The story revolves around a young girl who lives with her mother and stepfather on a remote island. The family's only source of income is the thistle that grows in their garden, which they sell to make a living. However, one day, a severe storm hits the island, destroying the thistle and leaving the family without any means of support. The girl's stepfather abandons her and her mother, who dies soon after from grief and poverty. The girl is left alone and struggles to survive on the island. She eventually meets an old woman who takes her in and teaches her how to make a living by selling seaweed. As time passes, the girl becomes self-sufficient and learns to appreciate the simple things in life. However, she never forgets the thistle that brought her family hardship and ultimately led to their downfall.
By Hans Christian Andersen · First published 1845 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Children's Literature