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German Reading Practice: Hansel and Gretel

Read Hansel and Gretel in easy German. You already know the story, so you can follow along even when you meet new words. The English translation is under every line: tap any word to translate it, or press Listen to hear a native speaker read it to you.

Hansel and Gretel

A2162 words· 1 min audio

Tap any word to see its translation.

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Hansel and Gretel go into the forest with their father.

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They collect wood.

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Suddenly they are alone.

Gretel:, ? !

Hansel, where is Dad? I'm scared!

Hänsel: , . .

No fear, Gretel. We will find our way back.

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They walk and walk.

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Then they see a small house.

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It's made of gingerbread and sweets!

Gretel:, ! .

Oh, how beautiful! I'm very hungry.

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The children eat from the house.

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Then an old woman comes out.

Hexe: , ! .

Come in, dear children! I have food for you.

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But the woman is a wicked witch!

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She wants to eat the children.

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She fattens Hansel.

Hexe:, ! !

Gretel, make the fire! Today I'll eat your brother!

Gretel: . ?

I don't know how. Can you show me?

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The witch goes to the oven.

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Gretel is clever.

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She pushes the witch inside!

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The children find gold in the house and go home.

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Their parents are very happy.

How to Practice Reading with This Story

  • Read for the gist first. Go through the whole text once without tapping anything. Then read it again and tap only the words that stop you.
  • Try each line before its translation. Read the line, guess what it means, then check the English underneath. Guessing from context is the skill that makes you fluent.
  • Listen, then read again. Press Listen and follow the highlighted words. Hearing the text links spelling to sound, so the next read is faster.
  • Come back tomorrow. The second and third read are where new words stick. You will notice how much more you understand.