidati!” E così, con mani esperte, cucì, incollò e ravvivò i colori, lavorando con passione finché tutte le scarpe tornarono splendenti.La Tribù trascorse giorni felici nel borgo. Con il Natale alle porte, aiutarono a decorare le strade illuminate, gli alberi innevati e le vetrine dei negozi. Ormai tutti conoscevano la loro storia e le chiamavano a destra e a sinistra per consigli sugli addobbi e l’atmosfera era magica e festosa.Presto, le giornate si fecero più luminose e si percepiva nell’aria il risveglio della primavera. L’avventura sulla neve era ormai alle spalle, ma una nuova sfida era pronta ad aspettarle. La Tribù cominciava a sentire la mancanza della città da cui era partita e decise di tornare. Si misero in marcia una dietro l’altra e alla prima rotatoria presero la strada giusta. Seguirono il percorso di un ruscello e, dopo un lungo tragitto, si fermarono sulla riva a riposare.Entrarono a filo d’acqua per rinfrescarsi, quando una di loro, più scaltra delle altre, notò qualcosa di strano sotto alcuni rami secchi.“Venite, venite!” — chiamò.Le altre corsero curiose e, con un grande sforzo, riuscirono a raddrizzare ciò che si rivelò essere una vecchia barchetta di legno rovesciata. Saltarono su spintonandosi.“Passo prima io!”“No, prima io!”Bisticciavano fra di loro inciampando nei lacci, ma considerato che erano un po’ stanche a forza di camminare, presero ognuna il proprio posto. Ben presto si accorsero di un problema.“Ehm… qualcuno ha visto i remi?”“Oh no! E ora come facciamo a muoverci?”Proprio in quel momento, un luccio lucente e una carpa gigante emersero dalle onde spumeggianti e, senza dire una parola, spinsero la barchetta facendola scivolare sull’acqua fino a sollevarla in aria.“Ma… è magia!” — esclamò una scarpa, incredula.Quando il ruscello si allargò in un fiume, intravidero in lontananza la loro città. I due straordinari pesci le fecero sbarcare sulla riva e, in un battito di ciglia, scomparvero tra i riflessi dorati dell’acqua.“Perdindirindina, cosa è successo?” — esclamarono tutte.Ancora incredule e silenziose, si avviarono verso il grande parco alberato della città. Distese sull’erba, guardarono il cielo azzurro e si resero conto di quanto gli fosse mancato il grande negozio affollato e il via vai della gente. Fu allora che notarono qualcosa di strano. Per la prima volta, osservarono con attenzione l’insegna luminosa sopra l’ingresso: “Grandi Magazzini Sorelle Soletta”Si guardarono tra loro incredule. La Streghetta Soletta… era la proprietaria del negozio!Una volta sistemate sugli scaffali, con i lacci ben tirati e le suole lucidate, le scarpe si guardarono tra loro sorridendo.“Che avventura ragazzi…” — disse la scarpa viola con un sospiro.“Eh già,” — rispose quella rossa, “ma quanto è bello tornare qui!”“Con tutto il rispetto per le aquile, i calzolai e i pesci volanti… niente batte il profumo del negozio al mattino,” — aggiunse la scarpa blu con aria sognante.“E poi qui abbiamo le tende, i camerini, e i clienti che ci provano con cura…”“…senza contare la Streghetta Soletta che ci protegge e ci osserva!” Si misero tutte a ridere.“Insomma,” — concluse quella con i lacci dorati,“viaggiare è bellissimo, ma tornare a casa lo è ancora di più.”E da quel giorno, ogni volta che un cliente, bambino o adulto, sceglieva una di loro, partiva un’altra storia. Ma questa… ovviamente… è un’altra avventura! Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You’ll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/

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  9:14
• The Wondrous Vegetable Shop | A Story Under the Stars (Read In English) | Stories Sotto Le Stelle Podcast | Short Stories For Children And The Young At Heart

  The Wondrous Vegetable ShopWith the arrival of spring, beneath the soft mantle of the earth, tubers and roots began to awaken. The carrots stretched their orange tips with their green tufts. The round and plump potatoes whispered among themselves.“I can feel the warmth of the sun even down here,” said a deep red beetroot. “Doesn’t it seem like the perfect moment to show ourselves to the world?”“You’re right!” an enthusiastic onion replied. “Enough of staying down here! I want to shine on the shelves of a beautiful shop.”So, they began their journey toward the surface. The earth gently parted to let those cheerful and determined roots pass through. Once they emerged, they started strolling carefree among the olive trees of the Tuscan hills, chatting happily about their new adventure.Along their path, some sparrows hopped on the branches and, seeing the lively and chatty group, immediately chirped: “Chirp, chirp, chirp! Where are you going, fragrant vegetables?”“To find the most special shop in town and put ourselves on display,” they replied.A farmer, who had cultivated with passion for many years and cared deeply about the quality of his produce, noticed them and gently gathered them. He placed them in a basket and took them to a shop in Sesto Fiorentino, well known for its dedication to the finest products of the land.Above the shop’s window, the sign read: THE WONDROUS VEGETABLE SHOP.In baskets lovingly arranged, the carrots displayed their vibrant orange color, the potatoes gleamed, and even the onions proudly showed off their shining hues. The radishes giggled and happily put themselves on display as well.Customers couldn’t resist such a spectacle of colors and scents and stopped, enchanted, saying: “What spectacular vegetables! Now this is a well-stocked and high-quality shop!”The vegetables were delighted to be appreciated and purchased—they knew they would bring flavors and smiles to every kitchen with delicious dishes. Full of taste and nutrients, they were happy to be healthy and wholesome ingredients for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, bringing to the table the joy and warmth of a meal shared with family and friends, following Italian tradition.And so, buon appetito to everyone! Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You’ll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/

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  4:22
• La Bottega Delle Meraviglie Vegetali (Letto in Italiano) | Storie Sotto Le Stelle Podcast | Storie Brevi Per Bambini E Giovani Di Cuore

  La bottega delle meraviglie vegetali Con l’arrivo della primavera, sotto il soffice manto della terra, i tuberi e le radici iniziarono a svegliarsi. Le carote stiracchiavano le loro punte arancioni con il ciuffo verde. Le patate rotonde e paffute sussurravano fra di loro.“Sento il tepore del sole anche qui sotto,” disse una barbabietola tutta rossa. “Non vi sembra il momento perfetto per mostrarci al mondo?”“Hai ragione!” rispose entusiasta una cipolla. “Basta restare qui sotto! Voglio brillare tra gli scaffali di un bel negozio.”Così si misero in movimento verso la superficie. La terra si apriva dolcemente per far passare quelle radici allegre e decise. Una volta emerse, iniziarono a passeggiare spensierate tra gli olivi delle colline di Querceto, chiacchierando contente della loro nuova avventura.Lungo il loro cammino, dei passerotti saltavano sui rami e, vedendo l'allegra brigata chiacchierona, subito cinguettarono: “Cip, cip, cip! Dove andate, belle verdure profumate?”“A cercare il negozio più speciale del paese per metterci in mostra,” risposero.Un contadino, che da tanti anni coltivava con passione e si prendeva cura della qualità dei suoi prodotti, le notò e, con delicatezza, le raccolse. Le sistemò in un cesto e le portò fino al negozio di Sesto Fiorentino, che conosceva bene per la sua attenzione ai migliori prodotti della terra.Sull’insegna sopra la vetrina c’era scritto: LA BOTTEGA DELLE MERAVIGLIE VEGETALI.Nelle ceste curate con amore, le carote sfoggiavano il loro arancio vivace, le patate brillavano e persino le cipolle si pavoneggiavano con le loro sfumature lucenti. Anche i ravanelli ridacchiavano e si mettevano in mostra contenti. I clienti non potevano resistere a quello spettacolo di colori e profumi e si fermavano incantati dicendo: “Che verdure spettacolari! Questo sì che è un negozio ben fornito e di qualità.”Le verdure erano soddisfatte di essere apprezzate e comprate — sapevano che avrebbero regalato sapori e sorrisi in ogni cucina con piatti prelibati. Ricche di gusto e nutrienti, erano felici di essere ingredienti sani e genuini per tutti, dai più piccoli ai più grandi, portando in tavola la gioia e il calore di un pasto condiviso in famiglia e con amici, secondo la tradizione italiana.E allora, buon appetito a tutti quanti.  Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You’ll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/

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  4:40
• On A Bench Waiting For The Train | A Story Under the Stars (Read In English) | Stories Sotto Le Stelle Podcast | Short Stories For Children And The Young At Heart

  On a Bench, Waiting for the TrainAt the village station, under a long wooden canopy, steel tracks ran on both sides, allowing trains to speed past in a blur. But every now and then, some would stop, only for a moment, before continuing their journey after passengers had disembarked and boarded.Grandfather had promised many times to take his grandson to visit the train station near their home, and now they were finally there. Standing on the platform, the boy waited with eager anticipation—his first time seeing a train arrive.After a few minutes, a bell rang, followed by an announcement:"Train number 75265 arriving on Track 2. Coming from here, going there. Please pay attention and board if it’s yours. It won’t wait long—it’s running late, as usual…"Soon, the locomotive appeared in the distance, approaching rapidly before slowing to a stop in front of them.The boy had never seen anything so overwhelming. Gripping his grandfather’s trousers, he shrank back and cried out:"Help, help, help!"To his eyes, the train was a towering iron giant, covered in strange designs, exuding mystery. A moving machine on rails. A long, mechanical serpent, fast as lightning—imposing, unfamiliar, and yet… fascinating.Passengers stepped out of the open carriage doors, while others hurried aboard. Some people rushed back and forth, luggage in hand, checking schedules on glowing boards before boarding their trains to destinations unknown."Maybe it’s not a monster after all. The grown-ups aren’t scared like I am."The boy tried to be brave, glancing up at his grandfather, who smiled and took his hand. They lingered at the station for a while, sitting on a bench, watching trains come and go, the stationmaster blowing his whistle, the endless movement of travelers.As the sun dipped below the horizon, Grandfather bought two ice creams—strawberry and pistachio—from the station café. Enjoying their sweet treats, they strolled home, hearts light with happiness. A few days later, it was the boy’s birthday. Grandfather never had any doubt about what to give him. They returned to the station, and after purchasing two tickets, he said:"Now you’re old enough to travel. So today, we set off on your first adventure. And just wait—when you grow up, you’ll have so many more!"But these were no ordinary tickets.When the station clerk heard it was the boy’s first train journey, he called over the Stationmaster. With a knowing smile, the Stationmaster reached into his pocket and handed them two colorful tickets that read:Destination: End of the Line StationTrain Number: 18674Valid for: Round TripPlatform: 2 and 1/2, almost 3Valid in: Sun, rain, snow, or windIncludes: Popcorn and souvenir"Huh, how odd," Grandfather thought, scratching his head beneath his hat."But everyone knows you can always trust the Stationmaster."And so, hand in hand, they made their way to Platform 2 and 1/2, almost 3.A few benches were occupied by waiting passengers, but one was free. They sat side by side. Excitement buzzed in the air like migrating birds, their imaginations already soaring as a soft breeze brushed their faces.The train was arriving!A whistle. The screech of brakes. The hum of engines. The overhead speakers announced:"Attention, attention! Train Number 18674 is now at the station. Departure imminent for the End of the Line Station. The weather is uncertain, but that’s fine—nothing to be done about it anyway. Fresh, crunchy popcorn will be served throughout the journey."The train slowed to a full stop, and with a gentle creak, its doors swung open. No one got off, but many climbed aboard, quickly filling the seats—except for one at the back of the carriage.Grandfather settled into it, placing his grandson on his lap. The boy felt safe there.With wide eyes, he took in the strange world around him. Some seats faced forward, others backward."Which ones were pointing the right way?"He wondered for a moment, then, with a spark of imagination, transformed the passengers into pieces on a grand chessboard, ready for a fantastic game.A tall, broad-shouldered man with a long beard stood at the front."Aha! An ogre!"Beside him, a plump woman with strong features."Definitely the ogress!"At the center, a blonde girl with blue eyes, absorbed in her phone."A princess!"A heavily tattooed man with multiple earrings and a face full of stories."An explorer!"Further back, a young woman in a wide-brimmed straw hat, wearing flowing clothes and bracelets that jingled softly."A traveler!""How could all these different characters fit into the same story?"As he pondered, the train whistled louder, gliding through plains, tunnels, and hills until the voice overhead declared:"Attention, attention! The train is arriving at End of the Line Station. All passengers, prepare to disembark."A gentle deceleration. A smooth stop."Wow! Amazing!"Instead of opening, the train’s side panels lowered to the ground, forming ramps leading directly onto the platform.A light mist veiled the station, but an irresistible scent of roasted treats and cotton candy filled the air. Following the sweet aroma, the passengers arrived at a vast square where a statue in the center spouted water from its enormous mouth, surrounded by a fantastic garden.As the mist lifted, a flock of brightly colored, chattering parrots burst into view, circling above.Then, suddenly—"Look, look! What a surprise!"They all exclaimed in unison.Mary Poppins, on a bicycle, umbrella in hand, was pedaling through the garden."Why are you here?" the parrots asked, curious and mischievous."I’m collecting children’s wishes in my upturned umbrella," she replied. "My chimney sweep friends will carry them home, transforming them into dreams ready to come true.""Craa, craa! We have a wish too! To fly around the world, with no destination, no hurry!""Very well," Mary Poppins smiled. "And what’s your address for the dream delivery?"The parrots twirled in the air, singing:"Craa, craa! The street that isn’t there, in the invisible house at number no-number! Bye-bye, Mary Poppins! We’re free—craa, craa—we’re off to dream!"She waved farewell and pedaled away.In the enchanted garden, stalls overflowed with sweets, magical rides spun, enchanted toys lay scattered, and a marvelous cart brimmed with books that turned their pages with a mere thought. An ancient talking tree told fairy tales, offering juicy, special fruits to those who listened.The parrots, flitting here and there, served as slightly distracted guides, leading the travelers left and right. A small group was following the man who looked like an ogre.He walked with determination, carrying a large suitcase, and was followed by his wife, who held a half-open bag overflowing with all sorts of trinkets. Behind them came the explorer, the blue-eyed princess, and finally, the tourist with the straw hat.Guided by the parrots, they made their way toward a strange building at the edge of the square. As they got closer, they realized it was an old, neglected theater—worn with time but still holding a certain architectural charm. The scent of dust and aged wood drifted from the slightly open door, adding to the place’s mysterious atmosphere.The five peculiar characters were none other than actors, ready to perform a show filled with surprises, illusions, and wonders. Entry was free.Inside the theater, soft music played in the background, audible even from outside, leading them toward the stage.The enchantment of the place and sheer curiosity drew in all the other travelers as well, including the grandfather and grandson, who stepped inside to witness an unexpected spectacle.They had barely found their seats—worn and faded with age—when suddenly, white doves appeared, fluttering above their heads.The ogre revealed himself to be, in fact, a magician. With a swift motion, a breath, and—pluff!—his costume changed in an instant. Then again. And again.At the sides of the stage, a hall of mirrors distorted objects into strange shapes, while hidden playing cards appeared and vanished within the audience’s seats, mixing together as if by magic. Yet, no matter what, the magician always seemed to guess the chosen card correctly.Suddenly, as if by enchantment, the princess and the explorer appeared. Behind them, sparks of fire shaped like stars filled the theater."What a show, what a marvel!"The entire stage lit up as the magician, waving his wand in the air like a conductor, brought forth a waltz. At its rhythm, the two actors, now transformed into dancers, moved gracefully to the music. Under the magician’s guidance, they floated into the air, performing acrobatics.Meanwhile, the magician’s wife—who was a bit of a sorceress herself—stepped onto the stage, opened her bag of trinkets, and out came balls, rings, and juggling pins. The tourist in the straw hat appeared beside her, and together, they began a dazzling juggling act, perfectly in sync with the music.As the waltz neared its end, both the dancers and the jugglers vanished in a cloud of smoke and lights. Incredibly, even the stage itself disappeared.The audience held their breath, stunned and enchanted, before bursting into applause, smiling in amazement as the Ogre Magician bowed deeply in gratitude.The show had come to an end.Still astonished, the travelers left the theater, but the magic followed them as they made their way back toward the station.The whole town felt like an enchantment, and at the heart of it were the grandson and his grandfather—unexpected protagonists of a timeless adventure. So great was their wonder that they had lost track of how long they had been there.Guided once again by the flitting parrots, they returned to the main square along with all the other passengers. From the nearby station, glowing signs signaled the imminent departure of Train 18674."Attention, attention! Train Number 18674 has arrived at the station. Departure imminent for destination: Return Station. Weather still uncertain, but no need to worry. Hot popcorn, souvenir postcards, and an almost-magic wand included in the ticket price."As the travelers boarded, the parrots fluttered in farewell, then soared toward the horizon, disappearing alongside Mary Poppins.The train pulled away slowly, smoothly. From the windows, passengers watched as the enchanted town faded into the mist once more.In the blink of an eye, they were back where they had started: the small village station.As the train glided through the mist, the village slowly reappeared.In the warm light of a summer evening, the passengers stepped off one by one, still in awe of the unexpected journey. They whispered among themselves, exchanging impressions of what they had just experienced.Grandfather and grandson decided to stop for an ice cream before heading home. They walked over to the station café and, without hesitation, ordered two cones with their favorite flavors: strawberry and pistachio.Just as they took their first bites, they turned toward the tracks—and froze.The train that had taken them on their journey was gone.Not only that—the other passengers had vanished too, without leaving a trace.From behind the station clock’s column, the Stationmaster appeared, his satchel slung across his shoulder and his signal paddle in hand. He raised his head, tipped his hat with a smile, and then, whistling softly, strolled down the empty platform.Grandfather and the boy waved enthusiastically before taking each other’s hand. As they walked home, savoring their strawberry and pistachio ice creams, they talked happily about their extraordinary adventure.It almost felt like a dream.But, as everyone knows, reality and fantasy often walk hand in hand.Just like the grandfather and the child, making their way home, bathed in the golden hues of sunset. Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You’ll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/

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